CROATIA

PLITVICE

When one sees these lands one regrettably understands why wars have happened. I have seen many lakes and waterfalls in my time, but these took my breath away. What you see is a minimal part of some of the best five hours one could ever spend in natural settings.

A very sweet couple, with modern, beautiful lodgings and warm ways, welcomed my friend and I at 11 pm on a miserable rainy night. We could not speak each other's languages but communicated through the heart, mime and sketches. They live about 60 Km from this Paradise on Earth and are ready to welcome other tired guests wishing to hike and pedal, along such naturally awsome landscapes. The guest's quarters are inside the pink villa appearing later on in this blog.

DUBROVNIK

Fairy-tales and romantic-notions must have been inspired by similar places. By just walking on the marble floors of this astonishing city, one can easily understand how opulence and beauty, from various cultures and different historical periods, have harmoniously blended together.

The lodgings I found are only available during the winter period (from the 1st of November to the 1st of April). Nearby are other places of interest such as the island of Kurcula, the holiday village of Lumbada, to mention a few. Other Medieval jewels are spread along this beautiful coast.

UMBRIA

ORVIETO

This is one of my most loved Italian locations. The city's main square is simply magic. The lodging's host, a musician and restaurant owner, has good meal deals for interested 'guests'. Many university students have lunch in these lovely settings and, compared to other prices in Orvieto, this deal is really unique. The owner mainly plays his grand piano at night, for all to enjoy. Not many cities are as attractive as Orvieto. From the distance it feels like one is viewing a private world leading up to the sky. A 'must', considering that this city is only a short distance from Rome, Florence, Siena and other beautiful places in the midst of one of the best countryside areas the world can offer, sprinkled with old Medieval villages.

LIGURIA

GENOA

The host speaks four languages and is very welcoming. You will be sharing with two ladies and a cat and, from time to time, there may be other visitors.
This beautiful and huge apartment is in a very central position, at walking distance from the two railway stations.
Some other lodgings are also available in Genoa. The Ligurian coast is simply stunning. Well known places like Cinque Terre, Porto Venere, Camogli, Portofino, Santa Margherita (and other internationally less known but equally as stunning locations such as Nervi, Boccadasse, Finale Ligure, etc) are within easy reach by boat and/or by train. Genoa itself has a rich history and your host is a mine of information. She would also be happy to cook for you, to take you on half day tours and to organise three weekly Italian lessons, as required ... as part of the special deals promoted by Local 'In' Site. Other main cities and locations worth visiting, whilst in the region and surrounding areas, include: Tourin, Asti, Acqui Terme, Milan, the major Italian lakes and Parma.

TUSCANY

CORTONA

This artistic, historic apartment, with all modern comforts, is located in the town's centre.

The location is in an ideal position for people wishing to travel to either: Pienza, Pisa, Montalcino, San Giminiano.

Conditions apply. Please contact Marina, to arrange a Skype chat with her.

CROATIA: NEAR PLITVICE

This beautiful house is at about 60 Km from the stunning lakes in the Plivice region. To reach this location you will need a car. The hosts are most welcoming and friendly. The surrounding landscape is rural, lush and hilly.

UMBRIA

Civita

This is one of the many beautiful places you can easily visit from Orvieto or Cortona.

Rome is also easily accessible, and so are Florence, Perugia and San Giminiano ... to mention a few!

Local transport is handy to most places, but hiring a car is recommended in this very cultural region.