Racine’s Wine Bar

Perhaps more than any place in the world, Paris is a city with endless possibilities for eating and drinking well. Whether you’re visiting one of the three-star temples of gastronomy, enjoying choucroute garni in an Art Nouveau brasserie, or sampling the cuisine in one of the “baby bistros” on the Left Bank, you’ll never want for a good meal.

But there’s another aspect to Paris dining that many travelers miss, which is a shame, especially for lovers of good wine. Paris has some of the most delightful wine bars in the world. And many of them have excellent food too. The bars that specialize in natural or organic wines often serve artisanal meats, cheeses, and breads from the city’s top suppliers. In fact, some Paris wine bars get their food from the same butchers, boulangeries, and cheese makers as the city’s top chefs.

No matter where you’re staying in Paris, there’s probably a great wine bar within walking distance. Ask your hotel concierge, or try one of these. They’re a great place to mingle with the locals.

1) Racines
Everybody’s favorite Paris wine bar these days, Racines opened in 2007 after Pierre Jancou sold La Cremerie. The location in the lovely 19th-century Passages des Panoramas is delightful, especially on a rainy day when it’s snug as a bug in a rug. Virtually all the wines here are from 15 organic French producers. So come here to taste wine that you won’t likely find anywhere else in town. Excellent cheeses, terrines, charcuterie, and a few daily specials are wonderful accompaniments.

2) Les Fines Gueules
Having trained at La Cagouille, Les Fine Gueules owner Arnaud Bradol knows his fish – and his wine. Housed in a 17th-century stone building near Place des Victoires, Gueules features wines from every region in France. With Poujauran breads and meats from Desnoyer, who is purveyor to some of the best restaurants in Paris, meals here in the beamed dining room are much better than you’d expect. The staff are happy to point you to the perfect bottle or glass.

3) Le Rubis
Located near the high-fashion boutiques of the 1st arrondissement, Le Rubis is an old fashioned spot with everything you’d expect – zinc bar, tobacco-stained walls, and great French wines. Many wines are available by the glass, and there’s an impressive selection of Beaujolais, Cotes-du-Rhone, and Loire Valley wines. Grab one of the burgundy banquettes, order a plate of charcuterie and cheese, and put yourself in owner Albert Prat’s hands.

Oyster night at Le Baron Rouge

4) La Garde Robe
One of the newer entries to the field, La Garde Robe isn’t much bigger than a wardrobe, which is what the name means in French. It’s conveniently located in the 1st, and it’s a good place to rest your feet after touring the Louvre. You’ll find cheese, pates, sausages, and fresh oysters, and plenty of tasty organic or biodynamic wine by the bottle or the glass to wash it down.

5) Alfred
Across from the delightful Palais Royal, Alfred was opened by European Parliament member William Abitbol after he lost his reelection bid in 2004. You may find him serving up hams, terrines, and plates of grilled vegetables in the vaulted stone cellar or in the upstairs dining room, where meals are the equal to of what you’d find in a good bistro. Try savoring your red wine with one of the divine chocolate desserts inspired by Pierre Herme.

6) Cavesteve
In many ways the antithesis of a typical wine bar, Cavesteve is an ultra-modern spot near Place du Trocadero. The 300-label wine shop here is one of the best in Paris and you can buy wines from all over the world, in all price ranges. There are a few tables upstairs and down, and fewer still on the sidewalk. Four or five specials are served each day, but the wine is the real draw here, and at their Bastille location.

7) Le Verre Vole
Open since 2000 near Canal St. Martin and the Place de la Republique, Le Verre Vole specializes in organic and biodynamic wines from Laguedoc, the Rhone, and Loire Valleys. With just six tables, you’ll need to make reservations to indulge in the fresh oysters, andouilettes, Joel Meurdesoif charcuterie, and cheeses from Benoit Bordier. You can enjoy them with anything from the wine shop for a modest corkage fee. Some wines are available by the glass. If you can’t get a table, get a to-go order and head for the canal.

Tasting wine at Le Verre Vole

8) Juvenile’s
Run by a Scotsman, Juvenile’s is the best place for wine from outside France. If you’re looking for a Napa Valley Cabernet, or a Hunter Valley Chardonnay, this is your best bet. Simple tapas such as bruschetta or crostini, raclette, sausages, pates, and cheeses are served. There’s also an excellent selection of sherries. Juvenile’s is popular with English speakers.

9) Le Baron Rouge
More than half the selections at the rustic place in the 12th are from the Languedoc region. It’s close to the Place d’Aligre market so come before or after you shop for spices. In season, fresh oysters are shucked on site and washed down with copious amounts of Chablis. There are lots of wines available by the glass. But since there are only four tables, it’s not the best place for a meal. Come before dinner and be prepared to rub elbows with your neighbors.

10) La Cremerie
Although Pierre Jancou sold it in 2007, this wine bar in a charming 19th-century creamery near Odeon is still popular. In addition to the expected French charcuterie and cheeses, La Cremerie also serves superb meats and cheeses from Italy and Spain. There’s a nice assortment of interesting, natural wines. Ask your server for advice.

Read about enjoying wine in the South of France here.

Racine’s Wine Bar Image Flickr: Meg Zimbeck
Oyster night at Le Baron Rouge Image Flickr: malias
Tasting wine at Le Verre Vole Image Flickr: Meg Zimbeck

View Top 10 Wine Bars in Paris in a larger map

San Miguel de Allende

Since the 1930s, when the Instituto Allende art school was founded by Stirling Dickinson, San Miguel de Allende has been a popular retreat for artists, poets, writers, and American ex-pats. As you wander the cobblestone streets, you’ll hear as much English spoken here as Spanish. In fact, the Spanish you hear may be coming from Americans in San Miguel to learn Spanish.

The mile-high city is surrounded by the Sierra Madre Mountains, and it enjoys a wonderful climate all year long. Much of the city’s architecture dates from the 18th century, and many of the old buildings now house charming galleries, restaurants, and boutiques.

In addition to art and language lessons, San Miguel is noted for its cooking classes. This is one of the best places in Mexico to learn Mexican cooking. And if you’ll be in town for more than a couple days, plan to spend at least half a day learning the secrets of charring chilies, grinding spices, and mixing up a mole.

The best Mexican cooking schools.

La Cocina Cooking School was opened by Kris Rudolph, who owns the popular El Buen Café. She is also the author of Mexican Light: Healthy Cuisine for Today’s Cook. La Cocina offers a variety of classes at their facility in Colonia San Antonio. Kris teaches several times a week and also brings in guest chefs who teach their specialty.

The Thursday afternoon class focuses on traditional Mexican cooking. Students learn to make enchiladas, chile rellenos, pork loin, beef tips, several salsas and sauces include mole, and desserts like tres leches and flan. Dinner — with margaritas — is served at the end of the class.

On Friday mornings, the group travels to a colorful local market to select vegetables and spices for making fresh salsas. The three-hour class includes lunch. Natural Healthy Mexican Cuisine and Modern Mexican Fusion are available on alternating Tuesdays. The Art of Chiles Rellenos, Fine Mexican Dining, and Moles and Adobados are available on Wednesdays.

Classes at La Cocina cost between $45 and $55 and include lunch or dinner.

Marilau Ricaud teaches recipes that have been handed down in her family for generations at the CociMari Cooking School. She offers everything from four-day workshops to half-day classes, and she’ll customize lessons for individuals or groups. So if you want to learn to cook something special, just let her know in advance.

Classes — which have a maximum of 5 to 10 students — are available for salsas, adobos or marinades, pumpkin seed pipianes, moles, tamales, Yucatan cooking, techniques, and more. Demonstration classes are $65 per person. Hand-on classes, which are limited to five participants, are $99. Non-cooking family and friends can enjoy the group meal for a small fee.

Fresh guacamole

Patsy Dubois first came to San Miguel 40 years ago to study art. After coming to get her Masters Degree, she never returned. She teaches one to three-day classes in the hacienda-style kitchen of her home in the country outside of San Miguel where she grows most of the vegetables used in her classes. On Sundays, she creates a multiple-course Mexican feast that’s served in her kitchen or on the veranda surrounded by her beautiful gardens.

Casa de Sierra Nevada is an Orient Express hotel in San Miguel. Their Sazon Cookery School is in an 18th-century home in the heart of San Miguel. Classes are taught by the chefs from their award-winning restaurants. They cover Mexican specialties, regional cuisines, and seasonal ingredients. And some include a tour of the San Miguel market.

Find cooking classes in Barcelona, Florence, or Rome.

San Miguel de Allende Image Flickr: Señor Codo
Fresh guacamole Image Flickr: stu_spivack

Complete your booking, and travel sites like Expedia will bill your card the full amount.

Most of the big travel sites are looking to hotels to take up the slack. And they have a new trick up their sleeves –requiring payment for a hotel room in full at the time of booking. Typically, they display a price that’s crossed out, and list a special lower price you can only get if you book – and pay – right now.

The trouble is, these rates aren’t really any better than the rates you can get through the hotel web site. In some cases, they’re not as good. And why should Expedia, and not you, have the use of that money for the next six months.

Case in point, we needed a hotel room for one night in St. Thomas before our morning flight back to Los Angeles. Since we’ll have already spent a week on St. John and exploring the British Virgin Islands, we just plan to do a little last minute shopping. All we really need is some place convenient for shopping and getting to the airport.

After a little trip planning, we concluded that the Best Western Emerald Beach Resort would probably fit the bill. Expedia offered a deluxe beachfront room for $298.75. With taxes and fees, the total came to $352.53, payable in full at the time of booking.

Travelocity had the same room available for $298.75. But they slapped on a mandatory resort charge of $23.90, bringing the total to $373.14. Orbitz showed no availability at the property.

Since I really didn’t want to pay up front, I went to the Best Western site and got the same room for $278.10 plus $50.06 in fees. The total price through Best Western was $328.16 — $24.37 less than Expedia and $44.98 less than Travelocity.

So will Travelocity

I used a credit card to guarantee the reservation but wasn’t charge anything, and I can cancel up until three days before arrival with no penalty.

Travel websites that don’t require prepayment.

Not all travel websites ask you to pay up front. Booking.com rarely does. This Priceline subsidiary has a nice selection of properties, a user-friendly website with lots of photos and traveler reviews, and competitive rates. In fact, when I looked for hotels in New Orleans in mid-December, the only difference between Expedia.com and Booking.com was that Expedia wanted me to pay in advance for their “Special Rate.”

But the Best Western website won’t.

Since we’re going to a family function at the Royal Sonesta, we took advantage of their group rate. But if we were willing to prepay and book at the hotel site, we could have saved $43 a night over the Expedia prepay price.

If you’re traveling to Europe, Venere.com is another good site that represents lots of hotels, inns, and smaller properties, and doesn’t usually require prepayment for hotels.

Before you get suckered into giving one of the huge travel websites your money months before you intend to travel, do a little travel planning and see what your options are. Start with the individual hotel web site or chain, if the property belongs to a group like Best Western of Marriott.

All things being equal, the hotel or chain will be happy to have a direct booking and you’ll likely save money or at least hang onto it longer.

Read other advice about travel sites here.

Payard Patisserie

From Alain Ducasse to Joel Robuchon to Pierre Gagnaire, some of the top chefs in France have restaurants in Las Vegas. So Americans can indulge in five-star French dining without having to cross the Atlantic.

But most of the city’s top French restaurants are only open for dinner. So where can a Francophile get a French pastry fix on this side of the world – a crispy, chewy macaron or a dense, rich butter cake? Fortunately, there are several French-style patisseries to choose from.

Chef Jean-Philippe Maury won the Meilleur Ouvrier de France – the country’s highest honor – in 1997 and became the Executive Pastry Chef at Bellagio the following year. His patisserie in the Bellagio Spa Tower, called simply Jean-Philippe Patisserie, offers the kinds of pastries the French do so well – palmiers, coconut macaroons, caramels, nougat, a variety of pound cakes, and sensational chocolates. Guests entering the Bellagio shop are greeted by the world’s largest chocolate fountain.

His patisserie proved so successful, that he opened a larger, second shop recently in the Aria. You can also get a light lunch, individual chocolates and truffles, and hand-made ice creams and sorbets at this location.

Payard Patisserie & Bistro in Caesar’s Palace showcases the pastries and chocolates of Francois Payard. If you’re craving a Croque Monsieur or Madame, the 40-seat bistro is a lovely place for a French brunch or lunch. His gift baskets – filled with jams, confections, chocolates, and cookbooks – make lovely gifts. And his delicious pastries include caramels, macarons in some imaginative flavors, financiers (which are similar to Madeleines), éclairs, tarts, and cakes.

Pastries at Amore

Superstar chef Thomas Keller’s Bouchon is one of the most popular restaurants in Yountville. So it was only natural for Keller to open another branch of his bistro/brasserie in Las Vegas. The Bouchon Bakery next to the restaurant is the place in Yountville for breakfast pastries and baked goods.

The Las Vegas branch is located in the Venetian Resort near the entrance to the theater. Each day, they make a beautiful assortment of Viennoiseries, as pastries like Napoleons and éclairs are known in France, as well as croissants, brioche, tarts, macarons, and bouchon – the addictive little chocolate treats that are shaped like wine corks. Don’t miss the TKO, Keller’s version of an Oreo cookie. You can even pick up goodies for Fido.

Jean-Philippe Patisserie

The newcomer to the Las Vegas pastry scene is Amore Patisserie in the Mandarin Oriental Hotel. In addition to pastries, chocolates, and home-made ice cream in flavors like avocado and green tea, Amore also serves sandwiches made with their freshly baked bread. The window displays are fabulous and the level of artistry here is truly impressive with gorgeous arrangements of spun sugar and Louis Vuitton bags made of fondant.

Their packaging is something special, so consider coming here for gifts to take home to friends and family.

If you’re lucky enough to be headed to Paris, find our list of the best patisseries here.

Payard Patisserie Image Flickr: biskuit
Pastries at Amore Image Flickr: dret
Jean-Philippe Patisserie Image Flickr: kckellner

Roof bar at The Standard Hotel

Southern California is noted for fantastic weather, gorgeous views, and beautiful people. What better way to enjoy all three than by visiting one of the trendy roof bars overlooking the Pacific, the Hollywood Hills, or Downtown.

Most feature designer cocktails and high-end appetizers, and many have rooftop pools and cabanas. At most of them, you’ll need to look sharp, be a guest of the hotel, or sneak in before the bouncer arrives.

1) Standard Hotel
The Standard Hotel located downtown has one of the coolest roof bars in Southern California. Surrounded by the city’s skyscrapers — yes, L.A. has skyscrapers — it’s a dazzling, urban setting with a heated swimming pool, an outdoor fireplace, a lawn with topiary sculpture, and vibrating waterbed pods. It’s not as hard to get into as ABH or Sky Bar, but bring your A game just the same.

2) Shangri-La Hotel
Right across the street from Santa Monica Beach, the Shangri-La was recently redone and today, the 1939 Art Deco palace really shines. Suite 700, designed by Marc Smith, has sweeping view of the beach and Santa Monica Pier, hand-crafted cocktails, small plates, and fire pits. If you get chilly, there’s seating inside the nautical-style bar that opens onto the roof. Suite 700 used to be available only to guests, but now the public is welcome too.

3) Hotel Erwin
South of Santa Monica Beach, High is on the roof of Hotel Erwin, the new Joie de Vivre property in Venice. Formerly the Marina Pacific Hotel, the Erwin is in the perfect location for enjoying everything that Venice has to offer. And High features 360-degree views of everything — Muscle Beach, the boardwalk, Santa Monica Pier, and the endless Pacific. Designer cocktails and a low-key attitude make High an appealing choice. Sunday brunch has bottomless mimosas or bloody Marys.

4) Thompson Beverly Hills
Ultra hip hotelier Jason Pomeranc has brought some Manhattan style to Beverly Hills. ABH (Above Beverly Hills) has a roof-top pool studded with Swarovski crystals, private cabanas, great views, and sushi and nibbles from the hotel‘s Bond Street restaurant. Like the A60 Bar atop the Thompson in Soho, ABH is restricted to hotel guests and “members.” But if you look like you belong and drop by during the afternoon, you might get in.

5) Mondrian Hotel
Located in West Hollywood, The Mondrian has been going strong for decades. The very popular Sky Bar was recently redesigned by Tim Andreas of Banjo. Floating over the city, the lounge has overstuffed sofas, Mexican furniture, and a very exclusive crowd. You’ll either need to be on the guest list or show up before 8PM and hope to not get evicted.

6) The London West Hollywood
You wouldn’t expect to find an English country garden high above West Hollywood, but you’ll find one at the London. Private, pool-side cabanas, inventive cocktails, and food overseen by celebrity chef Gordon Ramsay make the roof garden at the London a great choice for a nice evening out.

7) Huntley Hotel
With 360-degree views taking in the Pacific, the Hollywood Hills, and everything in between, the Penthouse at the Huntley is another excellent choice in Santa Monica. Cozy cabanas, an outdoor fireplace, and an upscale, affluent crowd it’s usually packed. Although the 18th-floor space is technically enclosed, there’s nothing between you and the view but walls of windows.

Santa Monica Beach

8) Elevate Lounge
Located in a 7,000-square-foot penthouse on the 21st-floor, Elevate Lounge is one of the few roof bars in L.A. that’s not in a hotel. The ultra-modern lounge has150 feet of sliding glass doors that open right onto the high rises of the financial district — yes, L.A. has one of those too. High rollers can invest in VIP bottle service, which starts at $255. Elevate is open Thursdays through Saturdays, and valet parking is available.

9) The Peninsula Beverly Hills
Described as a poolside patio garden, The Roof Garden atop the Peninsula recently received a $4 million makeover that included a living wall of jasmine, wisteria, and palms. It serves breakfast, lunch, and dinner, so you can enjoy the views day or night. During the summer, Saturday and Sunday night Ribs on the Roof barbecues are very popular. You can get the three-course prix fixe for $55, or order a la carte. Non-rib eaters can get Alaskan halibut or Maine lobster for a supplement.

10) W Hotel Hollywood
Managed by Las Vegas nightlife impresario Victor Drai, Drai’s and the Wet Deck, atop the W Hotel Hollywood, combine a night club, a restaurant, and a 20,000-square-foot roof terrace with killer views of the Hollywood Hills. Poolside cabanas, Moroccan day beds, and VIP bottle service are available for those who want to impress. And Sunday-afternoon pool parties here are the most popular in town. Drai’s Thursday and Sunday night pool parties are very popular.

Find roof bars in Miami here.

View L.A.’s best roof bar in a larger map

Roof bar at The Standard Hotel Image Flickr: rick
Santa Monica Beach Image Flickr: Joe in DC

Harrods Food Halls

Although food isn’t as inextricably linked with London as it is with Paris or Rome, visitors to London should make a point of visiting at least one of London’s marvelous gourmet food stores. Prices can be high, but you can still find thoughtful gifts for friends, or treats to remind you of your visit after you return home.

If you’re on a budget and pressed for time, the food halls at Marks & Spenser department stores have a huge selection of products, lots of affordable choices, and they’re conveniently located throughout the city. Tesco, the grocery store chain that owns Fresh & Easy in the United States, is another good source for basics.

Harrods is the indisputable grande dame of London food stores. And even if you’re not shopping for food or wine, you should add it to your must see list.

Visiting Harrods Food Halls.

In 1849, Charles Henry Harrod opened a grocery store in the Knightsbridge neighborhood of London. The store expanded, but was destroyed by fire in 1883. When Harrods continued to fulfill orders promptly following the fire, their reputation for unrivaled service was sealed, a tradition that continues to this day.

Richard Burbidge took over the business, expanded again, and added many innovations, including London’s first escalator. The building we know as Harrods today was designed by Stephens and Munt and opened in 1905. The Food Halls were decorated with mosaics and freezes by W. J, Neatby, and they make up one of the best gourmet food stores in the world.

There are dozens of departments, and virtually nothing you can’t find here. On the ground floor, you’ll find charcuterie, cheese, fruits and vegetables, baked goods, candy, tea and coffee, meat, fish, and poultry. The wine shop is in the basement.

What really sets Harrods apart is the fabulous displays. Fresh foods are arranged in such an artful fashion that they look like perfect still lives. For the ultimate foodie paradise, come during the holidays.

If you’re not hungry when you arrive, you will be before long. Not to worry. In addition to all the prepared foods, there are 13 restaurants in the Food Halls, including a dim sum bar, a rotisserie, a Champagne and oyster bar, and Laduree — one of the top patisseries in Paris. The pizzeria here was the first in London to have a wood-fired oven. Don’t be surprised if the Neapolitan chef bursts into an aria while he tosses the dough.

Depending on your disposition, you may only need to see the British Museum and the Tower of London once. But you can’t help but return to Harrods every time you’re in London.

Other top London food stores.

Founded in 1707, Fortnum & Mason has a long history of providing food to the British royal family and gentry. They supplied provisions to British officers during the Napoleonic Wars, and were frequent caterers to the court of Queen Victoria.

In celebration of Fortnum & Mason’s 300th birthday, in 2007 the store received a $40 million renovation. Today, Fortnum’s is the place for luxury picnic hampers. These can range in price from $70 to thousands of dollars. But you can also buy a nice selection of teas, or popular items like smoked salmon, Stilton, or quail eggs. Marmelade, preserves, biscuits, curds, and chocolates also make great gifts.

Prepared foods at Harrods

The St. James Restaurant at Fortnum & Mason’s is one of the best spots in London for afternoon tea. Several menus are available. The Classic and Estate Afternoon teas include finger sandwiches, pasties, and savory canapés. The menus are seasonal, and the pastries are decorated with a nod to local events and holidays. The High Tea is a full meal with an entrée like Welsh Rarebit or fish pie. Other types of tea service are available in the other four restaurants at Fortnum’s.

One of London’s more fashionable department stores, Harvey Nichols — known as Harvey Nicks to the girls on AbFab — has been in business since 1813. Located on the fifth store of their Knightsbridge store, Harvey Nichols Foodmarket contains 600 exclusive, private-label food products, in addition to gourmet items from all over the world.

Also on the fifth floor are the Harvey Nichols restaurant — scheduled to reopen September 1, 2010 — a new Champagne bar inspired by the Art Nouveau designs of Emile Galle, a café, and roof terrace. A Strawberry Afternoon Tea is served daily and a portion of the price benefits Breast Cancer Care. Cooking classes are also given in the exhibition kitchen.

Find other great food stores in Europe here.

Harrods Food Halls Image Flickr: malte.mathiszig
Prepared foods at Harrods Image Flickr: Wolfiewolf

Roman Coliseum at night

There’s a lot happening in Rome these days, so if you’re planning a trip in late summer or early fall, you can check out new attractions and enjoy old favorites in new ways. From touring ancient monuments in the moonlight, to viewing priceless frescoes that have been behind closed doors for centuries, there are plenty of new pleasures to enjoy.

Visit the Roman Coliseum and other monuments at night.

The ancient wonders of the Eternal City are impressive during the day. But they’re absolutely magical at night. And for a limited time, travelers can experience the Coliseum and the Baths of Caracalla on Saturday nights.

Beginning on August 21, and for seven consecutive Saturday nights, small groups can take a guided tour of the Coliseum led by an archaeologist. The Coliseum is open from 9PM until midnight and groups are limited to 40 people.

The Baths of Caracalla will be open for two additional Saturday nights. During the summer, the ancient thermal baths also serve as a concert venue.

Tour a Roman Villa with an Italian princess.

Baths of Caracalla

Those of you of a certain age may remember Rita Jenrette, who was once married to disgraced Congressman John Jenrette. After divorcing Jenrette, she became a successful New York real estate agent, and somewhere along the line met Prince Nicolo Boncompagni Ludovisi. The two married in May of 2009.

Now a Princess, Rita Boncompagni Ludovisi has convinced her husband to open their 16th-century home, Villa Aurora, to the public. Decorated with works of art by Barbieri – better known as Guercino — and Caravaggio, the 32,000-square-foot villa was once part of an 89-acre estate known as Villa Ludovisi.

The ceiling called “Jupiter, Pluto and Neptune” is thought to be the only one ever painted by Caravaggio. Since this year marks the 400th anniversary of the artist’s death, demand for tours has been booming.

Villa Aurora tours can be arrange through A Private View of Italy. The Princess often conducts them herself.

Cool off in a pool near the Coliseum.

Regular visitors to Rome know it can be sweltering in summer. That’s why you can hardly throw a rock in the Eternal City without hitting a fountain. But for a few weeks, you can cool off with a dip in the temporary swimming pool overlooking the Coliseum. Located on the Caelian Hill, All’Ombra del Colosseo will be open through the first Saturday in September.

During the day, visitors can enjoy use of the pool, a lounge chair, and an umbrella for 10 euros. There are locker rooms for changing, and for 10 euros more, you can use the Jacuzzi. The restaurant serves breakfast and lunch in case you work up an appetite.

At night, it’s one of the hottest spots in Rome, with a happy hour and buffet starting at 6PM. The disco gets going around midnight, but there’s often live entertainment too. The bar area is usually packed and lots of people hit the dance floor. If you’re looking for some al fresco Roman nightlife, give it a try.

Read about the best roof gardens in Rome here. And find trip planning tips for Rome here.

Roman Coliseum at night Image Flickr: jdelard
Baths of Caracalla Image Flickr:teldridge+keldridge

Find more information about Rome at Uptake.

The seat of the House of Savoy from the 14th century through the Italian unification in 1861, Turin’s broad boulevards and piazzas are similar to those that were popular with the French court. There are two interesting churches in Turin, including the Cathedral of San Giovanni where the famous shroud is occasionally displayed, and an excellent museum of Egyptian art. There’s also fun flea markets in Piazza della Repubblica on Saturdays.

For lovers of Italian food, Turin is well worth a visit, especially if you’ll be in Milan, which is only 80 miles away. Because one of the most impressive food complexes in the world is based in Turin. Cleverly named Eataly, it opened in 2007 and showcases Italian foods and wines that are sanctioned by the Slow Food movement.

Equal parts cooking school, restaurant row, and food and wine market, Eataly lets visitors taste, purchase, and learn about the best foods and wines in Italy in one spot. It’s located in the old Carpano vermouth factory, which was built in 1908 and is a short stroll from the Convention Center. With 118,000 square feet of educational areas, eateries, and markets, it’s very impressive.

You’ll find the best of everything – salumi, cheeses, meat, seasonal local produce, fish, fowl, pastries, breads, and more – in the 27,000-square-foot market. The salumi market has more than 150 different kinds of cured meats. There are more than 200 cheeses to choose from. And you’ll see more kinds of pasta than you ever knew existed.

Coffee, loose tea, chocolate, and a wide array of sustainable and slow foods are available. You can buy more than 200 kinds of beer and choose from a huge selection of wine – 48,000 bottles are displayed.

Fresh produce from the Eataly market.

A huge, wood-burning oven produces bread, Neapolitan pizza, and focaccia. And there are prepared foods you can take away. Eight restaurants, two cafes, and a gelateria serve more than 100 different dishes every day. All the beef is from Piedmontese cattle, and the grilled fish was in the Ligurian Sea hours before.

For something more ambitious – and expensive – try the 50-seat Guido per Eataly restaurant. Husband and wife team Claudio and Anna Vincina update classic Piedmontese dishes like vitello tonnato and bollito misto and accompany them with superb local wines like Barolo, Barbaresco, and Barbera.

Dining at Eataly.

Some of Italy’s top chefs teach cooking classes in specially designed, 30-seat kitchens and then serve a multi-course meal created especially for the occasion. Each course is paired with an Italian wine selected by one of the sommeliers. There are also separate educational areas, tastings, and classes on beer and wine.

There’s a scaled-down version of Eataly in Toyko. And American food luminaries Mario Batali, Nancy Silverton, and Joseph Bastianich — the team behind L.A.’s Mozza and Pizzeria Mozza — are bringing the concept to New York. Their Eataly, which is scheduled to open on August 31, 2010, will feature 20 different departments, a Dogfish Head brewery with roof bar, and a Batali fine-dining restaurant called Manzo.

Read about where to find great Italian food in Rome here.

Eataly in Turin offers the best Italian foods in the world Image Flickr:  singingbeagle
Fresh produce from the Eataly market Image Flickr: MAX 2006 – Max Nunziata “Wild photographer”
Dining at Eataly Image Flickr: demoshelsinki

Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni from the lake

The jewel of the Italian Lakes, Lake Como is a delightful spot with gorgeous scenery, wonderful villas and gardens, and palatial hotels. There are several towns where you can relax and enjoy la dolce vita. Como, at the southern tip of the left branch of the lake, is the largest. It’s also the hub for ferries and hydrofoils.

Como has a lovely lake-front promenade, a pretty piazza, a couple of interesting old churches, and a villa built in 1782. You can tour it and wander the pretty gardens. You can also take a funicular up the Brunate Hill. You’ll be rewarded with fabulous views of the lake.

Cernobbio, on the western side of Lake Como is best known for the luxurious Villa d’Este hotel. It was in the news recently as the wedding venue for actors John Krasinski and Emily Blunt. George Clooney, who owns Villa Oleandra in neighboring Laglio, was in attendance.

On the western side near the place where the lake forks, Tremezzo provides access to the prettiest gardens on Lake Como, which are at Villa Carlotta. The villa was completed in 1690, and the gardens were begun in the middle of the 19th century.

Across the Lake on the eastern side, Varenna is a more low-key destination with two more wonderful villas — Villa Monastero and Villa Cipressi. There are also some hill-top castle ruins you can hike to.

Things to see and do in Bellagio.

The crown jewel of Lake Como is the town of Bellagio, where the lake forks into two branches. When you picture the Italian Lakes — whether you’ve been or not — it’s probably Bellagio that you envision. Backed by cypress groves and draped in bougainvillea, Bellagio is a great place to unwind.

Narrow staircases wind through the town, and lake-front cafés beg you to do nothing but watch the boats on the lake.

There are two gorgeous gardens worth visiting here. The first are at Villa Melzi, which was built by an Italian who was close to Napoleon. Lizst was also a frequent guest. Though the villa is privately owned, the family opens to the gardens to the public in summer. And you can also peek into the Empire-style family chapel.

Bellagio Italy

On land that was originally owned by Pliny the Vounger, Villa Serbelloni offers guided garden tours twice daily in summer. Managed by the Rockefeller Foundation, the gardens were laid out in the 18th century.

The Basilica of San Giacomo was built toward the end of the 11th century by the Masters of Como. It’s worth stopping by to see the old mosaics, triptych, and polychrome wood sculpture.

There are several excellent Bellagio hotels. The most famous is the Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni. Once a private home, it’s been a hotel since the late 19th century. The inside is decorated with fine antiques, Murano glass chandeliers, imposing staircases, and elaborate frescoes. The grounds, which slope down to the lake, are equally impressive. Active travelers can enjoy the private beach, indoor and outdoor swimming pools, tennis courts, and fitness room.

During your visit to Bellagio, be sure to try the local perch, and dried eel.

Find more Bellagio hotels here.

Grand Hotel Villa Serbelloni from the lake Image Flickr: eblaser
Bellagio Italy Image Flickr: eblaser

Jimmy Choos

Although Eurodisney Paris has lots of fun rides and attractions, unless you’re the best parent in the world, it’s probably not real high on your list of things to do in Paris. If you’re like many people, shopping is at or near the top.

But if you can find a volunteer to go with the kids to Disneyland Paris Resort, you can spend the day at La Vallee Village, the outlet mall that’s just a few minutes’ walk from the Disney park entrance. If you’ll have the kids in tow, there’s a play area for them at the Village.

The mall and the park can be reached via RER commuter train, or tour bus from Paris. To get to Vallee Village, get off at the Val d’Europe stop. Or sign up for their personal shopper service, which includes a private car from Paris, a 30-minute consultation, and three hours of guided shopping.

Designed with architecture that’s similar to what you’ll find in the neighboring Ile-de-France towns, La Vallee Village has nearly 100 designer outlets. It’s a pleasant, outdoor shopping mall that’s open every day except Christmas, New Year’s Day, and May 1. Which is particularly appealing on Sundays, when practically all the shops in Paris are closed.

It’s all decked out during the holidays, and since the weather in Paris is temperate, it’s a nice place to do your Christmas shopping on a budget.

L’Espace La Vallee is a cultural center that exhibits the work of established and emerging artists, fashion designers, and photographers. Four exhibitions are scheduled each year.

Most of the boutiques here sell last year’s designer fashions at discounts of up to 60%. But you can also find classics that never go out of style, like a little white blouse from Agnes B or lingerie from La Perla.

Find designer duds for the whole family

There’s clothing for men, women, and children from Armani, Burberry, Cacharel, Calvin Klein, Cerruti, Dolce & Gabbana, Faconnable, Givenchy, MaxMara, Polo Ralph Lauren, and Versace. Shoes from Jimmy Choo, Ferragamo, and Tod’s. And top-quality linens, housewares, and accessories from Baccarat, Dunhill, Lalique, Tumi, and Villeroy & Boch.

Non-French shoppers can get a VAT refund on their purchases. And there’s a Starbucks if you need a little caffeine.

Also in the neighborhood is a big, new mall called Val d’Europe. Adjacent to the train station, it has shops like H&M, Gap, and Zara, a supermarket, food court, aquarium, and several sit-down restaurants. Disney initiated the development to give people more reasons to visit — and stay — in the area.

Opened ten years, ago, La Vallee Village is one of nine outlet shopping centers in Europe. Other locations are near Milan, Barcelona, Madrid, Munich, Frankfurt, Brussels, London, and Dublin.

Find hotels in the area here or read about Walt Disney Studios here.

Jimmy Choos Image Flickr: trec_lit
Find designer duds for the whole family Image Flickr: hipposrunsuperfast.com

Provence vineyard

Everyone knows that the French make incredible red and white wine. But their rose wine is also fantastic, albeit sometimes misunderstood.

When I told a friend that we loved the rose wines we drank on our recent trip to France, she turned up her nose and said, “Isn’t that like Kool-Aid?”

The truth is that most American roses, if you can even find them, aren’t very good. We went to the California wine festival yesterday in Santa Barbara, and of the 350 wines they poured, probably fewer than 5% were roses. Of those, only one was even slightly dry.

Many American equate rose with blush wines like white Zinfandel, which are just plain awful. But French roses are delightful, excellent with food, and oh-so-drinkable.

In France, the color is very pale – often with just a tinge of salmon. The exception is Tavel, which is a deeper shade of pink. And it’s served lightly chilled.

Rose is made from red grapes, often Syrah, Grenache, or Cinsaut. The skin is left on for a few hours or a few days, depending on the type of grape. The skin gives the wine its lovely color. When the wine is pressed, the skins are removed. Since many of the tannins present in wine come from the skin, rose wine taste more like white wine than red.

There are several kinds of French rose. Anjou rose is made in the Loire Valley, and Champagne and Burgundy also produce rose wine. But to us, the best roses comes from Southern France.

Almost 80% of the wine produced in the Cotes de Provence region is rose. Made mostly from Cinsaut and Grenache, these roses are dry with floral fruit and lovely color. Chateau Miravel and Saint Roch-les-Vignes are both wonderful.

Of the rose wine from the Southern Cotes du Rhone, Tavel stands out. Made from a blend of Grenache and Syrah, it’s darker, dryer, and higher in alcohol than other French roses. It’s the perfect accompaniment to a Provencal-style lunch of Salade Nicoise, ratatouille, or grilled fish. It tastes like summer in a glass.

Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence goes from the Luberon to the Mediterranean. Some unusual grapes including Mourvedre and Counoise, produce a delicious wine with subtle raspberry fruit.

Rose wine on ice

One of the most-admired roses in France is the Domaine Tempier from Bandol, a small resort town on the Riviera not far from Cassis. The grapes grown here benefit from an average of 3,000 hours of sunlight per year. That, and Mediterranean breezes that mitigate the heat, yield notes of peach, grass, and strawberries. It’s a brilliant wine that pairs well with any summer salad.

The mistral, or north wind, does a good job keeping insects to a minimum, so the region has several organic estates that are also producing roses. If you’re visiting Arles, Avignon, or Aix-en-Provence, sample several.

If you’re stuck at home, most of the French roses available in the United States are pretty affordable. Our local wine shop has several kinds for around $15 a bottle. For a memorable summer brunch, pick up several kinds and invite some friends over for a rose tasting.

Read more about tasting wine in Avignon here.

Provence vineyard Image Flickr: jaybergesen
Rose wine on ice Image Flickr: Arthur40A

We’ve been stricken in Africa, South America, Alaska, and Europe, and an ounce of prevention really is worth a pound of cure. And though you can’t prevent everything, you can stack the odds in your favor.

Most of the time, we get sick because our immune system is compromised in some way. And when you’re traveling, interrupted sleep patterns, changes in diet, and other interruptions in routine can make you especially vulnerable.

Over the years, we’ve found that the best defense is a good offense. So here are a few things you can do to keep yourself strong and healthy:

1) Be careful about what you eat and where you eat. If anything seems even slightly off, don’t put it in your mouth. Wash your hands or treat them with an antibacterial before you touch your food. And don’t eat anywhere with poor sanitation. Pack a couple granola bars or bags of nuts for times when you’re hungry but there’s nothing good to eat.

2) Drink wine with your meals – it actually helps prevent salmonella. And in many areas, the local wine is one the highlights.

3) Don’t eat fruits and veggies that are mostly water in areas where the water is bad. And speaking of fruit, if you don’t eat a lot of it at home, don’t go crazy at the breakfast buffet. Go easy and give your digestive system time to adjust.

4) Do pack a few Immodium AD pills with your toiletries, in case of emergency. And by emergency, I mean that you can’t stay out of the bathroom but you have to spend the next 12 hours on a plane.

5) Take any over-the-counter medications that you use at home with you on your trip. If you get indigestion or hives or a cold once a year, you’ll get it on your vacation. That’s how it works. So having whichever remedy works for you will save you a lot of grief. Often, if you can nip something in the bud, it won’t fully develop.

6) Don’t drink too much – especially not on the plane where dehydration is a real problem. Yes, you’re on vacation. And yes, those mai tais are the best ever. But being moderate will keep you feeling fine. And trust me, you do not want to visit the Parthenon with a hangover anyway.

7) Drink as much water as you can. Bottled water is for sale everywhere, and in Europe, most restaurants will bring you a carafe of water to drink with your meal. Try to finish it off before you leave the restaurant.

8) Eat a well-balanced diet. Trying new foods is one of the great pleasures of travel. But make sure you get plenty of veggies and whole grains too.

9) Try to get enough sleep. Although it’s hard when you have jet lag, make an effort. If you wake up at 3AM and you’re “done” for the night, just lay there quietly and try to rest your mind and body anyway.

10) Get some exercise. Getting up your heart rate and working up a sweat are great ways to stay healthy and keep extra pounds at bay. If your hotel doesn’t have a fitness center, take a brisk, uphill walk. Even thirty-minutes a day will help.

Taking these simple precautions will help ensure that you feel great during your travels.

Find more travel advice here. And more trip planning tips here.

Flea market fun

With some of the top flea markets in the country going strong for years now, L.A. needs another flea market like it needs a hole in the head. But Southern Californians are so crazy for flea markets that too much is not enough. In fact, the only thing more popular than flea markets is food trucks. And some brilliant entrepreneur got the idea to combine the two.

The new L.A. Flea Market debuts on July 18 in the parking lot of Dodger Stadium. The grand opening will feature the Hollywood Yard Sale with items donated by George Clooney, Brad Pitt, and other celebrities. Proceeds from sales will benefit the Salvation Army Adult Rehabilitation Center.

More than 500 vendors are scheduled to participate, selling everything from antiques, vintage clothes, furniture, collectibles, fine art, crafts, and just plain junk. The antique and vintage section will be managed by King Richards, which is one of the area’s best established antique centers. There will also be new merchandise and sustainable goods and charity groups.

A kids’ play area with a rock-climbing wall and inflatable play-gyms will keep them occupied.

Typical of Southern California, a VIP pass is available for $25. It includes valet parking, early-bird (7AM) admission, concierge service for schlepping your purchases, and a reserved porta-potty section away from the riff raff – and presumedly behind red, velvet ropes. Doors open at 9AM and general admission is $5.

Komodo food truck

Local bands, including Freddie and Francine, The Broken Numbers Band, and John Paul and the Courtship, will provide entertainment throughout the day.

What really sets the new market apart is the presence of some of L.A.’s top food trucks. Unlike some other cities, L.A’s ethnic neighborhoods aren’t centralized, and you might have to drive 90 minutes to satisfy a craving for Jamaican food. In response, ethnic food trucks have sprung up that bring exotic flavors to a variety of locations. Fans learn their whereabouts by following them on Twitters.

Shoppers at the flea market grand opening can choose from Butter Chicken over Basmati Rice from India Jones, Indonesian Beef Rendang with Cucumber Salad or Singapore-style Shrimp with Sour Cream Salad from Komodo, Jerk Pork with rice and beans from Reggae Chicken, Korean Fried Chicken from Ahn-Joo, Grilled Beef Vietnamese Baguettes from Mandoline Grill, Crispy Baja Fish Tacos from Border Grill, Nutella and Banana Crepes from Crepe’n Around, and more.

Goodies from the Komodo food truck

Two shows are scheduled following the grand opening – one on August 29 and one on September 26.

If you love searching for treasures at the flea market, mingling with the masses, and sampling some delicious and affordable ethnic food, you know where to go.

Read more about Southern California flea markets here. and here.

Flea market fun Image Flickr: dorena-wm
Komodo food truck Image Flickr: ricardodiaz11
Goodies from the Komodo food truck Image Flickr: helkimchee

Orvieto Duomo

Around 500 BC, the Etruscans discovered a plateau of volcanic tufa high above the valley and founded the town that would become Orvieto.  Today, it has one of the most spectacular settings in the region.

The top attraction in Orvieto is the Cathedral or Duomo.  Construction of the church began in 1288 and employed more than 350 architects, painters, sculptors, and mosaic artists.  It blends both the Gothic and Romanesque styles beautifully.

The highlight of the church is the façade which took 300 years to finish.  One of the original architects of the church, Maitani, carved the huge, fluted columns.  The detail of the sculptures is really impressive.  The modern bronze portals were completed in 1970 by Emilio Greco.

Inside, there’s a 14th century rose stained-glass window and two exquisite chapels — the Capella di San Brizio, which has Fra Angelico’s 15th-century frescoes of the Last Judgement.  These were recently restored at a cost of more than $4 million and they’re absolutely amazing.

The Capella del Corporale has a 14th-century silver shrine.  The reliquary is covered with precious stones, and the altar cloth of the Miracle of Bolsena is inside it.

The wine in Orvieto is terrific.  In fact, Luca Signorelli, who finished Fra Angelico’s frescoes, asked for partial payment in wine. So after you’re seen the church, have a glass of Orvieto Classico at one of the cafes on the Piazza del Duomo.

This area is also well known for its ceramics and on Saturdays, there’s a pottery market at Piazza del Popolo.

The church of San Giovenale was originally Orvieto’s cathderal.   It’s covered with 15th- and 16th-century frescoes, and there are beautiful views from the top.

The local archaeology museum has Etruscan artifacts.  If you’re interested in ancient history, you can take an underground tour of the wells and caverns that the Etruscans carved from the tufa beneath the city.

Orvieto hotels

Located in a 15th-century mansion in the heart of town, Hotel Filippeschi is a very short stroll from Piazza della Repubblica.  It’s close to many stylish shops and restaurants too.  There’s a bar and Internet access, and rooms have mini bars, safes, and satellite TV.  For the location, Filippeschi offers good value for money.

Also very near to the Cathedral, Hotel Duomo was purchased by Orvieto artist Livio Orazio Valentini in 2001 and completely restored.  Each of the 18 rooms is named for an artist and has a piece of furniture designed by Valentini, as well as a minibar and satellite TV.  The five floors are done in different colors.  And breakfast is included in the room rate.

Orvieto

Located in a beautifully restored 16th-century palazzo not far from the Duomo, Palazzo Piccolomini has 31 stylish rooms with LCD TVs, minibars, WiFi access, and modern furnishings.  Despite its central location, the hotel is very quiet, and it has a bar, and private parking.

About ten minutes drive from Orvieto, La Badia is located in a 12th-century abbey.  It’s been beautifully restored and there’s a swimming pool, tennis, and a good restaurant.  Public areas and some of the rooms have old wooden beams, vaulted ceilings, terra cotta tile floors, and tufa rock walls.  Larger rooms have lofts and suites have Jacuzzis.  If you’re looking for a hotel in the country, this is a very stylish choice, with professional service.

As the name suggests, Villa Ciconia is a villa built in the 16th century and surrounded by an 8-acre park.  It’s less than 2 miles from town.  It’s four-star all the way with a beautiful swimming pool and 12 nicely turned out rooms that tastefully combine old and new.

Read about other places in Italy here.

Orvieto Duomo Image Flickr: ho visto nina volare
Orvieto Image Flickr: Hyougushi

View from Lerici Castle

Liguria is one of the most enjoyable places in Italy for travelers. From glamorous Portofino to sleepy fishing villages, the province offers a wide range of experiences. And wherever you choose to go, you’ll likely have terrific food – pesto is a specialty here – and fabulous coastal views.

The area has long attracted poets and painters, including Shelley and Lord Byron. And thanks to the Rick Steves guidebooks, the five towns of the Cinque Terre were discovered by Americans decades ago.

But there are still coastal resorts where you’ll hardly hear any English spoken. And Lerici, across the Poets’ Gulf from Portovenere and La Spezia, is a real gem.

Dominated by the medieval Castello San Giorgio, Lerici is within easy striking distance of Tuscany. In fact, it’s little over an hour’s drive from Florence. And just 45 minutes from the airport in Pisa. So if you want some sea air and stunning scenery before returning home, plan to spend a few nights there.

With no train service, you’ll need to drive, and with limited parking, it’s a good idea to get there early in the day.

There’s a gorgeous ocean-front promenade, plenty of good hiking trails in the hills outside of town, and excellent beaches within walking distance. The harbor and adjoining piazza have lots of bars and cafes where you can enjoy la dolce vita. You can climb the castle for incredible views of Portovenere and the islands in the bay. And if you want to explore further afield, there’s ferry service to Portovenere and the Cinque Terre towns.

Lerici hotels and inns.

The top choice in town is the Hotel Locanda del Lido, which opened in 2006. The property is modern with hardwood floors, glass accents, and white décor. The round lobby is anchored by a small, indoor pool, and the water practically laps at the lobby. Its twelve, ocean-front rooms all have terraces with great views, flat-screen TVs, and minibars. There’s a roof-top solarium with plenty of loungers, and lots of ocean-front deck space. Doubles start at 210 euros.

The 53-room Hotel Doria Park is just a couple of minutes from the town center, but its location is the best in Lerici, and the views are tops. You can take breakfast or lunch on the ocean-view terrace surrounded by a pretty, Mediterranean garden. The suites here have balconies or patios and Jacuzzi tubs. Some of the suites even have private, outdoor spas with sweeping views. Beaches are nearby, and water sports are available. Those without a car can arrange shuttle service from trains stations in nearby towns.

Lerici at night

One of the newer hotels in the area, Hotel San Terenzo is in the town next to Lerici. All 14 soundproof rooms have WiFi, satellite TV and minibars. Nine rooms look over the bay; five look out at the new seaside promenade that leads to Lerici. The roof-top solarium is a great place to sun or relax with a glass of local wine. And there’s a beach with facilities adjacent to the hotel. Parking is available.

Located across the street from the beach, about ten minutes walk from Lerici, Hotel Florida has 40 modern rooms with all the expected amenities, water sports rentals, and a roof-top terrace with great views. Because the property has been run by the same family for 30 years, service is friendlier than most, and it’s very clean. Doubles start at 140 euros.

Best known for its excellent seafood restaurant, Locanda Miranda in Tellaro has six big rooms — many of which have terraces — a shared living room with a fireplace.

Find hotels in nearby Riomaggiore here.

View from Lerici Castle Image Flickr: pinkiwinkitinki
Lerici at night Image Flickr:spaceodissey

Eurodisney fun

Eurodisney Paris, AKA Disneyland Paris Resort, is easy to reach from almost anywhere in Europe. If you’re going there or to Walt Disney Studios, you have plenty of options in all price ranges.

If you’re flying to Paris and going straight to Disneyland from there, Air France uses a VEA shuttle bus from Roissy/Charles de Gaulle (CDG) Airport. The shuttle is included if you purchase your air as past of a package through Disney. During peak times, the shuttles leave three times an hour, seven days a week. The trip takes 40 minutes and costs 18 euros, 15 for children.

Travelers coming to Paris by Eurostar can travel directly from St. Pancras Station in London to Marne La Vallee/Chessy, the train station that’s right next to the Eurodisney entrance gates. If you take the Disney Express you can check into your hotel and get your entrance tickets to the park right on the train. Disney actors are on board to entertain the kids, and your luggage will be taken to your hotel for you.

For those who’d rather travel by sea, you can take a SeaFrance or P&O superferry from Dover to Calais. The crossing takes about 70 minutes.

If you’re already in Paris and want to go from there, the Metro/RER regional train is really handy. The A4 line terminates at the Marne La Vallee/Chessy station. The trip takes 35 minutes and trains leave every five or ten minutes. The price will depend on where you leave from, but the average fare is around 7 euros. Other RER lines join the A4 at Auber, Chatelet/Les Halles, and Gare de Lyon. Or you can take the Metro and connect at those same stations.

Package tours that includes transfer from your Paris hotel to the park and admission to Disneyland, Walt Disney Studios, or both, are also available. Usually, you’ll be picked up before 8AM and return about 12 hours later. The price for adults is around $100.

Private car service from your hotel to the park is also available. It’s expensive if there are just two of you, but if there are six or more, it’s an affordable option and the service is door to door.

RER train in Paris

Drivers coming from Paris should take the Paris Ring Road until they come to the Porte de Bercy exit. From there, they should take the A4 east, following the signs for Metz/Nancy. Take exit 14 (Val d’Europe, Parc Disneyland).

Generally speaking, a package that includes transportation, admission to the park, and hotel nights (if you’ll be staying over) will be a better value and will save you quite a bit in the long run. Events like Buffalo Bill’s Wild West Show, which includes dinner, are also less expensive when purchased as part of a package.

If you’re staying at one of the Disney hotels, you can even arrange to have the Disney characters come for photo ops with your kids at a special breakfast buffet.

Read more about Eurodisney Paris here. And read more about Walt Disney Studios here.

Eurodisney fun Image Flickr: titou.net
RER train in Paris Image Flickr: cowlet

Flea market bargain or rip off?

Southern California flea markets have something for everyone. Whether you’re a serious collector, or just someone who appreciates one-of-a-kind items, you can find something cool for a great price, if you follow a few simple steps.

If you’re looking for something specific, do some homework in advance. Go online and get an idea of what fair market value is for the item you’re trying to find. Then, figure out which flea market is most likely to have a vendor who carries it.

With 2,500 vendors, the Rose Bowl Flea Market has practically everything anyone could want. Long Beach is good for antiques, furniture, and other collectibles. And Santa Monica has beautiful things for the home.

The best strategy for finding something in particular is to go early. But remember that you’ll need to add the higher admission fee to the price of your treasure. At the Rose Bowl, the 5AM admission runs $20, and many vendors won’t be set up until 9AM.

If you’re open to whatever strikes your fancy, you can probably sleep in. With no admission fee, the Pasadena City College Flea Market offers the best bargain to begin with.

Dress comfortably, especially for Long Beach or the Rose Bowl. And protect yourself from the sun with a hat and some sunscreen. A lightweight backpack makes it easy to carry a bottle of water and it’s a handy place for small purchases.

Bargain hunters are often advised to dress down, so dealers won’t think they’re easy marks. But in L.A., vendors are used to seeing poor-looking rich people – you never who just sold a screen play for seven figures. And half the Louis Vuitton bags are fake anyway, so don’t worry too much about what you wear.

Another satisfied customer

Do bring plenty of cash, in smaller denominations. And if you’re shopping for furniture or bigger items, bring a way to transport it. At the Rose Bowl, the hike back to your car could be a mile, so ask the dealer to hold your purchase until you’re done shopping for the day. A tape measure often comes in handy too.

The more eager you are about your purchase, the more you’ll pay, so try not to act too excited about it – unless the asking price is clearly a bargain. Otherwise, it’s okay to discretely ask if that’s the best the seller can do. Often there’s a little wiggle room built into the price.

If you do find a treasure, ask for a receipt. And if it’s a collectible, ask for a certificate of authenticity or a written appraisal. Get the name and contact information of the dealer. And if you’re always interested in similar items, give him your contact information too so he can let you know if he comes across something you may be interested in.

Find a map to Southern California flea markets here.

Flea market bargain or rip off? Image Flickr: ?ick Harris
Another satisfied customer Image Flickr: pink_fish13

Stearns Wharf

Having just returned from the Cote d’Azur, we can endorse the idea that Santa Barbara is the American Riviera. Located on a gorgeous stretch of coastline where the mountains tumble down to the Pacific Ocean, Santa Barbara is one of the most beautiful cities in the country.

You’ll likely enjoy perfect weather and sensational food and wine during your visit. And many of the hotels in Santa Barbara have ocean-view rooms, so you can enjoy the scenery as soon as you open your eyes.

Start your day at the beautiful ocean-front park and take a stroll along the coastal path that runs for miles. During the summer, there’s an arts and crafts festival here every Sunday. It’s easy to be on or near the water, and if you have a car, there’s plenty of public parking.

There are several restaurants on Stearns Wharf, and several more in the Marina. Brophy Brothers is a great choice for fresh seafood. If you’re in town when the local lobsters are in season, try one.

State Street, the main drag, is lined with stylish shops and bistros. And there’s a Nordstrom in the Paseo Nuevo shopping center.

Hotels in Santa Barbara.

Although Santa Barbara is an expensive destination, there are nice places in a variety of price ranges.

One of the newer Santa Barbara hotels, Canary is convenient to downtown shops and restaurants. It was originally the Andalucia, but it was redone in a sophisticated Moorish style that works well with Santa Barbara’s Spanish architecture. The big bonus here is the roof-top bar and lounge area which also features a swimming pool and Jacuzzi. On clear days, you’ll be able to see the Channel Islands. All 77 rooms have four-poster beds, small refrigerators, flat-screen TVs, and WiFi access. There’s a restaurant called Coast on the ground floor, and pets are welcome.

When you’re looking for luxury, and don’t mind paying for it, the Four Seasons Biltmore is just the ticket. Across the street from Butterfly Beach and the Coral Casino Beach & Cabana Club – which guests can use – it’s technically in Montecito. So it’s not really walking distance to Santa Barbara attractions, but that‘s part of the appeal. The resort first opened in the 1920s, and the graceful arches, Spanish tiles, and 20-acre grounds are very romantic. Many of the rooms have fireplaces and balconies with sweeping ocean views. For families, there are also a dozen cottages with separate entrances. If you love to be pampered, you can indulge in a massage or beauty treatment in the 10,000-square-foot spa. Guests can entertainment themselves with tennis or a variety of lawn games. The restaurant is quite good, and Sunday brunch is very popular.

With 23 nicely decorated rooms, the Inn of the Spanish Garden is a nice boutique hotel for a romantic weekend away. It’s downtown, so the beach is a hike, but shops, restaurants, theaters, and nightlife are at your doorstep. Upgrade to a luxury room and you’ll enjoy a fireplace, a balcony or patio, stocked refrigerator, and soaking tub. There’s an outdoor pool, fitness center, and courtyard with a fire pit.

Hotel Oceana is made up of four individual hotels that were built in the 1940s. As a result, there are many different types of accommodations available. But all feature interior design by Kathryn Ireland in four different color schemes, luxury linens, CD players, flat-screen TVs, and WiFi access. Many have views of the ocean. The lush 2-1/2-acre property is right across the street from the beach and there are two swimming pools and a Jacuzzi. And you can arrange to have a massage in your room. There’s no restaurant on site, but there are many within walking distance. Take advantage of the hotel’s free bicycles to explore the area.

With 360 rooms in seven buildings on 24 acres, Fess Parker’s Doubletree Resort Santa Barbara is the biggest hotel in Santa Barbara by far. Those who knew Parker only as Daniel Boone may not know that he was also a respected California winemaker. The ocean-front property has a fitness center, full-service spa, tennis, several pools, a steakhouse, café, and pool-side barbecue. The helpful staff can arrange water sports activities or trips to the Channel Islands. If you want a hotel with all the bells and whistles, this is your best bet. The location here really can’t be beat. Splurge on a room with a view.

If you don’t mind walking a block to the beach, Casa del Mar offers good value for money in Santa Barbara. Built in the Spanish style, it’s an older motel that was recently refurbished. Although there’s no pool, there’s a Jacuzzi on the sun deck, and the grounds are beautifully landscaped. There are regular rooms, and one- and two-room suites, some of which have a kitchenette or a fireplace.

The pool at Bacara

Not far from Stearns Wharf, about a block from the beach, the Franciscan Inn was also built in the 1920s in the Spanish style. The 48 rooms are bright and cheerful and most of the suites have kitchenettes and mountain views. There’s a pool and whirlpool, and a continental breakfast is included in the rate. It’s another good choice for those looking for an affordable hotel.

Those who want to get away from it all and just enjoy the spectacular coast should head for Bacara Resort, 15 minutes north of Santa Barbara. Set on 78 acres of bluffs overlooking the Pacific, Bacara offers beautiful views from every turn – whether you’re dining in the restaurant or relaxing on your private patio. Designed to resemble a Mediterranean village, the resort has one, three- and four-story villas, three pools with 26 private cabanas, and a nice selection of water sports equipment. With ocean-view rooms starting at over $1,000 a night, it’s a big investment.

Read about Santa Monica beach hotels here.

View Hotels in Santa Barbara in a larger map

1) Canary Hotel
2) Four Seasons Biltmore Santa Barbara
3) Inn of the Spanish Garden
4) Hotel Oceana
5) Fess Parker’s Doubletree Resort
6) Casa del Mar
7) Franciscan Inn
8) Bacara Resort

Stearns Wharf Image Flickr: Ken Lund
The pool at Bacara Image Flickr: papertygre

Volpetti in Rome

Rome is one of the world’s great food destinations. Whether you’re savoring a slice of pizza bianca at Campo de Fiori or enjoying a gelato on the Spanish Steps, eating great food is an integral part of Roman life.

In addition to world-class Italian restaurants, charming trattorias, and homey pizzerias, Rome also has wonderful food store, bakeries, and markets where you can sample incredilble meats, cheeses, sweets, produce, and more.

Here’s our list of the best places to pick up Italian food in Rome:

Ai Monasteri
Here, they sell products produced by monasteries and convents all over Italy. “Products from the beehive” are a specialty, but you’ll also find wines, cordials, teas, liqueurs, chocolates, candies, jams, oils, vinegars, beauty and health products. The shop was founded in 1894 and has been run by the same family for four generations.

Angelini
Not far from the Opera House, Angelini opened in 1880. It’s one of Rome’s best old-school wine shops, and you can have them pour you a jug of Castelli Romani wine right from the barrel. It’s one of the top three DOC wines from Lazio.

Buccone
This historic wine shop near the Piazza del Popolo has an incredible selection of vintages, Italian and imported beers, and epicurean products. They stock wines in all price ranges and the staff can help you find just the right bottle. With its old wooden beams, this cozy coach house is an atmospheric spot for lunch. And dinners are served on Friday and Saturday nights. If you request it a week in advance, you can have a wine tasting before your dinner.

Campo de Fiori
Rome’s best food market is a must-visit for foodies. During the day, the piazza is packed with vendors selling fruits, vegetables, and flowers. At night, it’s the home of some of Rome’s most popular bars. Because it’s a popular tourist destination, prices are high. But you’ll come away with great photos. There are delis, wine, and cheese shops. If you’re hungry, grab a delicious slice of Pizza Bianca at Forno Campo de Fiori.

Castroni
You’ll find meats, cheese, oils, vinegars, herbs, coffee beans, and other delicacies from all the regions of Italy here, as well as food from around the globe. If you’re renting an apartment and trying to make a home-cooked meal, this is also the best place buy British, and American packaged foods. There’s a nice selection of organic products, and you can have coffee, sandwiches, or pastries at the bar.

Artichokes at Campo de Fiori

Mercato di Testaccio
Although Testaccio isn’t the best neighborhood in Rome, food lovers find the market here worth the extra effort. Covered stalls sell fruits and vegetables, meats, cheeses, seafoods, breads, and everything else you’ll need for a fabulous picnic or delicious dinner.

Moriondo e Gariglio
The finest chocolatier in Rome, Moriondo e Gariglio opened in 1850. The more than 80 kinds of confections they sell are made from fiercely guarded family recipes. The shop is lovely – and packed – around Easter and Christmas. Specialties include truffles, candied chestnuts (marrons glace), liqueur-filled chocolates, and confections made with nuts.

Panella
In the know tourists come here for the mortadella-stuffed pizza bianca, but there are also delicious breads of all kinds, regional Italian cheeses, preserves, and pastries. You can have your sweet with a coffee at the tiny bar inside.

Trimani Vinai a Roma dal 1821
No mystery about how long Trimani has been in business. In fact, it’s the oldest wine shop in Rome, and many would say the best. Stocking thousands of Italian, French, and sparkling wines, Trimani also hosts wine tastings and lectures.

Volpetti
Arguably the best food store in Rome, is located in the working-class Testaccio neighborhood. Volpetti has all kinds of salumi, including prosciutto, coppa, mortadella, speck, bresaola, salami, soppressata, guanciale, and pancetta. The list of Italian cheeses is equally impressive, and there’s a nice selection of French cheese too. Wines, prepared salads and pasta dishes, smoked fish, breads, pastries, chocolates, coffee, and vinegars make this your one-stop-shop for gourmet foods in Rome.

Read more about Italian foods here.

View Best Rome Food Stores in a larger map

1) Ai Monasteri
2) Angelini
3) Buccone
4) Campo de Fiori
5) Castroni
6) Enoteca al Parlamento
7) Mercato di Testaccio
8) Moriondo e Gariglio
9) Panella
10) Trimani
11) Volpetti

Volpetti in Rome Image Flickr: Meg Zimbeck
Artichokes at Campo de Fiori Image Flickr: Maggie Hoffman

Arles

We’ve recently returned from Provence and the French Riviera, and Arles was one of our favorite spots. The city first flourished under Roman rule – and there are several impressive sites dating from Roman times, impressive medieval architecture, and delightful squares where you can enjoy a meal or a glass of wine.

Virtually everything is within walking distance. And Arles hotels and restaurants provide great value for money.

The only real challenges you’re likely to encounter are driving and parking. The charming old town has ancient walls, cobbled squares, gurgling fountains, and narrow streets, many of which have restricted traffic. You’ll appreciate it as a pedestrian, but as a driver – not so much.

Our Garmin GPS, which was a blessing almost everywhere else we went, was of little help in Arles. Pylons blocked access to our hotel, and trying to reach it from the other direction took about 45 minutes.

With that in mind, here are our top travel tips for Arles France:

1) Confirm parking with your hotel in advance, and get precise directions to the hotel from wherever you’ll be coming from. If your hotel doesn’t have parking, ask them to provide you with directions to the nearest parking facility. We were there on a bank holiday weekend, and all the free spots were taken. But there was plenty of parking in the public garage near the post office on Boulevard des Lices. If your hotel is not far, you can walk from there, or take a cab.

2) If you’ll be in Arles in summer or over a holiday period, make dinner reservations. Many of the best restaurants in Arles are small, with fewer than 20 tables. And they basically have one seating. At the places where we dined, we were the last people seated – at 8PM. Everyone else was turned away.

Arles Market

3) If possible, plan to be in Arles on Saturday, when the biggest, best market in Provence takes place on both sides of Boulevard del Lices. Hundreds of stalls sell everything from foie gras to flashlights. With fruits, vegetables, cheeses, charcuterie, pastries, seafood, breads, rotisserie chickens, paella, and wine, it’s a great place to pick up supplies for a picnic. And it also has some of the best and most affordable souvenir shopping in Provence. You’ll find Provencal linens, spices, soaps, olive-wood kitchen wares, olive oil, and lavender sachets. There’s a flea market further down the boulevard and a small brocante market with collectibles.

St. Trophime Cloisters

4) Walk to Les Alyscamps, the ancient Roman cemetery that was painted by both van Gogh and Cezanne. It’s only about ten minutes from the heart of town, and it’s very atmospheric. Ancient tombs and plane trees line the long alley that leads to a medieval church.

5) Visit the cloisters of Saint-Trophime. Although the church is best known for it’s splendid portal, the adjoining cloisters are some of the loveliest in the area.

6) Watch the world go by from a table on the Place du Forum. Both the Hotel Nord Pinus and the Hotel du Forum are on the Place, and half a dozen sidewalk cafes compete for your patronage. Order a pichet of local rosé, and admire the same plane trees – or starry skies – that inspired van Gogh.

7) Learn a little French. We found the people in Arles to be friendly, outgoing, and helpful. But English isn’t as widely spoken here as it is in cities or the French Riviera. We actually ended up speaking quite a bit of French here.

Read more about Arles here.

Avignon

After picking up our rental car at the TGV station in Avignon, we visited St.-Remy-de-Provence, Arles, l’Isle sur la Sorgue, Fontaine de Vaucluse, Gordes, Roussillon, Bonnieux, Lourmarin, Aix-en-Provence, Cap d’Antibes, Antibes, Juan-les-Pins, Cannes, Sainte-Maxime, Saint-Tropez, and Bormes-les-Mimosas, without any trouble.

Granted, as Southern California drivers, we are used to demanding driving. But only once did we get really frustrated, and that was trying to reach our hotel in the old town of Arles. When we found the street we were supposed to turn down, a pylon blocked our entrance and we didn’t have the passcode to lower it.

We spent the next 45 minutes driving in circles before finding an alternative.

But compared to driving in the white towns of Spain, this was a cake walk, and virtually all our experiences were pleasant. Sure, there were one-lane roads with no shoulders accommodating two-way traffic. And there were some pretty tight squeezes — especially in parking garages.

But as a rule, the roads are quite good and well marked. On the freeways, most other drivers don’t tailgate, use the left lane only for passing, and use their turn signals.

Countless roundabouts keep local traffic moving without the use of stoplights. And we were always able to find parking within reasonable walking distance of where we were going. However, this was May, and we can’t speak for July.

Based on our experiences, here are our driving tips for France:

1) Bring a GPS with European maps. Our Garmin Nuvi was a big help whenever we wanted to go from one town to another. It tends to route you the quickest way, so if you decide to take the scenic route, you may hear “recalculating” quite a bit. But if you do make a wrong turn, it will help you get back on track quickly. And responding to “Enter roundabout and take second exit” is a lot easier than figuring it out as you go along.

Saint Remy

3) Buy the collision damage waiver. If you have an American Express card, sign up for their program, which covers you for up to 42 days for one flat fee. For California residents, it’s just $17.95 per rental. It doesn’t cover liability, so check with your auto insurance company to see if they do. Ours didn’t outside of the U.S., but Hertz did. Nothing takes the fear out of driving abroad like knowing that if you get a scuff here or there it won’t be a hassle.

4) Travel with plenty of change. The French tend to hoard their change. In fact, trying to get someone to change a 50 Euro note, which is what you’ll most likely get from an ATM, is like pulling teeth. And whenever you try to make a purchase with a 10 or a 20, the cashier will ask you for exact change. This may seem harmless enough, but you often need change — for tips, toilets, parking, and tolls. And for all those people who insist on exact change.

5) Be prepared for parking challenges. Just because a hotel says on its web site that it has parking doesn’t mean that there will be a park for you – especially if it’s located in the medieval heart of town. Read the fine print, because sometimes they have only a few spaces and they must be reserved in advance. Generally, hotels that don’t have much parking will let you drop off your bags and then direct you to a garage or lot not too far away. In villages, the lots are usually free. In bigger towns, there are parking lots where you buy a ticket from a machine and place it on your dashboard. In parking garages, you must pay the ticket at the collection machine before you exit. You’ll need to insert the validated ticket in order to raise the exit gate.

French Riviera

6) Try to relax. When you approach the toll booth section of the freeway, chances are, you won’t be 100% certain which lane you should be in. Unless you’re fluent in French, you’ll see signs with verbs you’ve never seen before. And you’ll likely come to an intersection where the signs to your destination are pointing both right and left. Don’t worry. If you go the wrong way, you’ll see something you wouldn’t have seen otherwise. Do your homework so you know the rules of the road and are familiar with the traffic signs. Allow some extra time for unexpected delays. Then, just go with the flow.

Although driving in France can sometimes be intimidating, renting a car provides complete freedom, independence and the opportunity for spontaneity. You’ll be able to get off the beaten path, stay at country hotels, and come and go as you please.

Find other French travel tips here.

Palais des Papes

It’s an imposing place, and surprisingly secular. After the revolution, it was used as a prison and later a barracks, so most of the Papal splendor is long gone. But some of the rooms still have beautiful frescoes. Especially the Chambre du Cerf, which shows the locals hunting, fishing, and trapping birds.

The scale of the rooms is amazing — the ceremonial halls here are the size of cathedrals.

The Avignon Popes enjoyed the good life, and wine was an integral part. They promoted viticulture in the region just north of Avignon and established what would later be called Chateauneuf-du-Pape, which means “new castle of the Pope.”

Today, the wines of the Cote du Rhones AOC range from full-bodied reds to fruity roses. There’s one for every palate. And one of the best places to taste — and buy — wine from the region is in the Palais des Papes.

La Bouteillerie

You can taste three for 6 euros, and individual wines are available to taste at a price of 2 to 7 euros per glass.

Bottles are the same price as they are at the wineries, so you can pick up a bottle of Chateauneuf-du-Pape red for as little as 19.50 euros.

The gardens above the Cathedral are a great spot for a picnic. You can see the Rhone, the rooftops of the city, and Mont Ventoux in the distance. So grab a bottle, a loaf of bread from the local boulangeie, and some cheese, and head for the hills.

If you don’t have time to visit the wineries north of town, the Palais des Papes is a convenient, affordable place to taste the local wines.
Find more attractions in Provence here.

One-of-a-kind finds

The most famous flea market in Paris — and the largest in the world — is Le Marche aux Puces de Saint-Ouen. It’s been going strong since the 1870s when rag merchants who were forced out of town started peddling their wares just outside the city walls.

Located on the outskirts of the city, Saint Ouen is a trek to reach and a big commitment. Take the Metro to Porte de Clignancourt and then take Avenue Michelet past the ring road.

It’s so vast — 17 acres — that it can easily take a full day to explore. On Saturdays, Sundays, and Mondays, more than 150,000 bargain hunters, antique collectors, and curious travelers investigate the 2,500 vendors here looking for one-of-a-kind items. What you’ll find ranges from junk or brocante, as it’s known here, to world-class antiques. And the venues run the gamut too. Some dealers set up folding tables. Others sell their wares in delightfully stylish spaces.

You can get a map of the market online or pick up one when you arrive. It’s actually pretty well organized with more than a dozen markets, specializing in furniture, 18th- and 19th-century decorative items, engravings, military items, or the like. The main drag is Rue des rosiers, where the original four markets — Vernaison, Malik, Biron, and Jules Valles are located. Each has its own ambience, and some are quite picturesque with wisteria-draped patios, and charming old architecture. In fact, Saint-Ouen is a Protected Urban Area.

You won’t find many bargains here, but if you’re looking for something unusual, or you collect something, a day here could be very rewarding. There are several restaurants and a couple of always-busy ATMs. Wear comfortable shoes.

If you don’t have time for Saint-Ouen, Paris has other flea markets that are more manageable and more accessible.

Furniture at Saint-Ouen

Not far from the Hotel de Ville, the Village Saint-Paul isn’t exactly a flea market, but it does have more than 200 dealers selling antiques, brocantes, and old knick knacks in a series of connected courtyards. It’s a great place to look for original gifts or housewares from the 1930s to the 50s.

On the south side of Paris, the Marche aux Puces de la Porte de Vanves takes place every weekend. Like Saint-Ouen, it also has many dealers who specialize in books, prints, maps, and furniture. But prices here are a little better and the 300+ vendors expect to bargain. Many flea market fans think de Vanves is the best in Paris. Keep you eye out for Hermes scarves, vintage purses, and old perfume bottles.

Not far from Opera Bastille, there’s a covered and an open-air market at Place d’Aligre. In addition to antiques, vintage clothes, and junk, there’s also fresh produce and North African spices and crafts. So it’s a great destination for cooks as well as collectors. If you don’t pick up lunch at the market, there are lots of cafes in the neighborhood.

Read about the best consignment shops in Paris here.

1) Marche aux Puces des Saint-Ouen
2) Le Village Saint-Paul
3) Marche aux Puces Porte de Vanves
4) Place d’Aligre Market

View Paris flea markets in a larger map

One-of-a-kind finds Image Flickr: h-angele
Furniture at Saint-Ouen Image Flickr: Ted Drake

Shutters on The Beach

Santa Monica Beach is one of the most appealing places in Southern California. The beach itself is terrific with more than three miles of golden sand. You can surf, bike, sun, or ride the Ferris wheel. And there’s great shopping and restaurants along Ocean Avenue and at the popular 3rd Street Promenade.

You’ll find Art Deco hotels that date from the 1920s, bungalows, and luxurious, ocean-front resorts where guests want for nothing.

Two blocks from the beach in a relatively quiet neighborhood, Cal Mar Hotel Suites were built in the 1950s as apartments. Units have living rooms, separate bedrooms, and full kitchens. There’s a pretty courtyard, a heated swimming pool, and an off-site fitness center. It’s very close to the shops and restaurants of the 3rd Street Promenade, or you can save money by eating in. For the location and amenities, it’s a good value.

Across the street from sister property Shutters on the Beach, Casa del Mar is in an old Art Deco hotel from the 1920s. Rooms are very luxurious with period pieces like four-poster beds and big, Italian-marble bathrooms. And most have ocean views. The two-story penthouse suites are some of the nicest – and most expensive – accommodations in Santa Monica. Guest can enjoy the spa, a cabana on the fifth-floor pool deck, or the beach. The ocean-front seafood restaurant, Catch, scores rave reviews, and there’s an inviting lounge on the veranda.

A member of the Four Sisters Inns group, Channel Road Inn will appeal to bed and breakfast fans. The 15 rooms are located in a 1910 house in a residential neighborhood near the beach. The staff will hook you up with a bicycle or a beach chair. The downstairs living room has a beautiful fireplace with Batchelder tiles. Rooms are individually decorated, and some have fireplaces or whirlpool tubs. There’s a hot rub and you can arrange for an in-room massage. A full breakfast and afternoon wine and cheese are included in the rate. Conde Nast Traveler recently named this the top B&B in Los Angeles.

Originally built in 1924, the Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows offers a variety of accommodations in two towers and 32 bungalows. It’s a short stroll to the beach or the promenade. Rooms in the towers have beautiful views. Those in the ten-story Ocean Tower have balconies. But the bungalows, which were built in the 20s, 30s, and 40s, are the place to stay. Equipped with every conceivable amenity, these min-residences include butler service. There’s a health club, spa, and outdoor pool. Fig, named for the giant tree in front of the entrance, serves expensive French food.

The Georgian first opened in 1933, and it still has a lot of charm. The Aqua and bronze hotel

The Georgian Hotel

would be equally at home on South Beach. It’s located right on Ocean Avenue, and the lobby and veranda have great views of Santa Monica Beach, across the street. The rooms still have Art Deco accents but a 2007 renovation brought flat-screen TVs and docks for MP3 players. Rooms on higher floors have the best views. Guests can have breakfast or lunch at the restaurant on the veranda.

If easy access to a top-notch spa is an essential part of your vacation plans, book a stay at Le Merigot. In addition to services at the 6,500-square-foot spa, the packages available here might include a Porsche Boxster convertible or some surf lessons. The 175 guest rooms have pillow-top beds, big TVs, and ocean views. Many have terraces. There’s also an outdoor pool with cabanas and a state-of-the-art fitness center. Cezanne, the hotel’s French-inspired restaurant, is popular. Le Merigot is less expensive and more laid back than many of it’s neighbors.

Travelers who like a boutique hotel will enjoy the 70-room Oceana. Recently redesigned by Chris Barrett, the rooms are bright, lighter, bigger than most and tricked out with two plasma TVs and work spaces with desks. There’s a hip lounge, a restaurant with a menu created by Jonathan Morr, and a well-equipped fitness center. The pool is on the small side, but there’s WiFi access so you can work out there if duty calls.

Shutters on The Beach looks like an old Cape Cod resort, but the similarity ends there. It’s California, through and through. If you can afford it, the ocean-front location and luxurious rooms with floor-to-ceiling windows, huge bathrooms, and balconies, are best in class. You’re very likely to see celebrities in One Pico, the hotel’s contemporary restaurant. And there’s a heated pool, fitness center, and Jacuzzi, if you can ever tear yourself away from the room. The first time you throw open the shutters on your windows, you’ll say “pinch me.”

Find things to do in Santa Monica Beach here.

1) Cal Mar Hotel Suites
2) Casa del Mar
3) Channel Road Inn
4) Fairmont Miramar Hotel & Bungalows
5) Georgian Hotel
6) Le Merigot
7) Hotel Oceana
8) Shutters on The Beach

View Santa Monica Beach Hotels in a larger map

Shutters on the beach image Flickr: Joe Shlabotnik
Georgian Hotel Image Flickr: Joe Shlabotnik

Rovinj from the Sea

Although it’s now part of Croatia, the Istrian peninsula is very Italian in feel. The Italian town of Trieste is less than 15 miles away, and Venice is just across the Adriatic.

Fans of Lidia Bastianich know that the chef grew up here and many of her recipes combine Italian tradition with local ingredients. Truffles are a specialty of the region.

Rovinj is a delightful, waterfront town with a historic center that has Venetian-style piazzas, and charming cafes, galleries, and shops. It was originally an island, but the channel was filled in during the 18th century. The sparkling Adriatic and the picturesque harbor are visible from almost everywhere, and most of the buildings in the old town are well-preserved and protected.

Strolling the winding cobblestone lanes and enjoying a glass of wine at one of the outdoor cafes are the principal pastimes here. There is a small museum in the former palace of Italian aristocrats. Today, it displays archaeological relics from the area and paintings from several periods.

The body and coffin of St. Euphemia washed up here in the 9th century — some say miraculously — and she was made the patron saint of Rovinj. The baroque church that bears her name is a popular pilgrimage destination. It sits atop the highest hill in town. The bell tower and copper statue of the saint that crowns it can be seen as you approach from the sea.

Rovinj hotels are of a high standard and almost all of them have Internet access, satellite TV, mini bars, and other modern amenities. Many have activities like water sports and tennis, and several have programs for children.

Rovinj hotels.

Built in 1912, the Hotel Adriatic is the oldest hotel in Rovinj and its location on the main piazza is great. There are views of the harbor, St. Catherine’s Island, and the old town. You can walk to everything from here, including the town’s pebbly beach and ferry docks. The terrace café is popular with both locals and tourists. The 27 rooms here book well in advance, so if you want to stay here, make your plans early.

Located on St. Andrew’s Island, a 15 minute boat ride from town, Hotel Istra is a good place to get away from it all. With two pools, a fitness center, a gravel beach, tennis, water sports, and bike rentals, there’s no shortage of things to do. And if you don’t feel like leaving the island, there’s a restaurant, a pizzeria, a grill, and several bars. The 326 rooms all have balconies or terraces, most with ocean views.

Rovinj rooftops

Above the marina, overlooking the Adriatic and St. Catherine’s Island, Hotel Parc is convenient to both the nature park and Rovinj’s shops and restaurants. In fact. the promenade below the hotel is lined with them. The 202 rooms were recently renovated and there are three swimming pools, a health club, and several restaurants and bars.

The other island-based resort in Rovinj is the Hotel Katarina, on St. Catherine’s (Santa Katarina) Island. The views of Rovinj and the other islands from the waterfront promenade are amazing. The island features some 19th-century parks and an old castle which is part of the property. There are 61 rooms in the main building and another 59 in a newer annex. A full range of activities and a children’s program are available.

Those who want to stay in a romantic, old town location, should choose Villa Angela d’Oro, which is in a restored palace dating from the 17th century. Each of the 24 guest rooms is individually decorated with antiques, old paintings, and period furnishings. And most have views of the sea. If your room doesn’t, the views from the loggia and library are beautiful. The hotel has a sauna, solarium, and Jacuzzi too.

Find hotels in nearby Trieste here. Or other Croatia hotels here.

1) Rojinj Heritage Museum
2) St. Euphemia Church
3) Hotel Adriatic
4) Hotel Istria
5) Hotel Eden
6) Hotel Parc
7) Hotel Katarina
8) Villa Angelo d’Oro

View Rovinj Hotels in a larger map

Rovinj from the Sea and Rovinj rooftops Images Flickr: akk_rus

Spire lounge

With some of the best views in the world, sizzling nightlife, and balmy breezes virtually all year long, Miami is one of the best cities in the world for roof bars. Once the sun sets and the temperature drops, there’s no more appealing place than a sybaritic roof-top terrace high above the city.

Many are open only at night and on weekends, but some are open in the afternoon when the view is completely different. Expect to pay sky-high prices for drinks, and appetizers, if they’re served.

Here’s our list of the best roof bars in Miami:

When it opened in 2008, Gansevoort South stole some South Beach cachet and made Mid Beach the new place to see and be seen. With swaying palm trees, a huge infinity pool, and private cabanas with chandeliers, their roof bar – Plunge – looks out over the Atlantic Ocean from 18 stories up. Thursday nights are the time to go. Oversized beds and chaise lounges are spread out across 24,000 square feet of teak decking. So grab a spot and a perfectly made mojito, and enjoy.

Compared to Plunge, the Rooftop Lounge at the Townhouse Hotel is practically a secret. But locals know it’s a great alternative with less attitude and more reasonable prices. The lounge was recently redone with king-size waterbeds and red canvas umbrellas, and with a maximum capacity of 250, it’s easier to get to know your neighbors. If you hit Plunge on Thursday, come here on the weekend.

When it comes to views, Club 50, on the 50th floor of the Viceroy Hotel, takes the prize. During the day, the club is reserved for hotel guests and residents of Icon Brickell. But Tuesday through Saturday nights, it’s open to the young and beautiful who come to dance to music spun by the area’s top DJs. The Asian-influenced design features natural materials – lots of wood and marble. And there’s a pool near the bar. Club 50 is hard to get into, so look and dress your best.

Todd Oldham designed the Spire Lounge atop The Hotel, and it has some of the best views – and cocktails – in South Beach. It’s open to the public Thursday through Saturday. The lounge is furnished with big white sofas with red pillows, and the floorboards are bright stripes of red, pink, and beige. The whole space is bathed in the cool glow of the original neon Tiffany hotel sign. If you get hungry, interesting tapas are available. The Spire can also be hard to get into.

The roof bars at the Sanctuary Hotel and the Setai Hotel are also quite nice.

Find our list of the best roof bars in Rome here.

1) Plunge at Gansevoort
2) Rooftop Lounge at the Townhouse
3) Club 50 at the Viceroy
4) Spire Lounge at The Hotel
5) Sanctuary Hotel
6) Setai Hotel

View Miami’s best roof bars in a larger map

Spire lounge Image Flickr: dinemag

Skiathos

While you’ve probably heard of Santorini and Mykonos, you may not have heard of Skiathos. It was first developed in the 1970s and today, its sandy beaches, quaint villages, and vibrant nightlife make it a popular vacation destination. And Skiathos hotels take advantage of the stunning scenery.

If you’ve ever seen a calendar with photos of the Greek Islands, you know that the water here is crystal clear and absolutely gorgeous. The main town, also called Skiathos, is filled with cafes, bars, and sophisticated shops, especially along the seafront. The red-tiled roofs of the houses here are brilliant against the azure blue sky.

Flights are available from Athens to Skiathos, but a ferry or hydrofoil trip is more scenic. There’s service from Volos and Ayios Konstandinos. Skiathos is packed in summer, so avoid July and August if you can.

Skiathos attractions.

The 13th-century Bourtzi fortress guards the harbor in Skiathos, and you can visit the home of poet Alexandros Papadiamantis. Inside the 140-year-old house, there’s a small museum. And for a memorable tour, take a horse-drawn carriage ride around town.

Once you leave town, you’ll find most of the island in its natural state with olive and pine groves, a jagged coastline, and turquoise water. About an hour away, Skiathos Castle sits atop a rocky cliff overlooking the north coast of the island. Part of the old town walls and Turkish bath are also in the area.

Two monasteries – Panagia Kounistra and Evangelistria – provide an interesting look at religious life on the island. Evangelistria has a small library and a museum with religious relics.

Skiathos has more than 60 fabulous beaches, with fine, white sand and cool pine forests. The most popular are Banana, Vromolimnos, and Koukounaries, which is one of the most beautiful beaches in Greece. You can rent sunbeds and umbrellas there.

If you don’t have a car and don’t want one, you can take a public bus or local boat to lots of great beaches.

The Skiathos Sea Caves can only be reached by boat, but they’re fun to explore. And the waters around Skiathos are great for sailing.

Skiathos hotels.

A member of the Small Luxury Hotels group, Aegean Suites is just outside town adjacent to Magali Ammos Beach. Each of the rooms here is a suite and they‘re outfitted with private teak decks or patios, ocean-view Jacuzzis, mini bars, and CD players. They’re located in four contemporary buildings spread across the property among the olive groves. There’s a pool-side restaurant, a fine-dining restaurant, and a Champagne bar. Watersports, tennis, sailing, and scuba diving can be arranged.

Named for the local fortress, the Bourtzi Hotel is in the center of town near the harbor and old town. The pedestrian shopping area is nearby. Each of the 38 rooms has air conditioning, a mini fridge, and small safe. Many have private balconies or terraces. There’s an outdoor swimming pool and bar. This is a good choice for travelers who like to be in the heart of the action.

On a sandy beach that overlooks Vasilias Bay, the five-star Kassandra Bay Hotel is about ten minutes from Skiathos. The hotel is surrounded by olive trees and pretty gardens, which make it feel secluded. With three outdoor pools – two reserved for adults – a fitness center, and a nice Greek restaurant, Kassandra Bay is pretty self-inclusive. Guests here can settle in and never leave. The hotel has several environmental certifications, so it’s also a responsible choice.

Perched on a hillside above Agia Paraskevi Bay, the Magic Hotel has 36 rooms and suites with large ocean-view balconies. Guests can choose between the swimming pool or Platanias Beach, which is five minutes away on foot. The restaurant’s terrace is wonderful at night.

In the same area, the Atrium Hotel is one of the most architecturally dramatic resorts on the island. The center of the property is the swimming pool which is on a large terrace with sweeping views of the seas below. The 75 rooms here are decorated with natural stone and wood and have either a balcony or a terrace. There’s a fitness center, sauna, tennis, and water sports rentals are available. The bar and restaurant here are quite good, and you can dine on the terrace. Atrium Hotel is the top hotel in Skiathos for well-heeled travelers who can afford the best. Service is top drawer and they’ll be happy to arrange any excursion or activity you could want.

About 15 minutes from Skiathos on Agia Paraskevi beach, Skiathos Princess is a four-star property with 133 luxurious room, three restaurants, and three bars. It provides easy access to the Marine Park, which is a protected sanctuary. They have programs for kids from six months to twelve years old. A 72’ wooden boat is available for charter.

Travelers looking for an affordable hotel in Skiathos will like the Eye Q Resort. The hotel provides free transfers to and from the airport and it’s about a ten minute walk from town, so you won’t need a car. A dozen studios and apartments are available. They’re clean and well laid out and many have balconies with good views. There’s a sauna, an outdoor Jacuzzi, and free WiFi access.

If Skiapos looks appealing, you might also like Hvar. Read more about it here.

1) Aegean Suites
2) Bourtzi Hotel
3) Kassandra Bay Hotel
4) Magic Hotel
5) Atrium Hotel
6) Skiathos Princess
7) Eye Q Hotel

View Skiathos hotels. in a larger map

Skiathos Image Flickr: Anders Ljungberg

Manarola

One of the five Cinque Terre villages, Manarola has some of the best hotels in the area. Few views are more breathtaking than the first glimpse of the town on the path from Corniglia. From here, the village is almost vertical with pastel houses piled on top of one another. Surrounded by black rock, the emerald bay beckons you to take a dip.

Winemaking, fishing, and producing olive oil are the order of the day here. And you’ll have plenty of opportunities to sample all three.

The harbor is the center of activity in Manarola, so it’s a fun place for people watching. And there are a couple of good swimming spots. One of the beaches — though there’s no sand — has a shower and a ladder from the rocks to the water. A second beach is accessible from the path to Corniglia. It’s more private, but there are no facilities.

In the town, the main square, Piazza Capellini, is a nice new addition. The local “museum” has a display about wine making in the region. The upper part of town has a church with a bell tower and two paintings from the 15th century. There’s also a youth hostel — the only one in the Cinque Terre.

The most rewarding activity in Manarola is a walk through the vineyards. If you follow the wood railing, you’ll go through lemon groves, rosemary, and valerian, and you’ll pass old stone walls and thatches. The cemetery at Punta Bonfiglio is an interesting side trip and the views from there are fantastic.

Nowadays, you can reach Manarola by train, boat, and car. If you drive, a shuttle will take you from the parking lot to the center of town.

Manarola hotels.

The top-rated and most stylish hotel in Manarola, La Torretta has 13 attractive rooms in an old building with a 17th-century tower. The family-run property has been extensively restored and all the rooms have views or terraces. Guests can catch some rays in the solarium. Unlike most Cinque Terra hotels, La Torretta is decorated in a clean, contemporary style with tile floors, leather chairs, and plasma TVs. This is the most expensive hotel in town, but it you’re looking for something special, this is it.

Manarola

Hotel Marina Piccola is a great choice for those who want to be right on the water. Rooms in the building with the restaurant have windows that open right onto the fishing boats and rocks, and the beach is practically right there. If this building is full, most of the rooms in the second building have views. With tile floors, and pastel colored walls, the accommodations here are better than most. And the seafood in the waterfront restaurant is as fresh as it gets.

Ca’ d’Andrean has 10 squeaky-clean rooms with tile floors and simple furnishings up the hill from the train station. There’s no air conditioning, but many of the rooms have balconies with nice views. Breakfast is served in the pretty lemon grove out front.

Carugiu Bed and Breakfast is located on a narrow street in the center of Manarola. It occupies two stories of an old, four-story buildings. Rooms have refrigerators, flat screen TVs, high-speed Internet access, and private baths.

Find Riomaggiore hotels here. And Vernazza hotels here.

Manarola Images Flickr: Victor Chapa

Galleria Alberto Sordi

Unlike Paris, where department stores were part of Baron Haussamans’s grand plan, Rome’s grandi maggazzi aren’t all that grandi.

They’re actually pretty small – the big stores are in the new shopping malls on the ring road that runs around Rome’s perimeter. But you can certainly find whatever you’re looking for in Rome’s department stores, and many are located near Via Condotti where luxury labels like Versace and Dolce & Gabbano are located.

Most stores are open seven days a week until 8 or 9 at night.

La Rinascente is Italy’s premier department store. It’s roots go back to 1865 when two brothers opened a men’s clothing store in Milan. The Rome store first opened in a turn-of-the-century palazzo on Via del Corso. But recently, it was purchased by the popular clothing store Zara and relocated to the neighboring Galleria Alberto Sordi.

If you’re looking for top International and Italian brands like 7 for all Mankind, Armani Collezione, Guess, Marc Jacobs, and Burberry, La Rinascente is the place. Their own label, Ellerre, is stylish and more affordable. The different departments here are arranged like individual boutiques, and the staff are well trained and informed. You’ll find a vast assortment of up-market cosmetics and perfume, men’s, women’s, and children’s fashions. The suburban Piazza Fiume branch has a beautiful housewares section.

Coin carries a little less status, but it’s less expensive, and you can still find all the latest fashions for everyone in the family. Brands like Calvin Klein, Guess, DKNY, Lacoste, and Esprit are best sellers. And they carry top-quality Italian housewares, and kid’s clothes. There’s a Milan-based hair salon, and a restaurant and bar on the fourth floor. The Piazzale Appio location is not far from the Vatican.

UPIM, which stands for Unico Prezzo Italiano Milano, first opened a store in Cremona in 1928. Today, UPIM is similar to H&M – they offer the latest styles for men, women, and children at affordable prices. You won’t find designer labels, but their private label is good, and the BLUKIDS line for children is especially popular with Italian families. They also sell attractive housewares at attractive prices. In January of 2010, La Rinascente sold them to Coin.

Oviesse is a popular chain with inexpensive clothes, cosmetics, and accessories. They’re similar to Target or Kohl‘s. Lately, they’ve rebranded themselves as OVS or OVS Industry and done more to target the youth market. Their Baby Angel boutique features clothes designed by Fiorucci. They also have a plus-size department.

Find more Rome shopping here.

1) La Rinascente
2) Coin
3) UPIM
4) Oviesse

View Rome department stores. in a larger map

Galleria Alberto Sordi Image Flickr: dawvon

Studio entrance

Opened in 2002, ten years after Eurodisney Paris, Walt Disney Studio is adjacent to the Disneyland Paris Resort.  It’s a terrific attraction in its own right, so plan to spend two days here – one at Disneyland and one at the studios.

Like Disneyland, which is divided into four “lands,” Walt Disney Studios is divided into four studio lots.  The entrance recalls the original Disney studio in California with a replica of the old water tower and studio gates.

At the Front Lot, you’ll walk down Hollywood Boulevard, see the Egyptian Theater, Schwabb’s Drugstore, and more in Disney Studio 1.  If this were a working studio, it would be the second largest in Europe.

To the right of the entrance, Animagique shows the history of animation, and brings to life scenes from The Lion King and Pinnochio.  To the left, Cinemagique shows the greatest movie moments of all time.

Toon Studio explores the art of animation and even lets guests try their hand at it. Flying Carpets Over Agrabah takes you on a magic carpet ride over the desert, and Cars Quatre Roues Rallye is a fun road rally inspired by the Pixar feature “Cars.”

Studio gates

Crush’s Coaster lets you surf an ocean current through a brilliant coral reef riding in the shell of a sea turtle.

At the Backlot, you can see a live stunt show with motorcycles, jet skis, and cars.   And then go aboard the Space Station Mir as it’s bombarded by asteroids in a special-effects show from Armageddon.

Two new highlights of the park are the Twilight Zone Tower of Terror where you’ll plunge down a 13-story elevator shaft, and the Rock ‘n’ Roller Coaster, where you’ll go from zero to 60 in three seconds, accompanied by the music of Aerosmith.

Disney Studios Paris Map

In 2009, Mickey’s Magical Party and Playhouse Disney Live on Stage! were added along with Disney’s Stars ‘n’ Cars parade.  Toy Story Playland, which will shrink visitors to the size of a toy, is scheduled to open in August, 2010.  It will include a music express train, a parachute jump, and a half-pipe ride.

Find hotel information and attractions at Eurodisney Park here.

Studio entrance Flickr Image: Simone Ramella
Studio gates Flickr Image: Simone Ramella

Paella

When we first went to Spain in 1997, the food was nothing to write home about.  If you substituted the word “ham” for “spam” in the Monty Python sketch, you could describe pretty much every menu we encountered.

Until we got to Barcelona.  The food there was wonderful, making the most of Mediterranean seafood, herbs, and produce.

The Catalonians have always preserved their culture, and their culinary traditions are a big part of that.  So cooking classes in Barcelona are a great way to expand your skills and learn more about Catalan culture.

Over the centuries, the region has been home to significant Roman, Jewish, and Arab populations, and the cuisine has been influenced by all of them.  It’s delicious and very healthy.

Cook & Taste has given cooking lessons to more than 4,000 students.  They offer half-day classes seven days a week in their school on Paradis Street.  Their 3-1/2 hour classes start at 11AM or 5PM and include a trip to La Boqueria Market for supplies.  Traditional dishes like gazpacho, tomato soup with smoked cheese, paella, tapas, tortilla Espanol, and crema Catalana are usually prepared.  And participants enjoy the meal they made together at the end of the class.  They also offer three-day advanced seminars.

Entrance to La Boqueria market

Located near the Placa San Jaume, GotoLearn.com has half- and whole-day classes that visit the market and include a recipe booklet.  With a maximum class size of twelve, you’ll get some hands-on attention.

Catacurian.com offers full-day classes that start at 10AM with a visit to La Boqueria.  Students enjoy their lunch accompanied by wines form the Priorat region, as well as Cava, brandy, and coffee.  Classes devoted to tapas or paellas are also available, so ask when you make reservations.  Prices depend on the number of participants.

If you have rented an apartment for your visit to Barcelona, CatalanCooking.com will come to your apartment and conduct a cooking class there.  Several different three-course menus are available.  And classes are available in English, French, or German.

Find cooking classes in Florence here. And cooking class in Rome here.

Paella Flickr Image: sjwilliams82
Entrance to La Boqueria market Flickr Image: laura padgett

Mendocino Coastline

One of the most attractive towns on the Northern California coast, Mendocino was settled by New England loggers. The apple didn’t fall far from the tree, and Mendocino looks just like a New England fishing village from the 1800s. If you watched the TV show “Murder, She Wrote,” you may recognize Mendocino as the town of Cabot Cove.

Many Mendocino hotels are actually luxury inns converted from 19th-century private homes.

Today, most of the town is protected due to its listing on the National Register of Historic Places. So development has been tasteful and contained. In addition to the town’s historic charm, the natural surroundings are absolutely spectacular.

There are several old homes worth visiting, including the 1861 Kelley House, and the 1854 Ford House, which is also the Mendocino Headlands State Park Visitor’s Center. The park has several beautiful trails with great views. It’s especially appealing in spring when lupine, California poppies, and other wildflowers cover the headlands. Big River Beach, south of town, is a great spot for a beach walk.

In town, there are lots of cute shops and galleries worth checking out.

Mendocino hotels in old Victorian homes.

There are no better vistas of the Pacific than those from Agate Cove Inn. If your agenda is to relax, lean back, and watch the waves, Agate Cove is the place. The 1860 farmhouse and cottages are set in two acres of gardens above Agate Beach, and the views are the best around. In fact, during migration season, you’ll often see whales from the breakfast room. The majority of the accommodations here are in cottages with private entrances. Most have fireplaces, private decks, refrigerators, and ocean views. Bluff House has two bedrooms, two bathrooms, a tricked-out gourmet kitchen, and a laundry room. Bluff Cottage is a studio with a kitchenette and ocean-view deck with hot tub. A lavish breakfast is included in the rate and Agate Cove Inn has wireless Internet access.

Spread out across 8 acres of woods and gardens, Glendeven has accommodations in an 1867 farmhouse, a four-room annex called Stevenscroft, a carriage house, and the barn loft, which sleeps six. All have ocean views and most have fireplaces. Rooms are Pottery Barn perfect with a blend of antiques and contemporary furnishings. Hiking trails lead you through old-growth forest, across the headlands, and down to the beach. Oenophiles will enjoy the on-site wine bar which also serves cheese plates and charcuterie. Dinner is served on Tuesdays and Saturdays. And three-course breakfasts made with eggs and vegetables grown on the property and delivered to your room are a highlight. Daily yoga classes are held each morning, and you can help feed the llamas.

Mendocino

One of the prettiest Victorian houses in town, the Joshua Grindle Inn was built by a prominent Mendocino banker in 1879. It’s surrounded by two acres of colorful gardens and it’s walking distance to shops and restaurants. The inn is not ocean front, but you can see Mendocino Bay across the meadow. There are ten rooms available — five in the main house, three in the water tower, and another two in the saltbox cottage. They’re decorated in a New England, country style. Tea and sherry are served in the pretty parlor, and breakfast is included each morning. Noted for it’s warm hospitality, Joshua Grindle Inn is a AAA Four Diamond Award winner.

Modern Mendocino hotels.

With a solarium pool, canoe, kayak, and mountain bike rentals, an exercise room, and a hot tub, Stanford Inn by the Sea has the most amenities of any Mendocino hotel. There are 33 units in two shingle-style buildings on 11 acres where the Big River meets the Pacific. The Stanford’s owners are animal lovers — there are horses and llamas in the pastures, and your dog is welcome. Rooms have fireplaces or wood stoves, decks, CD and DVD players, and ocean views. Vegetarians will swoon over the award-winning vegetarian restaurant, one of the few on the coast. Many of the ingredients come from the inn’s certified organic gardens. The Stanford Inn is a great choice for active travelers who want to bike, paddle, and hike, and then return to a completely civilized retreat.

With 22 rooms, the Albion River Inn is the second largest of the Mendocino hotels. As a result, you may be able to find a room here when other places are fully booked. It’s about six miles south of Mendocino on a bluff above the ocean. Luxurious and elegant ocean-view rooms here have fireplaces, spa tubs with ocean views, and private decks. But one the best reasons to stay is the award-winning restaurant that’s right on site. It’s won Wine Spectator’s Award of Excellence 18 years in a row and features unforgettable views of the coast. There’s also an impressive selection of single-malt Scotch. The menu changes nightly and features the freshest local seafood and produce. Sunset Magazine named the Albion River Inn one of the best small inns on the west coast.

With just ten rooms, Brewery Gulch Inn often fills up well in advance. So you’ll need to plan ahead, especially for summer weekends. Overlooking Smuggler’s Cove, the three-story arts and crafts-style inn is constructed of 150-year-old, recycled redwood logs. It’s one of the greenest hotels in Mendocino and a drip irrigation system that was installed by hand waters the plantings on the property. Rooms here are the most luxurious of any Mendocino hotel. In fact, Brewery Gulch Inn is one of only three AAA Four Diamond Award winners in Mendocino. Gas fireplaces, private decks, fresh flowers, cozy leather chairs, and Jacuzzi tubs make relaxing a snap. The hotel organically raises more than 60 heirloom vegetables on a nearby plot. And complimentary wine from the nearby Anderson Valley and hors d’oeuvres in the evening and gourmet breakfasts are included.

Find other California hotels here. Or read our 9-day California coast itinerary.

Mendocino Coastline Image Flickr: Lee Coursey
Mendocino Image Flickr: Clinton Steeds

Piraeus Lion

Piraeus isn’t exactly the most scenic city in Greece, but if you’re trying to catch an early-morning ferry to the islands, or getting in late, it’s a convenient place to overnight.

It’s been the port of Athens since ancient times, and the commercial port since 1834. There are actually three harbors here, so make sure you know which one your boat leaves from and leave yourself plenty of time to find the berth. The port is huge.

Getting to Piraeus from Athens is easy. Express buses leave every twenty minutes and the train leaves every half hour.

Piraeus attractions.

There isn’t a lot to do in Piraeus, aside from enjoying the cafes down at the old Turkish Harbor. But if you have a morning or afternoon on your hands, check out the Maritime Museum or Akti Themistokleous. With a classical war ship and models of ships from ancient times to the present, it brings to light Greece’s lengthy seafaring history.

Although it doesn’t compare to the museum in Athens, the Archaeological Museum has several impressive bronze statues, a reconstructed mausoleum, Roman and Hellenistic sculpture, and many ancient artifacts.

Piraeus hotels.

A member of the Great Hotels of the World Group, the Piraeus Theoxenia is the most deluxe hotel in Piraeus. The 9-story building combines modern and classical themes. With conference facilities, a business center, and high-speed Internet access, it’s a good choice for business travelers too. The 76 rooms have bathrobes, slippers, high-speed Internet access, satellite TV, and mini bars. There’s a fitness center, a bar with sweeping views, and an Italian restaurant.

Piraeus

The Efplias Hotel has 23 apartments that include kitchenettes, 26” LCD TVs, and free high-speed Internet access. The location is convenient and there’s an on-site parking garage. The complex, which was built in 2008, features a gym and Jacuzzi, and a continental breakfast is served each morning.

Very close to the port, the Piraeus Dream Hotel is one of the most affordable hotels in Piraeus. Although there’s no restaurant at the property, there are several within walking distance and an American breakfast buffet is served. There’s free WiFi and satellite TV in all 47 rooms.

Faros I was renovated recently and the 40 rooms here, though basic, are clean and well designed. The hotel has a bar, a breakfast room and a tour desk that will make ferry reservations for you.

Rooms at the Hotel Noufara have double-paned windows, mini bars, and satellite TV, and many have balconies overlooking the harbor. Laundry service is a nice extra. There’s an attractive bar, And a good breakfast is served each morning. Noufara is a nice, three-star hotel in a good location.

1) Hellenic Maritime Museum
2) Archaeological Museum
3) Piraeus Theoxenia Hotel
4) Efplias Hotel Piraeus
5) Piraeus Dream Hotel
6) Faros I Hotel
7) Hotel Noufara

View Piraeus hotel in a larger map

Piraeus Lion Image Flickr: mararie
Piraeus Image Flickr: gorjan123

Castello di Miramare, Trieste

Trieste is a beautiful city that’s as much Austrian as it is Italian. It practically straddles the border between Italy and Slovenia, and much of its history is tied to the Hapsburg Empire. You’re just as likely to find paprika in the dishes here as garlic.

It’s been an important port since Roman times, and a rival of nearby Venice for centuries. Today, you’ll find everything from medieval to modern buildings in Trieste. But most of the city’s signature architecture dates from the late 18th century when the Hapsburgs made Trieste a key seaport.

Over the years, Trieste has been home to many intellectuals, including Rainer Maria Rilke, Sigmund Freud, and James Joyce, who wrote A Portrait of the Artist as a Young Man and part of Ulysses when he lived here.

Backed by cliffs leading up to the Karst Plateau, and with a beautiful Adriatic coastline, Trieste is as scenic as it is historic. You’ll find a vibrant culture in the turn-of-the-century coffee houses and bars.

Trieste attractions.

A few miles north of the city, Castello di Miramare is well worth a visit. Built by the Archduke Maximilian in the 1850s, the palace itself is all golf-leaf and crystal. But the surrounding gardens are the real reason to come. The seaside setting is really lovely and a pleasant place for a stroll. The palace is said to be unlucky – many of its most esteemed guests have met an untimely end. In July and August, there are sound and light shows here.

For terrific views of the city and Adriatic, walk the walls of Castello di San Giusto. It was begun in 1470 and took a century and a half to complete. Inside, there’s a museum with antiques, old weapons, and period rooms. But they pale compared to the vistas you’ll enjoy outside.

The church nearby is Cattedrale di San Guisto. Both the castle and the church are in the Parco della Rimembranza on the Capitoline Hill. There are several Roman ruins in the area, and the 14th-century campanile of the cathedral was built on the remains of a 1st-century temple. Two Romanesque basilicas were joined by a central nave and there are mosaics from the 13th century. But they don’t compare to those in Ravenna.

Trieste hotels.

Piazza dell’Unita d’Italia clock tower in Trieste

The best hotel in Trieste is the four-star Grand Hotel Duchi d’Aosta, which is located on the sea-front Piazza dell’Unita d’Italia. The hotel’s restaurant, Harry’s Grill, has tables right on the square. Housed in an old neoclassical building, it has lots of old-world ambience and charm. There’s a modern spa, an indoor heated pool, and a Turkish bath. The 55 rooms have big LCD TVs, WiFi Internet access, safes, and big marble bathrooms with Jacuzzi tubs. If you don’t stay here, come to Harry’s for a Duchi cocktail.

With views of the Gulf from the public areas and many of the rooms, the Savoia Excelsior Palace is another good choice. It recently underwent an extensive renovation. Crowned by a beautiful skylight, the Belle Epoque-style lounge is a lovely spot for a drink. The 142 classically furnished rooms have wenge wood accents, fine fabrics, and feather beds – the nicest have balconies overlooking the sea. The location is close to shops and restaurants.

In a pretty neighborhood close to Castello di Miramare, the four-star Hotel Miramare is a contemporary property close to the beach and national park. It’s a good base for those who want to enjoy the outdoors. You can dine in the popular Le Vele restaurant or on the plant-filled terrace of La Nave Café. Both have wonderful ocean views, as do the 32 rooms. Some have terraces.

Housed in an old ropemaker’s workshop, Hotel Le Corderie is a 15-room boutique hotel built in 2008. The clean, modern design is a pleasant change. And guests can help themselves to a drink in the honesty lounge and then enjoy it in the garden. Rooms have WiFi access, mini bars, and writing desks. A breakfast buffet is served in the dining room each morning.

The Hotel James Joyce was built in 1770 in the old part of Trieste, and it’s a real charmer. If you’d like to stay in one of the nine double rooms, you’ll need to make reservations well in advance. There’s WiFi in the public areas, and the rooms, which were renovated in 2003, have satellite TV, safes, and mini bars. Breakfast is included in the rate, and there are lots of restaurants within walking distance.

One of the most affordable hotels in Trieste, L’Albero Nascasto Hotel Residence has a lot going for it. Bordered on one side by the city’s 15th-century walls, it’s in an 18th-century building that was recently restored. The ten rooms are furnished with antiques and have kitchenettes and satellite TV, but no phones. The location is convenient to everything.

In the same neighborhood as Miramare, Riviera & Maximilian’s first opened in 1910. It has a private beach — although it’s not sandy – two outdoor swimming pools, and a restaurant with a pretty terrace. In summer, there’s a buffet at the beach and you can rent water sports equipment for fun in the sun. Rooms are divided between two buildings, an older one with parquet floors and carved furniture, and a newer wing with balconies and terraces. There are also 12 apartments available on a weekly basis.

1) Castello di Miramare
2) Castello di San Giusto
3) Cattedrale di San Giusto
4) Grand Hotel Duchi d’Aosta
5) Starhotels Savoia Excelsior Palace
6) Hotel Miramare
7) Hotel Le Corderie
8) Hotel James Joyce
9) Hotel Albero Nascosta
10) Riviera & Maximilian

View Trieste hotels in a larger map

Castello di Miramare, Trieste Image Flickr: TravelEden
Piazza dell’Unita d’Italia clock tower in Trieste Image Flickr: Chiara Marra

Porta Portese market

Known as mercato delle pulci, Rome’s flea markets have their roots in ancient times. They’re a great way to experience an authentic slice of Roman life. And you’ll often find a one-of-a-kind item that becomes a treasured souvenir or a thoughtful gift.

Most visitors to Rome who enjoy flea markets and antique shops know about the Porta Portese market. With 4,000 vendors, it’s one of the biggest flea markets in Europe. And it offers an astonishing array of goods – everything from plastic shoes to 16th-century religious icons.

On our last visit, it was absolutely packed — and sweltering. The junk-to-quality ratio was at least 20-to-one. And we got tired of watching out for pickpockets. To us, Porta Portese is more hassle than it’s worth.

The good news is that there are dozens of Rome flea markets that are less crowded, more accessible, and more fun. Many flea markets only operate between October and June, closing for the hot summer months. Others are open year ‘round.

There’s a nice selection of specialty markets for collectors of old books, prints, antiques, jewelry, and art objects. If you’re in town on a Sunday, there’s probably a flea market somewhere in Rome with your name on it.

Here are some of the best flea markets in Rome:

Mercatino dei Partigiani is held in a parking lot the first Sunday of every month except August. If you’re a bargain hunter, you’ll appreciate the prices here. There’s usually some furniture, WWII collectibles, vintage items, dishes, silver, and an assortment of knick knacks.

Located in Parking Ludovisi not far from the Piazza del Popolo and Via Veneto, Underground is a relative newcomer. On the first Sunday of the month, it has something for everyone – jewelry, old prints and books, cameras, binocular, religious items, and old suitcases.

Ponte Milvio takes place on the first weekend of the month on the banks of the Tiber. It runs all the way to the Ponte Duc d’Aosta. Look for small antiques and collectibles, jewelry, linens, books, old lace, and art.

Porta Portese trinkets

Borghetto Flaminio is open on the second Saturday and Sunday of each month. It’s located in a couple of warehouses near the Piazza del Popolo gates. For a modest entrance fee, you can explore nearly 250 vendors selling vintage clothing, costume and antique jewelry, handbags, linens, antique objects, and silver.

Also on the second Sunday of the month, nearly one hundred vendors gather in front of Villa Gloria to see a little bit of everything from slightly used designer fashions and sportwear, antiques, old typewriters, bicycles, and books.

Located in a tree-lined piazza not far from the Tiber in the Prati district, Piazza Mazzini offers more pleasant surroundings than some of Rome’s markets. They usually have around 80 vendors, and they’re open the second Friday, Saturday, and Sunday of the month except in August.

Via Sannio is your best bet if you’re only in town during the week. It’s open Monday through Saturday and located under the Aurelian walls. There’s no telling what you’ll find here. But clothes for almost any occasion, Army surplus items, camping gear, and shoes are always on hand.

Collectors interested in books, etchings, engravings, comics, and magazines should visit Mercato delle Stampe which is not far from Piazza Navona. It’s open Monday through Saturday mornings.

On the first and third Sundays, Soffito Sotto i Portici takes place in Piazza Augusto Imperatore, not far from the Spanish Steps. Lots of cool, old objects here, including pocket watches, cameras, jewelry, candlesticks, picture frames, and toys.

Held the fourth Sunday of the month on a square in stylish Parioli, Piazza Verdi has all kinds of vintage items and antiques. Look for fine china and glassware, jewelry, silver, crafts, rare books, musical instruments, and linens.

If you want to visit Porta Portese, go early – it opens every Sunday at dawn – enter from Piazza Ippolito Nievo, and keep a close watch on your purse or wallet. Bargain hard, but don’t expect great deals even if you do.

Read about flea markets in Southern California here.

1) Mercatino dei Partigiani
2) Underground
3) Ponte Milvio
4) Borghetto Flaminio
5) Villa Gloria
6) Piazza Mazzini
7) Via Sannio
8) Mercatio della Stampe
9) Soffito Sotto I Portici
10) Piazza Verdi
11) Porta Portese

View Rome’s best flea markets in a larger map

Porta Portese market and Porta Portese trinkets Image Flickr: krynn1978

Café de Flore in Saint-Germain-des-Pres

Paris has exceptional hotels everywhere.  But many of the inexpensive hotels in Paris are in neighborhoods that are out of the way.  Although the Paris Metro is very convenient, taking it deprives you of one of the great joys of visiting Paris – stumbling across marvelous little hidden treasures as you walk.

For our money, a centrally located hotel is well worth the extra cost.  When you stay near the things you want to visit, you don’t have any transportation costs, you don’t waste any time getting from here to there, and you just feel fresher after a nice walk than you do after being on a subway.

St-Germain-des-Pres is a great neighborhood that’s convenient to most Paris attractions and enjoyable on it’s own.  Notre Dame, the Louvre, and the Musee d’Orsay are less than 15 minutes on foot.  And there are lots of terrific restaurants, stylish boutiques, art galleries, and antique dealers in the neighborhood.

For this article, we’ve chosen hotels with doubles starting at less than €200.  While these might not be the most affordable hotels in some destinations, in Paris, they’re a deal.  And all of them provide charm, attentive service, and excellent value for money.  In fact, you can spend a lot more and get a lot less.

Inexpensive hotels in Saint-Germain.

The mid-century modern decor here may not appeal to everyone, but the Artus Hotel enjoys a delightful Rue de Buci location that’s hard to beat.  With a lively market selling food and flowers, charming boutiques, and tempting patisseries, the surrounding streets are some of the most inviting in Paris.  The hotel opened in 2006 with 27 rooms, a bar, a café, and a sauna.  Rooms have iPod docks, free WiFi access, and Carrara marble bathrooms.

Hotel de Fleurie is in an elegant 18^th-century building in a quiet, residential neighborhood.  From the graceful façade to the salon with its columns, antiques, and expensive fabrics, Hotel de Fleurie is attractive and understated. The 29 guest rooms have flat-screen satellite TVs, mini bars, and writing desks.   With doubles starting at €135, this is one of the most appealing hotels for the money.  It’s exactly what you’d hope to find in a Paris hotel.

The favorite Paris address of Lauren Bacall, the Hotel Duc de St-Simon barely snuck under the price wire with doubles starting at €199.  Often compared to the Crillon, it’s a gorgeous hotel with a sophisticated elegance that usually runs three times the price.  You enter via a pretty, wisteria-draped courtyard – four of the rooms have terraces that overlook it.   The 24 rooms are furnished with antiques and fine art.  And the zinc bar in the 17^th-century coal cellar has stone walls and cozy seating – it’s a romantic spot for a pre- or post-dinner drink.   Service from the crisply uniformed staff is first rate.

A very old-fashioned little inn, the 20-room Hotel Le St-Gregoire is run by a couple who provide welcoming service and keep everything in the 18^th-century mansion in tip-top shape.  Each of the rooms is individually decorated, and some have private terraces. A fireplace takes the edge off in winter, and the patio is inviting in summer.  Breakfast is served in the cozy stone cellar.

Just two minutes from the Pont des Arts, the Hotel Prince de Conde has 11 rooms decorated in the Empire style.  Located in a 17^th-century mansion, the hotel’s salon and breakfast room have vaulted stone walls and arches.  There’s a small library and lounge with a fireplace.  Double-glazed windows keep the rooms quiet, and the top-floor suite has a Jacuzzi and views of Saint-Germain-des-Pres church and the Institute of France dome.

With double rooms starting at just €130, Hotel Sainte-Beauve is a real deal.  Closer to Montparnasse and the Jardin du Luxembourg, it’s a little farther from most Paris attractions.  But the décor, service, and accommodations here are first class.  The Georgian parlor has wide sofas, overstuffed chairs, and a pretty fireplace that’s put to work in winter.  The 22 stylish rooms were decorated in white and beige by English interior designer David Hicks and they have all the modern conveniences you could want.

Those who want Café de Flore and Aux Deux Magots as their neighborhood watering holes will love the Hotel Verneuil.  Also located in a 17^th-century townhouse, it’s steps from art galleries, antique shops, and patisseries.  The owner, Sylvie de Lattre, has created an inviting hotel that’s simultaneously traditional and modern.  Many of the 26 rooms have exposed beams and marble baths.  Guests can have cocktails in a comfy sitting room with a black-and-white tile floor and breakfast in the stone cellar.

Close to the Seine River on rue Jacob, Millesime Hotel is relatively new to the Paris hotel scene.  The 21 guest rooms are decorated in the colorful, Provencal style and have WiFi, satellite TV, safes, and mini bars. The top-floor room has an A-frame ceiling. The flower-filled courtyard is a lovely spot for breakfast, which is more elaborate than most.  When the weather’s not so nice, you can enjoy it in the cellar of this 17^th-century mansion.

Find tips on how to fine other inexpensive hotels here.

Café de Flore in Saint-Germain-des-Pres Flickr Image: ayustety

1) Artus Hotel
2) Hotel de Fleurie
3) Hotel des Saints-Peres
4) Hotel Duc de St-Simon
5) Hotel le St-Gregoire
6) Hotel Prince de Conde
7) Hotel Saint-Beuve
8) Hotel Verneuil
9) Millesime Hotel

View Inexpensive hotels in Paris in a larger map

Riomaggiore

If you’re coming from La Spezia or Portovenere, Riomaggiore is the first town you’ll reach in the Cinque Terra. Part of the Cinque Terra National Park – which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site – Riomaggiore is picture-postcard pretty with pastel-colored houses clinging to terraced clifftops and an aquamarine harbor.

It’s best known for the Via dell’Amore or Lover’s Path, a coastal walk with unforgettable views of the sea.

Since Riomaggiore is easily reached by train, ferry, and car, it’s not really off the beaten path anymore. And unlike some of the other Cinque Terre villages, there are a couple of real hotels here with amenities like Internet access, satellite TV, and mini bars.

A few of the Riomaggiore hotels are new construction. Others occupy old buildings that have been modernized and updated. The best have balconies or terraces overlooking the sea.

If you drive, there’s a parking lot above the town. You can catch the shuttle down, or take the elevator.

Other than hiking the beautiful trails, there’s not a lot to do in Riomaggiore. There’s a rocky little beach a few minutes from the harbor. The slabs of marble and alabaster there are good spots for sunbathers. A path from the beach takes you to the Torre Guardiola, the local castle, which is worth visiting for the views.

You can see the Cinque Terre from the other side by renting a kayak from Mar Mar or taking a tour aboard one of the charter boats in the harbor.

Via Columbo is the main drag and you’ll find a market, a pharmacy, a bakery, a bar, and an art gallery there. There are also several cafes with outdoor terraces near the harbor. La Laterna, in the marina, is one of the best for fresh seafood.

Riomaggiore hotels.

Locanda Ca dei Duxi has 16 rooms in a building that dates from the 18th century and in an annex across the street that opened in 2001. Rooms in the older part have more character with exposed beams, tile floors, and views of the castle. All have Internet access, mini bars, satellite TV, and direct-dial telephones. There are also three apartments with kitchenettes and terraces. Because these sleep up to seven, they’re a good choice for families. Dei Duxi is a five-minute walk from the train station or the beach.

Several of the 15 rooms at Villa Argentina have some of the best views in town from their balconies. It’s about a five-minute uphill hike from town. And if your room doesn’t have a balcony, you can enjoy the vistas from the pretty terrace. The bar off the lobby is a pleasant spot for a drink, and rooms have TVs and small safes. If you don’t feel like walking to dinner, room service is available. And you can also rent watersports equipment for a day at the beach.

La Baia di Rio has five rooms in the old family home of the Benacis, and staying here helps support the Val di Serra dei Benaci Vineyard. The property overlooks the village and the sea, and the terraces here have absolutely breathtaking views. The Marco Polo Suite has a fully furnished terrace, a refrigerator, and the use of a kitchen. James Cook has the same features, with kitchen facilities on request. Christopher Columbus is a triple with two large windows with ocean views. Amerigo Vespucci is a double. And Abel Tasman is a double with a furnished terrace. Parking is available on request. La Baia di Rio is very popular, so make reservations here well in advance.

Riomaggiore at dusk

Hotel La Zorza has nine rooms in a 17th-century building that combines modern amenities like satellite TV and mini fridges with beamed ceilings and stone walls. Breakfast is served in a pretty area that has Internet access, and there’s a bar where you can enjoy a glass of wine before dinner.

Cinque Terra Residence Locanda offers accommodations in several little, adjoining houses with separate entrances. All have private bathrooms and many have kitchenettes. The terrace is surrounded by vineyards and lemon trees.

Housed in a building that was once the meeting place of the Holy Virgins Brotherhood and then the local cinema, La Locanda della Compagnia has five modern rooms with air conditioning and satellite TV. It’s beneath Riomaggiore’s parking lot, about a five-minute walk from the beach.

Locanda del Sole is a new complex with ten double rooms that have private baths, mini bars, and satellite TV. It’s built on several levels in the terraced style that’s typical in Riomaggiore. The furnished terrace is a great place to enjoy breakfast or just relax. And there’s a spacious parking lot, making it extremely convenient for drivers.

Find more Cinque Terra and Vernazza hotels here.

Riomaggiore Image Flickr: IanPhilipMiller
Riomaggiore at dusk Image Flickr: PjotrP

Screen grab of Arles map that we created in Google Maps

That’s why we always take detailed maps and travel directions wherever we go. Plus a GPS. For us, knowing how to get where we’re going is a trip planning essential that makes travel a lot easier.

Websites like Google Maps and Via Michelin let you get detailed point-to-point driving directions and generate your own travel maps quickly and easily.

But for a three-week trip, that’s a lot of paper to carry, especially when you add email confirmations, and other documents.

For our upcoming trip to France, we wanted to figure out a way to take our maps and travel directions without hauling around a lot of hardcopy. And since cell service and Internet access aren’t always givens, we wanted something that would always be available – even when those weren’t.

Our solution: a netbook and screen captures.

Screen grab of map showing travel directions from Avignon TGV station.

The netbook gives us most of the benefits of a laptop computer – Internet access and a nearly full-size keyboard and monitor for easy reading. And it does it all in a lightweight, pintsized package.

We used Google Maps and Via Michelin to get travel directions to the places we planned to visit, and to create local maps for the attractions near our hotels. Then we did screen grabs of the maps, so that we would always have a digital image on hand.

If you have a Mac, it’s really simple. Just hold down the Apple key, the shift key, and the number four. Your pointer will turn into a crosshair icon that you drag to form a border around the area you want to capture.

Screen grab of an email

Screen captures aren’t just for web pages either. You can grab a picture of an email, a photograph, or anything else on your desktop.

Read how to do screen grabs on a PC at http://graphicssoft.about.com/cs/general/ht/winscreenshot.htm

Find more trip planning tips here.

Pocket watches

London has delightful antiques shops that will appeal to both serious collectors and casual shoppers alike. With dozens of dealers all in one place, the antique malls are especially convenient, and there are several great ones to choose from. Plus, they’re usually open during the week when most of the markets are closed.

If you’re interested in high-end furnishings and fine art, there are top-notch antique dealers around St. James, Bond Street — where you’ll find the Fine Art Society and Waterhouse and Dodd — King’s Road, and Kensington Church Street — home to Haslam and Whiteway and Rafferty and Walwyn.

Gray’s Antique Mall opened in 1977 in a 19th-century terracotta building in the West End. Today, there are more than 200 antique dealers selling everything from Edwardian, Art Nouveau and Art Deco jewelry to Hawaiian shirts. You won’t find many bargains here, but there’s an amazing selection of high-quality collectibles.

Vintage Mode in Grays Mews sells gowns, handbags, shoes, and accessories. And there are shops that specialize in Bakelite, antique dolls, timepieces, medals, perfume bottles, pewter, old photographs, gems, advertising, and compacts.

Gray’s is a must-visit for travelers who appreciate beautiful, old things.

Opened by Bernie Gray in 1976, Alfie’s Antiques Market occupies the old Art Deco Jordan’s Department Store on the east end of Church Street. There are four floors of stalls here and a rooftop restaurant where you can have breakfast, lunch, or a glass of wine. Alfie’s has a little bit of everything, but it’s especially strong for vintage fashions, 20th-century decorative arts, and fine, antique jewelry and watches.

The dealers here are extremely knowledgeable, and many have been tenants since the 1970s. If you don’t find what you’re looking for here, there are more than a dozen antique shops on Church Street.

In Islington, Camden Passage is best on Wednesdays and Saturdays, when the stalls are filled with dealers. There are antique stores in arcades on both sides of Islington High Street and Camden Passage. Circa 1900 has beautiful Art Nouveau jewelry, Christina Tattum has antique boxes, Gordon Gridley has fine art and decorative objects, David Webb has classic jukeboxes, and Finbar MacDonnel has old prints.

Old toys

With 200 dealers on two floors, Admiral Vernon Antiques Market is the largest arcade off the Portobello Road Market. It’s packed on Saturdays, but if you want to miss the crowds, most of the shops are open during the week. You’ll find armor, antique guns, cameras, jewelry, silver, glass, clocks, and toys. There’s a café on the lower level.

In a beautiful building on the King’s Road, Antiquarius is one of the most attractive antique malls in London. There are over 80 dealers selling top-quality glassware, jewelry, furniture, clothing, decorative arts, and timepieces. In business since the 1960s, Antiquarius is an enjoyable destination.

If you’re looking for reclaimed architectural items like chimneys, fireplaces, doors, columns, paneling, flooring, lighting, or stained glass windows, the London Architectural Salvage and Supply Company (LASSCO) is your best bet. Most of the things here are expensive, but they are truly one of a kind.

With nearly 30 dealers specializing in antique silver, London Silver Vaults has the largest collection in the world. In addition to jewelry, there are boxes, pipes, perfume bottles, card holders, letter openers, clocks, tea services, and more. The building, which dates from 1876, was originally the Chancery Lane Safe Deposit.

Francophiles will enjoy The French House which sells French furniture from the Renaissance to the Napoleonic era. The owners travel to France once a month, so there’s always something new. Doors, fountains, fireplaces, and garden benches, and old lighting are also available.

Lovers of antiques should set aside some free time in London to search for treasures in these great spots.

Read about the best antique shops in Barcelona here.

1) Gray’s Antiques Market
2) Alfie’s Antiques Market
3) Camden Passage
4) Admiral Vernon Antiques Market
5) Antiquarius
6) London Architectural Salvage and Supply Co,
7) London Silver Vaults
8) The French House

View London’s best antique shops. in a larger map

Pocket watches Image Flickr: ?serendipity
Old toys Image Flickr: karen horton

St-Trophime

Located in the south of France, Arles is one of the most interesting cities in Provence. It was made the second capital of Rome in 306 AD by Constantine the Great, and it has some of the best preserved Roman sites outside of Italy. Arles is also a must visit for fans of Vincent van Gogh, who did some of his most compelling work here.

Travelers appreciate the charming plaza, sidewalk cafes, good restaurants, and hotels. Plus, if you stay in the historic center of town, you can walk to almost everything.

Arles attractions.

Many of Arles attractions are included in a combination ticket that’s available at the tourist information office. If you plan to visit several museums and attractions, it will save you some money.

* The Museum of Ancient Arles is about a 20 minute walk along the Rhone River from the center of town. It has models that show how the Roman ruins looked in ancient times, some sarcophagi that date back to the Roman Christian era, and jewelry, tools, and other ancient artifacts.
* The Arena was built by the Romans in the 1st century AD. It’s still in use today, and during bull-fighting season, 20 spectators pack the stadium. Climb one of the towers for great views of Arles and the Rhone River.
* The Roman Theatre also dates from the 1st century. Today, it’s used as a concert venue during Festival d’Arles, which takes place each summer. When the weather’s fine, it’s also a nice spot for a picnic lunch.
* St-Trophime is a 12th-century Romanesque church that’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. The carved sculptures on the portal are amazing, and the adjoining cloisters are lovely.
* Modern art lovers should visit Musee Reattu which has 57 drawings by Picasso. The museum is located in the 15th-century priory of the Knights of Malta.
* Arles has a unique culture and you can learn more about it at the Museon Arlaten, which has furniture, dolls, costumes, and other everyday objects,
* Les Alyscamps is an old Roman cemetery that was painted by both van Gogh and Gaughin. It’s a pleasant walk from town, and another good place for a picnic.
* A subterranean gallery dating from 30 B.C., the Cryptoportiques has more artifacts from Roman times. And there are well-preserved 4th-century Roman baths that were part of Constantine’s palace.
* If you’re in Arles on Wednesday or Saturday morning, go to the market. On Saturdays, it’s on Boulevard de Lices. On Wednesdays, it’s on Boulevard Emily Combes.

Place de la Republique

Arles hotels.

Some of the best hotels in Arles are housed in historic buildings, so it’s not hard to find lodgings with character. If you prefer to walk to restaurants and attractions, stay near the Arena.

* The Grand Hotel Nord Pinus has hosted bullfighters and models, artists and rock stars. The location on Place du Forum is terrific, and the Brasserie is a popular spot for a meal. This is a very stylish place. Affordable rooms are small, and nice rooms are expensive.
* L’Hotel Particulier is an 18th-century mansion about a five-minute walk from town. The 13 rooms here are beautifully decorated and have polished wood floors and exposed beams. There’s a swimming pool and small spa.
* La Mas de la Chapelle occupies an old priory not far from town. It’s set in private park with tennis, a swimming pool, a 16th-century chapel.
* Hotel d’Arlatan has a pretty terrace courtyard, a swimming pool, and a glass lobby floor that looks down on part of Constantine’s 4th-century palace.
* Hotel du Forum offers good value for money in the historic part of town. Many of the rooms here overlook the Place du Forum or the swimming pool.
* With a garden restaurant, indoor swimming pool, and spa, Hotel Le Calendal has a lot to offer for the money. The location between the arena and the theater is convenient to everything.
* Hotel Jules Cesar has 56 rooms in a former Carmelite convent from the 17th century. There’s a great restaurant and a heated outdoor pool. Rooms are decorated with colorful Provencal fabrics. A very pleasant place to stay, it’s a member of the Small Luxury Hotels group.
* Although it only has two stars, Hotel de l’Amphiteatre makes up for it in charm and service. The building, which originally dates from the 17th century, has some nice architectural details, and the antique furnishings are a perfect fit. The Belevedere Suite offers 360-degree views of Arles.

Arles restaurants.

Arles is surprisingly close to both Spain and Italy, so the cuisine here is as Mediterranean as it is French. In fact, you’re as likely to find gazpacho on the menu as bouillabaisse. Tapas are a great way to try lots of dishes, and of course, the wine is marvelous. Most Arles restaurants are small, so reservations at dinner are a must.

* Speaking of tapas, Pizzeria Ecrin has a good selection, along with pizzas, and salads. Good for lunch after visiting the Amphitheatre.
* L’Affenage has food from all over the Mediterranean. There’s a terrace out front, and an appetizer buffet inside.
* L’Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel makes the most of the organic veggies grown in the extensive gardens. The restaurant has a Michelin star and commensurate prices. If you’re on a budget, Rabanel’s Le Bistro a Cote nest door is less expensive.
* La Gueule de Loup is a favorite of locals who come for baked lamb, and other Provencal specialties. Several prix fixe menus make it a good value.
* Diners at Lou Marques in the Hotel Jules Cesar can choose between the pretty dining room and the lovely terrace. The wine list and food here are first rate.
* Brin de Thym is a nice, family-run place with good food, warm service, and reasonable prices.

Read more about Arles here.

1) Museum of Ancient Arles
2) Arles Arena
3) Roman Theater
4) St-Trophime
5) Musee Reattu
6) Museon Arlatan
7) Les Alyscamps
8) Cryptoportique
9) Grand Hotel Nord Pinus
10) L’Hotel Particulier
11) Hotel d’Arlatan
12) Hotel du Forum
13) Hotel le Calendal
14) Hotel Jules Cesar
15) Hotel de l’Amphitheatre
16) Pizzeria l’Ecrin
17) L’Affenage
18) L’Atelier de Jean-Luc Rabanel
19) La Gueule de Loup
20) Lou Marques
21) Brin de Thyme

View Arles attractions, hotels, and restaurants in a larger map

St-Trophime Image Flickr: Allie_Caulfield
Place de la Republique Image Flickr: Wolfgang Staudt

Seaside Promenade, Livorno

If you’ve been to Livorno, chances are you were on a Mediterranean cruise bound for Florence. If you saw Livorno at all, it was from the window of a tour bus. Which is a shame, because Livorno is worth your time.

Known as the Etruscan Coast, this part of Tuscany borders the sea. After spending time inland, being on the Mediterranean offers a complete change of scene. The restaurants here serve the best seafood in Tuscany. You can cruise the 17th-century canals from one old fortress to another. And there’s a beautiful water-front promenade with views of the Tuscan archipelago.

Medici architect Bernardo Buonatlenti designed the city in 1567 around a central piazza and encircled it with the Fossio Reale canal.

Several of the Livorno hotels are right on the beach, others are near Livorno’s lively piazzas, shops, and restaurants.

The NH Grand Palazzo is in an elegant 19th-century palace that’s fronted by the gorgeous Terrazza Mascagni promenade. From the roof garden with swimming pool and solarium to the Presidential Suite with Turkish bath, everything here is five-star deluxe. The palace has been exquisitely restored, and the ocean views go on forever. The 123 rooms and suites have minibars, Internet access, flat-screen TVs, and modern, marble bathrooms. There’s a spa, sauna, fitness center, and a dreamy grotto pool in the basement. The restaurant is lovely, and service is professional. This is a beautiful hotel in an unbeatable location.

If you want access to a beach, Hotel Rex is located about four miles south of Livorno in the village of Antignano. There are three restaurants here, most with great views of the sea — the panorama from the terrace is terrific. There are 61 rooms with mini bars, safes, and Internet access. The best have balconies. The beach club has umbrellas, lounge chairs, and a café for snacks.

In the heart of town near Goldoni’s Theater, Al Teatro has eight lovely rooms in a building that dates from the 19th century. Each of the rooms is dedicated to a composer or musician, and decorated with vintage prints and paintings, and period furnishings. The property has won an award from Touring Club. There’s a pretty garden where you can have breakfast or a glass of wine. Service is cordial and helpful. This is one of the most romantic hotels in Livorno.

Livorno Canals

Overlooking the harbor and the Piazza dei Quattro Mori, Hotel Gran Duca is conveniently located close to all the Livorno attractions. It was renovated recently, and now it’s modern and elegant. The hotel‘s restaurant fronts the piazza and serves fresh seafood. With a fitness center, indoor swimming pool, Turkish bath, and massage room, it’s a good choice for those who want to stay fit. The 63 rooms have mini bars, wireless Internet access and interactive LCD TVs. Some have small terraces facing the harbor.

The contemporary Max Hotel Livorno is the best choice for business travelers. It’s close to the train station and sports complex. The Max Lounge has WiFi Internet access, computers, and printers, and there’s a big-screen plasma TV for sporting events. A fitness center and Turkish bath are available. And there’s a good seafood restaurant. Rooms have mini bars, satellite TV, and modem ports. If you like a stylish, modern hotel, you’ll enjoy Hotel Max.

Housed in an 18th-century villa a few miles from Livorno in Montenero, the Hotel La Vedetta di Montenero has 31 charming rooms with features like tile floors and exposed beams. Byron and Shelley both lived in Montenero for a time. Although the hotel is inland, there are beautiful views of the sea from the upstairs rooms and from the terrace. Other rooms overlook the woods surrounding the hotel. The restaurant is open from May through September.

Find more things to see and do in Livorno here.

1) NH Grand Hotel Palazzo
2) Hotel Rex
3) Al Teatro
4) Hotel Gran Duca
5) Max Hotel Livorno
6) Hotel La Vedetta di Montenero

View Livorno Hotels in a larger map

Seaside Promenade, Livorno Image Flickr: Eric Perrone
Livorno Canals Image Flickr: alexbarrow

view from the Ritz Carlton

Just about 40 minutes south of San Francisco, Half Moon Bay is a delightful spot for a weekend getaway. It’s on a beautiful stretch of coastline with wide beaches, rugged cliffs, and forests of windswept cypress. And Half Moon Bay hotels are some of the most romantic on the California central coast.

In town, you’ll find lots of cute galleries, shops, and restaurants in quaint old Victorian houses. Fresh produce is usually sold in stands just outside town, and there’s a flower market on the third Saturday of the month. The area is especially appealing in the early fall, when there are pumpkins everywhere.

The Fitzgerald Marine Reserve in neighboring Moss Beach is a wonderful place for beach combing. You’ll see starfish, urchins, and anemones in the tide pools. And after combing the beach you can hike one of the trails through the cypress forest. You’ll probably see — and hear — harbor seals too.

Half Moon Bay State Beach is a actually three beaches in one. And the Coastside Trail that runs through here is good for beach walks or bike rides. In spring, there are acres of wildflowers.

Art lovers should take Highway 92 to Spanishtown where there are more antique shops and art galleries.

Between December and April, whale watching cruises leave from Pillar Point Harbor. And you can also go sport fishing or sea kayaking. There are a couple of good golf courses here, and you can also go for a horseback ride on the beach.

Fioli Gardens

Gardeners should visit Filoli, which is run by the National Trust for Historic Preservation. The 654-acre estate includes a Georgian-style mansion built in 1915 and 16 acres of French and Italian-style formal gardens. The house was used as the Carrington home in the TV show Dynasty.

Half Moon Bay hotels.

Half Moon Bay has more than its fair share of inviting places to stay. From charming country inns to ocean-front resorts, there’s something for everyone, in every price range.

The Ritz-Carlton, Half Moon Bay changed the lay of the land when it opened in 2001. Prior to that, there were several excellent inns in the area, but nothing on the same scale as this five-star resort with 261 rooms. The hotel looks like a baronial manor house, and the setting, overlooking a broad stretch of pristine coastline, is superb. Guests here want for nothing, and pay for the privilege — valet parking is $45 a day. The best rooms have terraces with outdoor fire pits, and all have LCD TVs, high-speed Internet access, and multi-line phones. There’s golf, tennis, a 16,000-square-foot spa with 16 treatment rooms, and an award-winning restaurant.

Overlooking Pillar Point Harbor, Oceano Hotel and Spa has 95 nicely decorated suites with separate sitting areas, 42” flat-screen TVs, private balconies, fireplaces, and wet bars. Villas have kitchens, dining rooms, and two bedrooms. The spa offers a variety of massages, baths, and treatments. There’s a bar and restaurant on site, and boutiques and cafes at the adjoining Harbor Village.

Designed to recall the clapboard inns of Nantucket, the Beach House Hotel has 54 loft suites with fireplaces, patios or balconies, CD players, refrigerators, and microwaves. Most have views of the ocean or Pillar Point Harbor. There’s a heated pool and spa, a fitness center, and a six-mile coastal path is nearby. Breakfast and weekend wine and cheese receptions are included in the rate.

Half Moon Bay Inns.

Half Moon Bay Sunset

Seal Cove Inn is one of our favorite inns in the area. Built by travel guidebook author Karen Brown, it is now part of the Four Sisters Inn group. Set on a bluff of cypress trees and wildflowers, it’s a short stroll from Moss Beach. The ten guestrooms have fireplaces and DVD players, and some have Juliet balconies and whirlpool tubs. A wonderful breakfast buffet and afternoon tea and hors d’oeuvres are included in the rate. Pets are welcome.

The Old Thyme Inn has seven rooms in an 1898 Victorian House on Half Moon Bay’s Main Street. Each is individually decorated and includes amenities like four-poster beds, antique furniture, stained glass windows, and whirlpool tubs. The inn’s English flower and herb gardens are lovely, and you can walk to shops and restaurants. The Old Thyme Inn is a nice spot for a romantic weekend away.

With its pretty cottage-style gardens and European antiques, Mill Rose Inn is one of the most popular bed and breakfasts in Half Moon Bay. It has six rooms with claw-foot tubs, brass beds, chintz floral fabrics, and refrigerators. The Jacuzzi in the garden gazebo is a pleasant way to unwind after a day of hiking. Breakfast here is a highlight and you can take it in the cozy dining room or have it delivered to your room.

If frilly is not your style, the Inn at Mavericks, which opened last fall, has six modern rooms with private ocean-view verandahs. Located a few minutes from Half Moon Bay in Princeton-by-the-Sea, it’s the only water-front inn in the area. Each of the rooms is 500 square feet and has a separate sitting area with a chaise lounge and overstuffed chair, a fireplace, king-size Temperpedic bed, microwave, and refrigerator. The views here are the best you’ll find, and the three pet-friendly rooms have a small, fenced-in patio.

Find more California hotel recommendation here. Or read our detailed California Central Coast itinerary here.

1) The Ritz Carlton, Half Moon Bay
2) Oceano Hotel & Spa
3) The Beach House Hotel
4) Seal Cove Inn
5) Old Thyme Inn
6) Mill Rose Inn
7) Inn at Mavericks

View Half Moon Bay hotels in a larger map

View from the Ritz Carlton Image Flickr: radzfoto
Fioli Gardens Image Flickr: milesgehm
Half Moon Bay Sunset Image Flickr: Robert Scoble

B&B.com

But if you’re not made of money — and who is these days – it’s also important to get the most for your travel dollars. If you can find inexpensive hotels that suit your requirements, you can splurge on an expensive meal, buy yourself a nice souvenir, or stay an extra day or two.

It’s easy to find cheap hotels. But finding good ones is another matter. So here’s our advice for how to find hotels deals that won’t leave you regretting your choice.

1) Try a local website. It costs hotels – either directly or in the form of commissions – to appear on websites like Expedia, Travelocity, etc. The large chains can negotiate the price and take it out of their marketing budgets. But most mom-and-pop properties can’t afford it. Remember, the more a hotel spends on marketing, the more they have to charge for their rooms.

Most destinations have local websites that include hotel listings. Try the local chamber of commerce, visitor’s bureau, or tourism board. The cost to advertise or be listed on these sites is very reasonable — in some cases, it’s free. So more hotels can afford to be represented.

2) Look for a directory. Doing a Google search for + directory will usually give you the results you’re looking for.

3) Don’t be put off if a hotel doesn’t have its own website. Although it’s great to be able to find out more about a place, there are plenty of terrific places out there that still don’t have a website. And plenty of awful ones that do.

Venere

5) As a rule, bed and breakfasts are less expensive than conventional hotels, so if you don’t need all the services a hotel offers, try one of the B&B sites. Breakfast is usually included in the room rate and you can often enjoy really nice accommodations for a lot less.

6) Once you find a hotel that’s the right price, make sure the location is right. Saving a little money won’t matter if you spend it all on transportation or if it takes you hours to get where you want to go.

NH Directory

8) Finally, use your common sense. You’ve heard it a thousand times, but it’s true — anything that sounds too good to be true probably is. So don’t book anything that’s ridiculously inexpensive. There’s bound to be a reason for that.

If you follow these simple tips, you should be able to find inexpensive hotels that are attractive, clean, and comfortable wherever you go.

Read more hotel tips here.

Giardino Giusti, Verona

Verona, Italy is best known as the setting of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet and Two Gentlemen of Verona. But it also has some of the best preserved Roman architecture outside of Rome and some beautiful medieval palaces. In fact, many of the best Verona hotels are located in renovated palazzos.

All in all, Verona is a delightful place to visit.

The center of town is Piazza Bra, which is dominated by the biggest attraction in town, literally and figuratively. It’s the Roman Arena, which was built in 30 AD. Seating more than 25,000 spectators, it was the third largest stadium in the Roman Empire. During the summers, operas and concerts are performed here.

Climb all 44 tiers to the top for great views and photographs.

There are several squares in Verona worth exploring. Piazza delle Erbe is lined with stately civic buildings and opulent palaces. This piazza, which hosts a daily market, was built on the site of the old Roman forum. Piazza dei Signori has several impressive buildings, including the Palazzo del Capitano and the Palazzo della Ragione. There are also several cafes here where you can take a break from sightseeing.

For more great views, climb the 275-ft Torre di Lamberti, which dates from the 12th century. On clear days, you can see all the way to Lake Garda and the Alps.

San Zeno Maggiore on Piazza San Zeno is one on the best examples of Romanesque architecture in northern Italy. The 12th-century rose window and wooden doors with bronze reliefs are worth stopping by to see. Inside, there’s an altarpiece by Mantegna.

The 14th-century castle on the Adige river has a fine arts museum with medieval and Renaissance paintings by Bellini, Veronese, and Tiepolo. And the ruins of the old Roman Theater are not far away.

Giardino Giusto is a must for garden lovers. It’s one of Italy’s best Renaissance gardens. With fountains, grottoes, and topiary, it’s a delightful spot.

Ponte di Pietra, Verona

Just a block from Piazza Bra, Torcolo offers quiet, nicely decorated lodging and good value for money. Each of the 19 rooms is unique, but all have small refrigerators, safes, double-paned windows, and WiFi Internet access. Many have parquet floors and exposed beams. The two women who run the hotel are very cordial, and breakfast is very good – when the weather’s nice, you can take it on the pretty patio.

Also near the Arena, Colomba d’Oro was once a medieval convent. The owners have kept a lot of Old World charm, including trompe l’oeil frescoes in the reception hall. The breakfast room and bar are very atmospheric with stone walls and arches dating from the 16th century. The 51 rooms are comfortable and nicely furnished with beautiful fabrics. There are several restaurants nearby.

Located in an 18th-century palazzo off Piazza delle Erbe, Gabbia d’Oro has oodles of charm. With stone walls, Persian rugs, fine paintings, rustic timbers, and original frescoes, it has a timeless and elegant ambience. The roof terrace and Orangerie garden are delightful. And the rooms have antiques, and modern bathrooms. This is one of the most appealing hotels in Verona. You can rent a bike to explore the area.

Part of the Baglioni chain, the Due Torri Hotel is Verona’s most expensive hotel. The 14th-century palazzo opened as a hotel in the 1950s, and over the years, it’s been the choice of artists performing at the summer festivals here. The 90 rooms and public areas are quite grand with columns, period furniture, and Murano glass chandeliers. Free WiFi access and satellite television are included. Some rooms on the upper floors have nice views, as does the roof terrace. There’s an attractive Art Nouveau restaurant and bar.

A mere stone’s throw from the Roman Arena, Hotel Giulietta e Romeo, offers comfortable, attractive lodging in a charming old palazzo. The 30 rooms have thoughtful amenities like mini bars and safes, plus big, marble bathrooms. Service here is warm and professional, and the location is convenient to everything.

In business since 1880. Hotel Accademia has 94 rooms near San Maria della Scala church. The location is close to the main shopping street, and there’s a good restaurant on site. Rooms in the 16th-century palazzo have been updated with wireless Internet access, LCD TVs, and electronic safes.

Find hotels in nearby Lake Garda here.

1) Piazza Bra
2) Arena di Verona
3) Guardino Giusti
4) Torcolo Hotel
5) Hotel Columba d’Oro
6) Hotel Gabbia d’Oro
7) Due Torre Hotel Baglioni
8) Hotel Giuliette E Romeo
9) Hotel Accademia

View Hotels in Verona in a larger map

Giardino Giusti, Verona Image Flickr: Thomas Frejek

Ponte di Pietra, Verona Image Flickr: *Debs*

Baguettes

In America, most bakeries sell both bread and pastries. But in France, the two specialties aren’t always combined. Pastries are sold at pastry shops or patisseries, and bread is sold at bakeries or boulangeries.

Breadmaking is truly an art form here and much attention is paid to the yeast, levain, fermentation time and temperature, etc. Many of France’s best bakers are fourth or fifth generation, and baking is a well-respected craft in France. In fact, the French government confers a special designation – Meilleur Ouvrier de France (MOF) – on the most skilled practitioners.

The test for this honor is a grueling three-day affair, and many choose not to apply. So if you see the MOF sign in the window of a boulangerie, you know the baker is serious about his craft.

Most boulangeries specialize in a certain kind of bread, and it’s helpful to know what it is. If you’re not sure, just ask “Quelle est la specialite de la maison?” to find out.

Without a doubt, the most revered bakery in Paris is Poilane. Established in 1932 by Pierre Poilane, they still use a wood-burning oven that dates from 1789. Pierre’s son Lionel inherited the business, and today, Lionel’s daughter Apollonia oversees it. Best known for their sourdough miche, rye boule, and the butter cookies called Punitions, Poilane now has two locations in Paris, and one in London. Raisin and walnut breads are also available. Inside, note the bread chandelier designed by Salvador Dali.

Moulin de la Vierge was established 30 years ago by Basile Kamir, who believed in making bread the old-fashioned way. He uses organic, stone-ground flour and shapes the loaves by hand, a tradition continued in all four Moulin de la Vierge locations. The loaves are baked in a wood-fired oven and are crusty and golden. In addition to sourdough and country-style bread, they also sell Viennoiseries, which is the French term for breakfast pastries. Try the custard-filled Pain au Raisin. The turn-of-the-century interiors are worth popping in to see.

Du Pains et des Idees

Former fashion-industry executive Christophe Vasseur decided that baking was his true vocation, so he apprenticed to learn the trade, found one of the last-remaining original bakeries in Paris, and opened Du Pain et des Idees in 2002. It takes him seven hours to make a baguette. And the proof’s in the pudding — he won the Gault Millau prize for Best Boulangerie in Paris in 2008. Specialties here include croissants, Boules aux Graines et Cereales, and Mini Paves which have savory fillings that change daily, like spinach and goat cheese or apricots and bleu cheese.

Chewy and tart, the organic sourdough boules at Le Boulanger de Monge are some of the best in town. But baker Dominique Saibron provides his 2,000 daily customers with plenty of choices. Traditional baguettes, ciabata with walnuts or olives, ficelle with poppy seeds or sesame seeds, and small loaves with bacon and Comte cheese. And that’s just the bread. There’s also chocolate tarts, fruit tarts, croissants, buches, and galettes.

Philippe Gosselin in the 1st is the place to go for baguettes. In fact, they have won the Best Baguette in Paris Grand Prix. Monsieur Gosselin is a fourth-generation baker, married to a baker’s daughter. He kneads his baguette dough on low speed for twelve minutes, and then lets it rest for two hours. He adds salt and yeast, kneads again, then lets the dough rest for up to three hours before shaping the loaves by hand. If you’re feeling peckish, order one of the delicious sandwiches. In addition to scrumptious breads, there are cakes, tarts, and macarons.

Poilane

Eric Kayser is a Paris institution, with locations all over the world and 16 shops in Paris. He combines traditional technique with the latest technology to create more than 60 kinds of bread, 50 cakes, and 25 pastries each day. Made using natural leaven and a machine called a Fermentolevain they create truly original combinations like parmesan shortbreads, and ground pepper cakes. His croissants are superb. Grab one of the sandwiches to go and have a picnic in the park.

Not far from the Eiffel Tower, Thierry Dubois’s Pain d’Epis makes baguettes, ficelles, and loaves using a dough made of several kinds of flour. He calls the mixture Royale. His Pain au Raisin is packed with fruit, and his Croissant aux Amandes is light as air. Another specialty here is fougasse, a Provencal flatbread that’s filled with cheeses, vegetables, or fruits.

Read our list of the best Paris patisseries here.

Baguettes Image Flickr: Paris by Mouth
Du Pains et des Idees Image Flickr: Meg Zimbeck
Poilane Image Flickr: bongo vongo