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10 miles from the southern Tuscan coast are thermal baths known for their therapeutic waters since pre Roman times. Today they are the TERME DI SATU…more10 miles from the southern Tuscan coast are thermal baths known for their therapeutic waters since pre Roman times. Today they are the TERME DI SATURNIA, a 5 star Resort and Spa, member of the Leading Hotels of the World. The resort boasts a golf course specially designed for those who like to play in the midst of nature. Conceived by the Californian architect Ronald Fream, this professional - standard 18 - hole course is set in the rolling hills of Maremma. It is open all year round thanks to the mild climate and the balmy sea breezes blowing from the Thyrrenian sea nearby. www.termedisaturnia.it/it/ less

Maremma in Southern Tuscany is home to ….yes, Italian cowboy, state of the arts wineries and a spa resort which is a member of the leading Hotels t…moreMaremma in Southern Tuscany is home to ….yes, Italian cowboy, state of the arts wineries and a spa resort which is a member of the leading Hotels the world. The Saturnia thermal baths are know since pre roman times. Water gushes out of an underground crater at the rate of 800 gallons per seconds filling the pools outside and inside the spa. The therapeutic value of the water lies in the high sulfur content and its moisturizing plankton. The resort is totally five star and pampering is the name of the game. There are numerous treatments at the spa but the active ingredient is always the moisturizing thermal plankton that has been the baths liquid gold for over 2000 years. Saturnia is a 2 hour drive from Rome or Florence. And definitely worth the trip. www.termedisaturnia.it/it/ less

Four major museums, a world-class botanical garden, and culinary delicacies whet one’s appetite through this enticing taste of the alluring arts dist…moreFour major museums, a world-class botanical garden, and culinary delicacies whet one’s appetite through this enticing taste of the alluring arts district of the Paseo del Prado in Madrid. Join Iris Brooks and Jon H. Davis of Northern Lights Studio as they explore Spain’s vibrant capital city in a cultural feast for all the senses. less

Kamalaya Koh Samui Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa resort integrates a diverse range of Oriental and Western healing practices. ... Kamalaya i…moreKamalaya Koh Samui Wellness Sanctuary and Holistic Spa resort integrates a diverse range of Oriental and Western healing practices. ... Kamalaya is a haven; a place for us to slow down and feel safe enough to let go of old habits, drop our armour and begin to listen once again to our heart’s song, and to realise the depth of inspiration and wisdom all around. Centred around a monk's cave that once served Buddhist monks as a place of meditation and spiritual retreat, Kamalaya's essence is expressed in its name, 'Lotus (kamal) Realm (alaya)', an ancient symbol for the growth and unfolding of the human spirit. less

This is Florence, city of dreams. A few steps from the Duomo is Piazza Annunziata, one of the most beautiful squares in the city and right next …moreThis is Florence, city of dreams. A few steps from the Duomo is Piazza Annunziata, one of the most beautiful squares in the city and right next to it is a Bed and Breakfast with some of the most breathtaking views of Florence. To call it Bed and Breakfast is an understatement. because Home in Palace is on the top floor of one of the grandest palaces in Florence: Palazzo Capponi All’Annunziata. Does this really look like a B&B? This monumental Palace with its Italian gardens was built in the 18th century by Alessandro Capponi from one of the oldest Florentine banking families. The frescoes are considered among the best of Florentine Baroque art. Here in this amazing historical Palazzo you can just come to sleep or let your imagination run wild and throw a party for a thousand, You might even want to get married here and if you’re married already you probably will want to get remarried in these sumptuous spaces. You might just want to be here for the simple life: to be pampered, with luxury, style and comfort. Home in Palace. Your palace in Florence www.palazzocapponiallannunziata.it less

The area in Piedmont called Langhe Roero has given the world the gift of truffles, the Nebbiolo grape, from which Barolo and Barbaresco come from and…moreThe area in Piedmont called Langhe Roero has given the world the gift of truffles, the Nebbiolo grape, from which Barolo and Barbaresco come from and a dazzling cuisine that is both aristocratic and simple. Let iexplore guide you on this luxury wine tour among castles and vineyards. There you’ll meet the makers of these great wines and the chefs working their dazzling cuisine in some of the most charming medieval towns in Italy. Your trip starts at the Villa Tiboldi, luxuriously renovated Villa and Farmhouse surrounded by Nebbiolo and Arneis vineyards with views that go on forever. Alba has a beautiful Cathedral from the XIth Century and a rich historic center. However Alba’s heart beats to the tune of the truffle. Renato Agnello, truffle hunter of of 60 years leads a search for truffles in the woods with his dog Diana. Tartufi Morra is a truffle emporium Established in 1930. It has the ultimate selection of everything truffle. The restaurant Piazza Duomo owned by the Ceretto winemaking family is a shocking pink space with frescoes by Francesco Clemente.The avant-garde cuisine of Chef Enrico Crippa has earned the restaurant a one Michelin star. The healthy pastry shop created by chef Luca Mentersino uses no sugar, milk or flour. So go ahead and splurge. Neive is at the heart of Barbaresco. Katja and Ivan Rivetti are the third generation of Rivetti making this wine here. Tops labels are Bricco Barbaresco and Bricco de Neveis. The Stupino brothers winery is housed in a sprawling 18th century castle. In the 70’s the Stupino’s cloned an old variety of Arneis vine producing a remarkable sparkling Pinot Noir besides their well known Barbaresco. The restaurant La Ciau del Tornavento is owned by chef Maurilio Garola. The Chef has consistently received one Michelin star for his groundbreaking dishes. The fortified Castle of Grinzane was erected in the XIth Century. Today it houses a very large Enoteca representing the best of Piedmont wines and grappas. Barolo is a charming medieval town surrounded by wineries The Marchesi Falletti created the first Barolo in this village.The first bottle, "Cannubbio 1861” is on permanent display.Today the original 19-century chestnut barrels have been reconditioned to age the Barolo Cannubi or Barolo Riserva. Locanda nel Borgo Antico is set in an hamlet outside Barolo. In this elegant restaurant Chef Massimo Camia prepares the classic dishes which have earned the restaurant a Michelin star. The Ceretto brothers have created a 300 acres network of small estates producing some outstanding labels. Top wines are Bricco Rocche, Brunate and Prapo’. They have also sponsored major art projects the Sol Lewitt Chapel among the vineyards and in their winery their futuristic wine-tasting glass cube. You will stay in the Hotel Villa Beccaris an 18th century palazzo surrounded by vineyards near the historic town of Monforte DAlba. 3 sisters from the Burlotto family run the Castle which their grandfather bought from the first King of Italy. The family restored the original frescos and furniture. Here you’ll attend cooking lesson in classic Piedmontese dishes. Their winery has some of the oldest vintages going back to the 1850’s. Top wines are Verduno Basadone, Barbaresco Rabaja’ . A truly royal lunch is served in the castle courtyard. Pietro Ratti runs the business founded by his father in the 60’s. Today this state of the arts winery produces an outstanding Barolo Marcenasco. After this magical tour with iexplore.com, Langhe Roero will stay with you forever. For more information on this privately guided, dream luxury wine tour call us at 1-800 iexplore or visit iexplore.com Copyright Christina Tours, LLC less

The area in Piedmont called Langhe Roero has given the world the gift of truffles, the Nebbiolo grape, from which Barolo and Barbaresco come from and…moreThe area in Piedmont called Langhe Roero has given the world the gift of truffles, the Nebbiolo grape, from which Barolo and Barbaresco come from and a dazzling cuisine that is both aristocratic and simple. On this luxury wine tour among castles and vineyards you’ll meet the makers of these great wines and the chefs working their luscious cuisine in some of the most charming medieval towns in Italy. Your trip starts at the Villa Tiboldi, luxuriously renovated Villa and Farmhouse surrounded by Nebbiolo and Arneis vineyards with views that go on forever. The estate produces its own excellent Arneis Malvira. Alba has a beautiful Cathedral from the XIth Century and a rich historic center. However Alba’s heart beats to the tune of the truffle. Renato Agnello, truffle hunter of of 60 years leads a walk through the woods with his dog Diana, looking for truffles. Tartufi Morra is a truffle emporium Established in 1930 working with all the truffle hunters in the area. It has the ultimate selection of everything truffles from chocolate to oils The restaurant Piazza Duomo owned by the Ceretto winemaking family is a shocking pink space with frescoes by Francesco Clemente .The avantguarde cuisine of Chef Enrico Crippa has earned the restaurant a one Michelin star. This is a café and pastry shop created by chef Luca Mentersino uses no sugar, milk or flour. Everything is made with substitute. So go ahead and splurge. Katja and Ivan Rivetti are the third generation of Rivetti making barbaresco here. Tops wines are Bricco Barbaresco and Bricco de Neveis. Housed in a sprawling and movie-set-like 18th century castle owned by the Stupino brothers, the winery focuses on specialty wines. In the 70’s the Stupino’s cloned an old variety of Arneis vine producing a remarkable sparkling Pinot Noir. Among their wide range of wines they produce a top Barbaresco Riserva Santo Stefano. The restaurant La Ciau del Tornavento in Treiso sits on top of sprawling vineyards is owned by chef Maurilio Garola. It. The Chef has consistently received one Michelin star for his ground breaking dishes such as “ Plin de Seirass”, ravioli stuffed with ricotta and served in an actual nest made out of hay. The fortified Castle erected in the XIth Century on top of a hill once belonged to Count Camillo Benso of Cavour, one of the architects of the Unification of Italy. The castle has a very large Enoteca representing the best of Piedmont wines and grappas. Barolo is a charming medieval town surrounded by wineries. Therefore opening a corkscrew museum was a no brainer for Paolo Annoni who was once a pharmacist but abandoned his old profession to pursue his obsession. Over the years he has travelled the world and auction houses searching for the most unusual corkscrews, collecting 1,300 rare ones . Barolo was first created by the Marchesi Falletti in the middle of the 19th century around the village of Barolo. A bottle of the first Barolo, "Cannubbio 1859” is on permanent display, while vintages from 1938 on are available to collectors. The Enoteca has the most complete collection of Barolo in the world with 35.000 bottles of Barolo and the yearly addition of 400 bottles. Giant 19 century chestnut barrels have been reconditioned to age outstanding Barolo like the Barolo Cannubi or various Barolo Riserva. Locanda nel Borgo Antico is set in an hamlet outside Barolo. In this elegant restaurant Chef Camia prepares his signature traditional classic dishes which have earned him a Michelin star. In little more than thirty years, the Ceretto brothers created a 300 acres network of small independent estates producing some outstanding labels. They have sponsored major art projects like the Clemente frescos for their restaurant, the Sol Lewitt Chapel among the vineyards and for their winery in the town of Castiglione Falletto they have created their futuristic wine-tasting glass cube. Top wines are Bricco Rocche, Brunate and Prapo’. You will stay in the Hotel Villa Beccaris an 18th century palazzo surrounded by vineyards near the historic town of Monforte DAlba. 3 Burlotto sisters run the Castle which their grandfather bought from the first King of Italy. The family restored and maintains the original frescos and furniture. Here cooking lesson in classic Piedmontese dishes are conducted. The winery has some of the oldest vintages in the region dating back from 1850. Top wines are Verduno Basadone, Barbaresco Rabaja’ and the Dolcetto D’Alba Campot. A truly royal lunch is served in the castle courtyard. Pietro Ratti runs the business founded by his father in the 60’s. Today this state of the arts winery produces an outstanding Barolo Marcenasco. In the medieval town of La Morra on top of a hillside sits an old castle, now the restaurant Belvedere with spectacular views of the Barolo hills all the way to the alps. The Bovio family that owns it produces an outstanding Barolo. Copyright Christina Tours, LLC less

Umbria , untouched by mass tourism , has preserved the magic of its past and the richness of its tradition. Etruscans and Romans made wine here 2,500…moreUmbria , untouched by mass tourism , has preserved the magic of its past and the richness of its tradition. Etruscans and Romans made wine here 2,500 years ago. Today on this magical Luxury wine tour you’ll meet the great winemakers continuing the great tradition, its great chefs and the great artists of its past. Your trip start in the middle of stunning vineyards outside Perugia at the luxurious Borgo Brufa resort Set in a highly panoramic position . The Goretti estate has its wine tastings in an imposing 14th Century tower , symbol of the winery. Outstanding wines are the L’Arringatore and their awarded Sagrantino grown in Montefalco. Taste the wines with a lunch al fresco with great views of Perugia. Starting from its central square with the cathedral, the Palace of the notaries and Fontana maggiore Perugia will stun you with its perfect Renaissance architecture. At the Hotel 3 Vaselle owned by the lungarotti family Multi-award Chef Domenico D’Imperio holds his Umbrian Cooking Lessons.here he show show to make classic Frascarelli with tomato sauce and basil, You’ll visit the Lungarotti winery, a pioneer in winemaking in Umbria. The winery founded in the 60’s by Giorgio Lungarotti is run today by 3 Lungarotti sisters. taste its excellent , Rubesco Riserva , The Wine museum run by the Lungarotti Foundation is a history lesson on the making and drinking of wine with a world class collection of art works ranging from ancient books to ceramics. The Sportoletti brothers own 40 acres on the hills of Spello and Assisi Taste their great Assisi rosso and taste the food prepared by mrs sportoletti or the Villa Fidelia Bianco Assisi is a dazzling city that will draw you into an enchanted time warp experience. It has managed to preserved most of its medieval buildings andUnesco declared it a World Heritage site. Frescoes by Giottos adorn the Basilica of St Francis of Assisi. you’ll stay at the Roccafiore Luxury Resort Right across from beautiful todi This is a rich and comfortable rural farm house with its own winery where youll taste their Rosso Sangiovese.and a cuisine thats a blend of home made and sophistication. Cantina Peppucci is is a small family business housed in the 13th Century St Antimo Abbey in a spectacular settino and considered one of the most fascinating architectural jewels of Medieval Umbria Taste their excellent Petroro Red, Montorsolo Grechetto di Todi, Alter Ego Red. Visit Mr Todini’s winery and Taste the superb Nero della Cervara then have lunch at his resort with great views of Colli Martani. Todi is another medieval jewel. The Captain’s palace and the Prior’s Palace face the sloping main square, one of the most picturesque in Italy. Todi is regularly used as a film set. Taste the simple foods of Umbria whose ingredients and preparation have remained traditional and flavours are brought out singing with their wines to in perfect harmony. Orvieto’s wine history runs thu history from the Etruscan in 7th century bc. To the magnificent medieval cathedral from the 12th century with carvings of vines on its front Inside enjoy great frescoes by fra angelico and signorelli You’ll be staying at Locanda Palazzone, a 13th century palazzo turned luxury resort surrounded by vynyards with great views of Orvieto.. It is owned by Giovanni and Ludovico Dubini who also own the attached winery . They are the only producers who age Orvieto Taste their great food and wines like Terre Vineate, campo del Guardiano. Owned by enologist brothers Enzo and Riccardo Cotarella the Falesco estate is home to great experimentation with old vinesTop wines are. Vitiano and Ferentano. Wine was grown on the Decugnano Hills since the 13th century. Decugnano dei Barbi makes a unique sparkling wine for which they are famous and ages it in cellars exavated in the lava rock. Taste the brut Decugnano Pinot Nero and have lunch al fresco around the pool. Castello della sala owned by the antinoris is a 1000 acres estate centered on a restored Medieval Castle built in the 14th Century, The castle’s tasting room feels like Henry the VIII could come in any time. Among their top wine is Cervaro della Sala.Tasting: Cervaro della Sala, , Muffato della Sala, e Pinot Nero Sagrantino is exclusively grown in the Montefalco and Bevagna area by no more than 20 growers. Marco Capri is one of the architects of its success . In the 1970’s Caprai took an ancient dessert wine and experimenting with the vine created the first Sagrantino red. Top wine is its a warded Sagrantino Collepiano. Wines: Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG, Sagrantino di Montefalco Collepiano DOCG, Montefalco Rosso DOC, Grecante Grechetto Colli Martini DOC In the midst of Montefalco’s main square the enoteca Alchimista is true to its name concoting inimagined flavours out of classic umbrian recipes. In Montefalco visit the St. Francis Church and its remarkable frescoes by Benozzo Gozzoli. Paolo Bea’s family roots in Montefalco go back to the 1500’s.The small, still artisanal production focuses on organic farming barring chemicals in the vinyard. Wines tasting: Sagrantino di Montefalco DOCG, Montefalco Rosso Riserva DOC St Chiara, Rosso de Veo, , Montefalco DOC Rosso. Meet Salvatore Denaro,a chef who grows all of his own food, does not have a menu and parties every night with his patrons. A true fellinian character and an unforgettable experience. Copyright Christina Tours, LLC less

Umbria , untouched by mass tourism , has preserved the magic and richness of its past. So Let iexplore guide you on this magical Luxury wine tour wh…moreUmbria , untouched by mass tourism , has preserved the magic and richness of its past. So Let iexplore guide you on this magical Luxury wine tour where you’ll meet the great winemakers, the great chefs and the great artists of this land…. Your trip start in the middle of stunning vineyards right outside Perugia at the luxurious start Borgo Brufa resort. Tasting at the Goretti winery is in their 14th century tower where you’ll drink their colliperugini and sagrantino and have lunch in full view of Perugia. Perugia will stun you with its perfect renaissance architecture. Chef Imperio will introduce you to Umbrian cooking at his cooking school. You’ll visit Lungarotti, a pioneer in winemaking in Umbria and taste its excellent Rubesco. You’ll love its world class wine museum. Taste Sportoletti great red Assisi Rosso. Assisi is a dazzling city that will draw you into an enchanted time warp experience. Right across from beautiful Todi you’ll stay at the Roccafiore Luxury Resort with its own winery and a cuisine that is a blend of home made and sophistication. At Cantina Peppucci housed in a 13th century abbey you’ll taste their excellent Petroro Red. Taste the superb Nero della Cervara with Mr Todini then have lunch at his resort with a view. Todi is so picturesque it feels like a movie set. Taste the simple foods of Umbria where ingredients and preparation have remained traditional and flavours are brought out singing with their wines to in perfect harmony. Orvieto’s wine history goes back to the Etruscan and the cathedral carvings of vines from the 13th century bear witness to this tradition. You’ll be staying at Locanda Palazzone owned by the Dubini brothers is a 13th century palazzo turned into a luxry resort surrounded by vineyards. The brothers make superb whites like Terre Vineate. Decugnano dei Barbi makes a unique Decugnano brut and ages it in cellar exacavetd in the lava rock. Castello della sala owned by the antinoris is a 1000 acres estate with top wines like cervaro della sala. Sagrantino is only grown in Montefalco area and marco Capri is one of the architects of its success with its warded Sagrantino Collepiano. Taste the food and wine of Montefalco and then view the remarkable frescos by Benozzo Gozzoli in the Museum of St Francis. Paolo Bea’s family has been on these hills since the 1500’s and he makes sagrantino with a great commitment to environmental standards. Meet Salvatore Denaro, a true fellinian chef who grows all of his own food and parties with his patrons. After this magical tour with iexplore.com, Umbria will stay with you forever. For more information on this privately guided, dream luxury wine tour call us at 1-800 iexplore or visit iexplore.com less

The region of Apulia with 1000 hours more sunlight a year than the rest of the country make superb wines.Let iexplore guide you on this magical Luxu…moreThe region of Apulia with 1000 hours more sunlight a year than the rest of the country make superb wines.Let iexplore guide you on this magical Luxury wine tour. You ‘ll toast with top winemakers and will be dazzled by Apulia’s richness of wine, art and food…. Right next to Castel del Monte is the Rivera winery and the unique terrain here is the reason for outstanding wines like Falcone. Mr. Cocevola with a working farm near the Castle produces also a superior wines likeVandalo. The restaurant Corte in Fiore in Trani has won many awards.You will love it. Trani boasts a spectacular 13th Century Cathedrals right on the Adriatic sea water with splendid frescoes and mosaics. You’ll be staying at a 500 year old farmhouse locally called Masseria hidden in the midst of an ancient olive grove. Today Masseria Torre Coccaro is a 5 star resort where you’ll begin to understand the magical allure of Puglia. Alberobello is famous for its 1,500 conical trulli homes. Today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Stroll through the hilltop town of Martina Franca, a beautiful baroque city full of great churches and palazzos. Enjoy Masseria Torre Coccaro’s private beach on the Adriatic sea. Or retreat to their cool spa built in a cave. Ostuni known as "the White Town" is an architectural jewel with a striking medieval cathedral and endless winding streets to get lost in. At Torre Coccaro the Chef will seduce you with his delicious cuisine. Be wisked by private boat for a swim in the crystal-water coves of Monopoli. Brindisi has been a major wine grower since roman times. Luigi Rubino holds his wine tasting at the restaurant Penny in a 12th Century building in order to highlight food pairing. Be swept away by his superb red called Torre Testa . Cantine Due Palme, is a co-operative of 1,000 growers specializing in local grape varieties. Taste their top wine Selvarossa with the enologyst and Director Angelo Maci. Lecce is nicknamed "The Florence of the South" because of the rich Baroque architectural monuments carved out of the local white stone. In Lecce you’ll stay at the Hotel Risorgimento, a five star Luxury Hotel in a spectacular 18th Century Palace in the heart of town . Have lunch at Atenze a landmark restaurant housed in a baroque palace with superb Apulian specialties. Taste Leone de Castris Salice Salentino Donna Lisa, the top wine of the collection. You’ll enjoy spectacular views of the harbour from Palazzo Papaleo, your own 5 star palazzo . Explore Otranto and its medieval monuments. After this magical tour with iexplore.com, Apulia will have carved out a place in your heart forever. For more information on this privately guided, dream luxury wine tour call us at 1-800 iexplore or visit iexplore.com less

The region of Apulia at the heel of Italy has 1000 hours more sunlight a year than the rest of the country and its local sun drenched grapes make sup…moreThe region of Apulia at the heel of Italy has 1000 hours more sunlight a year than the rest of the country and its local sun drenched grapes make superb wines. On this trip you will meet some of the top winemakers of the region, taste their wines and be dazzled by Apulia’s undiscovered richness of wine, food and art . Join us on this spectacular tour. Castel del Monte in Andria is a 13th Century castle and a Unesco World Heritage Site. Carlo de Corato, Rivera’s owner says the unique terrain around the Castle combined with the cool breezes coming down from the Balkans are the reason for outstanding wines like Falcone. You’ll also taste other top wines like Cappellacio and Rupicolo. Mr. Cocevola oversees the working farm, and winery near Castel del Monte producing superior wines likeVandalo. Other good wines are Rosso Cocevola, Pampanuto and Il Tratto. La Corte in Fiore, Trani. Housed in a 16th Century building, this restaurant has won many awards for its seafood specialties. You will love it. Trani is a medieval town built on the Adriatic Sea with one of the most spectacular 13th Century Cathedrals right on the water. You’ll have special access to the cript with splendid frescoes and mosaics. Hidden in the midst of an ancient olive grove this 500 year old Masseria where you will be staying has been a fortress, a farm and a refuge for pilgrims. Today Masseria Torre Coccaro is a 5 star resort, a sublime mixture of Apulian rusticity and world class luxury where you’ll begin to understand the magical allure of Puglia. Alberobello is famous for its 1,500 conical trulli homes. Today it’s a UNESCO World Heritage site. Enjoy strolling through the hilltop town of Martina Franca, a beautiful baroque city full of great churches and palazzos from the 17th and 18th century. Small fishing boats deliver the fish daily to the door of L’Ancora Restaurant built on the rocks right on the sea in Monopoli. Enjoy “crudo”, the Italian equivalent of sushi or their cooked specialties. Enjoy a free afternoon at Masseria Torre Coccaro with its own private beach on the Adriatic sea. For further pampering retreat to a cool spa built in in an underground cave. Ostuni known as "the White Town" is an architectural jewel with a striking medieval cathedral and endless winding streets to get lost in before your first glass of wine. At Torre Coccaro the Chef displays his remarkable skills at blending tradition with innovation using just picked seasonal foods grown locally on Coccaro’s land. A private yacht takes guests for swims in the crystal-water coves of Monopoli. Brindisi was a major port city during Roman times and a column still marks the end of the Appian way. Rubino is a family owned winemaker in Brindisi growing local varieties in vinyeards near the Adriatic sea. Luigi Rubino holds his wine tasting at the restaurant Penny, a hot spot on the harbour, housed in a 12th Century building in order to highlight food pairing. Enjoy a lunch with orecchiette, a local pasta specialty with fresh tomatoes and basil that works well with the red negroamaro. Then artichoke ravioli with shrimps sauteed in garlic and slivers of parmesan and tagliolini sauteed with squid and crabmeat, both served with the white malvasia called Giancola. Giancola is a beach on the Adriatic and the sea breezes give it its unique character. Rubino revived a 2000 year old indigenous vine called Sussumaniello producing a superb red called Torre Testa to be paired with red meat and aged cheeses. Cantine Due Palme in Cellino San Marco, is a co-operative of 1,000 growers specializing in local grape varieties like Negroamaro, Malvasia Nera and Primitivo. The Top wines Primitivo Ettamiano, Red Salice Talentino, Canonico Negroamaro, have consistently been winning awards. Taste their top wine Selvarossa with the enologyst and Winery Director Angelo Maci. Lecce is nicknamed "The Florence of the South" Because of the rich Baroque architectural monuments carved out of the local white stone. In Lecce you’ll stay at the Hotel Risorgimento, a five star Luxury Hotel in a spectacular 18th Century Palace in the heart of town . Have lunch at Atenze a landmark restaurant housed in a baroque palace with superb Apulian specialties. Go out on the town. Lecce at nite is a throbbing city in a magical setting. The original Leone de Castris was a Spanish nobleman who bought 10 thousand acres in 1665 planting olive trees and vines. The most famous is Five Roses born during World War II in discarded GI’s beer bottles when the wine became popular with U.S. top military brass. Taste the top wine of the collection: the Salice Salentino Donna Lisa. You’ll enjoy spectacular views of the harbour from your Palazzo Papaleo, a 5 star hotel in a 17th Century palazzo next to the Cathedral. Walk around Otranto, a bustling sea side town with remarkable monuments from the Middle Ages. Meet the fishing boats as they unload their catch at the harbour with Chef Massimo of Vico Lopez Restaurant. You will pick the fish to eat at his restaurant that night. After this magical tour Apulia will have carved out a place in your heart forever. copyright Christinatours,LLC less

From Essna the cruise on the Oberoi Philae heads south. Navigating the Esna locks takes a couple of hours though local salesmen conduct a brisk bus…moreFrom Essna the cruise on the Oberoi Philae heads south. Navigating the Esna locks takes a couple of hours though local salesmen conduct a brisk business throwing their ware up to the decks…. The ship sails to Edfu. It is the second largest temple in Egypt after Karnak and one of the best preserved. The temple, dedicated to the falcon god Horus, was built in the between 237 and 57 BCE. The temple of Edfu is the largest temple dedicated to Horus and Hathor of Dendera. Kom Ombo stands on a promontory at a bend in the Nile and is one of the most spectacular settings of any of Egypt's river temples. The temple was located in the ancient city of Pa-Sebek, "the Domain of Sobek", who was the crocodile god. The Nile flows among amber deserts and granite mountains to Aswan , a beautiful African city in a great setting. A short ride from Aswan is the beautiful Philae Temple on the island of Agilika, dedicated to the goddess Isis. The Oberoi Philae ranked 3rd in BEST SMALL SHIPS OF THE WORLD awarded by Conde' Nast Traveller, USA in 2009 http://www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_philae less

A nile cruise is a magical way to experience the 7000 year history of Egypt because the largest concentration of temples lies along the river Nile be…moreA nile cruise is a magical way to experience the 7000 year history of Egypt because the largest concentration of temples lies along the river Nile between Luxor and Aswan. This 7 day cruise starts in Luxor, which has been called the greatest open air museum and is probably the oldest tourist destination in history. The ship is the Oberoi Philae, a vessel built in 1996 with 50 luxurious cabins and all amenities. A true floating luxury Hotel. The ship sails north to Quina . The wonderfully preserved temple of Dendera is a rare sight to behold. The main temple dedicated to the Goddess Hathor, goddess or pleasure and of love, usually represented as a cow, or a woman with a cow’s head. Its hypostyle hall has towering columns inscribed with hieroglyphs. The massive stone roof is rich with painted reliefs. Under the temple are dark chambers and underground passages. The courtyard has a rare statue of the god Bes the patron of childbirth. After Dendera the ship sails back to Luxor. A beautiful sphinx way leads to the entrance of the temple of Luxor. Built by Ramses the Great it was dedicated to the god Amun. A couple of miles north is the spectacular Temple of Karnak. Built over more than a thousand years by generations of Pharaohs Karnak is the largest religious complex in the world. The great “Hypostyle Hall” is an incredible forest of giant pillars, covering an area larger than the whole of Notre Dame Cathedral. The West Bank is a quick boat ride across the Nile, Here a baloon ride gives an overview of the immense funerary valleys below. The Valley of the Kings, is a vast City of the Dead where magnificent tombs were carved into the desert rocks, decorated richly, and filled with treasures for the . In the next valley rising out of the desert plain as if carved out of the limestone cliffs, is the Temple of Queen Hatshepsut ,Ancient Egypt’s only female Pharaoh. On the way back to the river Nile, the road passes by the famed Colossi of Memnon, the only survivors of a once imposing temple. The ship sails south to Essna. The Oberoi Philae ranked 3rd in BEST SMALL SHIPS OF THE WORLD awarded by Conde' Nast Traveller, USA in 2009 http://www.oberoihotels.com/oberoi_philae less

The VESTAS HOTELS & RESORTS group is considered a leader and an innovator in Hotel design and management. It runs three very distinct Hotels in Le…moreThe VESTAS HOTELS & RESORTS group is considered a leader and an innovator in Hotel design and management. It runs three very distinct Hotels in Lecce. Each hotel fulfills the needs of its own particular market segment, complementing however the others in their interpretation of the new philosophy of hospitality. RISORGIMENTO RESORT ***** The Risorgimento Resort, housed in an 18th century building, has been reopened: with its breathtaking views over the historical centre of Lecce, the Hotel has been restored to a new glory. From the spa to the à la carte restaurant, from the pleasures of the body to the pleasures of the palate, everything has been exquisitely thought out for the most demanding guests . An out-of-the-ordinary backdrop for the splendid artistic scenery of this environment . 47 rooms ( 15 Deluxe, 12 Superior, 13 Executive, 4 Junior Suite, 2 Executive Suite with jacuzzi on private terrace, 1 Presidential Suite). HOTEL PRESIDENT **** Comfort, quality, hospitality, professionalism – these are the four stars the Hotel President has guaranteed its clients 1973. The spacious and prestigious structure is a favourite reference point for the business clientele. With a Congress Centre complete with all the main audio, visual and multimedia equipment . All this near Piazza Mazzini, in the very heart of the city. Its unique retro 70's look reminiscent of Miami' South Beach makes it interesting for the fashionable crowd too. 150 rooms (Presidential Suite, 25 Junior Suite, 122 Superior) EOS HOTEL *** This hotel has been used as experiment in the successful transformation of the 3 star category, a new hotel concept: it combines tradition with innovation, with each of its thirty rooms designed by a different architects. The Eos Hotel, situated in the immediate surroundings of the historic centre, is perfect for the young and dynamic tourist. 30 Superior rooms. www.vestashotels.it less

Torgiano Umbria. This is the Lungarotti kigdom. With an estate of 700 acres the Lungarotti family is a leading wine producer in Italy and the region…moreTorgiano Umbria. This is the Lungarotti kigdom. With an estate of 700 acres the Lungarotti family is a leading wine producer in Italy and the region. Its wines are distributed to 35 countries around the world. In Torgiano they operates a wine Museum considered one of the best in the world, an olive oil Museum rich with the history of this Mediterranean staple. They also own a 4 star Hotel restaurant called Le 3 Vaselle. Here chef Domenico Imperio with many national awards to his name creates outstanding dishes for the restaurant. Here at the 3 Vaselle he shares his knowledge and recipes . less

Just a few kilometers from Florence, in the hills below Fiesole, with a full view of the Duomo is the charming residence hotel called Eden Rock. …moreJust a few kilometers from Florence, in the hills below Fiesole, with a full view of the Duomo is the charming residence hotel called Eden Rock. Built by world famous race car driver Clemente Biondetti in the 50’s and carved into the rugged mountain that frames it, the Eden Rock is a modern version of the many castles which dot the tuscan country site. With a beaituful pool and Jacuzzi,an open air lobby dug out of the rock and covered with copper tiles, it has 13 suites in all with every comfort plus a cellar club stocked with vintage wine from Tuscany. And just a few minutes way Florence beckons in all its glory. Via Bolognese Nuova, 7 50139 Firenze (FI), Italy +39 055 400331 www.edenrockresort.it www.epoquehotels.com less

Bua means lotus in Thai and the french"le" before it clearly spells this Hotel mission to be the ultimate in East-West sophistication offering all su…moreBua means lotus in Thai and the french"le" before it clearly spells this Hotel mission to be the ultimate in East-West sophistication offering all suites and amenities like a personal chef cooking in your room featured here. Ranked as "2008 best Luxury Hotel", by Traveler's Choice, Trip Advisor, Lebua at State Tower is located in the heart of Bangkok a few steps from the Chao-Phraya river. This is a different Bangkok from the familiar hustle and bustle one and its restaurant and bar on the 65th floor terrace offer the most breathtaking views of the city. Hosted by Sunida Thirasak, a Bangkok native presently living in New York. less

The Sheraton Luxor is located on 8 acres of lush gardens on the East bank of the Nile boasting spectacular sunsets across the river and a 15 minute w…moreThe Sheraton Luxor is located on 8 acres of lush gardens on the East bank of the Nile boasting spectacular sunsets across the river and a 15 minute walk to the historic center of the old Luxor. Right here are the Karnak Temples and across the Nile are the valley of the Kings and Queens. less

The Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai is one of the legendary Grand Hotels in Asia and an architectural marvel bringing together Moorish, Florentine a…moreThe Taj Mahal Palace Hotel in Mumbai is one of the legendary Grand Hotels in Asia and an architectural marvel bringing together Moorish, Florentine and Asian styles. It faces the Bay of Mumbai right next to the India Gate which was built in honor of King George V and Queen Mary's visit in 1923, both iconic landmarks of this great City. Since its opening in 1903 it has played host to the most celebrated personalitites of the century, from Maharajas to Kings. John Lennon and Yoko Ono survived in the Rajput Suite on a macrobiotic menu specially designed by the Chefs of the Taj. less

Located on 40 acres of gardens right under the Pyramids the Mena House began as a hunting lodge for Vice King Kedive Ismail. In 1869 he expanded th…moreLocated on 40 acres of gardens right under the Pyramids the Mena House began as a hunting lodge for Vice King Kedive Ismail. In 1869 he expanded the lodge on the occasion of the opening of the Suez Canal in order to impress visiting Empress Eugenie with the best views of the Pyramids. the Mena House Oberoi has played host to kings and Emperors,Heads of State and celebrities and not only boasts the best views of the Pyramids but also the only golf course right under them. less

The Hotel faces its own private beach on the Mediterranean Sea right next to King Farouk's Palace and Gardens. Right on the Corniche and very accessi…moreThe Hotel faces its own private beach on the Mediterranean Sea right next to King Farouk's Palace and Gardens. Right on the Corniche and very accessible to the City Center.Alexandria, founded by Alexander the Great is an important industrial port with the Suez pipeline ending here. It is also a major tourist resort with Cleopatra's palace buried and still visible in its harbour, major Roman ruins and is home to the Bibliotheca Alexandrina, the modern library of Alexandria, and a modern architectural wonder. less

William Holden, the Hollywood actor, bought the Mount Kenya Safari Club on a whim in 1960 and turned it into a hideway for the super-rich. This is a…moreWilliam Holden, the Hollywood actor, bought the Mount Kenya Safari Club on a whim in 1960 and turned it into a hideway for the super-rich. This is a spectacular resort at the foot of Mount Kenya, the second tallest mountain in Africa. n 1989, the owners saw potential for a luxury tented camp in this space and set out a plan to build 40 tents with a rustic main building and facilities that would rival the best camps in the Mara and the Serengeti. The main building would house a dining room, bar and reception area for the comfort of our Guests. The grounds would feature winding paths through lush flora and boast a swimming pool and observation areas to gather and gaze at the hippos, the crocs and the incredible bird life that inhabits this part of Kenya. The Mara Safari Club opened its doors in 1989 as an offshoot of Mount Kenya Safari Club, hence the name Safari Club. The Club stands on 100 acres of land, leased from the late Senior Chief Lerionka Ole Ntutu. A tented sanctuary lying at the foot of the Aitong Hills, the Mara Safari Club is surrounded on three sides by the Mara River, on the edge of the world-famous Masai Mara National Reserve. The land the Club sits on was an old hunting camp that had been converted to use for photo tours with the ban on hunting in Kenya in 1976. Originally the retreat of the movie star and his friends, the Club's illustrious former members have included Winston Churchill and Bing Crosby. less