ROME, ITALY
To be completed soon…
(link to Italy’s most gorgeous seaside towns: https://ca.finance.yahoo.com/photos/italy-s-20-most-gorgeous-seaside-towns-slideshow/ponza-000000544.html)
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Author Archives: melissacapobianco14
6 Things You Say to Yourself Before You Leave For Your Study Abroad Program
Colin Van Ert is a student at the
University of Wisconsin – Milwaukee and an ISA Featured Blogger. Colin is currently studying abroad with ISA in
Florianópolis, Brazil
.
The time leading up to your first study abroad adventure is full of excitement and anxiety. A million thoughts go racing through your mind as you mull over all the potentially great experiences that lie ahead while at the same time trying to account for all contingencies and potential for ruin. As you get closer and closer to your departure date thoughts only become more frantic. I describe it like being on a roller coaster. The few days just before your trip is like riding the cart to the top of the track and the day you leave is when you drop and the ride begins. Here are some of the things you’re thinking on the way up:
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Reblog: Short Winter Sun Breaks
Short Winter Sun Breaks by: http://holidayblog.easyjet.com/short-winter-sun-breaks/
Short Winter Sun Breaks
Whether you want to detox, shake away the January blues or just top up the tan, short winter breaks are a great way to see popular destinations in a new light.
From the Algarve to Malta, Italy through to Tenerife, Europe has a massive choice of destinations for winter holidays. Travel to Europe in the winter to explore the fertile landscapes, rich history and also avoid the peak season crowds on the beach!
Here’s a breakdown of the top hotspots for a short winter break. . .
Algarve
This Portugal region is popular for winter breaks for good reason. The Algarve boasts an impressive coast with plenty of beaches to set up camp on and relax in the warm sunshine; temperatures in the Algarve in winter can reach up to 25°c! If it’s a lively nightlife you’re after try Albuferia. Albufeira is renowned for its party nightlife and is massively popular around New Year’s Eve and the Easter holidays. Or if you want to visit historic sites on holidays to the Algarve then Lagos offers ancient maritime architecture and museums.
For a great deal on winter accommodation in the Algarve try theLuna Alpinus Apartments in Albufeira.
Costa del Sol
The original ‘sunny coast’ of Spain, winter breaks to the Costa del Sol promise warm weather with highs in the low 20c°s and around 6 hours of sunshine a day in the winter time There are plenty of welcoming coastal towns perfect for holidays in non-peak seasons. Destinations like Malaga, Marbella and Torremolinos all offer stretches of clean sandy shores and clear waters. There’s plenty of history to explore too along the Costa del Sol. Visit Benalmadena and see the old Torre Quebrada watch tower or ride the cable car to see fantastic views of Benalmadena in the winter.
For the ultimate winter indulgence stay at the 5* Blue Sea Gran Hotel Cervantes.
Tenerife
The Canary Islands are a great winter break get-away destination with warm temperatures, lots of sunshine and mild nights even in the coldest months. Tenerife is the largest of the islands and its diverse regions offer something to suit all tastes. Winter breaks in Tenerife are perfect for hiking the rugged northern coastline and taking in the lush and fertile views. Or if you’re feeling brave take a cable car to the top of Mount Teide – the highest volcano in Spain. But Tenerife is known best for the chance to simply unwind on the peaceful beaches without the rowdy bustle of the summer crowds.
The Hotel iberostar Las Dalias has great deals on winter escapes to Tenerife.
Neapolitan Riviera
With warm mild temperatures between November to February, winter breaks to the Neapolitan Riviera are perfect for finding some warm winter sun. Although the boats to the neighbouring islands stop for in the non-peak seasons there’s still plenty of advantages to visiting this southern Italy region, including the festive winter processions, site seeing and of course relaxing by the turquoise ocean.
Make the Ulysse de Luxe Hostel your base, and explore Sorrento on winter breaks to the Neapolitan Riviera.
Lanzarote
Another popular Canary Island perfect for a short winter break is Lanzarote. With temperatures in the 20c°s in the winter, Lanzarote is the place to go if you’re looking to soak up some winter sunshine. Unlike the other Canaries, Lanzarote lacks high mountains but the stunning beaches more than make up for the views. Stretches of coast such as San Bartolome and Arrecife provide clean waters and sandy shores to unwind on in the winter sun.
For 4* winter accommodation in Lanzarote try Aparthotel Blue Sea Costa Teguise Gardens.
Fuerteventura
Known as the ‘Windy Isle’, winter breaks to Fuerteventura are popular with windsurfers and sun seekers alike during the winter months. Even the coolest months of January and February can see highs of 21°c. The southern coast of Jandia with its white sand and turquoise waters looks like a true exotic paradise and with the summer crowds absent it makes for the perfect winter sun escape.
La Tahona Garden Bungalows are a great base to explore Fuerteventura in the winter.
Malta
There is so much to do on a winter holiday to Malta. The mild sunny daytimes provides the perfect climate to explore historical sites such as the ancient Temples in Tarxien, Qrendi and Gozo. Or after a day exploring the famous beaches there’s plenty of evening entertainment to enjoy in Malta. The theatre season starts from October through to May and during this time there are a variety of concerts and shows to visit, especially in Valletta.
Malta hotels in the winter are also cheaper and less busy than the frantic summer season, try St Julian’s Bay Hotel or The Palace for winter deals.
Cyprus
The third largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, Cyprus is a famous destination for winter sun breaks. The winter season starts in December and goes on till March. During these four months temperature highs reach over 20°c. The sandy beaches in Cyprus are peaceful in the winter time without the busy summer tourists. Away from the beaches there are plenty of cultural sites to explore including the natural History Museum and the Olive Oil Museum (!).
There are also relaxing spas and resorts. The Aparthotel Kefalos Beach Village has a spa, sauna and fitness facilities for some serious winter detoxing.
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Blogs Blogs and more Blogs!
(link) Study Abroad Student Blogs
So i thought the best blog would be to re-blog all the study abroad blogs i found on this website. I’ve literally spend 2 hours reading all of these amazing blogs about student study abroad exchanges and just travelling around the world. I found my new favourite site, so much procrastination to be done with this!…especially around exam time..that reminds me, i should be studying right about now. ..but i really just want to be exploring the world:( Soon enough i will be, but until then…
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GUESS WHAT?!
Here are some photos of places around the world, guess what cities/towns they are! AND which one you would like a blog post about next!
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La Vie Est Belle
NICE, FRANCE
The city of Nice is located in the French Riviera in Provence-Alpes-Côte d’Azur. Blessed by a sunny, temperate climate, Nice attracts visitors from around the world. Among its many attractions are its beautiful beaches, lovely seaside promenade, interesting museums, famous city landmarks and other tourist attractions. Day excursions are available from Nice to Antibes, Juan-les-Pins, Monte Carlo, Cannes and to other towns. Its your time to live like the rich and famous in the French Riviera..just like Bey and Jay-Z..on a yacht..and beach side villa.
For a visual tour around Nice and some background info., take a look at this video about the city:
The name says it all- “Nice” is a very nice place to visit and explore the beautiful beach-side city, you get the best of both worlds here; a thriving city centre and coastal beach town.
It’s the second most visited French city after Paris, that’s got to tell you something. All the hype you hear about the French Riviera is true, it really is one of the most luxurious places to vacation in and live a laid back easy-breezy, beautiful french life in Nice. Once a part of Italy, now a part of France, it neighbours one of the smallest and richest countries in the world, Monaco. Ideal for all searching for the “good life”, with an affordable market and boosting an impeccable cityscape, you’ll ask yourself why you hadn’t moved sooner.
Mon amour, Votre amour, Nice amour!
I’m in love with the lifestyle in Nice, it’s just a picture-perfect city and has everything you could ever ask for.
Who could ever imagine themselves shopping in the biggest brand name designer stores with a beach just across the street. My dream come true! I’ll take ever pair of those red bottoms s’il vous plaît et merci madame! This really is the lifestyles of the rich and famous. Don’t be surprised of you run into Brad Pitt and Angelina Jolie or Johnny Depp, they do have a villa in the French Riviera and frequent their riviera homes often.
Well after this long hard day of shopping in designer shops, running into celebrities, and sun bathing at the beach, someones got to be starving by now. YOU’RE IN LUCK! There’s a farmers market in the city centre everyday with only the freshest of fruits, veggies, and anything else you could possibly ask for. But we’re in the luxurious French Riviera and we want the full celebrity lifestyle while there, right? So why not go for a dinner at the famous Chantecler restaurant and have some of their signature seafood entrées to end the night on a high note. Or you could always pick up some fromage, vin, et un baguette and take a stroll down to the beach while the sun sets and end the day in your own special intimate way with a dinner for 2 in your picture perfect french paradise.
So pick up a baguette, grab a loved one, and head to the beach to soak up everything Nice has to offer.
Just maybe after reading this travel blog turned romantic fantasy, you’d like to see my little adventure in Nice..or maybe not. HEY, a girl just wants to feel special….
XoXo diariesofthewanderlust
Lights Camera Fashion
MILAN, ITALY
It may not be the eternal city, but it is however one of the major fashion capitals of the WORLD! Home to some of the biggest fashion names in the industry such as: Giorgio Armani, Dolce & Gabbana, Missoni, Gianni Versace, Moschino, Etro and so many more. Maybe one of my favourite fashion centres EVER, the famous Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II with imposing and meticulously crafted exterior for the architecture buffs and a dream come true for all those fashionistas out there. It may just be a short lived window shopping affair, but what a beautiful affair that would be! Indulge yourself in the most beautifully made Italian shoes and jewelry and clothing and..and.. sorry i was just on cloud 9 dreaming in fashion heaven. Dating back to 1865, the galleria was just as exquisite and breathtaking back then as it is now with its “wow” factor of its two glass vaulted arcade domes. You may just find people spinning on their heels in the centre of the arcade, quite odd i know, where are their manners! Well there is said to be a myth that if you spin on the bull it will ward off all evil…. all good gods grant me countless amounts of Italian shoes!PLEASE!
If anyone is interested in short courses in fashion in Milan, here’s one of the top rated schools:
http://www.istitutomarangoni.com/en/fashion-courses/short-courses
How can we forget the magnificent centre of the whole city, noted as the largest gothic baroque cathedral in the world, IL DUOMO! It took nearly 6 centuries to complete, but was it worth it or was it worth it? If you really want the best panoramic view of the city ,and if you have good eye sight you can even see up until the snowy Alps mountain from atop the most picturesque of roofs you could ever imagine. Now who can say they walked atop the roof of the largest cathedral in the world in Italy, where Napoleon was crowned, and housing 135 statues of saints on each spire…maybe all the tourists, but you’ll feel that much more accomplished if you experience it yourself. promise.
I’ve had my fair share of your typical Milanese panini in the cutest little restaurant in the heart of the city, for 8 euros i can guarantee you it was worth every cent and then some. There’s also this thing called “aperitivo” have you heard of it? it’s a MUST DO when in Italy, maybe its one of the best kept secrets, but lets keep this our own little secret. We all love all you can eats, but can you imagine an authentic all you can eat in Italy! Aperitivo consists of purchasing a beverage, wine, liquor, coke, you name it and with this you are granted access to a table of anything you can ask for for FREE! My kind of life, Milan you have my heart.
Milan is also the business and economic capital for all of Italy, educating the best at the business university called “Università commerciale Luigi Bocconi – Milano.” This is where the big money is made, and it surely shows with all the luxurious cars driving around the city. P.S- EVEN THE CARABINIERI (police) have exotic cars… lamborghinis, ferraris, what is going on here!
Milan has the best of the best to offer, i could definitely see myself spending forever in this absolutely stunning city.
I found an interesting movie with most of the scenes shot in Milan or surrounding Italy, i haven’t watched it yet but i plan to. Here’s the trailer…. let me know what you think!
XoXo diariesofthewanderlust
Masquerades, Gothic Facades, and Everything Artfully Made
VENICE, ITALY
Ah Venice, the city built on water, aren’t you a sight to see. Possibly one, if not THE most romantic cities in the world, just take a gondola ride with a loved one through the picturesque venetian canals and don’t forget to smooch under every bridge! You do however have a lovely Italian man serenading you with beautiful Italian music, so if you weren’t already smitten with the city, this will probably do the job.
Carnival season may have come to an end, but hey this just means so much more to share and dream about for next year. Something everyone should add to their bucket list to do once in their life, ATTEND A VENETIAN MASQUERADE! There’s just something so mysterious and appealing when you think of a masquerade, you dress up in a big renaissance-like dress (for the ladies) wear a beautiful mask to hide your identity, and the night is yours! Something fit for a queen, with masquerades boosting the likes of Marie Antoinette and all of nobility, it’s just a royal affair (literally) SO LET THEM EAT CAKE! Speaking of food, it is absolutely delicious in Venice, it is a part of Italy so does that really surprise you? If you’ve been looking at all the masquerade balls like i have last month you would know that you really do get what you pay for, a traditional huge Venetian feast for dinner and loads of dessert and liquor to party the rest of the night. This honestly may be my most viewed site last month, but who’s counting… Check it out and plan your own Venetian carnival vacation!
I’ve been to Venice before, i was just shy of turning 18 and it was a march break trip with my high school. For a first-timer in Europe i expected it to be very mild already in march, boy was i wrong. Strutting my stuff out the hotel doors to meet the rest of the group it finally hit me, MARCH DOESN’T MEAN SUMMER! so i just froze the rest of the day in my designer pink leather jacket until i could find a “rivenditore” to buy a sweater from. Worries gone, fashionista Melissa gone, now time to explore and experience Venice. First stop Saint Marks Basilica, the prettiest little (but in reality BIG) piazza if i ever did see one. Next stop Doge’s Palace or “Palazzo Ducale”, once a palace then a prison now a part of history for all visitors to discover. Home to the famous “Bridge of Sighs” where all the prisoners would take one last glance at the outside world and sunlight then forever rot in a cell until death. Just a little bit of a downer, or maybe i’m just being over dramatic with my wording, but overall Venice is one of the most beautiful places you’ll ever see in your life. Next, we took our famous gondola ride, and we even got a chance to row the gondola ourselves! (P.S- you can just fast forward to the pictures, they tell the same story) Lunch was delish! and i think i’ll leave the rest for you to continue on with your own Venetian vacation story.
Don’t forget to hit the Morano island glass factory, maybe you can even make your own chandelier if you want… anything goes, it’s your story now. Make it a good one!
“The world is a book and those who do not travel read only one page.” – St. Augustine
[Insider Tip: Every year in late August or early September, Lido island (a part of Venice) hosts the Venice Film Festival, which draws a large international crowd.]
XoXo diariesofthewanderlust
Where would you like to travel most?
New Place New Adventures
BOLOGNA, ITALY
It’s crazy to think that in just less than a year’s time from now i could be an international student studying in Europe. What’s even crazier? Well, i would be studying at the OLDEST university in the known western world! UNIBO- University of Bologna, Italy. If you know me, you know i like these kinds of things, history, culture, and everything with an interesting past. Weird enough for a 20-something year old girl, i favour the history and travel channels. I once watched a 2 hour long documentary about the evolution of ants… ANTS! you know the little insects that live under your backyard patio? Yes, those little guys. But that was totally irrelevant since i couldn’t find the remote…and Medieval Europe was up next.
UNIBO is, as in the name suggest, located in Bologna Italy. Known for, you guessed it, cuisine like its famous bolognese pasta, it neighbours the famous Tuscan wine region of italy. My favourite! It is also a thriving student city educating about 100,000 which makes up a large portion of the city’s population of 385,000. Its beautiful architecture made me fall in love, with its ancient red terracotta buildings (Bologna la rossa) and its “porticos” that cover walkways throughout the city.
Here’s the top things to do in Bologna by Lonely Planet:
Of course, as every exchange student in Europe, i plan to travel to as many places i can while studying abroad at UNIBO. Luckily for me i have the beach an hour away to the east (Rimini) Venice and Milan to the north, and Florence Rome and Naples to the southwest. Although Europe doesn’t just stop at Italy, there’s literally too many beautiful places to visit than there are weekends while i’m there. This is where my time-management skills really needs to work overtime to fit everything in.
So, i have a proposition for all of you and of course myself. I plan to blog about every place i find interesting and/or plan to visit at least once a week from now till the departure date in February 2015. You can count on countless amounts of blogs to come when i’m actually there and experiencing everything first hand myself. I would love to receive any suggestions/ recommendations any of you may have for my time in Europe and my travels.
I leave you with a vision of Bologna below…
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Diaries Of The Wanderlust 