Exploring Basilicata in Italy

Exploring Basilicata in Italy
By Jonathan Magoni

Before you start looking for villas in Italy to rent, it is a good idea to do some research first and know just what you would like to get out of your holiday in this wonderful county. The images that often come to mind when we think of Italy are sun soaked beaches, wonderful food and wine and fabulous artwork, but there is so much more. Many areas are still virtually undiscovered, in terms of tourism, and in others you can enjoy a plethora of wild flowers and wild life.

A Longstanding Love Affair

The English have had a longstanding love affair with all things Italian for many years. In the past, it was only the wealthy that could travel, and it was often one of the destinations of the so-called 'grand tour'. Others travelled for health reasons to escape a damp climate. Today, however, with so many villas in Italy to rent at affordable prices it is something many more can choose to do simply for pleasure.

Stunningly Beautiful

A relatively unknown region in Southern Italy is Basilicata. This mountainous area is stunningly beautiful, with small hilltop villages and towns nestling into mountains covered with woods and forests. Staying in this area give visitors a chance to see and experience a side of the country that is not so well known. Basilicata is situated between Calabria and Apulia and, although mostly land bound, it does have two small stretches of coast: one on the instep of Italy's boot facing the Ionian Sea, and one facing the Tyrrhenian Sea on the west. One of the beauties of renting from the large range of villas in Italy is that you can experience the less touristy areas, and enjoy a flexible holiday encompassing many different activities.

Troglodyte dwellings

There are many historical sites to visit in this region and perhaps one of the most interesting hosts the best example of troglodyte dwellings in the Mediterranean. Found in Matera, these unusual houses are hewn out of caves. They were used as dwellings up until the 1950s, and then in 1994 the Sassi di Matera (Sassi means stone but here it means 'inhabited rock districts') became a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Although the inhabitants were forcibly rehoused in the 1950s by the then Italian government, now some of the dwellings are being renovated. Over the centuries, these houses gradually spread up the side of the mountain, overlapping each other as they crept higher. This has created a terraced effect, where the streets are often actually on the roof of the houses below.

With such a huge range of villas in Italy to choose from, in so many diverse parts of the country, you could consider renting for a week in one region and another for your second week. This entirely plausible option could see you experiencing the quiet and relaxed atmosphere of the mountains one week and the splendid beaches the next!

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 Italy in Tuscany, Sicily, 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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A First-Hand Look at Universal's Wizarding World of Harry Potter

A First-Hand Look at Universal's Wizarding World of Harry Potter
By Glen Wheaton

Recently I had my first look at the newest addition to the wizarding world of Harry Potter exhibit at the Universal Orlando Resort. For those who aren't up on what is going on, Universal Studios has two major parks areas: the Islands of Adventure and the Universal Studios. In the Islands of Adventure area Hogsmeade, the village that the movie characters went to school, has been around for a few years now. Universal has recently added a second's Harry Potter world edition at the Universal Studios area. Here we'll talk about Diagon Alley and the train that connects these two parks together.

When you get your first look at Diagon Alley, you turn a corner into a whole new and very intricate world. It all has a very London feel to it, right down to a busker playing on the sidewalk. We know that it wasn't a real London busker because he didn't have his instrument case open to accept gratuities. But it did make you feel like you're in another world, and I think they should get extremely high marks for their authenticity. There are quite a few shops and places to eat here, with the Leaky Cauldron the main restaurant which serves British fare. In fact, all of the food in Diagon Alley is part of the authentic Harry Potter theme.

Definitely the highlight of the area is the Escape from Gringotts ride. This is a multidimensional thrill ride that puts you in the middle of the action it's excellent, but walking through the Gringotts bank with the goblins/bankers were amazing. Their attention to detail on these intricate animated characters is fascinating, and they seem to have brought this whole art to a new level.

This is still an extremely popular ride, so no matter when you go expect a long wait. We were on location first thing in the morning in an off-peak time of year and still waited 45 minutes, but it was well worth it. I think even for those who are not huge Harry Potter fans they will find that the whole area is a worthwhile experience.

From here you will take the Hogwarts Express to the Islands of Adventure side. This embarks from a not-to-authentic King's Cross Station, and although there are some interesting aspects of this train ride, I thought it was a bit disappointing. It just seemed like there was quite a lot more that could've been done to make it jump out, so I was expecting more. Still, Universal has certainly put a lot of money and effort into these two Harry Potter areas, and I would greatly recommend visiting them when in the Orlando area.

If you are planning a vacation to this spectacular area, our� article �on Orlando will give you some interesting information on Disney World. You can find more about Florida on our site� http://whattoseeinflorida.com/ �and we welcome you to take a look. Glen Wheaton is an avid traveler and writer living in Chicago.

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The Aeolian Island of Alicudi

The Aeolian Island of Alicudi
By Elizabeth Waddington

Alicudi is the westernmost of the Aeolian Islands which lie off the coasts of Italy and Sicily. It is a tiny volcanic cone sticking out from the cerulean Mediterranean sea, a charming and simple place which is only infrequently visited by ferries and has a population of just one hundred people. This is a perfect place to truly get away from it all. The verdant volcano's slopes are only traversed on foot or by donkey, which is the main mode of transport on the island. Braying donkeys head on dusty stone footpaths through the vegetation, often their complaint is the only noise to be heard on this peaceful island. There may be a couple of cars parked in the Porto, but these have nowhere to go other than on the ferry.

The tiny port is where you will find what amenities are available on this back to basics island. Running mains water and electricity, and a telephone connection have only arrived here within the last couple of decades, so don't expect a high level of luxury or facilities. There are two grocery shops, one restaurant and a small hotel, some friendly locals in whose house you can eat dinner and that is pretty much it. If you are planning a stay here remember to pack a torch as there are obviously no street lights on the mule tracks and be sure to bring enough cash. There are no card machines or cash points here.

But people do not come here for the amenities, for luxury or to shop. What this island offers is an absolute retreat from the modern world; a rare chance in today's world to cast off the trappings of twenty-first century life and return to a simpler age. Climb up the steep stone tracks that lead up the terraces from the sea. You will pass the low rectangular houses of the island with flowers climbing their stone walls, cats sunning themselves and sturdy donkeys swishing their tails as they make their slow, sure-footed way. Ancient terraced fields make one think about the difficulty of agriculture on this volcanic rock. Some way up the steep ascent you will come to the Church of San Bartolo, a pale-yellow colour, cheerful in the sun.

Keep walking and the views will amply reward you for your effort. Reaching the summit of the island's peak, Monte Filo dell'Arpa is no easy feat. The strength of the sun should not be underestimated when you are ascending the 675m from sea level. You will likely see wild orchids, cyclamen and narcissus as you climb up and you may even be lucky enough to see nesting falcons.

After all that exertion you will probably want to spend some time just lounging on the stony beach, swimming or heading out on a boat, either on a tour or with local fishermen as they bring in the catch. Don't worry about food. The freshest, best tasting seafood has just been caught. It will be cooked simply and brought straight to you. Perhaps it will taste all the better for the exercise.

If you are looking for a relaxing vacation, like that you could find on Alicudi, http://www.traveleze.co.uk/ can help you out. We're a specialist holiday company providing customers with affordable dream holidays. The team of travel experts are dedicated to providing outstanding service to customers helping them with flights, accommodation, holiday deals and Great Offers. The company's website http://www.traveleze.co.uk/ is brimming with valuable information and great deals, exceeding customers' expectations daily.

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Top 7 Places to Visit in North East India

Top 7 Places to Visit in North East India
By Eshan Saha

ASSAM - Assam means a Peerless land owing its derivation from a Sanskrit word 'ASOMA'. It is a wonderful place where nature itself has painted the vibrant landscapes, woods, hillocks, flora and fauna, brooks and steams and above all the affectionate people. The state of Assam is crafted with special care by nature. This wonderful natural place is a very famous traveler's destination of India. It is a wonderful place in terms of civilization and tradition therefore it makes an amazing experience for travelers and tourists who visit this place.

MANIPUR - Manipur is one of those places on earth which have a majestic charm. This city is not a very big tourist spot but when you visit this place you feel elated and relaxed. Manipur charms you with its serenity and simplicity. If you are looking for relaxation Manipur is a great option.

NAGALAND - The state of Nagaland is a wonderful and charming place in India famous for the Headhunting Naga Tribes. Naga Tribes are one of most interesting tribes in the world. Not just that in Naga City you get to experience the panorama of nature, lavish blossoms and beautiful rivers making their way through rugged terrains.

MEGHALAYA - Meghalaya is a beautiful place to travel which used to be a part of Assam. Meghalaya is one of the wettest places on this planet all time surrounded by clouds. There are abundant natural attractions in Meghalaya which include peaks, caves, waterfalls, lakes and ancient living root bridges.

MIZORAM - Mizoram is also one of the wonderful places of North - East India with its stunning landscape, dense bamboo jungles, beautiful rivers and lush green paddy fields. Mizoram is a great place to travel for nature lovers.

TRIPURA - The second smallest state in India which is almost surrounded by Bangladesh is known for the largest rock cut images and stone idols of the Great Lord Shiva. This heavily forested land is also known for its wide variety of Bamboo products and Handloom Weaving. The lake place of Neermahal which was constructed in 1930 as a summer resort by late Maharaja Birbikram Kishore Manikya Bahadur is the star attraction of Tripura.

SIKKIM - The Himalayan state of Sikkim which is bordered by China, Bhutan and Nepal was recognized as a part of North - East India in the 1990s. In Sikkim you have many heavenly places to visit like Gangtok, Peling, Lachung etc where you can feel and enjoy the mesmerizing beauty of nature. In these places of Sikkim you can enjoy sightseeing of various waterfalls, The Himalayan Mountains, many gorgeous rivers and much more. Sikkim is one of the best travel destinations for nature lovers.

All the above mentioned places are excellent to visit in North - East part of India. These places of North - East India provide a delightful experience to travelers from all over the world. These are superb places for those who want to spend their valuable time with the nature.

Eshan Saha
Digital Marketing Associate
Mo: +91 896 230 3000
sales@travelwithsmile.com
Website: http://travelwithsmile.com/

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Move to Bali and Enjoy the Paradise on Earth

Move to Bali and Enjoy the Paradise on Earth
By Aleena Afzal

When we talk about Bali, three aspects come to mind. It is a tropical state of mind, it is a mood and it is an aspiration as well. No wonder being comprised of beaches, ancient monuments and rice fields, make it the most beautiful places on Earth respectively.

Around 3.2 million tourists visit Bali every year as it has remained a spiritual, culinary and cultural hub for many years. There are four reasons why you should visit Bali in order to understand why it is called 'Heaven on Earth'. They are listed below.

1. Food:

Presence of volcanic soils and humid climate allows growing of many tropical fruits respectively. Since temperature can rise, don't forget to eat sweet coconut to bear the heat during your stay in Bali.

Food vendors in the island of Bali are mostly mothers and grandmothers who are very skilled and professional in their work. They make traditional meals or serve new ones which are tasty and can even soothe a sick person as well. The local markets in Bali are filled with various ingredients and crops which you can buy and make food of your own with ease.

One of the famous supermarkets is Ubud's Organic Market which consists of fresh produce, as well as a range of groceries like seeds, coffee, nuts, medicines, cakes, milk, bead, wheat-grass, tea, soya milk and raw chocolate respectively.

2. People:

The natives of Bali are warm and hospitable people. You will not feel lonely or strange at this place at all. In fact people are very happy and contented here, so you will enjoy talking to them.

The locals are very spiritual and most of them follow Islam. They celebrate a ten day feast called 'Galungan' to honor the spirits of their ancestors and the creator of the Earth. This is a major event which occurs on the two hundred and tenth day of the Balinese Pawukon calendar. The Hindus during the feast celebrate Dharma's victory over the evil Adharma. Likewise, various temples are decorated with flower and food show reverence and gratitude for life and protection.

3. Lifestyle and Staff:

Once you are in Bali, you will want to reside in it. There can be many cost-savings and perks for you here which are much rare in other Islands across the world.

The best part is that luxury is not only for the rich, but good chauffeurs, personal chefs and villas can be managed by an ordinary person as well. But you need to do a research about living and hiring personnel for your daily routine. You plan and organize about where you will work and search for the right jobs. Then, you need to pay attention to other amenities like food, medicine and a hospital; whether they are close by and how will you get the genuine ones respectively.

4. Accommodation:

In Bali, accommodation is not big problem. You can search for a house, serviced apartments and villas. Ray White Paradise Property Group can be contacted to know about the locations and price range, as well as which would be the best place to stay in the long run.

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The Top 5 Countries In Africa To Volunteer in 2015

The Top 5 Countries In Africa To Volunteer in 2015
By Dronacharya Dave

"I never knew of a morning in Africa when I woke up and was not happy".
- Ernest Hemingway

The charisma and aura of Africa are not new to travelers. As a destination, Africa has something for everyone. Rich and varied wildlife, beautiful landscapes and some of the most interesting tribal communities in the world, Africa, with an amalgamation of more than 54 countries, is at the top of every tourist's must-visit list.

A lot has already been said and written about this majestic continent and I believe that one visit is just not enough to experience everything it has to offer. But, apart from the many reasons that we are already aware of, there is a flip side to life in Africa.

Many countries in Africa have faced some of the most ravaging calamities over the years - Be it the horrifying drought of 1981-84, which claimed more than a million lives, or the ongoing epidemic of the Ebola virus, which, thankfully, has been stemmed after a year of death and havoc. All of this warrants somewhat extreme volunteer measures in different parts of Africa. While one can choose to join any of the volunteer programs, a much more convenient way would be to go via a placement agency. Not only do they help you choose the right program and destination, depending on your field of interest and skill level, they also take good care of you and ensure proper arrangements are made for your accommodation and stay.

Here are the top 5 countries in Africa that not only need skilled volunteering work but also have some of the most scintillating tourist attractions in all of Africa:

Ghana (West Africa)

The word "Ghana" in the native tongue means "the warrior king", and the citizens of this country stand true to this definition. Withstanding the deadly Ebola virus endemic, which has affected the western part of the continent the worst, the people of Ghana have displayed the strength of a true warrior.

As a volunteer, one has the opportunity to help improve the life of the less privileged. There are opportunities to work at orphanage centers, teach at local schools, help in community development and provide support in healthcare departments. You get the flexibility to choose the amount of time you want to spend on a program. It is advised that you spend at least a month with the volunteering program.

Adding a spark to the volunteering program in Ghana are the warm and welcoming people of the place, lip-smacking local food, and some of the finest architecture. It also has some of the best turquoise beaches in Africa. Lake Volta, the largest reservoir by surface area in the world, is a major attraction here.

Best Time to Go: May to October

Trip advice: Wildlife Safari is a must. Also, coming back without sampling the delicious cuisine will leave your trip incomplete.

Kenya (East-Central Africa)

With the Indian Ocean forming a long coastline on the southeastern side, Kenya is one of Africa's most fascinating countries. From the "Big 5" - Africa's top wild attractions, the lion, leopard, buffalo, elephant and rhino) - to the Bomas and, of course, the Masai tribe, Kenya is full of things to look forward to.

Unfortunately, this beautiful land has been facing calamities for many years now. The deadliest has been the outbreak of Aids, apart from the malaria epidemic. Countless lives have been claimed by these diseases so far. According to a survey report, the doctor-to-patient ratio in Kenya is an alarming 1:17,000. Although, Kenya is considered to be one of the fastest-growing economies in Africa, it is a morbid fact that half of the population survives below poverty level, dropping the life expectancy to 55 years of age. This is a clear call for action in the region and an act of altruism is highly anticipated.

Best time to go: Anytime of the year.

Trip advice: Avoid travelling at night on major highways in and out of Nairobi.

Morocco (north Africa)

Considered to be the jewel of Africa, Morocco is a magnificent amalgamation of Africa's best, including the Sahara desert, beaches carved by the Atlantic and the Mediterranean coastlines, and snow-capped mountains of the Atlas range. Being one of three nations in the world to have both the Atlantic and the Mediterranean coastlines, the country stands out from the other African nations, where the focus is not just on safaris and wildlife, but much more.

On arriving in this country, one feels that nothing can go wrong with this region. The bitter reality, however, is that the country has been ravaged by disasters over the years. While a life-wrecking drought hit the country in 1999, heavy floods have regularly wreaked havoc on the country. The less privileged need strong volunteering help. As a volunteer, you can teach students in local government schools. And then there are NGOs and community-building program that you can volunteer with, along with the orphanage as well as women's empowerment program.

Best time to go: October to May

Travel advice: The rainy season extends from November to March. Flash floods can be frequent and sometimes severe in this period. They can be dangerous, especially in the high Atlas valley. Monitor regional weather forecasts and plan accordingly.

Tanzania (east Africa)

High mountain peaks, exciting wildlife safaris and scintillating beaches, Tanzania has it all. It is considered the most visited country by tourists, especially for its safaris and hiking opportunities centered on Mt Kilimanjaro, the highest mountain in Africa, at 5,895 meters above sea level.

Unfortunately, this beautiful country has fallen prey to a lethal onslaught of AIDS. However, it's malaria that has proved to be bane of the region. As a volunteer, one can prove to be a life-changer for kids by teaching them, attending to them in orphanages and playing a significant role in community development.

Due to the increase in tourist footfall every year in Tanzania, there are a number of job opportunities here as well - a hold on the English language can prove to be of great help for the people here.

Best time to go: August to June

Trip advice: Take precautions in terms of health and personal safety.

South Africa

This country needs no introduction. South Africa is a country of Savannah grasslands, diverse wildlife and a multicultural society (with 11 official languages). Often termed as the "Rainbow Nation", South Africa is a complete tourist's paradise. With the south Atlantic and the Indian Ocean forming the coastline for about 2,800 km, you may run out of time and money, but not things to admire in this country.

However, despite being the strongest economy in Africa, the country is not free of its share of miseries. Apart from the ghost of racial discrimination which haunted the country for decades, the country has gone through devastating turmoil. There is a huge requirement of volunteer work in rural areas of the country in the departments of education, healthcare and child welfare.

Best time to go: April to November (September is the best)

Trip advice: South Africa is a safe destination with good hygiene standards. There are, nonetheless, some health issues that you should be aware of.

Africa is a fabulous continent and one simply cannot return home empty-handed. There are a bag full of experiences and stories to tell. What's more interesting is, if you tour all these five countries, you get to see all corners of the continent, North, East, West, Central and South, and hence, learn and see different cultures and ways of life. Volunteering Solutions, one of the leading volunteer abroad placement agencies, provides ample opportunities to volunteer in Africa. Not only are the programs extensive, they also make sure you have a comfortable and undisturbed program execution during your stay. For more information on volunteering in Africa, visit http://www.volunteeringsolutions.com/

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