Calabria Guidebook
So just where is Calabria? The Calabria region is the part of southern Italy called the toe of the boot - take a look at this Calabria Map. Calabria is a fascinating region that's not heavily touristed. It has four national parks, mountains, and lots of coast. Lamezia Terme airport has flights to other parts of Italy and Europe and ferries cross to Sicily from the west coast.
Pictures: Northern Calabria Pictures
Wordless Wednesday - Soave Castle
Soave Castle - an expected attraction in northern Italy's Veneto Region
More Italy Castles
Picture of Soave Castle © Martha Bakerjian, licensed to about.com
Italy's Dolomite Mountains Become a UNESCO World Heritage Site
It features some of the most beautiful mountain landscapes anywhere, with vertical walls, sheer cliffs and a high density of narrow, deep and long valleys.
World Leaders Travel to L'Aquila
Location: Abruzzo Region Map
Travel: L'Aquila and Abruzzo Towns
G-8 Overview: Reuters Factbox
Delays and Cancellations Continue at Viareggio Train Station
Viareggio, in Tuscany, is a major stop on Italy's west coast rail line. Those planning travel to Viareggio or through Tuscany's coast should consider alternative plans. Our Tuscany coast map shows the location of Viareggio and our Tuscany Rail Map will help you find alternative routes in Tuscany.
More about Viareggio
Rome Restaurant Recommendation
Note: It's unlikely that you'll be ripped off at a restaurant in Italy but if you are, report it immediately.
Inexpensive Dining: Antica Osteria da Giovanni
Traditional Roman Food: Checchino dal 1887
Friendly Rome Bars: Cafe Life Rome Book Review
Sardinia Ancient Horse Race and Festival
July's horse race for the palio of Siena is over and contrada della Tartuca has been declared the winner. Now it's time for my favorite horse race and festival, L'Ardia di San Costantino on the island of Sardinia. Like many Italian festivals, this is actually a recreation of on an important historical event - Constantine's victory at the Mulvian Bridge in 312.
Sardinians really know how to throw a festival and this one is no exception. Besides the exciting race run in the evening and again the following morning, there are lots of stalls selling candy, toys, and especially food. Be sure to try the skewered eel or roast suckling pig cooked over the coals.
More about Sardinia: Sardinia Pictures | Sardinia Travel Directory
L'Ardia di San Costantino photo © James Martin, Europe Travel
Wordless Wednesday - View of Rapallo from the Funicular
Rapallo Pictures | Rapallo Travel Guide
Picture of Rapallo © Martha Bakerjian, licensed to about.com
Palio of Siena Horse Race
The horse race for the palio of Siena is one of Italy's most famous festivals. Run twice during summer, the first race is July 2 with ten of Siena's seventeen contrade, or districts, competing. In addition to the race around Piazza del Campo, Siena's large fan-shaped main square, there are other festivities starting today.
From the book Piazza - Italy's Heart and Soul
It is almost impossible to describe the passion and enthusiasm that the Sienese have for the Palio. It is more than just a horse race to the residents of Siena, it is a way of life.If you're planning to attend the palio, you'll probably be part of a huge crowd standing in the piazza so be sure to arrive early. Find out more about this exciting festival in the Palio of Siena.
Photos: Siena Palio Photos
Travel: Siena Visitors Guide
Location: Tuscany Map
Picture of Piazza del Campo © James Martin, Wanderer's Eye Travel Photography
Summer Lodging Deals
Travelers looking for luxury in Venice can get the fourth free and 25% off stays of five nights or longer with the Linger Longer in Venice special offered through August by three Venice Starwood Hotels .
Hotel Polo, near the sea in Rimini, has a last minute deal - three nights for the price of two from July 5-8 or seven nights for the price of six throughout July.
More: Where to Stay in Italy

