| Description: | Top places to see all around the world and compare hundreds of travel sites? Also called Plaza Mayor, this broad square is the historical center of Lima and the most logical starting point for sightseeing. Most of the buildings from the original city were lost in the earthquake of 1746 - the only original structure standing in Lima's Plaza de Armas is the bronze fountain in the center, built in 1651. Its buildings reconstructed following the quake, Plaza de Armas is today an UNESCO World Heritage Site. Along with the cathedral, the square is surrounded by the Archbishop's Palace; the Casa del Oidor; and the Palacio del Gobierno, official residence of the president that was built on the spot where Jose San Martin declared the Independence of Peru on July 28, 1821. You can see the changing of the guard there on weekdays at noon.
On the volcanic hills of Mt. Etna grow luscious vines absorbing the varied nutrients of the soil. Orange and olive groves run through the valleys. Farmhouses produce dishes equally as enchanting as award winning restaurants. On your custom tailored Sicily tour, your senses will come alive, enhanced by the gourmet gastronomy and traditional heritage derived from an amalgamation from around the Mediterranean. The wine has succulent notes, the pastries practically melt in your mouth, and the coffee is deeply layered with flavor, every moment bringing another treasure of both cuisine and history for you to savor.
Gritti Palace, Venice: A 15th-century palazzo turned decadent luxury hotel, design supremo Chuck Chewning was behind the palace's elaborate renovation, adding to the already elaborate high Venetian Baroque design with layers of silk, marble and Murano glass. Today more living art museum than luxury hotel, a stay here requires time dedicated to admiring the acres of marble from floor to ceiling, the priceless chandeliers, and oak parquet, and custom Rubelli silks. Beyond all the interior splendor, Gritti Palace's most magnificent jewel lies beyond its windows - direct views of the Grand Canal. Ogle it from canal-facing rooms or classically Venetian Club del Doge restaurant or seasonal terrace, one of the most coveted tables in Venice. A cocktail in the elaborate Bar Longhi is essential (named for the Italian master whose paintings hang in the bar), as is a treatment in the Acqua di Parma spa or a cooking class at the hotel's famed culinary school. Discover additional information at Comparing millions of deals on flights, hotels, car rentals, taxis and activities. |
