What Is a Detox Holiday and Is It for You?

What Is a Detox Holiday and Is It for You?
By B. Campbell

One of the most talked about types of holiday of recent years is that called the "detox break".

What is it and would it be suitable for you?

The concept of detoxification

Surprisingly, there is nothing new to this idea.

For decades if not centuries, the wealthy would occasionally take what they might have called a "rest break" at a sanatorium or other such institution, in order to undertake a range of beneficial "rejuvenation" treatments.

That might have included all the usual things such as baths and mudpack treatments but they would also have included some form of controlled dietary regime.

Today the basic principle has been significantly expanded and fine-tuned based upon rather more of a scientific basis.

Concentrating on the idea of diet, the basic concept around detoxification is that we all consume foodstuffs that are less than ideal for our bodies. This isn't just the usual sweeties and cakes or too much alcohol but also includes a whole range of stimulants and other foodstuffs that are difficult for our bodies to digest.

The notion, put simply, is that you will obtain health benefits as a result of making sure your body gets everything it needs by way of nutritional intake but little or nothing of those things that might potentially be more difficult for it to handle.

What is in a detoxification diet?

You'll probably be distinctly un-amazed to discover that there are many different interpretations of just what you should or should not consume when you are undergoing this process.

Some components will receive universal agreement, typically including the need to avoid things such as alcohol, caffeine, highly processed foods, artificial flavourings and sweeteners etc.

Yet others will entail a much higher degree of variation and debate. For example, some detox diets will tell you that you shouldn't be eating any form of grain or grain-related products including bread. Others will tell you that's nonsense and encourage you to eat bread, albeit in manageable quantities, in order to aid of your intake of fibre.

Just which particular flavour of the detox diet you adopt will be a matter for you based upon your knowledge of your own body plus plentiful online research.

The holiday component

Most detox regimes though also emphasise the need for what might be termed mental relaxation.

That's because most health experts now agree that our day-to-day life stresses are potentially extremely damaging to our wellbeing and we occasionally need to simply relax and not think about much other than enjoying ourselves.

So, whilst it is perfectly possible to pursue a detox diet regime at home and as part of your normal lifestyle, many experts prefer to suggest combining it with a break in some luxury holiday accommodation in a location that is well away from your normal daily routines.

So, the concept of the detox holiday was born and it is growing rapidly.

Can it change your life?

Different experts have different opinions on that one.

Virtually nobody would argue that it can do any harm though most dietary and nutritional experts point out that, for example, there is little point effectively poisoning our bodies for 50 weeks per year then assuming that a 2-week detox holiday will fix the problem!

What is required in a fundamental change in our lifestyles and eating habits. A good luxurious detox holiday just might be the start of that for you.

Brenda Campbell is an author/owner of FNQ Apartments and loves to share her traveling experience with others. For tours in Cairns, Palm Cove, Port Douglas and tropical island visit website.

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What to Do During a Trip in Mauritius

What to Do During a Trip in Mauritius
By B. Boyd

Whenever people hear about all-inclusive holidays in Mauritius, they immediately think that this vacation is enjoyed by newlyweds who are on their honeymoon. This is one thing that people overlook about Mauritius; no matter how romantic the place is, it can be a very versatile destination for every kind of traveler. There are a lot of activities to enjoy whether you are traveling with a small group or by yourself, and in this article, we will take a look at some sights to see and activities to try in the island.

Soak up on the summer sun by exploring the beaches. The beautiful island of Mauritius is home to some of the finest beaches in the world such as Belle Mare Beach and La Cuvette beach. How many time have you imagined yourself basking under the sun while sipping on your favorite cocktail? The best place to live that dream is this gorgeous island! The pristine waters reflect the sky which is the bluest of the blue. This relaxing view is what awaits you when you spend your day at the beach. If you are on the extreme side, you can have a go at Mauritius' out of the ordinary water sports like deep-sea fishing and kite surfing.

Feast your eyes on natural and man-made wonders in Chamarel. One of the attractions of this village in the Rivi�re Noire District of Mauritius is the Seven Colored Earths, a small patch of sand dunes that showcases literally seven distinct colors of earth. The village also features several waterfalls that is bound to enchant any tourist. If you want to get in touch with your playful side, you can pay a visit to the Curious Corner of Chamarel, a house of illusion that will give an unconventional twist and a momentary disconnect from reality to your photos.

Delight your tastebuds with Mauritius' delectable street food. Their street food is literally a melting pot of all the cuisines you can think of-Chinese, Creole, Spanish, African, and Indian. Their dishes are bursting with colors with flavors that won't disappoint. They are not hard to spot-you can even find some street food stalls near the beach. We suggest you try their curry-based dishes, the samosas, their version of roti (which is usually stuffed with grois pois, or butter bean curry), and even pineapples sprinkled with chili salt!

Rent a car and drive around the cities of Mauritius. If you run out of things to do (although we swear this is highly unlikely!) in Mauritius, get behind the wheel and discover charming villages and other sights to see. There are a lot of rental car services in the city, so you can easily find one that you can use for the day. The island has amazing roads that overlook the ocean, and without the city traffic you're used to, this can easily become therapeutic. So, if you find yourself with a free day during all-inclusive holidays, you know what to do.

Our vacation club membership lets you enjoy all-inclusive holidays and luxury travel without the price tag. The luxurious experience of being a member of our club is too good to be kept to yourself, that is why we are encouraging you to spread the word to your friends.

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The Aeolian Island of Lipari

The Aeolian Island of Lipari
By Elizabeth Waddington

Lipari is the largest and most populous of the Aeolian islands and the only one of the seven islands in this volcanic archipelago that has anything really in the way of industry. Pumice mines have carved chunks from the mountains in the past but mining has now, fortunately, been banned thanks to threats from UNESCO that the Aeolian Islands could lose their world heritage status due to this destructive industry.

Lipari is more geared up for foreign visitors than the other Aeolian islands - that said, it is by no means over-developed. The only way in which the tourist industry has negatively impacted the island is in the tourist tat on sale in the main town, which is also called Lipari and is a lively if somewhat unsophisticated place.

Lipari town has many quaint, historic buildings and charming, flower-hung streets and alleys. Pottering around the town and relaxing in the pretty harbour is a lovely way to spend some time. This bustling town has a very Italian, slightly scruffy, small town feel which is rather appealing. History lovers should be sure to visit the acropolis, the castle citadel headland and the cathedral. An archaeological museum within the castle walls will tell you all about this island's fascinating past. If you are looking to tour the Aeolian Islands then Lipari town, with all its tourist facilities, is probably a very good place to base yourself during your stay.

While on Lipari, be sure to visit the Terme di San Calogero. These are thermal springs which have been used for bathing for thousands of years. There is a Museum of Memory here which houses collections which tell the story, historical, cultural and economic, of the Aeolian Islands. It is housed in what was intended to be a spa, though it never opened as such. If you wish to actually take a dip in the thermal springs you will have to hop a fence, as some locals do.

Lipari island is also good for walking tours. Take a stroll to the top of the headland north of Lipari. Monte Rosa offers a pleasant place for a wander, and offers some lovely views of Lipari town, and the island's second town of Canneto. Another excellent walk and a highlight of Lipari's rugged coast is the stretch of footpath between the thermal springs and the quarry at Bagnosecco.

The path is a psychedelic explosion of colour. Fumaroles expelling sulphurous emissions have stained the white rock vivid shades of dark blue, purple, yellow, orange, red and blue-green, making for a very colourful walk. The views out across the deep blue ocean are also stunning.

After walking around this beautiful island, you can eat a lovely and not overpriced meal at one of Lipari town's restaurants, which generally serve Italian food of good quality.

Take your time while on the island and slow down to island pace. Take an afternoon siesta in the heat of the day and then take to the streets to enjoy the lively and quaintly old-fashioned nighttime entertainments. Soak up the atmosphere and make the most of your time on Lipari. Who knows when you will next return to such a Mediterranean idyll?

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Tuscany Less Travelled - Visit Montepulciano

Tuscany Less Travelled - Visit Montepulciano
By Jonathan Magoni

For the many tourists who rent villas in Tuscany for a short break holiday, the itinerary is often built around trips to Florence, Siena, Pisa, Lucca, San Gimignano and the other more popular Tuscan towns and cities. But here's another place you may want to add to your itinerary: Montepulciano.

While often visited by wine lovers, those who rent villas in Tuscany to explore the art and architecture of the region often overlook Montepulciano because of its small size. However, it has many unique charms, some of which are listed below.

About Montepulciano

Montepulciano is a walled city built over the ancient Etruscan city of Nocera Alfaterna, on a sloping and narrow limestone ridge called Monte Poliziano. With a long history as the object of a tug-of-war between Florence and Siena, it drew up a municipal statute in 1561 and became a fiefdom of Cristina de Lorena, widow of Ferdinand I, in 1609, falling under the jurisdiction of the Grand Duchy.

The castle of Montepulciano has been a longstanding witness to this colourful history and is one of the oldest fortified centres in the region. With a visit to this edifice, one can learn all about the battles between the Sienese and the Florentines over the city's rule.

The Wines of Montepulciano

The vineyards of Montepulciano are a mecca for wine aficionados who rent villas in Tuscany around the area specifically to indulge in tours and tastings of the famed grapes and the wines made from them. The town is home to not just one but two famous wines: Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and its table wine counterpart, Rosso di Montepulciano.

With a mild climate and geological features perfectly suited for growing grapes for wine, most of the vineyards - with the best ones located in Caggiole, Sanguineto, Gracciano and Cervognano - are east-facing, with soil composed of clay mixed with sand. Wines produced here are said to be almost always suitable for long ageing periods.

Places To See

The town also makes a great site to explore on foot, with its car-free centre. The walls themselves are historic, dating back to the 14th century. Its charming main street stretches for 1.5 kilometres from the Porta al Prato to the Piazza Grande at the top of the hill, which is said to be one of the most beautiful city squares in the entire region. Attractions include the Duomo and the bell tower, both unfinished, but with elegantly beautiful interiors.

The town also boasts some of the most interesting Renaissance palaces and villas in Tuscany. Visitors can explore the Palazzo Comunale and nearby Palazzo Contucci, along with the late 16th century Palazzo Avignonesi, Palazzo Cagnoni and Palazzo Tarugi, all of which are attributed to Vignola. Palazzo Cervini and Palazzo Cocconi-Del Pecora were both designed by Antonio da Sangallo, while Palazzo Cappelli has frescoes by F. Zuccari, and Palazzo Buccelli features some incredible Etruscan cinerary urns and tablets. Other places of interest to visit are the Church of St. Agnes (the town's patron saint), the Church of St. Lucia, and the Church of St. Augustine.

Jonathan Magoni is Senior Manager of Cottages to Castles, a family owned company specialising in high quality holiday villas, apartments and cottages in Italy. For spectacular villas in Tuscany or accommodation in the Italian lakes, ski resorts or city centres, we offer only the very best. Discover Italy at your own pace and without time restrictions in our hand picked villas and cottages.

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Enjoy Summer on the Amalfi Coast

Enjoy Summer on the Amalfi Coast
By Jonathan Magoni

Spending summer on the Amalfi Coast in Italy is, unsurprisingly, a popular choice with tourists from all over the world. Every year, thousands of people who want to experience a relaxing Mediterranean break book into the best Amalfi Coast villas and hotels to give them access to the best this stunning region has to offer.

Here are some suggestions to add to the itinerary.

Explore Positano on Foot

Positano is one of the most picturesque towns in the region, no question. The colourful Amalfi Coast villas and houses that cascade down the steep steps of the town proper, the quaint shops and restaurants that dot the coastline, and the overall breathtaking view of the Mediterranean Sea overlooking the cliffs and cafe balconies must be taken in slowly when visiting Positano during the summer. The little town gives off a nostalgic ambience of a classic Italian holiday. One of the top things to do here - and one that will make you feel like a real Italian - is to eat pizza or gelato right on the beach. Regardless of what you do with the rest of the day - or the rest of your stay in Positano - eating an authentic, local pizza should be number one on your list.

Swim in the Fiordo of Furore

Furore is a small fishing village along the coast, and those who visit this delightful little town will have a wonderful chance to really get to know its people and culture. While other bigger towns boast grand Amalfi Coast villas, Furore has a tiny but stunning fjord, with pristine blue-green waters and a relaxing vibe. There is nothing more relaxing than spending a few hours (or the entire afternoon) swimming and sunbathing in the town's fiordo - you may even meet some of the friendly locals. After soaking in the waters, you can also explore the village on foot to see one of its main attractions - the stunning murals. Lining the village walls, this is a true open-air museum.

Visit the Roman Villa in Minori

While there are many modern Amalfi Coast villas you can book in to for a week or two, there is one particular villa in Minori that sets it apart from its modern counterparts. While you can't rent this one, it is a popular tourist destination. The Roman Maritime Archaeological Villa was built in the first century BC and the remarkable ruins still feature its large hall, some of the frescos, and remnants of the stucco. Its well-preserved status after so many centuries makes it a well-known attraction in Minori.

Jonathan Magoni is Senior Manager of Cottages to Castles, a family owned company specialising in high quality holiday villas, apartments and cottages in Italy. For spectacular Amalfi Coast villas or accommodation in the Italian lakes, ski resorts or city centres, we offer only the very best. Discover Italy at your own pace and without time restrictions in our hand picked villas and cottages.

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Indulging in the Traditional Cheese and Bread of Umbria

Indulging in the Traditional Cheese and Bread of Umbria
By Jonathan Magoni

If you're planning a holiday to Italy, why not consider the stunning region of Umbria? Villas in this central region of the country make a perfect base to explore the history, culture and tastes of this much-loved nation. While many people visit Tuscany - and well they should - fewer include this wonderful region on their itinerary. It is a great shame to miss it, as it is certainly one of the most interesting places in the country.

When you are staying in Umbria, villas around the area will allow you the freedom to explore the history, which dates back to the Bronze Age; but although the historical aspects of the region are indeed fascinating, the landscape and 'foodie' culture has so much to offer.

For those travelling to this part of Italy with food on their mind, the most basics of the traditional cuisine lies in the very particular varieties of cheese and bread.

Cheeses

Though the food of the region is considered simple peasant cooking, it is still indulgently fresh and tasty. With the inclusion of local truffles in many dishes, as well as some unique cheeses, there is a certain richness to the food of Umbria. Villas situated anywhere throughout the area will afford you the independence and time to sample a wide range of the cuisine. In some of the smaller villages, you'll be able to get your hands on varieties of local artisanal cheeses that are only produced in small quantities. However, if you're not overly daring in your tastes, you may enjoy the beautifully mild pecorino cheese, which is made slightly differently in different parts of the region - it's interesting to see if you can taste the subtle differences.

For something really decadent, you must sample the cheeses made with local white and black truffles, which are superb in pasta dishes. For something truly unique to the area, try the products from the region of Norcia, where the cheese is made from a mix of cow and sheep milk, then aged in the field to soak up the flavours of the grass and herbs.

Breads

Of course, he who eats cheese must also eat plenty of bread to accompany it, and in this region you'll be spoiled for choice - if you thought bread was bread, you may have to think again! Many of the local breads are salt-free, due to the salt tax that was imposed by the Pope in the 16th century. The Umbrian people had to bake bread without salt as a necessity, and it's a tradition that continues today. While it may sound less than appealing, when eaten with other foods as an accompaniment to a meal, it is the perfect neutral taste - normal bread will never taste the same once you've gone salt free.

You should also make sure you try the torta al testo, which is a simple flat bread baked in a griddle pan and sometimes stuffed with meats and cheeses. For a sweet breakfast bread, head to the local deli and your hands on a loaf of walnut bread to take back to your Umbria villas to enjoy with your morning coffee. Lastly, you might be lucky enough to sample the torcoletti. Made with pecorino cheese baked into a ring-shaped loaf, there are few tastier and simpler treats to be found anywhere.

Jonathan Magoni is Senior Manager of Cottages to Castles, a family owned company specialising in high quality holiday villas, apartments and cottages in Italy. For spectacular Umbria villas or accommodation in the Italian lakes, ski resorts or city centres, we offer only the very best. Discover Italy at your own pace and without time restrictions in our hand picked villas and cottages.

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Must-See Attractions in Umbria for First-Time Visitors

Must-See Attractions in Umbria for First-Time Visitors
By Jonathan Magoni

In many ways, Umbria is set apart from its contemporaries in terms of geography and, in turn, overall environment. While other regions of Italy are bordered by either the Mediterranean Sea or another country, this unique area is not. In a way, this has added to the preservation of some of the most valued Italian traditions and, if one wants to witness the convergence of modern and historic Italy, this is a spectacular destination.

In terms of accommodation in Umbria, villas both ancient and modern sit alongside centuries-old churches and cathedrals, all with a breathtaking backdrop of the region's hills and meadows. For the first-time visitor, the following locations should not be missed.

Assisi

Perhaps the name is familiar to many due to St. Francis, but there is more to Assisi than being the birthplace of the saint. The town is home to some of the most marvellous cathedrals and basilicas in Umbria, villas and castles dot the landscape, and an impressive collection of classical art still survives today. The Basilica of San Francesco d'Assisi is considered to be both a spiritual and architectural treasure, not just in the town but also in the entire region. The twin churches of the basilica showcase two distinct architectural styles: Romanesque and Gothic, while the interiors feature masterpieces from Simone Martini, Pietro Lorenzetti, Giotto, and more.

Perugia

When visiting Assisi, tourists should not neglect exploring the nearby city of Perugia, Umbria's capital. The city is popularly known as both an artistic and cultural centre, so those who really want to experience the full gamut of Italy's heritage must include Perugia in their itinerary of Umbria. Villas located nearby will allow visitors to explore Perugia at their leisure - and it is well worth the effort. Many masters lived in Perugia or created their masterpieces in the city and, today, the Galleria Nazionale dell'Umbria houses some of the most culturally and historically significant artistic masterpieces, including the Madonna with Child and six Angels by Duccio di Buoninsegna.

Orvieto

When it comes to notable first impressions, it is difficult to beat Orvieto. The sight of the small city rising from the vertical volcanic tuffs is simply remarkable. While many tourists want to visit the region to visit the historical Umbria villas and majestic cathedrals, there is a different side of Orvieto apart from its centuries-old buildings. Orvieto has 440 caves, which ensured the rigours of World War II and which now are open for tourists to visit. These caves were built for various purposes, from serving as bomb shelters during the war to use as a simple dovecote. They are a fascinating addition to the landscape and well worth some time to explore.

Jonathan Magoni is Senior Manager of Cottages to Castles, a family owned company specialising in high quality holiday villas, apartments and cottages in Italy. For spectacular Umbria villas or accommodation in the Italian lakes, ski resorts or city centres, we offer only the very best. Discover Italy at your own pace and without time restrictions in our hand picked villas and cottages.

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Exploring the Small Islands Around Sicily

Exploring the Small Islands Around Sicily
By Jonathan Magoni

As the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, situated off the tip of Italy's boot, Sicily is an ideal place to rent holiday villas. In Sicily, there is no shortage of beautiful beaches, exceptional food and wine, and more history than you'll be able to ingest in one visit.

Once you've explored the ancient streets of Palermo, walked the rocky beaches of the south, visited all six UNESCO World Heritage Sites, and even climbed up the dominating spire of Mount Etna, what do you do next? How about you get off the island! No, this doesn't mean we're suggesting you pack up and leave your lovely villas in Sicily, but you should definitely make time to visit the array of smaller islands in the surrounding area on a day trip.

The Aeolian Islands

Named after the god of wind, the Aeolian Islands are a small group off Sicily's north-eastern coast. Leave your villas in Sicily behind for the day and head to this beautiful volcanic cluster of islands to explore in depth. Comprising Vulcano, Lipari, Filicudi, Alicudy, Salina, Panarea and Stromboli, in the summer months these islands are buzzing with activity around the thermal spas, resorts and beaches. The numerous beaches range from black sand at the Spiaggia di Sabbia Nera, to the white stretches of Spiaggia Bianca. To get your fill of history, visit Lipari, the largest of these islands and head to the archaeological park where you can still see some remnants of a Greek Era castle and the later fortress. Then, pop over to Vulcano for a hot thermal spa treatment before taking a trip to the lesser-inhabited islands to get a taste of a more isolated life.

Lampedusa

The largest of the Pelagie Islands and the southernmost part of Italy, Lampedusa is well worth leaving the comfort of even the best villas in Sicily to visit. The history of the island dates back to the times of the Phoenicians, when it was used as a landing base, and over the years it has remained an important place in the Mediterranean. While there, visit Rabbit Beach, which was voted as the best beach in the world on Trip Adviser in 2013. Here, the unspoiled outlook of the nature reserve, with its white sandy beach and azure waters, is also famous for being one of the few places that Loggerhead Turtles come ashore to lay their eggs.

The Islets

Though these small islands may not be home to any of the rental holiday villas in Sicily, for a day trip, they have enough history and mythological interest to entertain for a day trip. Head to the Cyclops Islets, which are off the coast of Catania and, according to legend, are made of chunks of boulders hurled at Ulysses by the Cyclops. Near the town of Palermo, the Women's Island is no longer the place for unfaithful wives, but instead has become home to scores of migratory birds.

When you visit the larger Aeolian island of Panarea, you should also take time to explore the islets that surround it, which are part of the larger nature reserve. The only way to visit is by sea and it is a pleasure to spend some time island-hopping and experiencing the calm and solitude of this lovely area.

Jonathan Magoni is Senior Manager of Cottages to Castles, a family owned company specialising in high quality holiday villas, apartments and cottages in Italy. For spectacular villas in Sicily or accommodation in the Italian lakes, ski resorts or city centres, we offer only the very best. Discover Italy at your own pace and without time restrictions in our hand picked villas and cottages.

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Explore the Sunburnt Landscape of Tuscany

Explore the Sunburnt Landscape of Tuscany
By Jonathan Magoni

You'll be spoiled for choice if you decide to rent on of the excellent holiday villas in Tuscany. From picturesque cottages to Gothic castles, there is a style of accommodation to suit every taste. Whatever you want out of your holiday, this stunning Italian region will never disappoint.

Artistic Treasures

The richness of the region can make it a bit difficult to decide how to spend your time, but this is a part of Italy you can return to again and again and still see something new. Florence boasts the wonderful Galleria d'Uffizi, and this in itself really deserves a week to explore. Displaying artistic treasures and masterpieces by Botticelli, Leonardo di Vinci, Michelangelo, Raphael and Titan, to do them justice takes far longer than a day or two. The actual experience of seeing these incredible paintings and statues in person is indefinable - the sheer magnificence and power they have is a memory that will last a lifetime.

Drink of the Gods

When deciding on which of the many villas in Tuscany to rent, spend a bit of time narrowing down just what you want to achieve. There is no point in trying to fit too much in - as activities like visiting art galleries can become rather exhausting after a while. Luckily, this region offers one of the loveliest places in Europe to relax and spend a day feeling at peace with nature. Just south of Pisa, in a quiet wood called San Fillipo, there are some hot mineral springs called Fosso Bianco. Containing a high proportion of sulphur, you can bathe in the warm pools and stand under the waterfalls as they cascade from one calciferous basin to another. This type of 'wild swimming' is the sort of thing that will make your holiday one to remember: a magical interlude surrounded by trees, birds, butterflies and perhaps a glass of Chianti.

Siena

The stunning city of Siena is most definitely worth a visit. Siena once rivalled Florence as a banking power but declined in fortunes in the 13th century. It is essentially largely unchanged and is a wonderful example of a well-preserved medieval city (it escaped damage during the Second World War). The city is famous for the mediaeval Corso del Palio, where horses race around the large Piazzo del Campo twice a year, July 2nd and August 16th.

There is an excellent selection of villas in Tuscany in this area and day trips out will enable you to see a lot of the surrounding area as well. Cars are restricted in the old walled centre of Siena, however, and you have to park outside the ancient walls. (If you do not get a special permit and you park inside, you'll end up with a big fine.) Although a car is a great idea for visiting out of the way places, restricted cities like Siena and Florence are easier to get to and from by bus. The Italian buses are extremely regular to both these cities.

Enjoy the Tuscan Landscape

Of all the villas in Tuscany that are on offer, choosing a renovated farm house surrounded by olive trees and the rolling sunburnt countryside will perhaps give you the best sense of the timelessness and endurance that is such an integral part of this part of Italy.

Jonathan Magoni is Senior Manager of Cottages to Castles, a family owned company specialising in high quality holiday villas, apartments and cottages in Italy. For spectacular villas in Tuscany or accommodation in the Italian lakes, ski resorts or city centres, we offer only the very best. Discover Italy at your own pace and without time restrictions in our hand picked villas and cottages.

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