• Everything you need to know for a trip to Sri Lanka

    The island of Sri Lanka is best known for being a favorite destination for honeymooners . In fact, among fishing villages, rain forests and ancient ruins, the ‘tear of India’ (so called because of its proximity to the country) offers the perfect mix for those who want to spend a complete holiday , especially as often in Sri Lanka a relaxing holiday on a Maldivian atoll is combined .

    Get ready for a land that will give you intense emotions. A journey through an age-old culture, with temples and fortresses emerging from the rock and the green of the forests. Bathed by the Indian Ocean , it is characterized by enchanting beaches , shaded by coconut palms and surrounded by lush hills, for a total of 1300 km of coastline.

    Travel to Sri Lanka: climate and when to go
    Sri Lanka thanks to its position in the Indian Ocean can be visited during all seasons, just choose the less rainy part of the island. The tourist areas most frequented by tourists are in the South, but beware of the time of year when planning your vacation: in particular for Sri Lanka , it is better to avoid the monsoon period that could ruin your stay.

    The climate of Sri Lanka is always hot and humid and the temperatures are high throughout the year. The presence of the plateau in the center of the island has a great influence on the course of the monsoons and on the climatic conditions of the island: for this reason the best time to visit the island changes depending on the area you visit. The most suitable months in general are those from January to March , when the monsoons are rare and rainfall is scarce. If you want to visit only the east coast do it in the period between May and September .

    How to reach Sri Lanka
    The only way to reach Sri Lanka is by plane . The companies that fly to Sri Lanka are numerous and from Italy it will be necessary to make at least one stop to arrive at their destination. Direct flights depart from the airports of Dubai or Monaco. One of the most used companies is the Sri Lankan flag, the Sri Lankan Airlines .


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  • Summer, the low-cost destinations for young people, now chosen by everyone

    Almost Maldives, Thailand or Mexico. Italians this summer return to choose the seaside destinations usually preferred by penniless youngsters : Greece , Croatia and Spain. According to the latest surveys, celebrated destinations in the 1990s such as Lloret de Mar and Ibiza , in Spain, Corfu in Greece, and the Croatian island of Pag return among the destinations .

    The Greek island of Corfu , facing the coasts of Epirus and Albania, gathers most of the preferences. Among its most famous beaches is Paleokastritsa , known for having also hosted a myth: Ulysses. Do not miss also Kavos , Sidari , Ermones , the corners hidden by vegetation and the largest toga party in Europe , beloved by students between 16 and 25 years. Beautiful also the old city, in particular the Spianada district, where there is one of the most beautiful squares in Greece.

    The second favorite destination is another island, Pag , in northern Dalmatia . 180 km from Trieste , it is connected to the mainland by the ferry arriving from Prizna and a bridge leading to the city of Zadar. The island of olive groves, salt pans and lace is gaining in recent years the label of ‘new Ibiza’ , also thanks to nightclubs that host console stars such as the Aquarius and the Papaya. Not only discos: tourists can move on 270 km of coast, very varied and articulated.

    The queen of holidays in Spain , Lloret de Mar , on the Catalan coast , between Girona and Barcelona , is the capital of the Costa Brava nightclubs . From the Tropics to the Colossos, the ‘fiesta’ is here. Hotels are cheap and you never sleep. Over 7 km of beaches , from Lloret to Canyelles. The city is not much, indeed, it is crowded and covered with concrete. One of the few coves on the Costa Brava is Sa Bodaella .

    Another Spanish among the favorite destinations of the young and not only: Ibiza . The liveliest of the Balearic Islands , which however offers spectacular beaches and sea (the most beautiful are Cala Tarida and Talamanca ), in addition to the Pacha , Space etc clubs , it has the premises that are authentic institutions of entertainment. Here the most famous DJs in the world take turns in the long summer nights ending with a huge closing party in September.


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  • This coast is the Garden of Italy

    From Martinsicuro to Silvi winds the Garden of Italy , almost 30 km of coastline on the Abruzzo coast where green areas alternate with crystal clear sea. This stretch, called Costa Giardino , is wild and beautiful, little known, but appreciated by nature lovers, by those looking for a little rest and relaxation. Along the road, where there is also a bike path , you will find several enchanting and very particular seaside resorts , all to be discovered.

    The journey starts from Martinsicuro , a modern seaside resort located south of the mouth of the Tronto river. Here ancient and modern mix together giving life to something unique. To welcome you, you will find the massive tower erected by Charles V in defense of the city, able to tell the ancient history of these places. In the most touristic area the bathing establishments alternate with private villas and hotels, further on you can discover a protected area, with dunes and reeds, between the Tronto river and the Vibrata stream .

    Continuing further on, we reach Alba Adriatica , one of the most popular destinations on the Abruzzo coast, where entertainment is the main protagonist, with bars overlooking the sea, restaurants, shows and over fifty bathing establishments that remain open all night. The town borders on Tortoreto Lido , a historic seaside resort founded in the early 1900s, characterized by a small town to be discovered, a crystal clear sea and golden sand .

    Further on we find Giulianova Lido founded in Roman times and known as Castrum Novum, characterized by a breathtaking seafront and a port where fishing boats and tourist boats dock . Overcoming small wooden bridges you reach the Teramo coast where the coast has remained wild and free from urbanization. Here is Roseto, a small town much appreciated by tourists, characterized by tall palm trees and crystal clear sea.

    From this point the coast begins to be even more luxuriant, with thick pine forests leading up to the protected area of ​​the Torre del Cerrano , between romantic lagoons, dunes and ponds . In this area in fact the fratino nests, a very rare migratory bird, which populates the beaches from April to September. The journey ends in Silvi, the pearl of the Adriatic known throughout the world for its natural beauty and tourist attractions.


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  • Where is Gibraltar and why is it convenient to go shopping there?

    Everyone wonders where Gibraltar is located after the historic first victory of the national football team against Latvia. Although Gibraltar is a territory of the United Kingdom it is located on the coast of Spain, about an hour from Marbella to the south, almost facing the coasts of Morocco.

    What should you buy in Gibraltar, if not all of what is produced there? Although this piece of land is relatively small, it offers enormous opportunities to shop for savings. In this land there are many world-wide brands, such as Oasis, Monsoon, Peacocks, BHS and others. Competition in Spain in Spain is fierce, which plays a constant lowering of prices. In addition, all purchases made in Gibraltar are exempt from Value Added Tax. This allows tourists to conclude real bargains. There is no talk of Gibraltar

    Related videos • 5 things to do in: Rio de Janeiro

    To understand what is worth buying in Gibraltar, just think of the huge savings. By purchasing the same product on English soil you can have savings of up to 35% compared to the price of the same item sold on the Italian peninsula. Among the many purchases to be made, it is better to concentrate on the more convenient ones, such as perfumes, crystals, porcelain and jewelry. Each year these items are produced in large quantities to meet the demand presented by the many tourists who travel to the area.

    This favors a balance of prices, allowing to establish a value of the objects lower than the Italian equivalent. All with equal quality. Shops are open Monday to Friday from 10.00 to 18.00. You can find them along the main streets of the city, like Main Streat. Alternatively, you might consider visiting the shopping centers located in the area. The largest and most famous are Casemets Square, located in the center of Main Street and Ocean Village, which is close to the beach. But in addition to all the common consumer goods, what else should you buy in Gibraltar? Souvenirs from the area can be purchased in the large shopping centers.

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  • Zambia and Botswana low-cost

    For lovers of wild nature, Africa has always been the destination par excellence. Let’s start dreaming of it as a child , when we are enchanted in front of the documentaries on TV or the photos of bizarre creatures on the Encyclopedia of Animals (yes, in my day we looked at the encyclopedia and not on the web).

    On my first trip to the black continent, I had chosen to visit the national park and Victoria Falls on the border between Zambia and Zimbabwe. Unfortunately, to stifle my dreams of explorer, while I was planning my own personal adventure, the costs intervened. Of course, organized tours, in the period of special offers, are quite accessible, but, wanting to travel independently, I was resigned to the idea that Africa was a destination for the rich. Staying in the lodges inside the parks, and even planting a simple tent, was out of my reach, but I did not intend to join a hurried group of thirty people and jostle for a picture.

    After some research on the web (well, in the end I left the encyclopedia), I looked at the Republic of Zambia , a country underestimated by the majority of the tours. Bordering with eight different nations, it is the perfect base to explore the most interesting destinations in the area. Here, then, is the solution to my budget problems: Livingstone .

    This dusty and picturesque town proved to be a trump card to make ends meet because, suffering from the competition of Victoria Falls in neighboring Zimbabwe, it found itself having to offer accommodation and services at lower prices to attract tourists.

    For example, by renting a double room with private bathroom in a colorful hostel, my partner and I spent € 24 per person per night. Spend even less if you give up the private bathroom, but if you stay a long time, it is convenient to have it in your room. The hostel also had a swimming pool, bar, restaurant and a kitchen where guests could prepare their meals, but along the main street of Livingstone there are several places where to taste the typical dishes at a good price and a minimarket where to stock up on water and fruit for excursions.

    Another point in favor of Livingstone: the position compared to the places I wanted to visit. While Victoria Falls has been built so close to the waterfalls that can be reached on foot, Livingstone is about 10km away, but, in order not to discourage tourists, several hotels and hostels offer a free shuttle service to the park entrance. From there, several paths start to enjoy the famous waterfalls from every angle , walking among zebras, baboons and a variety of birds. Depending on the season, you can buy at the reception a boat tour, rafting and walking tours that go up to Devil’s Pot, a puddle in the rocks where you can swim overlooking the falls .


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  • Marrakech: savoring Morocco

    The cuisine of Morocco, well represented in Marrakech, is a mix of aromas and flavors .

    Many spices, a lot of pepper (well dosed), and a mixture of traditions and peoples .

    The inhabitants of Morocco have learned to use olives and dried fruit from the Spaniards. The Arabs have learned how to dose the spices with great skill, but in turn they have taught visitors or conquerors cooking on the grill or inside the Tajine.

    All foods are taken into consideration: cous cous, legumes, fish and seafood, lamb, fruit and vegetables and even bread, essential on the table, and which is sometimes used instead of cutlery.

    If you go around Marrakech you can experiment, even taste, better still taste this cross-section of culinary history.

    Here some tips on where to eat and what to Marrakech:Kefta – to be eaten at Place Jemaa el-fna,
    At the counter No.1 Es Aicha – do not appear on the menu, but just ask the waiters. And in a flash, in colored plates, spicy meatballs will appear and cooked on the grill . Strictly accompanied with the Harira, really really spicy tomato sauce.

    Pastilla – one of the best places is the café Zaza . 
    A small café located in the middle of the suok with a large terrace overlooking the banks and the life of the market. La Pastilla is a sweet-savory dish. A mixture of chopped almonds and chicken , or even more pigeon, covered with filo pastry sprinkled with powdered sugar and cinnamon.Kosy Bar – “Milanese” aperitif in marrochina sauce . 
    Near the Mellah, the Jewish synagogue and the royal palace there is Ferblantier square where there are many shops of lamps and metal objects. In one corner, from which you can see the nests of the storks that nest on the walls of Bahia palace, there is the Kosy Bar, a place that combines the tradition of spices and oriental flavors with a modern and western-style atmosphere. A good aperitif with curry olives, goat’s cheese and cardamom meatballs all accompanied by sips of Casablanca beer.


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  • 2 months you flew to heaven

    It’s already been 2 months without you but every morning I remember your smile like the first time, I’ll never forget my love. You are my strength.

    Saturday there was the concert during which I described our project in front of hundreds of people who support us, it was an exciting evening, as you repeat, I realize more and more that I am not alone, thank you very much to everyone.

    While I was talking on the microphone, it seemed to feel like I was next to me, to see you among the people, to feel your scent light, I know that you too, my love, you are always next to me.

    Among the stalls of the church where we greeted you for the last time the eyes of your mother Antonella shone with pride for you dear Martha, because she also knows that what I’m about to do, it’s all thanks to you.

    A special thanks also to the boys of the missionary choir of  Tata Nzambe   who, among the notes of their songs, accompanied my presentation. In this period I continue to be amazed at the goodness of mind of people like Diego, who without knowing me allowed the organization of this concert or as Ricky of the choir who, without asking anything, prepared everything. They too are the pieces of a great puzzle that is magically completing itself.

    Here I am arrived at the definitive itinerary of my long journey on foot for charity (# marta4kids), each dot is a destination for a total of 324 days, a number that just thinking about it, is in itself a journey.

    Only 33 days left before the start, there are still many things to prepare but I’m already at a good point, I never thought I could do it in such a short time, it’s all thanks to you that you follow me and support me, I appreciate it very much; together, we will bring smiles and hope to those who are not so lucky.

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  • The beaches of Zanzibar

    Zanzibar is a true natural paradise. A pearl immersed in the Indian Ocean . I saw colors on that island that I had not seen anywhere else in the world.

    The first time you are faced with this magnificent sea, you can not but be breathless. The fast flow of the tides gives true color shows because the sea acquires infinite shades of blue that change very quickly. The beautiful white beaches are able to give more prominence to the ocean, making the landscape a continuous postcard.

    But despite the beauty can be found everywhere, and you can hardly be mistaken in choosing one place rather than another on the island, it is good to consider that the small Zanzibar offers very different maritime locations between them. I can not make a top because it would be very difficult and probably wrong to put them in order of ranking. I believe that everyone should look forhis special place , the one that responds completely to his needs that can be very different from one individual to another. So I will try to describe the three main areas so that everyone can understand where to choose to stay.

    THE COAST IN THE NORTH

    The main towns located to the north of the island are Nungwi and Kendwa . In general, this part of the island is less affected by the trend of the tides and this is why it makes swimming possible at any time of day. Nungwi is larger and most of the accommodation is located here. It has a very tourist center but just move to the northern part to find an oasis of tranquility. In fact, the area near the lighthouse, still retains a very genuine character thanks to the beautiful beach that the villagers use to build their typical boats, the dhows .

    In Nungwui the beaches are not immense and the rocks alternate with suggestive beaches of fine sand. The village is the most beautiful that I have seen on the island and, although it is a bit snubbed by tourists, I think it is worth visiting because it offers the opportunity to observe more closely the busy inhabitants in their daily activities.


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  • Where to Eat in Jacksonville, FL

    Florida is an epicurean’s deli world, which is popular for Latin American cuisines. Jacksonville is named the seaside river city and well known for fish and seafood. Foodies may include this city on the top of their repository of food trips.

    Riverside or beachside restaurants in this city are to be hit first. Some popular cuisines are Steakhouse Jacksonville Fl, Mexican Jacksonville Fl, Caribbean Jacksonville Fl, and Cuban Jacksonville Fl. Do not miss the stone crabs, snappers, chops, rock shrimps, Cuban sandwiches, and Apalachicola oysters. If you are looking for thrifty delights, you may order pies, chomps, Texas-style BBQs, and pizzas.

    Stonewood Grill & Tavern

    It offers lustrous dining with an exotic seafood menu and branded wine and cocktail. This is a popular grill restaurant that invites with “n” number of steak, fish, and beef dishes. You have a chance to order turf n surf specials like groupers, crabs, lobsters, flounders, and shrimps. Catch the flavored season dishes, morsels, soups, oak grilled salads, hot pot and roasted chicken, and desserts. The tavern offers a wide range of drinks, handcrafted burgers, and unique cocktails of the week, what you would never imagined. You may reserve a party to enjoy fresh and yummy crunches, chops, and desserts with the group.

    Orsay

    It is in the top ten of the best restaurants in Jacksonville. It is a friendly and unpretentious French bistro serving Avondale food and local produce. You feel stuffed with delight ordering mussels, scallops, chestnut roasts, truffles, and pastries. They come up with different flavors and creamy texture. While mellowing crunchy sea-salt varieties, you get a complementary taste of bittersweet and saltiness. Chefs turn the items with seasons, yet a palate of scrumptious dishes is before buffs. Some of the top dishes to try are oysters, marinated calamari, scallop crudo, rillettes, tartare, and tortes.

    The Tree Steakhouse

    As the name suggests, it has the best of steak and seafood varieties, certified black beef, and a range of wines. It is known for its ribs, rib-eye steaks, and filets. It offers an exclusive polished room for guests and parties with a clean and casual atmosphere. This traditional steakhouse has separate chophouses with stylish interiors for private events.

    Gourmets may have a large selection of banquet items and enjoy their platters and buffets. They can gobble delicious local sea-salt dishes with exotic flavors and seasons. Oak bar specials in this restaurant are branded beer, white wine, and cocktail.

    13 Gypsies

    It is a Spanish style chop offering classic Spanish tapas, risottos, market fish varieties, Italian cheese toasts, sausage, and handmade bread. It is a multiculinary specializing in Spanish, Avondale, Asian, Argentinean styles.

    It is premier in serving small plates and they win over other bistros with a mix of different ingredients and hard work to yield bona fide country foods. Foodies may hit this small but great restaurant for guzzling hip delicious items. They can enjoy piquant flavors of grills, rice with meat and veggies, and rice with other variations.

    Gilbert’s Southern Kitchen and Bar

    It offers contemporary dining with normal rates for its authentic Southern food. The mainstays in this restaurant are chicken, fish, and shrimp, though it is worth taking other menu items too. Here you can enjoy variations of flavors with smoked and fried hot chicken.

    Those who went to main city and beachside restaurants as well as steakhouses in Jacksonville will certainly recommend food trips to others.


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  • Essaouira, the pearl of Morocco

    In the 60s Essaouira was the destination of the hippies , thanks to Jimmy Hendrix who is said to have composed “Castle made of sand” thinking in this city; Orson Welles shot us “Othello”. Today Essaouira is one of the most beautiful cities in Morocco.

    This small town, with a population of just over 70,000, attracts many tourists every year: from penniless surfers to golfers in extra-luxury resorts .

    But what makes this city so magnetic?

    First of all, it is incredibly beautiful: the first time you set foot in Essaouira you will be fascinated. Certainly I’m biased, because I have maintained an emotional bond with this city, but this pearl deserves a stop on a tour of Morocco.

    But what is really unmissable? To visit Eassaouira it is necessary to consider stopping at least two days; if you want to surf then the stay is prolonged. Many travelers often stop for a long time in Essaouira to savor the tranquility and leave the chaotic Marrakech behind. There are no shortage of places to relax, but pay attention to the existent months: even the Moroccans know the beauty of the beaches and take them by storm!

    Here is the best of Essaouira:

    1- the Medina is rather small but really beautiful: you can find local craft shops , small restaurants with typical cuisine, luxurious boutiques and corners of natural cosmetics.

    The wood craftsmanship is typical of the area, so you will find many stores of objects derived from it. Also the argan is typical of this area: there are in fact numerous cooperatives of women who work this miraculous plant. In this regard, I would like to mention that the argan grows only in the region south of Essaouira so here you find the original oil coveted in Europe (at more than fair prices, which can also go to women’s cooperatives).


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