Follow the link to use the new Italy Region Interactive Map!
Italy Regions Interactive Map - Great for Research!
Italy has 20 regions. Each Italy region is almost its own world with each Italy region having its own wine, pasta, customs and language dialects. Each trip to Italy should begin with looking at what Italy regions you want to visit. Many of Italy’s regions are famous for specific things like wine, cheese, meats, history and events. Some of the more popular Italy regions are Tuscany which is famous for wine and the capital city of Florence, Umbria is another popular Italy region that is known for towns like Cortona which was featured in the major motion picture “Under the Tuscan Sun.” The capital of Italy; Rome is located in the Italy region of Lazio. Venice the city of bridges is in the Italy region of Veneto. You can use the interactive Italy region map below to find out more about the cities, cultures and foods of each of Italy’s 20 regions.
First woman joins official ranks of Venice's gondoliers
First lady joins official ranks of Venice's gondoliers
14 August 10 23:30 ET
Authorities in Italy's lagoon city of Venice have granted a full licence to a female gondolier for the first time.
Mother-of-two Giorgia Boscolo, 24, whose father was also a gondolier, passed a year-long series of practical and written tests.
Mrs Boscolo joins the hitherto all-male Venetian gondoliers' guild and can now officially row tourists through the city's narrow canals.
She hopes to have her own gondola tied up in front of St Mark's Basilica.
Venice deputy mayor Sandro Simionato admitted there had been "excessive male domination" inside the 425-strong gondoliers' guild, which jealously guards its ancient traditions and skills.
But the BBC's David Willey in Rome says that even now, Giorgia Boscolo can only stand in for a male colleague if he wants to take a day off from the lucrative job of rowing tourists.
Source: BBC
Book your trip to Venice here http://www.italy4real.com/
Dine like a Hillbilly in North Carolina
I drove right by it; not once but twice. I thought, "That's a house; anything but a restaurant." At first glance it looks like a country home complete with rocking chairs and hanging plants but a small simple sign reads: "Hillbilly Hide –A-Way Restaurant".
The simple and welcoming interior
It's not a house, it's The Hillbilly Hide-A-Way!In 1978 they opened the restaurant so Sam could play his music, people could eat and Sam's wife would not have to worry about telling folks to get their feet off the couch.
Located between two of North Carolina's triad cities, Winston-Salem and Greensboro, the remote location fits with the Hide-A-Way name.
Once you park and as you open the thin white screen door you still have the I'm-walking- into-someone's-house feeling in your head until you go through an entry way and into the main dining hall.
This is North Carolina's rustic country atmosphere at its absolute best. Once you pass through the doorway you are transported back to the days of the honky tonk and that "ya'all come on in now and have yourself some supper" southern welcome.
Exposed log cabin interior with family photos, bicycles, framed country art, signature graffiti, and checkerboard plastic table cloths from childhood picnics long gone are all alive and well covering over a dozen tables.
The simple and welcoming interior
The staff is perfectly typical. Friendly, welcoming and genuine; something that more and more restaurants are forgoing for city center locations and young reality show wannabe wait staff in matching outfits.
A beverage cart pushed by the sister of the owner pulls up to the table with 12-can fridge packs of soda on the bottom and homemade sweet tea riding high served in the finest styrofoam tall-boy cups.
No order taking, no menu passing, no today's special recital just a three-tiered cart filled with the freshest southern comfort food you have ever had the joy to lay your eyes on just rolled up. Not even a choice is given... you get it all.
Mismatched muted green, yellow and orange bowls (the kind you would eat from when you were a kid) fill the table. Each vessel of southern goodness is filled with the likes of creamed potatoes, sweet corn, fresh green beans (southern style with bacon grease, of course) fluffy corn bread, the meatiest, richest meatloaf you have ever had and baked apples. Next, the meat baskets arrive each filled with salty country ham and perfectly cooked fried chicken.
My four-year-old daughter born and raised in the eco-green-no-MSG-not-too-much-sugar Seattle correctness is across the table scarfing creamed potatoes and country ham at a rate that makes the BP oil leak seem like a trickle.
The next minutes, hours and seconds are spent in conversation, a dance of flavors and a myriad of "mmmms" as each bite is savored. As your belly becomes Thanksgiving Day uncomfortable you begin to wonder how this special place came to be.
Once there was a man named Sam who liked to play country music for his friends (gathering folks in your home and playing the simple, traditional tunes that many generations before passed down has been a southern tradition for decades).
Sam Bray was a working man and his passion was playing country music to almost anyone who would listen and because of his schedule he could only play on weekends. Sam's wife; Louise was also getting on his case because the people who gathered to hear Sam play would trash the furniture, eat them out of house and home and basically were a nuisance; in a "ya'll come back now ya' hear" kind of way.
It's not a house, it's The Hillbilly Hide-A-Way!
Since then the Hillbilly Hide –A-Way Restaurant has continued its weekend-only hours along with live country music on Saturday's. It's known by patrons from around the world for its honest, carefully prepared southern comfort food.
Hillbilly Hideaway
4365 Pine Hall Road
Walnut Cove, NC 27052
336-591-4861
If you would like to plan a trip to North Carolina, contact
Travel 4 Real
1-800-554-5170
info@travel4real.com
Beach Town on Washington's Coast Well Worth The Visit
For Washington city dwellers looking for a beach weekend, look no further than Ocean Shores; a six mile long peninsula with two fresh water lakes, an old growth forest in the city center and over 250 different species of birds. Located 134 miles – about 2 hours 39 mins – west of Seattle the sparse beach town is known for its summer kite festival and its main attraction, six miles of sandy beaches that allow car access.
The family friendly town offers several places to stay, most being simple motels and vacation rentals. Touted as the #1 hotel in Ocean Shores, we chose the Shilo Inn to bring our family (the two of us, our preschooler and our 80lb 12 year-old Golden Retriever named Rico Suave.
The inn offers some guest services that you would not expect to see in a small hotel chain such as fitness center with wet and dry sauna, indoor heated pool that is actually a decent size, business center and guest laundry. Our Golden Retriever, Rico, was welcomed with open arms, a per night fee and grounded to only first floor rooms which limits the view from the balcony.
The restaurant is actually very good with breakfast being a hit for our family. The eggs were perfectly cooked, pancakes tall and fluffy and coffee/juice was fresh and delicious. Another big bonus of the restaurant was the waitress who had lived locally for 15 years and gave us local tourist information of the caliber of any visitor center or concierge.
The beach was just a few feet from the hotel with foot and car access. The town is filled with small independent shops and restaurants. An Ocean Shores pastime is kite flying and a two-time world champion kite team has a shop in town. Stop by Cutting Edge Kites (676 Ocean Shores Blvd NW Tel: 360-289-0667 360-289-0667 ) http://www.cuttingedgekites.com to pick up a kite and get some professional flying tips.
For eating in I recommend the Shilo Inn restaurant for breakfast, lunch and dinner. For eating out there are a few great choices that will please any budget or picky eater.
The best pizza in town is found at Dugan's Pizza (690 Ocean Shores Blvd. Tel: 360-289-2330 360-289-2330 ). The simple looking establishment cranks out glorious pies, packed with fresh toppings and perfectly cooked.
Many times beach side pubs are beer joints that are perfect for that get- sunburn -get -beer cycle but not so great for families with kids. A family friendly Irish pub with good food can be found at Galway Bay Irish Restaurant, Pub and Gift Shop (880 Point Brown Avenue Northeast Tel: 360-289-2300 360-289-2300 ) http://www.galwaybayirishpub.com . Live music on weekends and a family section with chalk board table to keep the kiddies busy was just perfect. The extensive menu featured traditional Irish fare such a Sheppard's pie or local favorites such as award-winning clam chowder served with hot Irish soda bread.
After a few days exploring the beach by foot, dune buggy, scooter or with your own car you will be ready to relax, lounge and eat. Ocean Shores offers visitors nature, simple beach life, good food and decent accommodations that will turn any simple weekend getaway into a surprising success.
Ocean Shores Summer Events (source www.tourismoceanshores.com)
Kite Challenge
Saturday, June 5 - Sunday, June 6, 2010
Sponsored by "Team Cutting Edge Kites" - 2005 & 2006 World Champions. Free kite flying lessons, stunt competitions, fun flies, displays and more. Come to the beach and watch the sky come to life with hundreds of colorful kites!
Sand and Sawdust Festival
Friday, June 25 - Sunday, June 27, 2010
Five Star Dealerships Sand and Sawdust Festival welcomes you to the beach! Master, Intermediate, & Novice Sand-Sculpting teams compete for over $5,000.00 in cash prizes.
For help in planning a trip to Ocean Shores or the Pacific Northwest call 1-800-554-5170 1-800-554-5170 or 425-355-3700 425-355-3700 . Send an email to info@travel4real.com
A journey to Italy with La Spiga 2010
A journey to Italy with La Spiga 2010
La Spiga Restaurant in Seattle has partnered with Italy 4 Real; the leading provider of boutique travel to Italy for a journey through the food, history and culture of Italy. The program was personally designed by co-owner Pietro Borghesi to bring you to the ancient places of his family to experience first hand the recipes, towns and people that made La Spiga famous. Experience Parma, Rimini, San Marino, Bologna, just to name a few; and enjoy cooking lessons, wine tastings and the finest foods Italy has to offer.
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When: September 28 - October 9, 2010 |
Where: Central Italy - Parma, Rimini, San Marino, Bologna, just to name a few |
Cost: From $2,992 per person/double occupancy |
Questions: 1-800-554-5170 or info@italy4real.com |
 - Click and complete first. |
 - Click after you register. |
The Program |
Show and tell your friends! Download and print a PDF of this program. Click Adobe Logo:  |
| September 28, 2010 - Arrival to Italy - Milan Airport to Parma |
| Included today: airport transfer, 4 star hotel, welcome drink, multi course welcome dinner. |
 About Parma: Parma, city of traditional aristocratic cultures, rich with preciouys works of art and a capital city in its past, famous for its most illustrious children and for artists who work within her-from Benedetto Antelami to Salimbene, from Correggio to Parmigianino, from Bodoni to Verdi and Toscanini, from Stendhal to Proust- is totally unlike any of the many beautiful cities that attract visitors to Italy. |
| Today's Events: Day 1 Arrival of the group in Milan. Pick up by private bus driver and departure for Parma. Arrival and check in at the 4 -Star Hotel Farnese in the centre of Parma. Accomodation and welcome drink. Time for you to relax and get familiar with this lovely art town. Welcome dinner in a traditional Trattoria and overnight stay.
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| September 29, 2010 - Giuseppe's Home & The King of Cheeses |
| Included today: minibus transfer, private cheese factory visit and private tasting, multi course lunch, private guided tour of Parma city centre, 4 star hotel. |
 Today's Events: Day 2 After breakfast, departure by private minibus to visit an amazing cheese factory of Parmigiano Reggiano. The visit will be extremely interesting: from the delivering of milk to the working and transformation of the traditional forms, to the salting and aging phase. This visit will last almost the entire morning and will conclude with a taste of this delicious cheese, famous in the whole world. Back to Parma where you will have lunch in one of the ancient “SALSAMENTERIE” in the town center. After lunch, meet with your guide for a walking tour of this elegant city, little known by tourists, but loved for its excellent food. You will visit the Palazzo Ducale, the Palazzo della Pilotta, the Teatro Regio and Teatro Farnese, the enchanting Cathedral and Baptistery, etc. The itinerary led by the guide will explain artistic highlights, as well as eno-gastronomic details. Rest of the afternoon free for individual activities and dinner. |
| September 30, 2010 - The Culatello Experience! |
| Included today: minibus transfer, ham factory visit and private tasting, tasting lunch, private guided tour of Busseto, Balsamic Vinegar tour and tasting, multi course tasting dinner, 4 star hotel. |
 Today's Events: Day 3 Enjoy a lovely breakfast at the hotel. Transfer to a local ham factory producing the famous “culatello”. You will enjoy a private tasting and educational tour of Culatello making. During the visit to the maturing factory the visitors will learn that winter mist and humid cellars are essential elements for a good maturing process After the visit and the tasting competition, you will have the opportunity to taste all kinds of salted meats produced by the factory during your pleasant tasting lunch that will complete your visit.
Later in the afternoon departure for the area of Modena. The excursion will continue with the visit the ancient “Acetaia Pedroni” www.acetaiapedroni.it producing the renowned Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena DOP – There you will meet the owner who will introduce you to the world of balsmic vinegar and its secrets. The day will end with a delicious early tasting dinner based on Aceto balsamico matched with traditional dishes. Back to Parma and overnight stay. |
| October 1, 2010 - Cervia & Milano Marttima |
| Included today: minibus transfer, tour of La Rocca di Fontanellato, 4 star hotel. |
 About Cervia: The Municipality of Cervia is located in Emilia Romagna, on a wonderful part of the Adriatic coast, 20km south of Ravenna. Its 10km shore characterised by fine sandy beaches and shallow water provides the setting for the resorts of Cervia, Milano Marittima, Pinarella and Tagliata. The office of Fondazione Cervia Ambiente was established here in 1973 for the improvement and protection of the environment. Cervia , the antique city of salt, is not just a seaside resort, but also a town steeped in culture and history. By strolling around the centre you will discover the charm of a city which was completely reconstructed brick by brick at the end of the XVII century. Milano Marittima is an exclusive and renowned resort on the Adriatic Riviera. In recent years it has become 'the place to be' for even the most demanding tourists. |
Today's Events Day 4 The piazza still retains the charm of the Po Valley village, and from the ‘Camera Ottica’ it is still possible to secretly observe life there, as the fortress governors once did, thanks to an ingenious system of lenses and prisms. Lunch in a local nice trattoria. At the end of the visit departure for Cervia. Accomodation in your GRAND HOTEL GALLIA - in Milano Marittima. Dinner on your own and overnight stay.
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| October 2, 2010 - Ravenna |
| Included today: minibus transfer, guided winery visit and tasting, light lunch, private guided tour of Ravenna, optional dinner, 4 star hotel. |
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| Today's Events: Day 5 Buffet breakfast at your hotel. In the morning departure for your adventure. First stop at a local winery in the area of Bertinoro (province of Ravenna) where you will have a guided visit and tasting of the local wines. Lunch time will be spent at a local eatery that will host you for a light tasting lunch. After the visit depart for Ravenna for a guided visit of the town. After the tour enjoy some free time before going back to your hotel. This evening you can find your own dinner spot have a dinner at Pietro's favorite spot; the Restaurant la Frasca or Il Caminetto in Milano Marittina. Overnight stay. |
| October 3, 2010 - Repubblica di San Marino! |
| Included today: minibus transfer, free time in Rimini, multi-course lunch, private tour of San Marino, 4 star hotel. |
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| Today's Events Day 6 Buffet breakfast at your hotel. This morning will be spent in Rimini, hometown of the great film maker Fellini. Free time to look around the town centre than departure Santarcangelo di Romagna. This beautiful village is as small gem in the territory of Romagna. According to the legend, this would be the town where the tragedy of Paolo and Francesca (the 2 lovers described into the Divine Comedy by Dante) took place. The village is surrounded by an atmosphere out of time and you will be surprised by the visit of the ancient grottos located under the soil of the village. This will be an unique experience that will remain in your memory. Lunch at a famous Osteria - where the flavours of the “Cucina Romagnola” reach their highligh with fresh homemade pasta, piadine, rich sauces and delicious roast meat. After lunch, a nice walk in the centre is suggested than departure for S. Marino. Guided walking tour of the centre with time on your own to take picture from the top of the mountain, with an amazing view of the valley and the coast. Time for a nice shopping along the narrow streets. Arrival at your hotel late in the afternoon. Dinner on your own and overnight stay. |
| October 4, 2010 - Faenza |
| Included today: minibus transfer, private guided tour of Faenza, visit to ceramics workshop, winery and cellar visit, tasting lunch, multi-course seafood dinner, 4 star hotel. |
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| Today's Events Day 7: Buffet breakfast at your hotel. Departure by private minibus to Faenza and guided visit of the town with a stop in a local workshop of ceramics where you can discover this ancient art that made Faenza famous around the world. At the end of the visit, departure for the coutryside to a local wine farm where you will have the chance to visit the wine cellars and have a delicious light tasting lunch of local delicacies. In the afternoon return to Cervia and free time for visiting and relax along the seaside. Dinner with seafood menu and overnight stay. |
| October 5, 2010 - Crossing the Apennies to the Spa! |
| Included today: minibus transfer, multi-course dinner, 4 star hotel. |
Today's Events Day 8:
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| October 6, 2010 - Becoming a Chef! |
Included today: minibus transfer, cooking course in Michelin Star restaurant, multi-course lunch, multi course candlelight dinner,4 star hotel. |
Buffet breakfast at your hotel. This morning will be devoted to the cooking class inside 1 Michelin star restaurant of Paolo Teverini with the pleasure to prepare a 3 course meal that you will enjoy for lunch. Rest of the afternoon is free to enjoy spa treatments, relax and enjoy all the plus of this lovely hotel in the silence of the nature. Candlelight dinner and overnight stay. |
| October 7, 2010 - Bologna |
| Included today: minibus transfer, guided tour of Bologna, tasting of area meats/cheeses, chocolate factory tour, visit of medieval market, multi course dinner, 4 star hotel. |
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Today's Events Day 10: Buffet breakfast at your hotel. Departure for Bologna. Arrival and meeting with your guide for a panoramic walking tour of the centre. Accommodation at the centrally located Hotel TRE VECCHI . Time on your own for lunch. In the afternoon with your guide, you will continue the tour of the town visiting the historical “botteghe” (food shops) of the centre, where you can taste many traditional delicacies and have some sopping: the “drogheria “ (the spice shop), the “salsamentario” (sauces shop), the “sfogline” (the ladies who makes hand made pasta), the chocolate factory and final the fully coloured medieval market. Dinner in centre to have the first close encounter with the “Fat Bologna” through a traditional dinner . Overnight stay.
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| October 8, 2010 - Tortellini's Passion! |
| Included today: minibus transfer, guided tour of oldest cooking school of Bologna, hands on cooking course, 3 course lunch, farewell dinner, 4 star hotel. |
Buffet breakfast at your hotel. Today you are going to prepare the true “Tortellini” in one of the oldest school of Bologna. So, after a nice welcome coffee break where you will be introduced to the “operations” and to the history of the school, you will take your place and start to prepare your handmade tortellini from the making of the dough, use of the roll, preparation of the filling and final creation of the so called “Venus’ navel” (3 hours class), followed by a delicious tasting of your masterpiece. Afternoon on your own for your last visits and shopping and farewell dinner in centre. Overnight stay. |
| October 9, 2010 - Arrivederci Italia! |
| Today's Events: Buffet Breakfast at our Hotel. Check out and departure for Milan by private coach. Transfer to Malpensa Airport and end of your trip. |
20 Passengers: $2,992.00 (Euro 2217) per person 18 Passengers: $3137.00 (Euro 2324) per person 15 Passengers: $3341.00 (Euro 2475) per person 13 Passengers: $3594.00 (Euro 2662) per person based on 1.35 Euro exchange. SINGLE SUPPLEMENT: € 300 |
This Program Includes:
About your stay at the Casa Paolo Teverini - The stay also includes:
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The quote does not include:
THE SELECTED HOTELS:
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About the Hotel Farnese: The recently renovated and upgraded 4-star hotel has always been one of Parma’s most cutting-edge. Its close location to the historical centre means guests can reach Parma’s Ospedale Maggiore, the Tardini Stadiumv, the Law Courts, all the museums, the Regio Theatre and the Paganini Auditorium from the hotel in just a few minutes. 
Early in the afternoon transfer to Busseto. The Parma province is known as The Food Valley of Italy. It represents the motherland of a the greatest composer of Italy, Giuseppe Verdi, who wars born in Roncole di Busseto. This afternoon you will travel back in time by visiting his home, St. Agata , the Teatro Verdi and the Casa Museo Barezzi devoted to the artist's life. 
About the Grand Hotel Gallia: The Grand Hotel Gallia has an excellent location, just a few metres away from the sea and from the Milano Marittima pinewood, an oasis of tranquillity and freshness. In just five minutes’ walk you can reach the centre of active social life and of the most famous and fashionable clubs and shops, and the convenience of having all the most interesting places at such a short distance makes this hotel one of the most famous ones in Milano Marittima.
About Ravenna: Ravenna is a treasure chest of art, history and culture of the highest order, a city with ancient origins and a glorious past and capital three times, of the Western Roman Empire, of King Theodoric of the Goths and of the Byzantine Empire in Europe. The basilicas and baptisteries of the city contain the richest heritage of mosaics dating from the 5th and 6th centuries and eight historic buildings included in the World Heritage List of UNESCO. If Ravenna was the most important political and cultural centre of the West during the centuries that saw the decline of the Latin civilisation, it is no less important in later ages, from the archaeology of the Domus dei Tappeti di Pietra to the vast Roman port of Classe. It is the city that guards the remains of Dante and keeps alive the memory of the great poet with important cultural events. The winding streets still reveal the past of a city built on a lagoon, the presence of water in the canals that cross it, closed during the period of Venetian rule and at the end of the fifteenth century opening the elegant space of Piazza Maggiore, now known as Piazza del Popolo. 
About San Marino: The Republic of San Marino was founded in 301 A.D. and is the most ancient European Republic. An enclave situated in central Italy, 15 km from the Romagna Riviera, the Republic sits at 700 meters above sea level on Mount Titano, a prominence which gives the first hint of the presence of the Central Apennine Mountains.
Faenza: Brief Area History: Faenza, along the via Emilia, is an ancient Roman city. Only a few architectural examples remain of the medieval period, for example: St. Hippolytus and the churches of St. Maria Foris Portam and the Commenda. The same cannot be said for what was one of the brightest periods of Faenza during the dominion of the Manfredi family. In fact, a thriving era began with the rebuilding of the Cathedral in 1474, with the influence of Tuscan renaissance art. Artists such as Giuliano and Benedetto da Maiano, Donatello, the Della Robbia, Biagio d'Antonio of Florence and others moved to Faenza to work. The Baroque period instead boasts many great architectural works that represent the current face of Faenza: the structure of the two main piazzas with fountain, the clock tower, the loggias and the arcade wings of the Palazzo del Comune (Town Hall) and the Palazzo del Podestà . Faenza's Ceramics: The ceramics of Faenza boasts a tradition of many centuries that also today continues to hold significant importance in artisan and industrial expression. The geographic location of the city makes it a meeting point between the Tuscan and Po cultures, becoming a ceramic centre of primary importance since the Middle Ages. The fame of these products of Faenza is such that the majolica is known throughout the world with the French name Faience.
About the Casa Paolo Teverini: Even though the exact date of foundation is unknown, there are written documents that it existed already in 1600 in the same position where it is now managed by the same family that still runs the business with big enthusiasm. Documents of the 18th century testify that the ancient inn included also a butchery with an attached stable for the change of the horses, the so called "posta". It was the only rest stop for travellers between Cesena and Florence. Nowadays the hotel became the destination of tourists that want to find the highest level of services but with a family management. 
About the Spa: An extraordinary experience and a pleasant holiday during which all your senses will be involved by the perfumes, colors, and sweet notes of a relaxing and energizing environment where it is easy to relax and let yourself be fondled with many proposals for a holiday characterized by vitality, fun, and a healthy sport activity in a fairy-tale like landscape. On an ancient sea giving us ancient thermal waters, in the peacefulness of a hilly landscape...a place for senses, body, and mind welcoming you with the delicate perfume of flowers and essential oils, among murmured musical notes, where nature, science, and experience harmoniously mix... for a complete list of spa services just ask. 
Today's Events: 
Bologna: Brief Area History: The history of Bologna is so closely woven into its architectural structure that the monuments on the average tourist itinerary don’t even begin to tell the whole story. Visiting Bologna means losing yourself among the porticos and alleys, discovering stately old palazzi, and, yes, also visiting those monuments that have become the symbols of the city. The one real monument to Bologna is Bologna itself. 
About Hotel Tre Vecchi: Your hotel is located on the main street of Bologna in an old building with a characteristic portico. Zanhotel Tre Vecchi is in the heart of the city centre and it is easily reached by any means Its 95 rooms are perfectly and elegantly furnished, all with air conditioning, satellite TV, PAY TV, Internet wi-fi, radio, minibar, and safe. A very rich hot buffet breakfast is served every morning into the characteristic dining room of the hotel. 
Today's Events Day 11: Travel 4 Real Radio Show May 10th, 2010
This weeks radio show features how India's rare tigers are threatened by tourists who come to see the great beasts.
Also we cover the Lonely Planet Awards.
Listen in!
The French Hate Americans
We hear it all the time, it’s almost a cliché when traveling to Europe. The French are rude; give Americans poor service and now they hate us. They hate us for the way we handled the war, for being gas guzzling, overeating Americans.. right?
WRONG – Absolutely wrong. I travel for a living all over the world; scouting new locations for my travel business. Before my most recent trip to Paris I was actually gearing up for the extra rude service, short fuses and maybe a physical attack. I bought a passport cover so when I pulled it out people could not see I was an American… how stupid.
Not only was my paranoia an over reaction, but it was a complete waste of energy and time. The French people were polite, gracious, respectful and at times went out of there way to make me feel at home.
You may be thinking “He travels for a living, he probably dresses like the locals and speaks French” Wrong again; I hardly speak a lick of French and when out and about I look like your average American.
While strolling near the Boulevard Saint-Germain taking pictures, a local noticed I was alone and offered to take a photo of me with my camera. How nice.. how darn nice; I was thrown.
In a restaurant on the Champs-Elysées which is a touristy area, I really expected rude waiters, long stairs and poor service. I got the exact opposite. A friendly waiter who tried his best to accommodate my needs in English and great service despite the fact I was dressed in cargo pants, sandals and a t-shirt from walking around all day.
I began looking for the famous “rude Frenchman” I began sitting in cafes observing tourists, hoping to see something to tell me my good experiences were a fluke. The closest thing I found was a mildly annoyed metro employee… big deal.
I was eager to speak with a French person to get the scoop on the whole “American thing” Later that afternoon one of my scheduled business meetings began at my hotel. I asked the rep I was meeting if we he could take me to a café for coffee to discuss business. This would be my opportunity to corner a local and get the goods. He said “I know of a great café that just opened” so we began to walk the narrow streets of Paris. We arrived to the café and to my astonishment I was taken to Starbucks! Yes, Starbucks. I was thrown into an American institution of the coffee world, smack in the middle of Paris. What better setting to discuss how the French think toward Americans.
After two café lattes, I was enlightened. It all made sense now. The French and many Europeans in general see the people of America separately from their government. They realize that it’s the powers that be that are to blame, not the American people. It really makes sense if you think about it. Europeans have seen themselves separated and in some cases alienated by their own governments for centuries. They see Americans in the same light.
As I walk thought out the city of Paris I am amazed at the number of monuments and institutions dedicated to America. Many people know that there is a smaller copy of the statue of Liberty in Paris, but did you know there are three? Did you know there is an American church or an entire district of the city dedicated to the USA? The 16th district in the heart of the city is the American area of town where more than 25,000 Americans live and are considered a welcome part of the city.
The French people are flabbergasted that Americans may feel they are not welcome. There is a major factor which the current trend has not taken into consideration. The French would not be on the planet if it were not for the Americans and British. This fact its engrained in every French person. America was the savior of their world. During my visit; there was a celebration of the liberation of Paris on August 26, 1944. The city was plastered with photos of American, British and French people celebrating the victory from the tyranny of Hitler.
We must realize that what the US did for Europe and France during the second world war greatly outweighs any adverse statements or disagreements made by the past administrations of both countries.
America the great melting pot, the great hero of Europe needs to rise above the rhetoric, the fear the media throws at us, the negative light and understand they are welcome, wanted and embraced by a society who is still greatly indebted to the good old USA.
If you are a traveler or will be to Europe, please, please let down your guard and you will experience nothing but the crisp air, good food, a bottle of wine, and smile from an old friend from across the world.
WRONG – Absolutely wrong. I travel for a living all over the world; scouting new locations for my travel business. Before my most recent trip to Paris I was actually gearing up for the extra rude service, short fuses and maybe a physical attack. I bought a passport cover so when I pulled it out people could not see I was an American… how stupid.
Not only was my paranoia an over reaction, but it was a complete waste of energy and time. The French people were polite, gracious, respectful and at times went out of there way to make me feel at home.
You may be thinking “He travels for a living, he probably dresses like the locals and speaks French” Wrong again; I hardly speak a lick of French and when out and about I look like your average American.
While strolling near the Boulevard Saint-Germain taking pictures, a local noticed I was alone and offered to take a photo of me with my camera. How nice.. how darn nice; I was thrown.
In a restaurant on the Champs-Elysées which is a touristy area, I really expected rude waiters, long stairs and poor service. I got the exact opposite. A friendly waiter who tried his best to accommodate my needs in English and great service despite the fact I was dressed in cargo pants, sandals and a t-shirt from walking around all day.
I began looking for the famous “rude Frenchman” I began sitting in cafes observing tourists, hoping to see something to tell me my good experiences were a fluke. The closest thing I found was a mildly annoyed metro employee… big deal.
I was eager to speak with a French person to get the scoop on the whole “American thing” Later that afternoon one of my scheduled business meetings began at my hotel. I asked the rep I was meeting if we he could take me to a café for coffee to discuss business. This would be my opportunity to corner a local and get the goods. He said “I know of a great café that just opened” so we began to walk the narrow streets of Paris. We arrived to the café and to my astonishment I was taken to Starbucks! Yes, Starbucks. I was thrown into an American institution of the coffee world, smack in the middle of Paris. What better setting to discuss how the French think toward Americans.
After two café lattes, I was enlightened. It all made sense now. The French and many Europeans in general see the people of America separately from their government. They realize that it’s the powers that be that are to blame, not the American people. It really makes sense if you think about it. Europeans have seen themselves separated and in some cases alienated by their own governments for centuries. They see Americans in the same light.
As I walk thought out the city of Paris I am amazed at the number of monuments and institutions dedicated to America. Many people know that there is a smaller copy of the statue of Liberty in Paris, but did you know there are three? Did you know there is an American church or an entire district of the city dedicated to the USA? The 16th district in the heart of the city is the American area of town where more than 25,000 Americans live and are considered a welcome part of the city.
The French people are flabbergasted that Americans may feel they are not welcome. There is a major factor which the current trend has not taken into consideration. The French would not be on the planet if it were not for the Americans and British. This fact its engrained in every French person. America was the savior of their world. During my visit; there was a celebration of the liberation of Paris on August 26, 1944. The city was plastered with photos of American, British and French people celebrating the victory from the tyranny of Hitler.
We must realize that what the US did for Europe and France during the second world war greatly outweighs any adverse statements or disagreements made by the past administrations of both countries.
America the great melting pot, the great hero of Europe needs to rise above the rhetoric, the fear the media throws at us, the negative light and understand they are welcome, wanted and embraced by a society who is still greatly indebted to the good old USA.
If you are a traveler or will be to Europe, please, please let down your guard and you will experience nothing but the crisp air, good food, a bottle of wine, and smile from an old friend from across the world.
Pleasant surprise at a road side inn
Being in the tour operating business; I have seen many hotels, motels, inns, B&B’s, villas and rentals. I think the last time I counted; I may have seen several thousand.
The Coachman Inn in Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island was a pleasant surprise for a road side inn. Road side inns gained their popularity in the 1950’s when the route 66 generation hit the roads to explore America. Hundreds upon hundreds of two and three story outside access motels spouted up along roads like dandelions.
These properties are several decades old so many of them can be stricken with “drab from the past syndrome” where flower drapes, old carpet and out of date bed covers abound; but not the Coachman Inn.
When you enter your room; you notice the tasteful upgrades the moment you key in. The double bed presentation was superb with a setup you would find in the Four Seasons with great pillows, textured white linens with a touch of color from a well done throw.
Flat screen TV’s in many rooms, nicely finished loveseat, chair and wood coffee table cluster make the room feel homey. A tiled backsplash kitchenette stocked with all you need to create meal put a nice finishing touch on the room.
The bathroom while dated was done very well and added a retro feel to the updated overall appearance.
Some of the things you don’t expect to see in a road side inn which you do at the Coachman are full toiletries including shoe shine cloth, good quality shampoos, lotions and very nice heavy towels.
The lobby is well done with high quality furniture and an amazing lobby bathroom (the kind you wish you had in your room) several flat screens and a few gas fireplaces; again not what you would expect to see in a road side inn. Elizabeth, the weekend front desk person was friendly, very organized and gave us great suggestions for family walks, outside adventures, shopping and dining recommendations.
The breakfast is more than you would expect with eggs, good coffee selection, cereals, English muffins and their own homemade biscuits and gravy. The breakfast room is quite small so try to go early or late so you aren’t bumping elbows with your fellow “inners”
During our visit in February the pool was closed but the Jacuzzi was open, clean and welcoming.
Another impressive element of this road side inn was the usually barren spaces in the parking lot. Those “islands” of parking barriers and grass strips were all well groomed landscapes with lovely planters, well manicured flowers, plants and what seemed to be Bonsai’s.
The Coachman Inn is located just down the road from Deception Pass State Park which is a 4,134-acre marine and camping park with 77,000 feet of saltwater shoreline, and 33,900 feet of freshwater shoreline on three lakes. Rugged cliffs drop to meet the turbulent waters of Deception Pass. The park is outstanding for breath-taking views, old-growth forests and abundant wildlife; the inn makes a great base location to see this amazing park.
Don’t expect any views, business centers or room service but what you can expect is a great road side inn that delivers way more than expected and one that is located on a great island near amazing outdoor activities.
The Coachman Inn can be booked with special Travel 4 Real pricing by contacting us at info@travel4real.com or by calling 425-355-3711
Amazing Cooking Tour in Abruzzo Region Italy
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So you like cooking? Want to experience the real Italy in a way that explores the foods, ingredients and flavors of the local area while participating in hands on cooking classes with local professionals? Well Italy 4 Real’s cooking courses are custom designed and hand selected for their quality, experience and support local growers, markets and producers. | ||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||||
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