Rome - Justifiably described as the world’s “art gallery” Italy is a feast for lovers of food, culture, fashion, sightseeing and a must for those who want to tick this exceptional destination off their bucket list.
First in the Queue for Scenery and Culture
Culturally rich with a wealth of Renaissance architecture, Roman history and priceless art and scenically rich. Italy must have been near the front of the queue as visitors to this boot shaped protrusion of Europe will enjoy stark Alpine peaks in the north, the Apennine Mountains, olive groves and vineyards of Italy’s heart, and the warm waters, volcanic islands and Mediterranean lifestyle of the south.
Florence is known as the “Cradle of the Renaissance”, with its palaces and squares, magnificent cathedral and superb art collections in the Accademia and Uffizi galleries. In Rome you can trace the course of history through 2 500 years from the grandeur of the Forum and Colosseum, to the grandiose Altar of the Nation. Venice is simply unique - a maze of narrow streets, canals and unexpected city squares, with unforgettable masterpieces in the Accademia and Scoula Grande di San Rocco.
First in the Fashion Stakes
Italy rivals France as a centre for fashion and design with names like Prada, Fendi, Armani, Versace and Dolce & Gabbana. Florence is the place for gold jewellery and beautiful leather goods. When in Rome, look for silk blouses, scarves and ties, fine knitwear and costume jewellery. In Venice, you’ll find Murano glass and porcelain carnival masks, while local embroidery can be very tempting.
First on the menu of many connoisseurs
In Venice you’ll be served rice rather than pasta and a delicious range of fish dishes. Wines from the Veneto are among Italy’s finest. In Rome, sample the endless permutations of pastas and sauces. Frascati is wine from Rome’s Alban hills or try the smooth Italian brandy - Vecchia Romagna. Florence is in Chianti country and the cooking is based on simple natural ingredients, Try fritto misto - deep fried meats and vegetables. And if a bistecca Fiorentino (T-bone steak with lemon) is too big for one - share it like the locals do!
First for Value in Europe
Discover Italy your way with lots of included extras plus the right balance of free time and relaxed starts that allow you to create your own Roman Holiday.
Insight Vacations all-inclusive 12-day Italian Elegance is priced from R49 550 per person twin share and includes 11 nights’ premium accommodation with breakfast and dinner daily, relaxed starts, business class leg-room on board the Wi-Fi enabled coach, superb signature sightseeing and premium highlights such as VIP access to the Vatican museums in Rome, a cruise from Santa Margherita in Portofino and a marvellous gondola ride through Venice.
These inclusions are designed to make your next holiday with Insight Vacations fantastic value for money.
Insight Vacations guests will also have the privilege of visiting the world’s champion gelato maker. The ice cream parlour of Sergio Dondoli offers a taste of his frozen treats and stay at the Signature Borgo San Luigi, a restored 17th century country palazzo once owned by the Duchy of Tuscany.
All Insight Vacations guests are well-taken care of by the excellent Tour Directors, the travelling concierges who are on hand to smooth the passage of travel every step of the way. All baggage handling with seamless and prompt delivery from coach to hotel room door plus all tipping at hotels and restaurants will be taken care of.
In celebration of the new European collection, clients can book and pay early and save up 7.5 percent off for bookings made by 25 March 2016. Additional discounts such as the past passenger discount for guests who have travelled on any of The Travel Corporation’s brands will also apply.
For more information or to book contact Insight Vacations on (011) 280 8440 or visit www.insightvacations.com, on social media join the conversation using the hashtag #InsightMoments.
IOL, adapted from a press release.