LIGURIA : THE PARADISE BETWEEN MOUNTAINS AND SEA

This time I've exceptionally decided to write down something about not my trip but the place where I live because I'm really sure that it could be interesting and a nice tips to travel in Italy.

If you don't want to make the usual trip to Rome, Florence and Venezia; if you have already been to Italy and now you want to discover a different Italy, Liguria is a great option =)

Liguria is a coastal region of north-western Italy, where Genoa is the capital. Mountains and cliffs rise loftily out: this is the fascinating landscape that will impress people on their journey through this historically rich and dynamic region. Every single part of this region has numerous historical treasures but I'll just tell you about the part of Liguria where I live and the nearby.
I grew up and I at the moment I live in Chiavari, a town on the Italian Riviera and part of the Tigullio Gulf. The beauty of the city is much enhanced by the churches of the Madonna dell'Orto, San Francesco, and San Giovanni. The historical centre is characterised by typical narrow streets of the town, exactly called caruggi, full of bars and shops and very frequented by young people during the week-ends. No wonder if here you can always find a cheerful and frisky atmosphere ideal for those who are going to amuse themselves. 

Furthermore, there is a good promenade, everybody loves going here and chilling out, see the sunset, have a good aperitivo (in summer all bars are open till late) and eat a delicious ice-cream...speaking on which...strongly suggested the Gelateria La Spinola, I think that is one of the best ice cream that I've ever tested in my entire life...trust me!

To be honest, Chiavari is a really pleasant city during summer time rather than the other seasons because it is a quite a safe town where people live quite good, so one day wandering around it is enough to enjoy the beauty of its.

Just 40 km from here there is Genoa: capital of the region, one of the most important ports in the Mediterranean and home to Christopher Columbus, was already a powerful maritime state in the Middle Ages. Today one can find impressive buildings, elegant mansions, and wonderful churches, all of which bear witness to Liguria's glorious past and which blend in perfectly with the modern city.

Genoa is an inviting city, in bloom throughout the year. Its mild climate and favorable location, between the sea and the Apennines, are conducive to a rich, variety of plant life, from the typical Mediterranean shrubland on the coast to beautiful gardens in the city, as well as the oak and beech woods on the mountain tops. On the hillsides and in the parks, olive trees and grapevines coexist splendidly with flowers and herbs, including the region's famously aromatic basil, used to make exquisite local dishes of universal renown, such as pesto sauce.

What should you have to visit in Genoa? First of all: the historic centre!

One of the largest in Europe, Genoa's historic centre unwinds in an intricate maze of alleyways that open unexpectedly onto small squares; the soul of the city lives here in these alleyways, where smells, tastes, and cultures have combined throughout history.

In this dense urban landscape, where the windows are so close they almost touch, architectural styles are layered over one another, with a medieval wall serving as the base of a 14th-century building and Gothic loggias becoming trendy bars: this is a place where the past forms the foundations of the present. In the centre, where time seems to have stood still, noble palaces and splendid churches alternate with historic shops that have been in operation for over 100 years, where local specialities are still prepared according to ancient recipes and handmade objects are crafted with timeless skill. 

I suggest you to visit the Cathedral of San Lorenzo, inside which are preserved the Ashes of St. John the Baptist, the patron saint of the city, while in the adjoining Museo del Tesoro - a superlative museum of international fame - sacred treasures tell wonderful stories that border on the legendary: from the Sacro Catino, a grail-like relic from the Last Supper, to the dish on which - so legend has it -  the head of John the Baptist was presented, as well as the priceless Croce degli Zaccaria cross and a number of outstanding processional chests.

This is one of those buildings in Genoa that have a distinct Byzantine character and this one combines all the qualities of this type of design and construction. Corkscrew pillars alternate with round and the usual pinkish hues of the stone sometime seem deep and then light and then look like ochre.; depending on the position of the sun. It truly is a remarkably constructed building in a fabulous City. Very rarely open so do not feel disappointed if you miss out. If you like churches, as I do, you will enjoy the beauty of this one.

You can visit Genoa by foot because is not a huge city and than wandering around is pleasant to keep the real italian atmoshere and enjoy all the details of the city!

You can easily reach Genoa's main square, a meeting and gathering place for important city events, is dedicated to Raffaele De Ferrari, the Duke of Galliera, a generous benefactor who donated a considerable sum of money in 1875 towards projects to expand the port. In the centre is a monumental bronze fountain, Piazza De Ferrari is bordered by the side façade of Palazzo Ducale, Teatro Carlo Felice, Palazzo della Regione Liguria, and Palazzo della Nuova Borsa, one of the finest  examples of Genoese Art Nouveau (1912). To sit in this Plaza of an evening and gaze at the magnificent Borsa Building that lies at the entrance to the wonderful promenade of Via XX Settembre, is a relaxing experience. There is a helpful tourist office here and myriads of interesting things to do; like checking out all the book stalls that line the off-shoot streets, or have a beer at a bar or a scrummy snack at one of the squillion little outlets that lie in the off streets. This place, like most of Genoa, is for relaxing and taking in the ambience of it all.

Genoa's Palazzo Ducale (Ducal Palace) is one of the city's most prestigious symbols. Its construction began in 1298, when Genoa was asserting its economic power throughout the Mediterranean. The adjoining Palazzo Fieschi was incorporated into the new building, having been purchased by the Republic in 1294; part of the mediaeval building, to which the "Torre del Popolo", or Grimaldina, belongs is still visible today.

Today it has become the beating heart of cultural life in the city, offering a splendid venue for major events and quality exhibitions, as well as housing retail and entertainment facilities.
Teatro Carlo Felice is Genoa's opera house, takes on board the concept of a covered square, with a surface area of 400 square metres in which the theatre provides a perfect link between Galleria Mazzini and Piazza De Ferrari. Traces of the original theatre are evident in the original columns, pronai, a Latin inscription and the terrace overlooking Via XXV Aprile, which can be reached from one of the foyers; the modern-day building has a very compact, geometric shape, over which looks the fly tower, soaring up to a height of about 63 metres in order to house all the stage machinery and set designs. The  exterior is built in stone, plaster and iron, while the interiors are adorned with marble and wood. Over the years, the stage of the Teatro Carlo Felice has been graced by the most important conductors and orchestras from all over the world, as well as prestigious dance companies and the stars of international contemporary jazz and easy listening music.

If you have time don't miss to visit the Porto antico area, especially by afternoon or night: Redesigned by Renzo Piano in 1992, Genoa's Old Port area has now become a mecca for tourists, who come here to enjoy an aperitivo, dine, shop, take a trip to the cinema, ice skate, or go for a swim at the pool. At the end of the pier, home to the Magazzini del Cotone, with the city's Lanterna (lighthouse, the symbol of the city) rising up nearby, you can admire Genoa and its Gulf in all their beauty. The hills form a backdrop to this impressive panorama, brightly coloured by day and lit up at night.
Furthermore, the area offers a host of attractions, such as the scenic Bigo lift (reminiscent - in both shape and name -  of the port's old loading cranes), the Biosphere, La Città dei Bambini (a fun, interactive museum for children aged 2 to 14), and the Museo Luzzati, housed within the ancient Porta Siberia defensive bulwark and dedicated to the famous Genoese set designer. In 2013, two new attractions were added: the WOW Science Center, dedicated to popularising science, and the renovated Museo Nazionale dell'Antartide, which tells the story of Italy's expeditions to Antarctica, the world's most distant, mysterious continent.
The Aquarium of Genoa is the largest exhibition of aquatic biodiversity in Europe, with 71 tanks housing over 15,000 animals belonging to 400 species, against the incomparable backdrop of the Gulf of Genoa. It welcomes over one million visitors every year and offers visitors the chance to take a trip through the seas of the world in order to admire dolphins, sharks, penguins, manatees and Antarctic animals: it is the only facility in Europe to house jellyfish, tropical fish, seals and much more, in environments that faithfully reproduce the natural habitats of the different species represented. Ticket for adults costs 24 euros, for children the price is 15 euros and the entrance is from 8 till 20, even if in some periods of the year it is open until 24. For further information have a look here http://www.acquariodigenova.it/en/

But Liguria is also and above all Cinque Terre Gulf of Tigullio: an intact and luxuriant Mediterranean vegetation exists in the mountain from  Portofino to Portovenere, a small jewel on the Mediterranean coast. The beautiful Sestri Levante merits special attention and of course a pleasant stop. This city is probably the most well known tourist destinations on the Italian Riviera, and it is becoming quite a favorite among Italians. This once quiet fishing village is slowly turning into a tourist hotspot, developing an old and a new town...

Between Baia del Silenzio and Baia delle Favole, it is called “the city of two seas”, Sestri Levante is a magical place, fitting for youngs and families. Strongly recommended an aperitivo here to enjoy the view and the peaceful atmosphere especially during the sunset. The tiny but pretty historic centre is full of boutiques and caracteristic shops where to purchase some souvenirs will be not so cheap! 
Not so far from Baia del Silenzio, just few steps over it, I suggest to you to visit the Chiesa dell'Immacolata, a complex of Capuchin friars, it's so special and inside there is a big and animated nativity scene all the year.
Sestri Levante is the ideal point of start to do some exursion to Cinque Terre. But I will talk about them in my next article ;)
Keep reading my friends!!!

TIPS ON WHAT AND WHERE TO EAT:

Liguria is where pesto is originally from, one of the most popular sauces in Italian cuisine. Stop in a any bar or locanda to order a dish of troffie al pesto or pansotti al sugo di noci (both a special kind of pasta)...and please, go to a backery to buy a slice of focaccia (even better if it's hot): very typical and delicious...people from liguria eats focaccia everytime! =p

I suggest you the restaurant Zena Zuena, It´s not a tourist restaurant, so you have to order the english menu, it offers a repackaged traditional eating experience, there are some tables to eat outside, crowded especially at lunchtime, the price is very little...you will not disappointed! 

Have you ever heard about Focaccia al formaggio di Recco? ok, if you are chees lovers, this focaccia delightfully -- nay, libidinously -- cheesy variation on the focacce you'll find in many parts of Liguria: It's made by extending a thin sheet of dough, dotting it with a creamy cheese, covering everything up and baking it. The result is simply wonderful.

But, I'm honest and I always give you tips to eat something good and not expensive, if you go to Recco, where the Focaccia al formaggio was born, all the restaurants make a great focaccia but they are costly =( 

My advise? I've found in Chiavari e pizzeria named LA PIAZZETTA, where pizza is exquisite but focaccia al formaggio is mouth-watering!!! strongly suggest if you want to taste it for a very good price!

MOVING THROUGH LIGURIA

Dear Friends, hopefully Liguria has a good railway system, get on in a city and get off to another is very easy and at quite affordable price. Trains run every 10 minutes (more or less) but I have to say that they are not very reliable because of the strikes and inexplicable delays. So just bear with that you are on holidays =) For example a ticket for 40km on a regional train costs 4 euros, remember that you have always endorse the ticket before the leaving if you don't want to get a fine ( I've seen this a lot of time).
Buses are also a good choice, but are always crowded and not fast...you can buy the tickets in a tobacco shop or newsagent, the price of the ticket is 1,50 euros for almost 2 hours you can go everywhere, back and forward with all the buses you want.
Even better if you really want to feel like an italian, rent a scooter!  everybody use it, especially because is fast and it's easy to find a park and you don't have to pay for that.

 HOW TO GET THE VISA FOR EUROPE?

Are you planning your trip to Europe but you have no idea how to get the visa? No worries, I can help you =)

here you can find all the information that you need to require your visa!

The Visa for European Union, the main relevant legislation is the Schengen Convention. This applies to all European States signatories to the agreement and that the same have joined (Belgium, France, Germany, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Monaco, Portugal, Spain, Italy, Austria, Greece, Denmark, Finland, Sweden, Iceland, Norway, Slovenia, Estonia, Latvia, Lithuania, Poland, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Hungary, Malta, Switzerland, Liechtenstein).
Some states, although not part of the European Union, such as Switzerland, Iceland and Norway, however, have acceded to the Convention. Other states, which instead are part of the European Union do not apply the Convention, such as the UK and Ireland. Other states yet, despite having not yet acceded to the Agreement which apply to Bulgaria and Romania. In these latter cases it is therefore necessary, if you want to visit these countries, go to their diplomatic representatives and ask for an entry visa.

The Convention lays down the conditions for a national of a third State can do, within the European Union, a stay not exceeding three months. Among the conditions is expected, for strangers who must obtain, possession of a valid visa.

The visa is uniform, that is equivalent to all States parties to the Agreement.
The visa should not be limited territorial validity (LTV), because in this case, the visa will be valid for one or more Member States and not for everyone.

The Convention also provides that "Foreigner holding a uniform visa, entered the territory of a Contracting Party may move freely within the territory of all Contracting Parties for the period of validity of the visa."

That said, the holder of a tourist visa, obtained by a State party to the agreement, it may circulate for the duration of the visa within the Schengen area. And 'necessary, however, that in the coming other than that for which it was requested visa, signals its presence to the Police Authorities. In addition, it must be shown at the entrance to the purpose of the journey, to have the financial resources for the period of stay, adequate accommodation (eg hotel booking) and health coverage for accidents and diseases.


In the event that a person subject proves dangerous for the public order and safety, or if they are the result of previous reports expulsions, the entry will be denied.

PARIS IN 2 DAYS AND A HALF? YES IT'S POSSIBLE!!!

Paris mon amour...One of that city that you should visit at least once in your life!
I've always dreamed it since I was a child like a charming and a romantic city and in effect I was not disappointed! 
I found a flight from Pisa to Paris thanks to Ryanair for a special price of 46 euros, departure on Friday and return on Sunday...just a week end. My doubt was if it was enough time to see all the city, of course it wasn't, but i didn't care because my desire to visit Paris was bigger than ever and I didn't want to miss this opportunity for this price...so i booked immediately!
Next step was find an accommodation: dear friends, Paris is terribly expensive and all the prices, both in b&b or in hostel were out of my budget, and my aim was finding something quite close to the city center because I didn't want to waste my time on a metro just to reach from a side to another.
Fortunately I came up with a brilliant idea: search a little flat or a room on www.homeaway.com and after emails to everybody, a very kind man replied me offering a studio for 70 euros (2 nights and 3 days) in the 14th arrondissement. I suggest you this web site instead of others  that offer you only expensive hotels or not very cheap hostels...if you are lucky you can find a good accommodation for a great value of money!
Paris is divided in arrondissement (zones) and I can say that this zone is not the core of the city but it's very close to. The metro was just down my building and in 15 minutes I could reach the main attractions.

Friday I arrived at the Beauvais Airport at 9 am, but be careful : this airport is far away from Paris, it takes 1 hour and 30 minutes to get to the city. An advise that I do recommend to you is to buy the bus ticket in advance on internet, you'll safe money and above all time! I spent 1 hour just queuing  for ticket =(
The bus will bring you to Paris Porte Maillot which is the point where you can catch the metro or the train and start to move into the city...I bought a carnet of 10 rides for the price of 13euros which allows you to travel on metro lines, RER trains, Ile- de- France bus lines and the Montmatre funicular: for my week end this option was enough for what I planned to visit.
First of all I had my meeting with the owner of the flat! We met at the metro station Olympiade, thanks God for some reason, we recognized each other and he brought me to the flat: it was nice, cozy and clean but what was the most important for me was that the metro station was just down the building.
The morning flew and I had the afternoon to start visiting the city, first stop: Musée du Louvre. I'm an art lover and if you are too, you can't miss it! I think that I heard for all of my entire life about this museum, I've studied at school the main masterpieces and see thousand of reports, but just once here I realized for real how amazing it is!
To get here by metro, stops are Palais- Royal- Musèe du Louvre (line 1 and 7). The main entrance is the breathless pyramidal structure, even though there are other secondary entrances.
When I got in, below the glass pyramid I went to the ticket office: maybe I was lucky or maybe because it was afternoon, but I didn't queue and the best part of everything: for european people who are under 25 years the entrance is totally FREE =)
Actually, in Paris many attractions are free or at least have a discount for young people and I think this is awesome because favor tourism.

What visit in the Louvre? In this museum there are thousand of masterpieces, it's impossible to see everything in one day! Take your time to visit it, I spent 4 hours here and I managed to see just what interested me most, I'm not an art critic, but I was curious to see all that things that I had studied at school. Le musee du Louvre is basically divided in 3 wings: Richielieu, Sully and Denon. 

My choice was starting my sightseeing from the ground floor where you can find egyptian, greek, babylonian and etruscan antiquities. Among a bunch of masterpieces, the most popular of them that I've seen are The Hammurrabi Code, that is the emblem of the Mesopotamian civilization; The Statue of Rames II, The Venus of Milo and Cupid and Psyche: all of them are amazing and their aspect is incredible through the centuries!
Then I went upstairs to see the French and Italian painting collection, you just go through Rooms 1 and 2 and into the Salon Carré (Room 3): Italian collection is on Denon wing...you can find artist like Da Vinci, Raffaello, Caravaggio, Giotto, Tiziano, Veronese and so on...sorry but I'm Italian and the art of my country is one of the best in all over the world and I'm so proud of it  =) Sometimes Italy underestimates its treasures and it is quite sad that I have to see and enjoy my own country art abroad.

Anyway, I was really curious to see the Mona Lisa, the best known, the most visited, the most written about work of art in the world! In my opinion there are many others far stunning than this, I expected to feel me impressed but beyond doubt is certainly a very emblematic portrait, even though very little.

Keep going to my visit on the same floor but on the other wing, called Richielieu, I discovered the art of Georges de La Tour, Watteau, Ingres, Delacroix and Poussin which are among the best represented XVII to XIX century French painters at Louvre Museum. The collection is worth a trip by itself and i really loved the colors, lights, and movement that the artists used to arouse emotion in their audience. Unfortunately after 4 hours in the Louvre I was tired and I got a little bit bored because I realized that I did not manage to see everything...this in my suggest, divide your visit in 2 parts if you want really to enjoy it. It was late when I went out from the Louvre so I decided to take a walk from here down the Champs Elysee up to the Arch de Triumph and enjoy the charming surroundings...buzzing with restaurants, shops and theaters, some highlights are the Tiffan&co and Laduree cafe. It's a great walk towards the Arch de triumph, not long but nice especially during the night and at Christmas time I guess, when the lights are switched on. Part of the route is included the Place de la Concorde, great place to go (as indeed the whole area is) enjoy and take plenty of photos, you can photo one object with another behind in the distance and the view looking up to the Arc de triomphe is fantastic.This is one of those areas where you see some beautiful architecture - but it becomes so much more meaningful when you know the history of what took place here years ago!
One thing to be careful of is crossing the road , some crossings are quite long and as we found out you don't have as much time as you thought to cross. Wandering down this avenue I took a crepe with chocolate in a bar, actually there are so many that prepare this delicious dessert, if you are gourmand like me it is a MUST to eat. At the end of Champs Elysee just in front of you there is the Arc de Triumph: it's a huge stone arch in the middle of a huge round-a-bout, but it really is unbelievable, the intricate architectural design of this monument blew me away. It's in the centre so you get great views of the Paris landmarks with its buildings lit up.This was my last attraction for the first day, and the following day I would have been a very full day. I came back to my house and I had dinner in a chinese restaurant very close to my flat, nothing special but at least cheap!

On Saturday I woke up early, destination: The Notre Dame Cathedral. If you catch the metro, lines 7, 11 and 14 will get you right in front of the cathedral, the stop is Chatelet. Built in 1862, the cathedral is widely considered to be one of thelargest and most well-known church buildings in the world. The naturalism of its sculptures and stained glass are in contrast with earlier Romanesque architecture.

After seeing dozens of magnificent old European cathedrals, this is one of my favorites. The architecture is outstanding, the feeling you have when you're inside is indescribable, it's quite overwhelming. The entire cathedral and the external garden is amazing and without doubt it was one of the best attractions in Paris. To be honest, only a negative observation: I was sorely disappointed by the several shops in the cathedral selling souvenirs during the Mass...I found it very insensitive =/

Lots of stairs, will bring you to the top, be prepared to get plenty of exercise and queue for limitless time...but the effort worth the spectacular view! Stunning city views and completely fascinating architecture gave me off a sense of mystery and made feel hypnotized by the stone decoration and of course by gargoyles. If you can't make the climb to the top, still a wonderfully beautiful church!The stained glass in the Rose Windows is the most stunning I've ever seen. And it's free to get in (it is also the climb to the top for young). 

After visiting the Notre Dame I decided to spend my afternoon in Montmatre: this area in northern Paris, will make you fall in a dreamy french atmosphere...so sophisticated and quaint!

I took the metro from Chatelet, getting to the stop of Montmatre takes 20-30 minutes, you should get off at Pigalle (line 2 and 12).

When I was here there was a local fair of food, and I could not miss the opportunity to taste hot red wine for 2 euros and I was not disappointed! Moreover, you can find inexpensive little cafes where you can try the typical parisian pastries like the fabulous macarons...I've already told you that I'm glutton ;) Take your time to explore the narrow streets full of handicraft shops, young emerging designers and creators, vintage shops and cabinets of curiosities. Look for La Boutique des Anges, Tombées du Camion and Chinemachine, just to name a few.  

The path to walk up to the church Sacré Coeur is wonderful...don't be afraid of doing a good climb! If you are lazy there is also a funicular that will bring you up and down avoiding you any labor. Basilica is breathtaking with the unusual architecture and colorful windows. In contrast to the Gothic churches of the Middle Ages like Notre-Dame de Paris, the style is inspired by churches such as Saint Sofia in Istanbul and San Marco in Venice. It is very calming and peaceful inside, while you are amazed by the grace and beauty of the overall building. The views over Paris are simply spectacular, definitely worth a visit!

Just a niggle- I wish I could take photos inside, it 's forbidden =/

Once ended my visit to the Sacre Coeur I took the chance to stroll about the neighborhood Pigalle, which is really close to Montmatre, I reached it by foot, but if you want to go by metro from a different spot, you have to get off at Blanche or at Anvers. Pigalle is a notorious section of Paris and a tourist attraction, the area is full of cafes and restaurants offering plat du jours and happy hour specials. Nearby there is the famous Moulin Rouge, I didn't enter or had a pleasure to see the show of Can Can because of the high price...it 's about 100 euros...sadly, completely out of my budget, but I think that it's worth it. Anyway, it's very unique walking and chilling out in the same place where Van Gogh, Dali, Modigliani spent their time along with Jean Baptiste Pigalle, the sculptor after whom the area is named.The area is littered with sex shops and there are several shady characters hanging around but this just make me smile.

Along the way I found a bar named 'La Famille' at 41 Rue de Trois Freres. This has great food and outrageously good cocktails. Surprisingly cheap, but be warned, it is very small and so always crowded. It's raunchy, bawdy, and I sort of enjoyed the unsavory-ness of it. It was much different than my other visits in the city, but nonetheless, it was great for people watching. There is definitely 'something-for-everyone' here ;)

It's time to leave Pigalle for me and got closer to my apartment. I decided to spend the night in the Latin Quarter, I saw on internet before my departure to Paris that this zone is very vibrant especially during the evening hours. Music, people, entertainment and whatever one wishes to eat are all here. Located in  the area of 5 and 6 arrondissements  on the left bank of Seine, the metro stops to arrive here are Cluny-Sorbonne or Saint Michel. I may say this is a real intellectual region with so many beautiful, short streets to see, and many various locals in them to visit, as the coffee, dinner locals, then also the restaurants, bars, jazz clubs, bakeries and delis. Sitting in someone of them, you may feel yourself, at the times, as some writer or artist. Beside, you can too, be the witness of so lively students life and meet them on the streets everywhere, going in the different directions,since the Latin Quarter is the home to a number of higher education establishments. 

Very pleasant time I have had in Latin Quarter, except for the restaurant I chose to eat the famous entrecote! The restaurant named "Relais de l'entrecote": I waited for a long time in queue, outside the local and once I got in they made me sit at a table in front of the door, so every time that someone opened it, a cool air kicked my back...not very pleasant feeling...Anyway, I've ordered the main dish, entrecote served with french fries; a dessert and a red wine for a total price of 40 euros! Food was delicious but the problem was that portions were really little and when I went out I was still hungry. Not suggested!  

It was late but it was my last night in Paris and I didn't want to miss the opportunity to see the famous tower illuminated. 

What to say about Eiffel Tower? This is one of the most iconic and beautiful attractions in the world! It's a must see for travelers to Paris. The view of the city is magnificent from top , specially at night. If possible, experience the view from the top both during the day and at night to get the most of it and enjoy a memorable and unforgettable memory. Don't get mad because pictures cant be as you expect, due to many people under and around it, just go to the library 100m away over a balcony, the place named Trocadero where you can relish the view of Tour Eiffell that is absolutely amazing!

I want to go up to the top, but during the winter time the tower is open until 10.30 pm and I arrived at 10  =O After a very little queue I managed to start my climb by lift!!! See the streets from the summit of Eiffel make you understand why is it called The City of Lights...that's would be the high point of the Paris trip for anyone. And its just so amazing to see it all lit up in the night...loved it totally. 

Once I got off I wanted to reach Trocadero to see the tower sparkling: every hour at o'clock time, the lights of the Tower begin to twinkle for 5 minutes. Sitting in the garden, I was waiting for this moment just like child...it was the most touching moment of my trip and I could not expect best end for my day.

Sunday was my last day in this city and I had almost all the day to see the remainder. I left the key of the apartment early in the morning and I had breakfast on my way to the Eiffel Tower. My advice is to buy a good croissant in a patisserie to taste the real croissant...it will be your best one ever! =D

I wanted to have the opportunity to see the tower during the day and take other pictures. I noticed that to climb the tower there was a super long queue...good choice scaled it during the night. Note: beware of the fake charity workers who may try to get you to sign a petition near the tower, it is all a swindle and they will try to get you to hand over money. So walk away and ignore them! 

After taking thousand of pictures of the Tour (I could not stop to do it hihihi) finally I had a walk up to the Bridge Alessandro III, it was a pleasant sunny day and  even though I had been walking for hours in the latest days. I could admire the outside of the  Musée d'Orsay enjoying the atmosphere of a timeless city. I reached the bridge, a beautiful monument with nice views over the Seine and the city, on one side of the bridge is the Invalides and on the other the GrandPalais. It can only be described as awe inspiring. Straddling the Seine, this bridge had elements of the rococo style of art (in my opinion), it was elaborate and very photogenic, a very romantic site indeed. Just the time to take some pictures and I stumbled on this bridge on my way to visit another attraction:

The Musee De L'Armee is in the historic "Hotel National des Invalides" and interesting building to see inside of. There were no line ups to get in and you could actually get close to the exhibits (if you are younger than 26 years the entrance is free). To get to this attraction, just look out for the building with the golden dome. Upon entering the building, one will see and be astonished at the sight of a golden cross. The tomb of Napoleon and the Sain-Louis Chapel are also included in your entrance ticket and they are both really worth the time. The museum has a good lunch counter, with sandwiches and a couple of hot daily specials. I enjoyed the suits of armour, muskets, Napoleonic history and World War II displays. It was neat to see uniforms from not only the French army, but also, England, USA, Russia and China. 
The place is beautiful with an air of luxury about it. A delightful hour wandering around.
Be sure to go down te stairs to see the Tomb of Napoleon from below as the lit up passageway with the carved ceilings and walls is quite pretty. The army museum was fabulous, all relating to the military history of France, I'm not a huge military buff so that says a lot!

Time ran and it was time to come back to Italy...sadly! I took the last metro to Port Maillot to catch the shuttle bus to the airport (buses leave from Pershing parking 3 hours before your flight). These 2 day and half were very full, I've had a little taste of an incredible city, I could bot to see everything but i strongly recommend to visit it even for few hours because it really worth it: Paris is magical, it will leave you an indelible feeling in you mind and in you heart! So..what are you waiting for? let's travel =)

BON VOYAGE MES AMIS!!!

MAGIC TURKEY

I visited Turkey during the summer of 2013, I had just 1 week of holidays and, to be honest, I wanted  to visit Greece but my budget was very tight and in August Greece is very very but very expensive :/

I could not decide where to go: not Spain, I visited it plenty of times, not France, too close to Italy, not Croatia cause it takes many hours to get there and the easiest way is by car...

On internet  I've seen many Turkish Airline's advertisements, award winning best European air company. Every summer there is a promo whom you can flight from Genoa to Istanbul (round trip) for 149 euros! That sounds great...you have just to book the flight 1 or 2 months before the 9 and the 10 of each month.
So I booked my holiday from the 14th to the 21th of August: 1 week to visit Turkey!
Of course I wanted to see Istanbul but also to chill out by the sea...one of the best places where you can find gold beaches and blue waters is the southern part of the country, the most famous place is the nearby of Anthalya, I've read a lot about it and at the end I decided to stay in Fethiye, a little and lovely village, not far from the majority attractions and very low cost option.
The problem is that Turkey is a wide country and to reach the opposite part of it, it can takes you hours. 
The 14th the flight was in time, very comfortable and the crew was kind. All went well, in 2 hours I was in Istanbul! My plan was spend the first 4 days in Fethiye and the last 3 in Istanbul. If I went back I would stayed in Istanbul longer...those days were really full and quite stressfull due to the many things to see and do in so little time! I suggest you to stay here more for sure...Istanbul is amazing!!!!
To save time and money I got to Fethiye by a night bus. The company was METRO TURIZM, the journey took 10 hours more or less, cost 25 euros. It was nice and they provided waters, juice and something to eat, I managed to sleep despite the seats are not so comfortable...I met a good guy of the crew, he didn't speak English well but we understood each other :) he took care of me and gave many advices... So kind!
In Fethiye I booked an hotel close to Calis beach, this is nothing special but if you want to relax, swim and tan is perfect! In Fethiye the there are 2 lines of buses: one to the city center and one to Calis beach. There are no stops, you have just to make a signal to the bus when it is getting closer and it'll stop.The cost is 2 turkish lira, they drive like a fool and it is always crowded but funny!
The name of the hotel is KALIM APART HOTEL:  for 3 nights I paid 96 euros, double room, windows on the pool and breakfast included (the food was certainly fresh and delicious). 
The staff were friendly and helpful, the hotel was clean, I think It's suitable both for family and for singles or couples, and in a quite area. There was also a swimming pool where you can fresh yourself during the day and the night ;)

As said Fethiye can give you all that you desire, and there are many activities to do. I had little time so I opted for a daily cruise with MY BLUE CRUISE around 12 islands, part of the tour are the Blue Cave, where you can swim up into the cave, St. Nicholas Island with the partly sunken city, Aquarium Bay, Cold Water Spring Bay, Camel beach and Butterfly Valley where if you are feeling energetic you can climb around the waterfall, or if you prefer, stay on the beach and swim in the beautiful turquoise waters. For a ridiculous price of 9 euros they pick you up at the hotel, spend the whole day cruising the beauty of the Turkey's stunning coastline together people of all nationalities and ages, they provide then lunch (very good and light of course for a day sailing). At the end they bring you back to the hotel...what could you desire more for this price? nothing better I think, I spent a very pleasant day for a great value of money!TOTALLY SUGGEST =)
 If you want to have a look on their webpage you can discover all their services  www.mybluecruise.com 

Another excursion that I managed to do is to Oludeniz  National Park (blue lagoon), local buses from Fethiye will get you here in less than 30 minutes, the entrance of this protect area cost 4,50 tkl., the environment is clean and well kept, there are specific areas where to eat and free shower. I found this place suitable to kick back in a breath-taking panorama. 
It should be awesome to do paragliding over Oludeniz, I bet the view is incredible...the price is quite affordable, 70 euros for a total of 2 hours (go up to the hill, a little briefing and the landing).
I'll list you some activities that I did't do but if you can you should evaluate them:

- Jeep or Quad safari: A great way to see lots of the local sights of interest and countryside all in one day. 

- One day in Pammukale: Natural spring waters cascade down the mountainside in this amazing location. The spring waters are said to have beneficial health effects, relieving the symptoms of allergies stress and rheumatism
Nearby you can visit the ancient Roman city of Hieropolis which dates from 200BC...e great connection between relax and history

- Trekking in Saklikent: Explore the ruins of the capital of ancient Lycia  with its acropolis,stadium, theatre and rock tombs strolling through the icy waters of Saklikent area

- Dalyan (Turtle Beach): An enjoyable on Dalyan turtle beach...don't miss the opportunity to see lovely loggerheads and have a mud bath

And last but but not least...try the real Turkish Bath!!! my advice is to avoid the agency that sell this activity because it is cheaper and it's worth to try a local and a real traditional hammam. Many people told me that in Istanbul is more expensive and low quality, for this reason I think those in villages little bath are better and more genuine than in big cities. I went to the OLD TURKISH BATH, this is the oldest one in Fethiye: the atmosphere is so magical and peaceful that you wish to rest here for all your holiday...the staff is professional and very humble, everything clean and well appointed. I'm not going to unveil you what's the treatment they'll reserve to you, you must try it because it is a special experience!  
have a look here www.oldturkishbath.com
Now I'm going to speak about the night life:in spite of being a little city, it's a quite alive: pubs, discotheques, shops and restaurants are opened till late; colors, spicy smells and happy voices from all over the world surround you warmly...this is Turkey!
I do want to recomend 2 cosy and delicious restaurants where you should go to eat. The first is the MOZAIK BAHCE: IT'S SIMPLY YUMMY!!!!!! they cook traditional turkey food, the location is great and romantic, it 's outdoor, all around you there are a lot of  colored Turkish lamps and sofas where you can lay down and taste the fantastic chay! Portions are big, and I in my opinion this is the best turkish food I've ever tested!
The second one is the OZTOKLU RESTAURANT: if you want to enjoy the vibrant atmosphere of the fruit and vegetable market, come here and let you prepare a good meal by Hazim and his friendly family. You can eat fresh fish and seafood for a good price and share your table with other people,  I can guarantee you wont be disappointed and you'll feel as being in someone's house. love it! 
All things considered, I really appreaciated my stay in Fethiye, and I have very nice memories about it...but good time flies and now it's time to go to Istanbul! Here below, I leave you some pictures of Fethiye....

ISTANBUL THE BRIDGE BETWEEN EAST AND WEST

No better affirmation can describe this fantastic city...It was my first time in a muslim country and I was a little worried about what to wear, how to act,etc. but I can assure you that there is nothing to be nervous about. Turkish are great people, so friendly and open minded that you feel comfortable and curious to discover a beautiful culture like this.
Unfortunately I spent just 3 days in Istanbul, enough to see the main attractions but in hurry =/
The hostel that I reserved, ISTANBUL SYDNEY HOSTEL, was in Sultanahmet zone, just behind the Aya Sophia and the Blue Mosque...you can reach all the best places in just 5 min walking! My room was very clean, wi -fi was almost everywhere and the staff were so helpful and kind to provide to me the transfer to the airport and give me some tips where to eat, what visiting and what to do!Complimentary breakfast is served on their great roof terrace that looks out over the street and the water beyond ...so I can say great value of money!
To reach Sultanahment from Gokcen airport I took the Havataş bus transfer to Kadıköy (45 min) that is the ferry terminal. Just outside the airport on the left there are many white buses of the Havatas company, the ticket costs 2 euros. Once arrived at Kadiköy, I took the ferry (cost 0,60 cent), it's is quite easy to find one because there is on every 30 minutes until 9 pm...Getting to Sirkeci/Sultanahmet is fast and cheap, I spent a total of 4 euros and I had the opportunity to use a very common public transport that make you enjoy a good view of the city. In general all the public transports are reliable and efficient! 

Let's start to tell you something about the BLUE MOSQUE...This was my first mosque that I visited in my life and I was really impressed, a mast visit place for sure if you are in Istanbul: built from 1609 from 1616, the mosque is popularly known with this name for the blue tiles adorning the walls of its interior. An overwhelming monument, its design is the culmination of two centuries of ottoman mosque development, the exterior is as beautiful as the interior. The entrance is free, there is one for visitors and another for devotes, avoid visiting at the prayer times and if you visiting on Friday, it opens to visitors only after 2 pm...You need to take off your shoes and carry them in a plastic bag provided by them before entering the main Mosque. Ladies would need to cover their hair with a scarf. For me that I'm a western woman, it's a little bit strange to cover a part of my body and not to be allowed to enter in certain part of the mosque ( just for men) but this didn't bother me, I respect their culture and I was so stunned by the magnificent architecture that I really enjoyed my first time in a Islamic place of worship.
The Blue Mosque looks excellent by day and by night,for this reason I suggest to you to take some pictures at different part of the day ;)

Right across the garden and fountain from here there is HAGIA SOPHIYA. Sit on the benches there and you could spend a relaxed time gazing at these two monuments which you cant get enough of.
The church/mosque/museum Hagia Sophiya is breathtaking, even more considering it was built more than 1500 years ago, a truly inspiring building both in terms of architecture and history - Christian and Islamic symbols side by side. I was quite touched by the fact that two different religions can live together in the same place without problems. 
The church contained a large collection of holy features, the interior is decorated with mosaic and marble pillars and coverings of great artistic value. Hagia Sophiya became museum in 1935 after being a christian church first and a mosque then. The intricate symbolism here is fascinating, the secular stones will reveal you a true treasure full of history...trust me, you won't be disappointed to spend you time here.

Next attraction that without a doubt it is one of the best in Istanbul is TOPKAPI PALACE. This was the main residence of the sultan and his court and it is among the monuments contained within the "Historic Area of Istanbul", which became a UNESCO WORLD HERITAGE SITE in 1985.You will be able to see stunning rooms, thousands of colorful tiles and breathtaking decorations. It is worth to do the full visit (Palace+Harem) to really understand the place and the culture but be careful: there is SO MUCH to see here that certainly it takes half a day to visit it! The risk is that after a long queue to buy the ticket, see everything in every single detail could be boring...go there if you want to focus just in this attraction and after have a break and relax...it's very demanding!The palace gives a glimpse into the wonders of the Ottaman Empire, including its riches, the admission price is 7 euros which you can pre-book online to skip the queues (strongly suggest).
Don't miss the look-out point at the end of all the pavillions - watching all the boats in the Bosphorus and the Golden Horn was fantastic and gives an insight into the strategic location of the palace.

What's the next stop? The BASILIC CISTERN of course!!! It is at Sultanahmet Square, near the Hagia Sophia end the Blue Mosque. A visit will take around 30 minutes and costs so little.
It is the largest of several hundred ancient cisterns that lie beneath the city of Istanbul. The cistern, located 150 m was built in the 6th century during the reign of Byzantine Emperor Justinian I. The entrance is slightly unassuming, but once inside it is a great place. It is a unique and different place, made magic by the lights. I found it very interesting, even more after reading Inferno by Dan Brown! Inside there is a group of photographers that for 5 euros will take you some pictures wearing traditional Turkish dresses...that could be a nice memory! The stagnant air probably could make you feel uncomfortable (it was August when I visited it) so simply wander around unhurriedly, soak up the ambiance and appreciate the effort and skill required in the design and construction.

Include it on your itinerary!!!

No visit to Istanbul would be complete without a stop here: the GRAND BAZAAR is unmissable! It is huge and feels like a maze. Stalls upon stalls of lamps, rugs, bags, jewellery, carpets, clothes, bowls, Turkish delights etc. Good place to practice your haggling skills as the stall owners often go 50% to 60% cheaper then the price they first tell you: bargain with them and if you are not happy with the price walk away. Most of the time they will call you back and accept your offer! I enjoyed the sensory overload of shops, colors and displays. If you like the Grand Bazaar, don't miss the Spice market! I never expect such a huge historical bazaar. Very different and special of its kind. Something funny happened to me during my shopping here: it was filming a scene of a famous television series and they pick me out to appear in a bit part! ahahah never ever I would have imagined this...among thousand people in Istanbul's bazaar =D Anyway this place is must check in Istanbul.

Carry on with my list of attractions one of the most beautiful panoramic viewpoint is the ancient TOWER OF GALATA which offers a great vantage point over much of the city and Golden Horn. 
Here you can purchase the ticket at the front desk inside the tower and price is around 5 euros, of course there will be a small queue to get in about 10 minutes of waiting, and once you bought the ticket proceeds to the entrance of the lift, in a few seconds you'll reach to the top of the tower. 
You can go out and walk around it, and get a 360° view of the city, the view is amazing, the balcony it's pretty narrow so if it's crowded it is gonna be quiet annoying the height of the tower is about 40 meters, but it is located on a hill that rises even more. 
If you want to take panoramic photos this is the best place!

As I've mentioned several times, I had little time to visit this wonderful city and also for this reason I used to eat walking down the street a take away kebab, I don't advise you a specific restaurant where to eat it because all that I tested were good. Just one night, browsing on tripadvisor.com I had dinner at a little but very nice and delicious restaurant: Sukullu Restaurant gives you a good opportunity to try genuine local cuisine, the menu has a variety of choices, including turkish and european cuisine with normal prices. The location was a bit difficult to find but it was worth it.

Furthermore if you want to spend a good night outside I suggest the Taksim area...few day before my arrive, all the news in Italy warning about the protests in this part of the city, but I do assure that nothing dangerous happened, on the contrary was everything pleasant and really quite. It was really crowded, shops are open till late and I've met some lovely Turkish and Syrian guys to hang out with and they showed me the best and the most amusing night life of Istanbul!

This is the end of my first report of one of my trips, I hope that you enjoyed the reading and the tips that I gave you. What I do want to say is that Turkey is a wonderful country, full of history and amazing landscapes, cities and a precious culture. I can't forget the kindness if Turkish people and their hospitality. I would like to return here to stay longer and see what I couldn't in this occasion. 

I brought to Italy a very fantastic memories of a magic colorful Turkey