Category: Traveling

Italy is a place of tourist attraction and has the best hiking spot to explore different things. Many places in Italy can easily be explored by foot, the trekking and hiking boost up morale and give a gorgeous view of mountainous tracks. It is necessary to get walking and explore the cities and neighborhoods of Italy. Italy is a city of modern art and beautiful countryside that gives plenty of opportunities to hike lovers.

There are 5 best hiking spots in Italy that give a recreational tour to the mountainous side and revive the beautiful memories.

 

1. MONTEFIORALLE, SALITA A MONTEGONZI

It is one of the biggest hiking spots and is good for the intermediate. This place is the best hiking spot and requires strong foot power. The track is highly beautiful and it bears strong foot traffic.

The starting point of the tour is the Montefioralle parking lot and the place has splendid grassland, valleys, landforms, cliffs, and walls. The tracking part of the hiking is mostly accessible and the people loved to hike in this exotic region.

This is the best hiking place in Florence that allows intermediate, advanced, and professionals to hike without any worry.

To plan this tour, you have to reach Florence and then start the hike from the spot. For this, you can easily book a Rome to Florence train that can provide the best conveyance across Florence.

The height of the Montefioralle hike is 1000 ft. above the ground and it requires around 3 hours completing the whole trek. If you hike with a speed of 2.1 mph, then you can easily cover the whole mountain.

The highest point of the trek is 1325 ft. and the lowest point is 775 ft. There are proper huts along the route that provide shelter, you can easily find your way upwards and back to the ground.

 

2.  MONTE BIANCO AND MONTE ROSA, AOSTA VALLEY

Monte Bianco also is known as White Mountain, it is the highest mountain in the Western Alps in the northwest of Italy. The Valle d`Aosta is bordering with countries like France and Switzerland and is known for the high mountain peaks.

The mountain height is 4,810 meters and it is considered the long-distance walk in Europe. The peaks of the mountain include Monte Cervino and the Gran Paradiso.

The mountain is around Mont Blanc that covers a distance of 170 kilometers. The whole journey of hiking needs around 11 days for a complete round, it starts from the Courmayeur from the Western side.

The Monte Rosa is considered the second-highest mountain whose height is 4500 meters and is located in the Alps region. It takes around 20 hours for a top runner to complete the hiking. The hiking is difficult and has to be done along with hiking professionals.

 

3. APPENNINO TOSCO-EMILIANO

Appennino Tosco-Emiliano is located between Tuscany and the region of Emilia Romagna that is separated by the forest edges. The mountain is surrounded by the Monte Prado and Monte Cusna; there are many lakes, high mountains, and grasslands between the whole region.

The mountain is famous for hiking and is the best hike in Italy. The elevation height of the mountain is 2,165 meters. The beginners can easily follow the trail to hike in the mountain and it takes 4-5 days to complete the whole hike in a clockwise direction.

The mountain is a good region and gives a beautiful view of the Adriatic Sea, Argentario, Corsica, and the island of Elba. This mountain is the highest in the Northern Apennines.

 

4. VALTELLINA, LOMBARDY

Valtellina is a mountain that covers 200 kilometers along the northern side of Lombardy. It consists of parks and reserves, thus making a good hiking spot for people.

There are plenty of trails in the Valtellina like Orobie and Stelvio that have peaks of around 2000-3000 meters.

The most famous hiking trail in this region is Alta via Della Valmalenco that covers an area of 130 kilometers and is surrounded by different mountains.

The mountain nearby to this area is Pizzo Bernina and Pizzo Scalino that is around the Valtellina Park and has a height of a total of 100 meters. This hiking can easily be done by beginners and the intermediate without any difficulty.

Just pack your bags and rush to explore the adventure of this beautiful hiking that takes only 2-3 days to complete the view of a complete park.

 

5. DOLOMITES’ VIA FERRATA, TRENTINO

Trentino is a huge mountain that originates from the Dolomites and is present in the southern part of South Tyrol. This includes the hiking spots of Brenta and Sella Group, the Sella Mountain is considered as the highest peak that covers the area of 3,152 meters.

The other hiking area across the mountain is Pale di San Martino that gives a better hiking view for beginners while the Dolomites is the rocky path and it includes eight peaks.

The hiking of Dolomites is highly difficult and is for the professional and for the people who don’t have any health problems or fear of heights. It is also called the “iron route” and the hiker has to be properly equipped with chain and cables. It requires 14-15 days to complete the hike if you walk 7-hours in a day.

The whole landscape and view is highly beautiful and catches the eye of people.

 

Conclusion 

These 5 best hiking spots in Italy provide good recreation for the tourists and the hikers. Some of the mountains are dangerous and require extensive care and attention to hike, while some give good opportunities to beginners to explore the mountainous region. People can enjoy walking around valleys, cliffs, lands, and mountains; it gives a great exposure to the countryside.

 

 

There is no denying that France is a trendy country for local and international tourists. Aside from that, French cuisine has permeated all parts of the world.

This explains why many food lovers would want to have the chance to take a tour around the major food destinations in France.

To help food lovers fulfill their dream and plan out their foodie France trip, here are ten great food destinations in France that are worth a visit:

Dijon

Dijon is a city in France that you probably know most for its much-beloved brand of mustard. This city that people know for mustard should be a good indication that it’s a must-visit place for food-lovers, even if you’re not a fan of mustard.

Dijon has all sorts of other food products that you’re going to want to try. Chocolate and black currant liqueurs (crème de cassis) are great in Dijon, but you should also try gingerbread and vinegar from there.

If you’re going to be shopping for local produce, you have to go to Les Halles Market.

Grenoble

In southeastern France lies the picturesque city of Grenoble. The Alps lovingly surround Grenoble, so it also has the name of the Capital of the Alps.

Aside from the majestic mountains around this beautiful city, Grenoble also has some distinct local cuisine that you can enjoy. This is due to its unique Swiss and Italian influence permeating to their food.

A delicious helping of Ravioles du Dauphiné is an almost decadent treat that will surely fill you up. Speaking of a treat, you should have a taste of the Chartreuse liqueur, a French liqueur that the Carthusian Monks prepare themselves.

Lille

The fascinating city of Lille is rich with historical and cultural significance, and you can find it in the northern region of France. You can even enjoy a walk down history by looking at many of the architectural designs present in the city.

All that walking should rack up quite an appetite from you. Luckily, there are tons of local cuisine that you should have in Lille.

Since Lille used to be a Flemish territory, there are bound to be influences present in the local cuisine.

An incredibly hearty and delicious meal that you should have would be the carbonnade de boeuf. It is best paired with delicious beer, which they also used to cook the beef.

Bordeaux

Bordeaux is a UNESCO-protected port city in the southwest of France, famous for being the home of many world-class vintages.

A great pair with the many wines in Bordeaux is a lamb dish called the Agneau de Pauillac.

You can also enjoy a local Bordeaux pastry for dessert lovers that you won’t find outside the region, which is the Puits d’Amour. This pastry is dough topped with crème Chiboust. It’s bite-sized and a nice treat.

Strasbourg

Strasbourg is the capital of the northeastern region of France, known as the Grand Est region. What’s unique about this city is that it has a strong German influence in the city, creating a unique, Franco-German culture.

If you plan on traveling to Paris in winter, make sure that you stop by Strasbourg. Many delicacies are a perfect pair to warm you up on a chilly winter day or night. For example, some sauerkraut paired with a lovely Gewürztraminer is a delicacy you won’t have and shouldn’t have anywhere else but in Strasbourg.

It would be a mistake to go to Strasbourg without trying out one of their most famous local cuisines: the Flammekueche. The Flammekueche looks a lot like a pizza, but it’s real bread, with curdled milk, bacon, and onions on top.

La Rochelle

La Rochelle is a port city by the Bay of Biscay located in the southwest of France. Since it’s right by the Atlantic Ocean, you can expect local food to be all about seafood.

With that said, a popular meal originating from La Rochelle is the traditional dish of Mouclade. It’s mussels that you cook in white wine, some curry spice, cream, and saffron.

It’s delicious and fresh since there are plenty of local mussel farms nearby.

Reims

Another city in the Grand Est region of France that has terrific local food is Reims. It is also the most populous city in the area.

Around Reims, you can enjoy plenty of fine tasting Champagne, especially since this is the Champagne region. However, for foodies, there are also foods that you can’t miss.

Jambon de Reims is a local version of the ham dish that is Jambon Persillé, and it’s good either as an appetizer or if you’re looking for a light meal.

If you want to have some pastries, you have to try the biscuit rose de Reims. The distinct rose color gave it its name and is perfect with a side of tea. Traditionally, they even dip this biscuit in a glass of champagne or red wine.

Paris

We all know what Paris is, but the sights there aren’t the only world-class things worth visiting.

The pastries there are great with a cup of coffee. You have macarons, croissants, baguettes, and more. Besides pastries, you can also have some duck confit, a delicious meal, but quite hard to find in Paris.

Steak Frites is another popular meal to have in Paris, which is excellent for a classic Parisian dinner.

Lyon

Lyonnaise cuisine is a food culture that people from Lyon are proud of, which is why you need to stop by and try them.

There are too many Lyonnaise cuisines worth trying. But if you’re looking for the quintessential, typical meals, you can try Coq au vin, chicken in wine sauce.

Quenelles are groundfish dumplings and are one of the most typical Lyonnaise cuisines that you should have.

Toulouse

Toulouse is said to be the home of French comfort food, which is why it would be a mistake not to take your time touring through their cuisine.

An example of an excellent Toulouse cuisine is the Cassoulet, which is a bean casserole with all sorts of meat, like local sausages and duck confit.

Tarte aux noix is a dessert that you can enjoy along with a scoop of ice cream. If you want, you can also eat it by itself or with a cup of tea.

 

 

Any food lover would want to go to France because of the world-class wineries, and unique and local produce turned meals. If you happen to stop by this lovely country, make sure to visit the cities listed above and enjoy the many facets of French cuisine.

Modern-day education allows parents to choose what type of school is best for their child. Many factors go into this choice, including income, accessibility, and the child’s talents and interests. These ten options are available in most states and districts.

 

1. Public schools

Public schools are just that—available to the public. They receive funding from all government levels and, in return, are required to accept all students living within specific boundaries. If you are not comfortable with the area’s school system, you may want to enrol your child in an international school like The Perse School Singapore.

 

2. Neighborhood schools

Neighborhood schools are a subset of public schools, servicing the children in specific neighborhoods. Some local schools have such a good reputation that parents will move to send their child to that school, where they can walk to school and neighborhood friends will be their classmates.

 

3. Specialized public schools

Many school districts now offer schools with specialized curriculums or features typically not available at public schools. These features may include:

• Emphasis on a particular subject matter or activity
• More-challenging studies for high performers
• A higher level of individual attention for struggling students
• Dress code and stricter discipline for behaviorally challenged children
• Non-traditional environment for students who cannot adapt to traditional public schooling

These schools are typically smaller and more comfortable environments for students.

 

4. Charter schools

Charter schools are one form of specialized public schools. They often operate outside of the parameters that guide traditional public schools and provide the students with an environment rich in creativity, innovation, and exploration. Since they are still considered public schools, charter schools are held accountable to the state and local education departments’ standards.

 

5. Magnet schools

Another type of specialized public school is the magnet school, available to students throughout the district interested in a specific subject matter. Some magnet schools may require students to take an entrance exam to confirm their talent while others accept students with just an interest. Magnet schools often concentrate on the performing arts, science, or technology.

 

6. Special education schools

Special education public schools focus on providing an adapted curriculum and a safe environment for children with multiple conditions such as hearing- and sight-impaired, mental challenges, physical disabilities, emotional challenges, and other issues. For these children, non-specialized public education is difficult, if not impossible.

 

7. Virtual schools

Many students across the United States have started the 2020-2021 school year attending virtual schools. The curriculum mirrors that of the traditional public school with the only difference being the technology component.

Some school districts offer virtual or distance learning continually, just not in a time of crisis. It may be a full- or part-time curriculum with the student’s individual needs in mind.

 

8. Advanced Placement courses

High-performing students are often able to take Advanced Placement (AP) courses. The content is demanding and ends with a national AP exam. A good grade on this exam may result in college credit being granted.

 

9. Nonpublic schools

Some parents choose to send their children to nonpublic or private schools. Income and accessibility are factors involved in choosing to send a child to a private school. Can the parents afford it? Is there a school nearby?

Religious private schools make up most nonpublic schools, allowing children to learn per the parents’ religious beliefs. Secular private schools have no religious affiliation and often prepare the student for college. Other secular private schools are known for their name and reputation, such as Montessori.

 

10. Home schools

Homeschooling has been growing in popularity in the last several years. Parents have the option of designing the curriculum and training materials or purchasing resources supplied by home school companies. In the end, the students must meet requirements set by the state and local education departments.

Although having multiple schooling choices can be overwhelming, having the ability to provide your child with an education targeted to their needs is a huge benefit. Research the options available in your area and choose the best option for your child.

It’s always fun to travel with your family, despite all the logistical issues that you have to overcome.

You have a lot more people to share the joy that you encounter during your trip, and you bond over your memories together. However, since many people are traveling with you, you are more likely to create waste in your journey.

If you’re the type of person who likes to prioritize sustainability when traveling, you might want to look for ways to go with your family without compromising your principles.

Luckily, it’s quite easy to have a green family vacation. Here are eight ways you can have that sustainable family vacation that you want:

Select a green destination

One of the best ways you can have a sustainable family vacation is by being particular about your destination.

When choosing your destination, look for places that are active in terms of their environmental sustainability. That way, you are supporting a site that cares for the environment.

Portugal is one destination that is active in terms of their approach to sustainable tourism in the country. Ecuador is another lovely destination that is also proactive in the protection of their natural habitats.

If you’re planning on going on a family vacation, consider going to these countries and support their causes.

Try to pack light

Whenever you’re packing for a trip, you should try and pack a few items to bring with you.

Packing light will help you have an easier time while in transit. Plus, you can also avoid incurring additional fees at the airport because your bag is not within their weight limit.

Aside from that, packing light affects how much carbon emissions your aircraft is going to emit, whether you are flying commercial or making use of one of the private jet cards programs out there and flying in the utmost comfort and style. The heavier the plane, the more carbon emissions it creates. Therefore, when you’re buying luggage, you should be conscious of how big it is to learn to limit yourself to the number of items that you can bring.

When you’re buying your luggage, it will be best if you purchase luggage sets so that you save money while you’re at it. These sets come with the carry-on baggage anyway, so you should get an entire collection, especially if you travel often.

Bring reusable items

Another way you can remain sustainable when traveling with your family is by using or bringing more usable items with you.

Bringing reusable items ensures that you don’t consume products that will end up becoming waste. You reduce the amount of plastic that you and your family leave behind when you are on vacation.

Each person should have their reusable water bottle as well as cutleries so that they don’t have to use plastic ones when they’re traveling. These reusable items can even come in biodegradable containers depending on which ones you buy.

Once you use these items, you can wash them, and they’ll be good as new.

Stay in eco-friendly accommodation

Looking for eco-friendly accommodations is also a way you can travel sustainably with your family.

If you’re booking a hotel, you can ask if they have or implement a green program where guests can learn how to be more environmentally-friendly while traveling. Or you can opt for Airbnb accommodation.

If you don’t manage to find any eco-friendly accommodations, you can apply green practices yourself.

For example, you should turn off everything in your room if you’re not using them. Asking your hotel room to reduce the times they replace your towels is also one way to be more environmentally conscious while staying at a hotel.

Use public transportation

As much as possible, try and use public transportation when you are in a new destination.

Using a private vehicle to travel creates a lot of gas emissions for only a few passengers. On the other hand, mass transit has a better ratio of fuel usage and gas emissions created per passenger.

Support local businesses

Supporting local businesses will help you be more eco-friendly during your vacation. For example, you can buy souvenirs from a small shop or eat at local restaurants.

Local businesses don’t use massive amounts of natural resources to maintain their business, so it’s more eco-friendly to support locals.

Research green and eco-activities

Make sure that the vacation activities you’ll do are sustainable. For example, you should avoid places that let you ride on elephants.

You can do your research online and see which ones in your destination are the least damaging to the environment and local wildlife.

Leave No Trace

No matter what you do, keep your trash in your body if there is no available trash bin anywhere. It would be even better if you find a way to recycle the garbage that you produce.

Also, keeping reusable items helps you to reduce the amount of waste that you create.

Final Thoughts

You can still sustainably travel even if you bring your family with you during a vacation. All you need is to prepare well before your trip.

Educating your family members will also help you travel sustainably.

In the meantime, you can try out the ways listed above so you can get started on having a green family vacation soon enough.