Sit back, pour a glass of your favorite varietal and start dreaming of your next trip. If you’re considering a wine tour through Europe and wondering what destinations are of top tasting value, then here are a few to mark on your map.

Bordeaux, France

Bordeaux is situated in the southwest of France and is home to the largest wine producing region in the country – which itself is the largest wine producing country in the world. Tours here give visitors the chance to experience a beautiful port city surrounded by rolling hills lined with grape vines. The town of Saint-Émilion is a great place to head for tours and tastings.

Montepulciano, Italy

Tuscany is known throughout the world for being a major food and wine centre, and if you’re looking to experience both wonderful tastes and stunning sites, including Renaissance churches and artwork, then the region of Montepulciano is for you. The famed Vino Nobile di Montepulciano is a dry, full-bodied red, and was for a long time the only wine to be served to region’s nobility.

Porto and the Douro Valley, Portugal

Today people will commonly call any dessert wine a Port, but true Port can only be produced in one region of the world. The Douro Valley is known for producing sweet red wines in a variety of styles, from Tawny Port to Late Bottle Vintage. Visitors to this region of Portugal will also quickly discover that it is home to one of Europe’s most stunning natural landscapes.

La Rioja, Spain

La Rioja is home to what most will consider Spain’s finest wine, made from the country’s noble grape, Tempranillo. If you’re a fan of food and wine pairings than Spain is the perfect destination for you, as most tastings can be paired with delcious servings of Tapas. La Rioja is also home to a number of quaint towns such as Arnedillo, and famous sites like the Monasterios de San Millán de Yuso.

If you’re looking for some of the best places to not only taste wine, but also enjoy local food and stunning vistas, then the above destinations will not disappoint.

The post Best Wine Destinations in Europe appeared first on Vi Travel Tips.

For the ardent skier, nothing beats skiing in a picturesque location during winter – it makes you feel exhilarated and connected with nature and gives you a soul moving experience all at once. A first-rate destination is the ultimate key to a legendary winter vacation. Luckily, there are more than enough skiing locations with idyllic environments for skiers, and even though not everyone may agree on the parameters used in ranking each one of them, the following locations certainly make the cut.

1. Muju, South Korea

Tucked in a rugged interior of South Korea’s Jeiollabuk-do province, Muju Ski Resort is one of Asia’s most outstanding skiing spots. While here, you can get to enjoy spectacular views of the Mt Deogyo National Park as you glide through a 6km stretch of snow – the longest slope in Korea. Nocturnal skiing enthusiasts are guaranteed of even more fun at night and if you are one of them, you can literally have the whole place to yourself. There are plenty of nice restaurants and small joints around where you can get your energy levels back up when you need to.

2. Jackson Hole, Jackson

Jackson Hole has been touted as the place to be for all the extreme skiers and hardcore snowboarders and this is obviously for some good reasons. With its peak elevation at an outstanding 10,450 ft, Jackson Hole offers some challenging terrain for those in need of an adrenaline fix. Just a short distance from this resort is the Museum of Wildlife art and the Bridger Teton National Forest which are great places to take a breather when you are not out on the trails.

3. Zell am See, Austria

A skiing location is more than just the slopes, and this is what merits Zell am See’s inclusion in this list. Zell am See has one of the most outstanding ski settings with over approximately 80 Miles of slopes. The place caters for new, intermediate as well as expert skiers, with runs specifically designed for each group. While in this lakeside town, skiers can also take a boat trip or hop into the numerous bars around and grab a cold drink.

4. Aspen Mountain, Colorado

If you are looking for the picture perfect skiing destination in North America, Colorado’s Aspen Mountains has great things in store. This spot has more than 1400 acres of skiing slope and three other resorts within its radius. If you are an adventurous type, you’ll have a great time riding in the hot air balloons. Optionally, you could go for ice skating or a snowmobile ride, or simply just soak in the hot springs within.

5. Courchevel, France

With over 100 ski runs, Courchevel offers a vast ski area for any skier visiting the place. It is also known to be a favorite spot for the affluent in France. However, with the perfectly groomed trails and terrific views the location provides, you don’t need to be a millionaire to have a good time here. The La Grange and Les Caves are some of the exclusive joints to check out if you want to have a great night out while here.

6. Banff, Canada

Found right at the heart of the Banff National Park, a world heritage site, this skiing location is home to Mt Norquay, Sunshine Area and Lake Louise Ski Area – three of the world’s best skiing resorts. The steeps, bowls and chutes in this location provide just the right terrain for the experienced skier and the year round snowfall means anytime is skiing time.

7. Courmayeur, Italy

The slopes at this location are very suitable for intermediate cruising in view of the fact that they are quite easy and short, but the most outstanding thing about Courmayeur is the view provided by the Monte Bianco Massif and the Cresta Youla and Cresta d’Arp high points. If you do not like skiing and just prefer to see the sites around though, you can take a ride in the cable cars and have fun watching the panoramic views below. Regardless of where you choose to head to for skiing, you can be guaranteed to have a thrilling experience.

To help with organizing your trip, flight comparison site momondo put together this really helpful infographic about the fees for taking to winter sports equipment on flights – check it out before your fly!

About author: Alyssa is an outgoing introvert from Toronto who has read The Alchemist a few too many times. After graduating university, she taught English on a Caribbean island where she realized her passion for writing. Since then, her work has appeared in the Globe and Mail, the Teaching Education Journal, local newspapers, and on White Horse Digital. Her latest musings on life in London can be read on her blog, Alyssa Writes.

The post 7 of the Most Scenic Ski Locations around the World appeared first on Vi Travel Tips.

Only 4 hours away from the UK is the sun kissed country of Turkey. With coastlines on the Aegean and the Mediterranean, a great exchange rate and an outstanding choice of resorts, it is little wonder that so many Brits now flock there every year. Whether or not you have been to Turkey before the following guide should see you in good stead if you are considering a Turkish holiday in 2014. If you were not considering this great destination, well, maybe after reading this you will be looking for a great value Turkish holiday.

Unique location

Some view Turkey as a virtual bridge between the continents of Asia and Europe as whichever way you look at it Turkey enjoys a unique location geographically. Being the point where the Christian West meets the Muslim East, the country gains extra frisson when you compare it with its Mediterranean competitors such as Greece and Italy. While you are quite likely to roused at dawn by the call to prayer for the predominantly Muslim population, it is every much a secular state and when you hear the calling for dusk prayers emanating from the closest mosque’s minaret you will probably be sitting enjoying a beer or a glass of wine with a delicious evening meal.

Origins and culture

Giving a partial nod to the Islamic heritage of the county, and another to their origins as nomadic herdsmen going about their business on Central Asia’s steppes, you will find that the Turks are incredibly open, friendly and hospitable. Being served a glass of tea in an unusual, tulip shaped glass and then being joined by the shopkeeper from a local bazaar will not usually be a ploy for him to use you as a captive audience for his sales spiel, it is merely part of the Turkish culture and should be welcomed.

Major attractions

The thrill of taking a holiday somewhere with such a different culture to our own, and being surrounded by some of the friendliest people in the world, does not go very far in explaining why 35m visitors choose to holiday in Turkey every year. A major player in its appeal is its coastline, and 1700 miles of Aegean coast and 1000 miles on the Mediterranean will satisfy even the most discerning of beach lovers.

In Turkey’s Aegean region are the mountains belonging to the Anatolian interior. Anatolia itself is a vast and tilting tableland of mountain and ‘steps’ which run for nearly 1000 miles up to the border with Iran. The mountains are at right angles to the coast, thus giving this area a beautiful, indented coastline consisting of coves, bays, peninsulas and promontories, and this coastline is at its most dramatic around the hugely popular resorts of Marmaris and Bodrum.

In some areas of the mountainous south west of the country you will see the mountains actually plunging into the sea, and this is also the area where the Aegean and the Mediterranean merge. Head east past Antalya and you will find a broad plain, with a backdrop of the stunning Taurus mountains, that is fringed by an endless run of glorious sandy beaches.

Development

Despite the fact that the Turkish authorities vowed long ago not to go in the same direction as Spain when it came to development, it has had a huge impact on the landscape. This is particularly noticeable around the Antalya area where golf courses and all-inclusive resorts have irrevocably altered the whole outlook of the area.

The rockier shores around the southern Aegean and south west Mediterranean have been much more reluctant to make such changes however. And resorts such as Kalkan, Kas, Dalyan, Bodrum and Gelemis (Patara) have managed to retain a lot of their original charm. Even though most visitors to these resorts are more than content to swim, soak up the rays and take the odd tour, those who like to keep active have ample opportunities to go diving, kayaking and windsurfing.

This rocky coastline lends itself perfectly to the ‘gulet’ tours. These ancient, wooden yachts are a major tourist attraction and if you want to go one step further you can charter your own. There are many that are so luxurious they are akin to a floating villa and perfect for a spot of self-indulgence.

History

Exploring the ancient sites of Turkey is hugely enjoyable, whether you are a history buff or not. The Mediterranean and Aegean littoral is generously strewn with some outstanding Greco-Roman ruins from such historical heavyweights as Ephesus and Troy but there are also many lesser known wonders to be discovered such as Sagalassos and Arykanda. Most of the sites are easily accessible by either a hire car or on an organised tour, but there are some who are best visited by boat.

Easily accessible from a large number of main coastal resorts are such geological wonders as the hot springs and amazing travertine basins at Pammukale, and if you fancy taking a trip from Antalya an absolute must is the stunning Turkish lake-land around Egirdir. This gives a lush, cooling respite away from the extreme summer heat. The Carian, St Pauls and Lycian marked trails have effectively opened up the mountains behind the coast so walkers can enjoy their splendour and those who choose to visit in the winter will enjoy the ski resorts at Davraz and Saklikent.

A bit more info

Few realise just how big Turkey actually is, and with the country enjoying so many return visitors it is hardly surprising that they, after several forays to the coast, find the lure of Anatolia’s austere landscape too hard to resist.

The strange formations of volcanic rock cut for the Byzantine churches at Cappadocia are hugely popular and this is the most appealing region to visit inland, not least because of its “cave” boutique hotels, of which there are hundreds.

Those who have penchant for an altogether wilder vista and/or lesser known civilisations should head to the Hittite heartlands which are to the east of Ankara. Armenian churches as Urartian fortresses encircle the ridiculously blue waters of Lake Van whilst to the south east are the basins of Euphrates and Tigris, known as the “cradle of civilisation”. These areas are an awful long way, and in more than just distance, from the overcrowded coastal hotspots, and are both beautiful and fascinating.

Wherever you stay in Turkey, be it in a budget priced apartment from providers such as Icelolly.com or a posh private villa, make the effort to take either an organised tour or hire a car and criss-cross the country. You are guaranteed a warm welcome anywhere you decide visit and will come away knowing about a country that is not east or west, but it unique in its own right.

This article was contributed by Sam Jones

The post Turkey, coast and inland appeared first on Vi Travel Tips.

Visiting Verona is a treat for foodies because the standard of food and drink is exceptionally high. Because it’s one of the primary wine-producing regions in Italy and very close to Lake Garda (one of the biggest and most popular lakes in the country), locals are very discerning about the quality of products sold in “fair Verona”.

The beautiful and historic city centre is packed with ‘osterias’ or traditional pubs; whereas in the UK beer would be served – in Verona the wine lists are as long as your arm! Beautifully matched with fresh pastas, risottos, cured meats and cheeses, the wine is mouth-watering, and it makes these atmospheric osterias a must-see when you’re in Verona.

Matching Valpolicella wine with food in Verona

Not all of us can effortlessly select a wine bottle from a menu (particularly when it’s all in Italian) without suffering a moment’s hesitation. If you’re touring Verona to visit the grand Roman Amphitheatre and take a peek at Juliet’s House (where the balcony is of course an icon of Verona), then you may not have time to squeeze in a wine tour.

However, winemaking in the region goes back centuries to the time of the ancient Greeks (although the name is thought to be a mixture of Latin and Greek meaning “Valley of Cellars”) and it’s well worth tasting the local wine well you’re there. So, here’s a Valpolicella cheat sheet with a list of the best wines to choose when you stop for a meal in Verona in-between sightseeing.

Amarone della Valpolicella: heady, velvety elegance

Amarone is a renowned Verona wine made from mainly dried Cassabria (Corvina) grapes. This process results in a rich, strong taste that often has an aroma of raisins and cherries, and which is low in acid. It is best matched with very flavourful dishes that can absorb its robustness, for example, steak, beef, sausages or kidneys. A hearty serving of Ossobuco (a Milanese dish of veal braised with wine and cooked in vegetable broth) is another good match.

Valpolicella reds: light & easy drinking

Like Amarone, these wines are made from the Corvina, Rondinella and Molinara grapes, but they’re inexpensive and designed to be shared with a nice pizza, tomato-based pasta or whatever else is fresh in the kitchen! They’re usually labelled Classico, Superiore or Classico Superiore, and the latter two are aged for just over a year. This wine is made in high quantities and although it has suffered negative reviews in the past, newer winemakers are rapidly improving its international reputation.

Recioto: sweet after-dinner treat

For those who are not big wine drinkers, a small sip of wine with dessert is a nice way to get an introduction to Verona’s delicious wine and learn about the city’s fascinating history. First made in Roman times and reportedly a favourite of Emperor Augustus, Recioto was sweetened with honey, spices and watered down with water. In terms of food pairings: sweet almond cookies or cantucci, soft local cakes such as sbrisolona or dark chocolate cake are good choices. For a lighter dessert, try it with strawberries and cherries, or a chunk of mild Gorgonzola.

If you have the time to squeeze in a visit to a wine estate, you’ll find you’re really spoilt for choice in terms of the number and variety. For Amarone tasting, Allegrini wine estate is a top winery that’s well worth visiting, while Fratelli Vogadori has a range of Valpolicella and Amarone wines that are worth trying. While there are many Amarone-producing vineyards in the region, there are a few well-known ones that are worth checking out; have a look at this map that highlights the best wineries in Valpolicella before you set out.

About the author: Ellie Smits is a lifestyle writer who has a soft spot in her heart for wine. With over ten years of experience, she focuses on spas, nutrition and lifestyle stories, but during her latest holiday to Italy she focused on the health benefits of drinking wine (in moderation, of course)!

The post Wine tasting cheat sheet: exploring Verona appeared first on Vi Travel Tips.

Few places in the world that are blessed with such spectacular scenery as the North Italian Lakes: olive groves, lush forests and a patchwork of countryside surround clear blue waters and soaring hillsides. Considered by many to be the jewel in the crown, Lake Garda is the largest lake in the country and marks the foothill of the Alps, which lead all the way across the border into Switzerland. Unsurprisingly, the region is great for outdoor pursuits including water sports, sailing, climbing, cycling and walking; check out some of the best spots below, or for more details search for Lake Garda holidays with Inghams.

Lake Garda is a popular water sports destination and families and groups will particularly enjoy days out canyoning in the many pools and streams around the lake. Activities include jumps, slides and abseils down waterfalls, all under supervision from local guides. Depending on how confident you are, there are beginner’s options as well as more advanced routes.

Windsurfing is big news around the northern resort of Riva. Enthusiasts come from all over Europe to experience the early morning winds from the mountains. First-timers may want to wait for the gentler afternoon breeze known as the ‘ora’ and take a lesson or two at their leisure. A more unusual variation is kite-surfing which has seen a surge in popularity recently – the best spots for this are located to the east of the lake around Brenzone and Malcesine.

Back on dry land, there are still a host of activities to try. Lake Garda’s Alpine setting has made it a natural attraction for the mountaineering community, and there are many challenging and varied climbs to crack. The village of Arco in the north is best-known for its limestone crags which offer numerous climbing opportunities, and the cliffs at Marciaga are worth a trip as well. Mountain bikers will love exploring the cycling tracks which surround the lake; head south for easier options among small hills and farmland, or try the western routes Mount Tremalzo for breathtaking views that make the hard work worthwhile.

Walkers will also find a wide choice of beautiful trails. Stroll from town to town, past vineyards and ancient monasteries, or seek out countless lakeside and mountain viewpoints along the shore. The palaces, churches and loggias of Salo make for an interesting culture trail through the town, while the summit of Monte Baldo can be reached by cable car, leaving you to enjoy the vistas as you start the downward hike. Torbole, at the foot of Mount Baldo, is also a picturesque starting point for the casual walker.

Lake Garda has huge appeal for both outdoor enthusiasts and visitors who just want to access the stunning landscape and try their hand at a few activities. With charming lakeside resorts, fine cuisine and local wines to boot, this is a holiday experience which covers all the bases.

Catriona Miller is a freelance writer who particularly enjoys the convenience of package holidays. While many like to get off the beaten track, Catriona prefers to take it easy and pay for the majority of her trips in advance. From soaking up the sun on tropical beaches to exploring hidden villages using organised day trips, she loves getting away from the UK weather!

The post Outdoor activities in lake Garda appeared first on Vi Travel Tips.

In 1940-1950s the natural lake Reschensee (lake Resia) was dammed up by 22 meters for electricity generation. Because of this 70% of the population were forced to emigrate or move away, almost 200 houses and farms were destroyed and people who decided to stay lived in temporary barracks for two years. Bell tower of church of Curon Venosta is everything left above water level.

The post Weekly Travel Photo. Church of Curon Venosta appeared first on Vi Travel Tips.

As summer approaches, many people are thinking about where they want to spend their holiday this year. Battling with everybody else for a piece of beach, or pushing through crowds to see a city’s top attractions can turn what should have been a relaxing holiday into an experience you’ll need another break to recover from.

If you’re tired of going where everyone else is, there’s a multitude of other less well known but just as fascinating holiday destinations you could visit.

Calgary, Canada

Many people simply use Calgary as a base to reach other, more popular destinations like Jasper or Banff, but this city has a lot to offer in itself. Downtown you’ll find a plethora of bustling restaurants, cafes and bars as well as museums and other cultural centres. You can visit Calgary Zoo or relax in Devonian Gardens, which is one of the world’s biggest urban indoor gardens. Heading west of the city you’ll find the Heritage Historical Village and great shopping areas.

Canberra, Australia

Overshadowed by the popularity of Sydney, which is often also mistaken as Australia’s capital, Canberra is rich in culture and history. It’s home to some of the country’s best museums and galleries, including the National Gallery of Australia and the National Portrait Gallery, and is dotted with national monuments. It hosts a number of major festivals, like Stonefest and the National Folk Festival. It’s also a great place for those who love the outdoors, with fantastic parks, nature reserves and bushwalks.

Formentera, Spain

Many people think of holidays in Majorca when they want to enjoy the sun, sand and sea. This island does have it all, but so does the less well-known Formentera. The last of the Pine islands, Formentera is a small island south of Ibiza. It’s composed of stunning white sand beaches and ideal for water sports or a hike around the cliffs. Many regions are managed as national parkland and boardwalks through the sand dunes are an ideal way to observe the different species of flora and fauna.  For a little history there are a number of intriguing cultural attractions including megalithic sites, 18^th century watchtowers and castles.

Gdańsk, Poland

Rebuilt during the 50s and 60s after its heavy destruction during World War II, Gdańsk is an up-and-coming tourist destination. Walking around its streets you can admire some beautiful architecture, monuments and fountains. The Old Town is particularly interesting and contains the old city hall, Artus Court and the Golden and Green gates. It has all the charms of a coastal town and you can go sailing, take a canoe tour or simply have a dip in the sea.

Siena, Italy

Italy is a major tourist destination and many people come to float on a gondola in Venice or visit the Vatican in Rome. Siena is one of the more overlooked cities. However, its historic centre is particularly fascinating and has even been recognized by UNESCO as a World Heritage Site. It has a number of notable landmarks that include its 12^th century cathedral, and the Palazzo Pubblico, housed within the Piazza del Campo. The city is also renowned for its art, museums and delicious cuisine.

The post Top 5 underrated destinations you should visit this year appeared first on Vi Travel Tips.

Actually you don’t need to climb to the top of hill to see very nice view of Piazza del Popolo with Obelisk Flamino in the middle of it. In the back you can see Vatican City with St. Peter”s Basilica.

Will be more.

The post Places for panoramic view of Rome. Pincian Hill appeared first on Vi Travel Tips.