Venice Carnival

This year will be given particular attention to the enhancement of the city with the opening of the most enchanting places through a rich program of shows, concerts, recitals and performances in historical buildings, squares , streets, as well as in theaters.

The main stage will be Piazza San Marco with the Gran Teatro, a spectacular scenic structure that reproduces the great theatrical machine of the past. Almost all the main events of the Carnival will be housed in this stunning square such as the flight of the Angel, the parade of Maries and the beautiful mask contest.

If you won’t miss the spectacular Carnival in Venice  2012 see the program below:

View Larger Map

Venice Carnival 2012 Program

(Dates and times can change)

Saturday, February 4th      
Carnival Opening Ceremony    
Where:  Piazzetta  San Marco
When:  6:00 pm
Opening of the Carnival with a toast to the wine fountain, accompanied by masks, costumes and dances. Crowning  the event, the unveiling of the spectacular allegory of Carnival.

Sunday, February 5th    
The Venetian Festival on water
Where: Canal Grande e Sestiere di Cannaregio
The feast dedicated to the citizens and guests of the lagoon city. The parade on boats starts from Punta della Dogana and proceeds  along the Grand Canal to arrive in the popular Cannaregio district. Gastronomic stands will be placed to offer visitors exquisite Venetian cicheti ( snacks ) and desserts of Carnival tradition such as the crayfish salad and galani.

Saturday, February  11st
Parade of the most beautiful Carnival Mask of 2012  
Where: Piazza San Marco
When: Every day from Saturday 11th to Wednesday 15th and from Monday 20th  to Tuesday  21th – Twice a day at 11:00 am and 4:00 pm
The most awaited competition of Carnival, the Parade of the most beautiful Carnival Masks is back also this year at the San Marco Gran Teatro. Participants parade on stage, challenging each other with their costumes, masks and wigs. Saturday, February  11st daily appointments will be at 11:00 am and at  3:00 pm.

“In Venice, Life is Theatre” Guided Tour
Where: Departure from the ticket office in Piazza San Marco
When: Every day from Saturday 11th to Tuesday 21th – From 11.00 am to 5.00 pm every half hour in different language
This tour will accompany visitors in the most unusual and secret places of Venice far away from the confusion of Carnival to discover some history and daily life of the ancient Serenissima Republic of Venice. Tours will start from the ticket office in Piazza San Marco and will be held in French, Italian and English language at the following hours  ( French: 11:00 am, 3:00 pm , 4:30 pm ; English 12:00 am, 2:30 pm, 4:00 pm ). There is a fee of about 30 euro.

Gran Teatro di Piazza San Marco Opening Ceremony  (San Mark Square Big Theatre)
Where: Piazza San Marco
When: Every day from Saturday 11th to Tuesday 21st at 11:00 am
The Grand Theatre is the big stage set up by February 11st  to 21st, 2012 in Piazza San Marco. All the artists who will perform in the city’s stages, in addition to the artists of the Bus of Carnival, will be featured in the square to start the biggest event of Performing Arts in the city.

Festa delle Marie – Costume Parade
Where: Piazza San Marco
When:  4:00 pm
The traditional ‘ Festa delle Marie ‘ recalls the homage offered annually by the Doge to twelve beautiful and humble maidens, giving them jewels for marriage. The parade lasts for several days but opens Saturday, February 11st , with the procession of the twelve girls selected during the previous weeks and represent a unique moment to admire the costumes of the Venetian tradition.

Carnival festival Opening Ceremony
Where: Piazza San Marco
When: 7:00 pm
Music, animation with masked dancers and musical challenges for the public with prizes and gadgets. From 9:00 pm will follow live music with a big concert to open the festivities of Carnival.

Casinò Burlesque 2012 (Every night during Carnival at 8:45 pm)
Where: Cà Vendramin Calergi – Casinò di Venezia
When: Every night during Carnival at 8:45 pm
A memorable evening to spend at the Casino of Venice, in the prestigious location of Ca’ Vendramin Calergi, the elegant 16th century palace overlooking the Grand Canal. These evenings offer visitors the opportunity to attend performances of burlesque artists of international relevance all accompanied by a menu specially designed for the occasion from the Casino restaurant. The evening will conclude with the classic games of the Casino di Venezia, where guests can also try their own luck at the slot machines.
The events will be held every day during Carnival weeks with dinner gala starting fro 8:45 pm, the cost is about 200 euro per person but will chance according to the date.
http://www.casinovenezia.it/en/default.jsp

Sunday, February 12th
Historical re-enactments
When: Piazza San Marco
Where: 11:00 am
In anticipation of the Angel’s  Flight (Volo dell’Angelo) , the Gran Teatro comes alive with splendid costume parade with the participations of several groups and artists.

The Angel Flight (Volo dell’Angelo)
Where: Piazza San Marco
When: 12:00 am
The ‘Angel’s Flight’, reminiscent of the traditional tribute brought to Doge, offers the exciting flight of a secret guest of the city of Venice, from the top of San Marco Bell Tower to the middle of the square. The Angel, protagonist of this glamour international event, will wear a magnificent Carnival costume and will be celebrated on national and international networks.

Monday, February 13rd
Party for Singles
Where: Piazza San Marco
When: 7:00 pm
Anticipating St. Valentine’s day , in Piazza San Marco is celebrate an event for those who are not in love right now or are looking for love. The animator and the conductor will interview people in the square on their stories.

Tuesday, February 14th
Valentine’s Day
Where: Piazza San Marco
When: 7:00 pm
A Romantic evening to spend in Piazza San Marco with the music of love. Visitors can dedicate to their partner special messages which will be projected on the screen in San Marco square or get on the stage and dedicate the song that made them fall in love.

Wednesday, February 15th
The triumph of Food and Love
Where: Piazza San Marco
When: 7:00 pm
An evening devoted to food and to love, where songs and parodies on these themes will be interpreted by numerous artists. A great banquet will be organized to celebrates the triumph of Love.

The sounds of Carnival – Guided Tours of faith and beauty
Where: Several locations
When: 7.00 pm – 9.00 pm and 9.30 pm
Evening concerts
-February 15th , 2012, 9.30 pm, Chiesa di San Polo (Venice): 12 cellos ensemble.
-February 17th, 2012, 9.30 pm, Church of Santa Maria del Giglio (Venice): wind quintet.
-February 20th, 2012, 9.30 pm, Teatrino Groggia (Venice, as part of the Carnival Culture Night): jazz evening.
Four concerts will be also organized in the churches of San Rocco and San Girolamo in Mestre.

Night tours in the churches of Venice
From 7.00 to 9.00 pm four rounds of visits in each church on the following dates:
-February 15th , 2012: Sestiere di San Polo, churches of San Giacomo dell’Orio, San Giovanni Elemosinario and San Polo.
-February 17th , 2012: Sestieri of San Marco, Dorsoduro Gesuati Church, San Sebastiano and Santa Maria del Giglio.
-February 20th , 2012: Cannaregio district, the churches of S.Alvise, Madonna dell’Orto and Miracles (under the Carnival Culture Night).
Guided tours will be organized in the churches of San Rocco, San Girolamo and al Duomo di Mestre.

Friday, February 17th
Festa della Fortuna (Good luck Feast)
Where: Piazza San Marco
When: 7:00 pm
A party to dispel bad luck, but also the crisis, pessimism, and all the negativity, to give participants a city full of fun.

Saturday, February 18th
Grand Carnival ball
Where: Piazza San Marco
When:  7:00 pm
A great show dedicated to the music to make public dance according to the most glorious splendour of Venetian palaces, transforming San Marco square in a huge Feast Salon.

Grand Cavalchina ball
Where: Teatro La Fenice
When: 8.30 pm
The Teatro La Fenice Foundation participates in 2012 Venice Carnival events proposing, as usual, the Grand Cavalchina Ball, a Venetian tradition of the 18th and 19th century revived with great success by 2007 and by many considered as the culminating event of the Carnival of Venice.

Sunday, February 19th
Grand Carnival Concert
Where: Piazza San Marco
When: 7:00 pm
A night of classical music, live, with a great protagonist of the music scene, in the splendid setting of the Grand Theatre in Piazza San Marco.

Monday, February 20th
Curiosity from Venice – Kurioses aus Venedig   
Where: Ateneo Veneto
When: 5:00 pm – 7:00pm – 10:00 pm
A recital, in English or Italian, of the famous writer Donna Leon linked to the successful novels set in Venice, accompanied by the music of the Baroque Complex of Giudecca, along with international musician guest.

Recital Gli Armeni di Goldoni
Where: Biblioteca Nazionale Marciana- Sala Monumentale
When: 9:00 pm
A recital of music based on  Goldoni’s texts in which emerges the figure of the Armenian through the interpretation of a Venetian actor of Commedia dell’arte accompanied by Armenian music.
Free entrance.

La Vogata del Silenzio – End of the Carnival Gondola Parade
Where: From Rialto to Bacino San Marco
When: 00:00 am
A water parade of gondolas and traditional boats, will proceed along the Grand Canal, from San Marco to Rialto. The complete absence of motor boats will add an element of natural setting and great charm. All palaces overlooking the Grand Canal will be enlightened with thousands of lights and create the image of a Venice unreal and magical, noise-free, to say goodbye to this year Carnival.

Tuesday, February 21st
Award Ceremony for Festa delle Marie
Where: Piazza San Marco
When:  5.00 pm
The award ceremony with the crowning of the best Maria comes at the end of the parade in the San Giacomo dell’Orio square. At  5:00 pm, the Doge  will officiate the award ceremony of the sweetest and the most graceful lady.

Mardi Gras
Where: Piazza San Marco
When: 9.00 pm
The grand finale of Carnival Festival: an evening of great entertainment with live music, art, and marching band parades in costume to celebrate the end of the 2012 Carnival according to its most key feature: the madness.

http://www.comune.venezia.it
http://www.carnevale.venezia.it

Where to stay in Venice:

Hotel Airone  -   From  EUR 40,00
S. Croce, 557 30135 Venezia
Ideally located near Santa Lucia train Station and Piazzale Roma this 2 star hotel offer a very easy access to the best tourist attractions in the city.

Hotel Delfino  -  From  EUR 45,00
C.so del Popolo, 211 30172 Mestre VE
This 4 star hotel is located in the near city of Mestre. Venice is easily reachable in few minutes by bus. The hotel  provides all the best comfort .

Hotel Canal & Walter   -   From  EUR 45,00
Cannaregio 1523, 30121 Venezia
This 3 star hotel is housed in a 18th century old palace overlooking the beautiful Grand Canal. Providing all the best facilities is the ideal place to stay in Venice.


{{t: HIV}}

Chicago

Chicago

Alinea
The menu presented by chef Grant Achatz continuously changes providing always a new surprise made possible by his revolutionized dishes based on traditional food assuming creative new forms. Achatz is a follower of the worldwide famous Ferran Adrià, master of the molecular cuisine, and with his dishes, he wants to inspire the idea of a journey through delicacies such as the squab, inspired by Mirò or the swordfish and the scallop “acting like agedashi tofu”. The restaurant’s atmosphere is one of the most pleasant with extremely comfortable and soft chair providing an enchanting setting for any occasion worth to be celebrated.
www.alinea-restaurant.com

Address: 312-867-0110 1723 North Halsted, Chicago Illinois 60614
Neighborhood: Lincoln Park
Nearest Transit: North/clybourn (Red Line) – Armitage (Brown Line, Purple Line)
Hours: Wed-Fri 5:30 pm – 9:30 pm Sat – Sun 5:00 pm – 9:30 pm
Attire: Formal
Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
Parking: Valet

View Larger Map

Romantic thing to do:
Walking through Lincoln Park
If you’ve never visited Chicago we suggest to take a romantic stroll in the beautiful Lincoln Park. Entrance is free and walking through it is lovely all times of the year. In there you can see the zoo, one of the hugest free zoo in the country and pay a visit to your favorite animals.

Where to stay:
The Drake – from € 108.31 per night
Built in the early 1900s this 4 star hotel collected trough years more and more recommends for the high standard services. The property is located in an ideal position providing guest an easy access to the city’s best areas. During winter and the festive season the hotel is adorned with enchanting decorations that change completely the atmosphere providing a lot of lovely memories to the couples that will stay in this renowned hotel.

São Paulo

São Paulo

D.O.M
Alex Atala is the creative chef of the D.O.M. Restaurants renowned in all world for the innovative use of the best Brazilian ingredients. The word D.O.M. is the acronym for Dominus Optimo Maximo symbolizing Chef Atala’s desire to reach the highest levels in his cuisine. His study is concentrate on particularly Brazilian roots such as the Priprioca from the Amazon region, flowers, herbs and sprouts that make the menu focusing on the use of the most rarest ingredients in Latin America. Alex Atala is exploring all the possibility of the classical cuisine and creating really unique dishes that will surprise even the most sophisticated guest.
www.domrestaurante.com.br

Address: Rua. Barao de Capanema 549, São Paulo, Brazil
Neighborhood: Avenida Paulista
Nearest Transit: Consolação metro
Hours: Mon-Fri 12:00 noon – 3:00 pm; Mon-Sat 7.00 pm – 12:00 am (until 1am Fri & Sat)
Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
Attire:Formal

View Larger Map

Romantic thing to do:
Avenida Paulista
The Paulista is one of the most renowned arteries in São Paulo and one of the most recommended destinations for shopping and nightlife. Fancy restaurants and pubs are lined up on the streets providing more than everyone may need to spend an incredible day and night. The area offers tourists and locals not only shops but also a beautiful park where you can take a relaxing stroll, a famous art museum, several cultural centers, universities and bookstores.

Where to stay:
Gran Estanplaza Sao Paulo – from € 209.31 per night
Gran Estanplaza São Paulo provides the best facilities in an stunning building where classic atmospheres are mixed to the colorfully Brazilian traditions. You may decide to spend relaxing hours using the beautiful spa located on the terrace from where every guest can enjoy an enchanting view of the city. This 5 star hotel provides very useful services such as free transportation for the surrounding areas, internet access and a well furnished library with a welcoming fireplace.

Tokyo

Tokyo

Le Crèation de NarisawaIf you are in Japan and you want to try something really special we recommend to visit the restaurant of the Japanese Chef Yoshihiro Narisawa located in one of the most fancy area of all Tokyo: the futuristic Aoyama. Chef Narisawa has studied for years French and Italian cuisine in the best Michelin starred restaurants (reaching a knowledge of the culinary, cultural and linguist aspects really impressive) and now uses this elements combing the Japanese tradition to create extraordinary works of art. We suggest to taste the 10 courses of the degustation menu to fully understand Chef Narisawa’s culinary mastery. His delicacies reflect the Japanese landscape and respect the traditional calendar of his country seasons providing a sublime flavor marriage that will conquer every single palate.
www.narisawa-yoshihiro.com

Address: 〒107-0061　2-6-15 Minami Aoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo JAPAN Tel +81-3-5785-0799
Neighborhood: Aoyama
Nearest Transit: Tokyo Metro – Ginza line, Toei Oedo line, Hanzomon Line – Aoyama Itchome station
Lunch: Mon-Sat 12 noon -1:00 pm L.O. ( 3.00 pm close ); Dinner: 6:00 pm – 9:00 pm
Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
Attire: Formal

View Larger Map

Romantic thing to do:
Aoyama
Located near the amazing quarter of Omotesando, Aoyama is one of the fanciest areas in Tokyo. Streets are fully of enchanting fashion boutiques showing the best of Japanese and international designers. Besides shopping walking through Aoyama will be very interesting especially for those that are into architecture and urban design since the buildings are simply stunning. Spiral Building, AO Building, and the Prada building are only few examples of what you can find in Aoyama. For a little break stop by one of the many delicious cafeterias along the streets and try their delicacies, you won’t regret it!

Where to stay:
Coms Ginza Hotel – from € 122 per night
Hotel Com’s Ginza is located in the most elegant quarter in Tokyo. The property is characterized by a classic stylishness of the building and by the most attentive service that make the stay in this 4 star hotel one of the most pleasant ever. Com’s Ginza is at walking distance from the JR station of Shinbashi, a very convenient start point to visit the whole city and the surrounding areas.

Rooms are spacious and fully equipped with the best comfort. Furniture are sophisticated and follow an original and unique design properly realized to offer the best stay both for business and for leisure travel. All the best facilities are as well guaranteed such as a valet, dry cleaning and laundry, room service and a business center, the hotel houses also two Japanese restaurants the Munakata and the modern Cats and Dogs.

Sydney

Sydney

Quay
If you are looking for a place to amaze your special someone this is the restaurant right for you. The Quay, besides exquisite food, provides also one of the most spectacular views in Sydney ranging from Opera House to the stunning Harbour Bridge.
Peter Gilmore is the well renowned chef, a real artist that welcome his guest in an incredible journey through his many delicacies. His creative cuisine make the Quay be awarded as The Best Restaurant in Australasia obtaining 3 hat & 3 star rating in The Sydney Morning Herald Good Food Guide & Australian Gourmet Traveller Restaurant Guide for 10 consecutive years. Chef Gilmore original style is in constant evolution but always inspired by nature.
www.quay.com.au

Address: Overseas Passenger Terminal, The Rocks, Sydney 2000
Neighborhood: The Rocks
Nearest Transit: City Circle Line – Circular Quay station
Lunch: Tue – Fri 12 noon – 2:30 pm Dinner: Mon – Sun 6:00 pm – 10:00 pm
Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
Attire: Formal

View Larger Map

Romantic thing to do:
The Rocks
A walk in the beautiful The Rock is what you need to spend a very romantic day in Sydney. The Rock was the area of the first European settlement in 1788 and now is one of the most characteristic historic place in the city where you can find original colonial buildings, gorgeous little shops, lively nightlife filled with pubs, cozy restaurants and sandstone churches. Every Saturday and Sunday you can visit also the famous market and eventually buy bags, original artworks and prints and much more.

Where to stay:
City Lodge Hotel   -    from  € 133 per night
To live a truly and characteristic stay in Sydney  we suggest to stay at the City Lodge Hotel. This 3 star hotel is located in the heart of the city at walking distance from very famous tourist attractions such as Opera House, The Rocks, Darling Harbour and much more. Restaurants and the shopping area are close as well as  public transportations. The hotel is equipped with all the modern facilities such as high speed wireless access, guest laundries & express dry cleaning service.

Wien

Wien

Address: Steirereck in Stadtpark · A-1030 Wien  Tel: +43 (1) 713 31 68  Fax: +43 (1) 713 31 68-2
Neighborhood: Stadtpark
Nearest Transit: Subway Stadtpark
Hours: Mon – Fri 11:30 am – 3:00 pm, starting from 6:30 pm .  Closed on holidays
Accepts Credit Cards: Yes
Attire: Formal



View Larger Map

Romantic thing to do:
The Stadtpark
The Stadtpark is a beautiful park immersed in Wien. The place is characterized by an alternance of copses and grassy areas that create a diversified and original setting as planned by the painter Joseph Selleny and the garden director Rudolf Siebeck. Travellers and locals can admire a pure form of Viennese Art Nouveau as well as  a contemporary style example such as the sculpture by Donald Judd or pay a visit popular Johann Strauss monument.

Where to stay:
Hotel Papageno   -    from  € 79 per night
After a perfect dinner at the famous Steirereck and a relaxing stroll at the beautiful Stadtpark what better way to celebrate St. Valentine than to stay in a fine hotel? Hotel Papageno structure recall the décor of the late Art Nuveau still providing inside rooms equipped with all the most modern comfort. Next to the hotel are located many public transport systems such as tram, bus and subway. The hotel has an ideal position in the cultural center of Wien and is particularly suited for those guests who want take advantage of the terrific deals on classic music concert, arts and theater tickets available during the winter season.

{{l:HICHIC|l:HISAPA|l:HITOK |l:HISYD |l:HIVIE |h:108150 |h:7890 |h:49261 |h:94356 |h:47473}}

Since Brussels is the headquarters for NATO and serves as capital of the European Union, in the city are located the offices of a multitude of multinational companies form all over the world such as Toyota, Bridgestone, Levi’s Strauss, Rockwell Automation and more, that makes Brussels able to offer outstanding services concerning subjects such as passenger transports and communication infrastructures.

The city in fact  is famous to be one of the most easy and pleasant capitals where to do business. English language is spoken almost by everyone and getting around is very simple thanks to the comprehensive bus and tram network and the bicycle or car-sharing service.

Brussels

In the old city centre you can find the financial district and the Belgian parliament while the European institutions are clearly separated and confined in the east of the city mostly around Rond-Pont Schuman and Place de Luxembourg. Highways headed for airport are usually the place where to find corporation branches. Due to the high number of international visitors the city has developed a downtown area incredibly vivid becoming a real fashionable city with a lot of nice places to have fun with style.

Brussels business travel is always felt as all work and, by stereotype, the business traveler is who usually sit in the front of the plane devouring financial papers, eat alone and sleep in aseptic hotels, but with few little expedients everyone can make his business trip feeling more like a vacation.
Beyond the office, most business takes place during the lunch time at the most modern restaurants or cafes often open only for lunch on weekdays. In Berlaymont, for example, the heart of Brussels’ European quarter,  you can find two classic Italian restaurants that are definitely worthy of a visit.  Dal Padrino where you can taste delicious delicacies such as scampi or filetto and Barbanera which has a beautiful terrace and a garden to relax. Downtown, in the Belgian banking and business district, look out for the Belga Queen Brussels with stunning dishes of the highest quality coming exclusively from Belgian sources.

View Larger Map

Where to eat:

Dal Padrino
Rue Archimède 50
1000 Brussels, Belgium
tel/fax: 322 230 70 47

Barbanera
Rue Archimede, 69
1000 Bruxelles, Belgium
tel: 02 736 14 50 fax: 02 735 02 91

Belga Queen Brussels
Rue Fossé aux Loups 32
1000 Brussels, Belgium
tel: +32 2 217 21 87  fax: +32 2 229 31 79

Sea Grill
Rue Fosse Aux Loups 47
1000 Brussel, Belgium
tel: +32 2 212 08 00  fax: +32 2 212 08 08

Restaurant Vincent
Rue Des Dominicans, 8-10
1000 Brussels, Belgium
tel: +32 2 511 27 06  fax: +32 2 502 36 93

If you are into sweets we remind you that chocolate is the protagonist of all Belgian delights. You’ll easily find  all types of chocolate from white, dark, milk  etc… with the most incredible variants. Entering in these amazing chocolateries will give you the chance to admire enchanting sculptures and creative works of art made exclusively by chocolate. Visit the best shops such as Corné Port Royal or Neuhaus where you can find delicious items at fair prices.

Corné Port Royal
Rue au Beurre, 45-47
1000 Brussels, Belgium

Corné Port Royal
Rue de la Madeleine 9
1000 Brussels, Belgium

Neuhaus
Galerie de la Reine 25-27
1000 Brussels, Belgium

Planete Chocolat
Rue du Lombard, 24
1000 Brussels, Belgium

Things to do in your free time

Work is always associated with deadlines, but not leisure, so it’s better to not hurry trying to visit Brussels museums and monuments filling every minute you’re away from the office. Take your time and choose only few activities to do during your free hours. Taking a short walk to discover the heart of medieval Brussels in the famous Grand Place, with its world-famous Market Square is a fantastic way to see the city. If you really have no time, in less than an hour, you can follow this path starting from the Royal Palace along Rue Royale and Place du Grand Sablon until Grand Place. Take your time walking around and enjoying the view of enchanting buildings, or stop by one of the many places lined up and try the delicious local beer.  The square houses many music concerts and cultural events organized through the whole year. If you like museums we suggest to visit the Royal Museums of Fine Arts of Belgium that hold some twenty thousand paintings, sculptures and drawings of Salvador Dali, Giorgio de Chirico, Joan Miro, Victor Servranckx, Georges Vantongerloo and Henri Matisse.
http://www.brusselsmuseums.be/en/home/index.php

Suggested Hotels:

Van Belle – from 61.21 euro per night
This 3 star hotel is located in a central area of the city. Renovated in 2003 it’s provides an ideal stay in Brussels and includes all the best facilities.

Chaochow Palace – from 60.29 euro per night
This 3 star hotel represents one the best choice for a business travel. The reception area provides currency exchange desk and a safe.

Hotel Catalonia Forum – from 70 euro per night
Located in Art Nouveau area, this 3 star hotel provides a strategic position convenient both for business and leisure travel.

Floris Avenue Hotel – from 96.85 euro per night
Centrally located, this 4 star hotel offers a very easy access to the Grand-Place and the Brussels Midi station where international trains arrive.

{{t: HIBRU}}

Chinese New Year

Celebrations include setting firecrackers, dragon and lion dancing, giving children money to wish good luck and, most important of all, spending the evening with the family eating together or sending New Year greetings. In this period of the year parks and streets are full of colorful events such as traditional performances and dances, fireworks and various cultural activities, all celebrated in the most extensively way. Private houses are cleaned from inside out because is believed that sweeping and washing floors will drive away all the bad luck and bringing happiness in the New Year. Doors and windows are also decorated with red paper.

The origins of Chinese New Year date back to a legend according to which a monster called Nian lived in ancient China and come out from its hole only once a year. The only way to win over it was terrifying the creature with noise and red color, the leitmotiv of these festivities.
New Year celebrations are deeply felt everywhere in China, but is the city of Beijing that perhaps testify better the enthusiasm and participation of the merrymaking and the real essence of the Spring Festival. Besides decorating and cleaning houses you can find out other interesting ways to feel the cherish atmosphere such as listening to the traditional ancient instrument concerts, enjoying the fabulous view of the festive red lanterns, considered by the Chinese people a symbol of good luck, or participating to the long procession headed to the Temple Fairs.

Since people wish to do special things during the celebrations of the Spring Festival in Beijing, it’s easy to find unique items or to buy delicious delicacies to eat such as the tikoy, a steamed rice dumpling, that is a common practice to offer as gifts to the dear ones.

The Beijing Spring Festival is quite long and lasts two weeks. The fifteenth day culminates in the Beijing Lantern Festival, when the Chinese people walk around the city carrying in their hand colored lanterns and candles to guide the benevolent spirits.

Chinese New Year is celebrated by Chinese communities around the world and obviously in Beijing where it reaches the maximum expression.
www.ebeijing.gov.cn

View Larger Map

Temple Fairs

During the Spring Festival you can’t miss the Temple Fair in Beijing that is believed to have begun during the Liao Dynasty (907-1125). It’s a traditional event that combines religion and folklore performing all the ancient Chinese arts. For foreigners, assisting to this fair, is definitely a worthy experience. Visitors can enjoy the fabulous ceremony of worship to Earth and Heaven, watching performance such as dragon and lion dances or assist at a demonstration of traditional arts and crafts. Playing games and eating delicious Beijing traditional food is all part of the fair.

Ditan Temple Fair

Ditan Temple Fair

More than one million of persons visit every year the Ditan Temple Fair since is one of the most renowned and old fair in the city. Amazing performances such as art exhibitions, acrobatic shows and games are played during the celebrations creating a colorful, noisy and funny festival perfect for a day to spend with family or friends.

Longtan Temple Fair

Longtan Temple Fair

Longtan Temple Fairs is also very popular in Beijing.
Celebrations are quite the same that visitors can find in Ditan with the difference that tourists and locals can participate in the interactive games held there such as the table tennis, the Chinese yoyo spinning and many others.
As in all Chinese fairs you can find a huge quantity of delicious street food.

Dongyue Temple Fair

Dongyue Temple Fair

Dongyue Temple is one of the most ancient temples in Beijing dating back to the Yuan Dynasty. Celebration during the Spring Festival are focused on the “Fu”, the good fortune.
The Chinese Character of “Fu 福” is printed everywhere on the ornaments inside and outside the temple to invite Good Fortune for the coming year. Colorful folk performances, artwork displays, and snacks are always available.

Where to stay in Beijing:

Park Plaza Beijing Science Park – From € 49.32 per night
Located in an ideal position near the best tourist attractions in Beijing, this 4 star hotel provides all the best facilities.

Holiday Inn Central Plaza – From € 56.71 per night
Modern 4 star hotel located on the best tourist and shopping areas such as Wangfujing, Oriental Plaza and the Forbidden City.

Howard Johnson Paragon – From € 58.01 per night
This 4 star hotel is located in East Chang An Street, in the earth of the city, and offers a pleasant stay for both leisure and business travel in Beijing.

Dong Huang – From € 75.20 per night
Situated in one of the central district of Beijing this 4 star hotel provides an easy access to tourist attractions such as Tiananmen Square, Pearl Market and Beijing University.

{{ t:HIBEIJ}}

Paris

Even if you are not particularly into shopping, winter sales in Paris 2012 are so a temptation in this period of the year that even the most provident person will have serious problems not to take advantage of them.
Many tourists schedule their travel only to profit by Paris winter sales, and have finally the chance to buy in the most famous malls in the world at decent prices.

Are you willing to do anything for a pair of shoes? Follow our suggestions to find out how to survive to the crazy shopping in one piece and bring at home great clothes. We provide you helpful tips on how to deal with sales maintaining a ladylike behaviour. Remember that if you’re thinking when to plan your January trip, discounts are almost always at their best during the end of the six-week period.

In Paris, sales are run in two special occasions during the year, one in summer and one in winter both regulated by state laws. Generally, sales last for one month concurring with the end of June and following the Christmas festivities in January. Winter 2012 sales in Paris begin Wednesday, January 11th and end Tuesday, February 14th. During this time the best boutiques, malls, outlets, department stores prepare the items for the next season clearing out all they have and gradually reducing prices. So keep your eyes open and walking through the amazing streets in Paris look out for promising deals.

Shopping rules

Take advantage of our suggestions to get the best from your shopping in Paris. Try to avoid, if you can, weekends, since they are usually the most busiest days, choose instead the week days preferably during lunch hours or just after opening. If you have the chance, try to get in Paris just before the sales and begin to “study” the items you are interested in. Find the shops you like and try the clothes early, so you will be ready for the next days when all the fitting rooms will be always occupied. Be sure to wear something comfortable, easy to get off in the fitting room, avoid hills and dress light because, in winter, shopping malls are always too heated. Check out attentively the return policy, many shops in Europe have rigid rules concerning exchange especially during the sales. Don’t rush during sales but try to not indulge too much comparing prices in different shops or you will risk losing the deal.
www.shoppingbyparis.com/en/

View Larger Map

Don’t miss these stores

Abercrombie & Fitch
23 avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris 8th.
Where to find amazing jeans, shorts, skirts, accessories and new fragrances. Look at the new arrival, red and black are protagonists.
www.abercrombie.com

Burberry
163 bd Saint-Germain, Paris 6th.
Discover the new shoes, bags and accessories.
www.burberry.fr

Ralph Lauren
173 bd Saint-Germain, Paris 6th.
Feel at home in luxury and comfort of men’s and women’s clothing, don’t miss the latest cashmere sweaters, shirts, jackets, home fashions and gifts.
www.ralphlauren.fr

Tommy Hilfiger
65 avenue des Champs-Élysées, Paris 8th.
Polo shirts, dresses, sweaters, jeans, and women’s accessories, be sure to visit the store checking out the new arrival.
uk.tommy.com

Kitsuné
52 rue de Richelieu, Paris 1st.
This year collection is inspired by the West American style and dedicated to the movie “Brokeback Mountain”.
www.kitsune.fr

Where to eat:

Les Cocottes – rue saint Dominique, 7ème – Invalides – Tour Eiffel
An original restaurant. You can dine at the bar enjoying delicious food, well cooked and sold at very fair price.

Le Bamboche – Rue de Babylone, 7ème – Invalides – Tour Eiffel
Suggested if you like creative French cuisine at interesting prices.

Chez Françoise – Aérogare des Invalides, 7ème – Invalides – Tour Eiffel
Well frequented during the lunch time by people living in that area, a very nice brasserie.

Where to stay:

Modern Montmartre – from €54,24 per night
Located near Montmartre, this 2 star hotel offers an ideal location to see the best attractions in Paris.

Hotel Nord et Champagne – from €65,00 per night
Ideally located between Gare du Nord and Gare de l’Est, this 2 star hotel will provides an easy access to best shops in the city.

Pavillon Opera Lafayette – from €65.40 per night
This 2 star hotel is located near Galeries Lafayette, Montmartre and the Opera Garnier and offers all the facilities and a warm atmosphere.

Hotel du Plat D’Etain – from €69.00 per night
This charming 3 star hotel is located a few minute walk form Pompidou Centre. It provides fully equipped rooms and an efficient service.

{{t:HIPAR}}

La Befana

The Italian Epiphany Feast, or La Befana is celebrated on January 6 with a national holiday and represents a very important part of the Christmas festivities in this country. Epiphany celebrates the day in which the Three Wise Men, the Magi, offered Jesus gold, frankincense and myrrh.

The Epiphany celebration in Italy is centered around a tale of an old lady called La Befana, a character that may have originated in central Italy and then become popular in the rest of the country. Italian children believe that La Befana, during the night of January 5, flies on a broomstick bringing gifts (toys and candy) for good children or coal for the bad ones filling  the stockings that kids has prepared.

The legend tells that La Befana was approached by the Three Wise Men asking her directions to reach the Son of God. She didn’t know but helped them providing a place to sleep during the night so the Magi invited the lady to join them but she refuse. Later La Befana changed her mind but it was too late and she couldn’t find baby Jesus anymore, that’s why is believed to fly searching for little babies bringing them gifts.

Almost every city and town in Italy organizes some events or parades during this day when all the family gather to have fun together eating delicious sweets and walking through beautiful piazzas. Don’t miss the opportunity to celebrate La Befana and visit, at the same time, one of these amazing destinations that we heartily suggest to see.

Viva la Befana

Rome

Viva la Befana
When:  the morning of  January, 6 from 10:50
Where:  from Castel Sant’Angelo to Piazza San Pietro

With more than twenty years of tradition Viva la Befana in Rome it’s a event founded in 1986, collecting every January 6 thousands people from all parts of Italy and foreigners as well. The event is an extraordinary mix of religious and folk elements, which gives viewers a rich program of music, games and lot of fun. You will have the chance to listen bands and watch parades where the participants, all strictly dressed with the customs of the time, march on horseback for the joy of children and adults. Each year the folk groups comes to Rome from a different place of Italy and this year it is from Assisi.

View Larger Map

Mercatini Roma

Mercatini
When: from November 26, 2011 to January 8, 2012  – weekdays from 10.00 a.m. to 1.00 p.m. and weekends and public holidays 10.00 a.m. to 2.00
Where: Piazza Navona
Rione Parione (Navona-Campo de’ Fiori) – Free entrance

The Mercatini in Rome is an appointment that take place every year by almost one hundred years, to the delight of children and adults. A great atmosphere sets in one of the most characteristic and important piazzas, Piazza Navona. The square is surrounded by a ring of ancient palaces where are lined up numerous stands with toys, gifts, sweets, colorful lights and music, and, as always, numerous artists.

Among the portrait painters who populate the square regularly throughout the year, be sure to do not miss the Christmas delicacies of local and international cuisine.

A few meters from the Quattro Fiumi fountain, every year is built is a wonderful and fabulous old-fashioned carousel that will bring you back, for a moment, to ancient times, with the old traditions, music, rides, coloured lights. You will have the chance to visit, restored for the occasion, characteristic stands overflow of sweets, toys, Christmas ornaments, figurines from crib befane, cotton candy, hot donuts and much more.
The market opens daily until 1.00 a.m. and will culminate on the day of Epiphany, during which La Befana will distribute sweets to all children in the square.

Getting around Rome:
http://www.gorome.it/en/getting-around-rome.html

Where to sleep:
Hotel Residenza Villa Maria from € 40  per night
This enchanting hotel provides the chance to spend the most relaxing stay in the countryside in Rome.
Hotel Palacavicchi from € 42  per night
For a pleasant stay in Rome this hotel offers the maximum comfort and  services housing also a very good restaurant.
Excel Roma Ciampino from € 49,25 per night
Located near the airport this beautiful 4 star hotel provides an easy access to the best tourist attractions in the city.

The procession of the Magi

Milan

The procession of the Magi
When: from November 26, to January 6, 2012  11.45 am
Where: Via Torino, Milan

The city celebrates the day of Epiphany with The procession of the Magi in Milan, composed of the Three Kings, the Civic Band, the majorettes and by various groups in costume that will proceed from the Duomo, leaving at 11.45, through beautiful spots such as Colonne di San Lorenzo and  Corso di Porta Ticinese arriving at 12.15 at the San Lorenzo Basilica for the meeting of the Magi with Herod.

The procession will leave again at 12.30 crossing Ticinese, to arrive in Sant’Eustorgio square at 12.40  where the Magi offer gifts to the nativity scene. The end point of the parade is not accidental. According to the legends Eustorgio, bishop of the city of Milan in the fourth century, had carried the remains of the Magi from Constantinople to Milan putting them into the Basilica. Visitors can still pay homage to the urn in Basilica of Sant’Eustorgio.

View Larger Map

Where to sleep:
Hotel Montebianco – Mokinba Hotels from € 59 per night
Ideally located this 4 star hotel will guarantee a warm welcome in Milan thank to the high-qualified staff.
Hotel Mistral from € 64.57 per night
Very functional hotel located a few steps from the yellow line of metro service. Cordial atmosphere and great comfort.
Hotel Berlino from € 67.80 per night
Located in one of the most vivid area in Milan this fully renovated 3 star hotel is near to the best restaurants and pubs in the city.

Cavalcade of Magi

Firenze

Cavalcade of Magi
When: January 6, 2012, afternoon
Where: from Palazzo Pitti, Piazza della Signoria to Piazza del Duomo

In 2012 Feast of Epiphany, as always, you can’t miss to attend at the Cavalcade of Magi in Florence an historical event that take place between the Duomo and the Baptistry. During this very special celebration, obviously linked to religious tradition, but rich in folklore elements,  the Saint Three Kings or Magi, riding horses and dressed in traditional costumes cross the city streets following the parade of the Ancient Florence Republic and the Bandierai degli Uffizi the Florence flag flyers.

On the day of Epiphany Piazza del Duomo in Florence becomes thus the protagonist of this unmissable event: arrays listed in Renaissance costume, with their great show, are the backdrop to offer gifts to the image of the child Jesus.

View Larger Map

Getting around Florence:
http://www.goflorence.it/en/getting-around-florence.html

Where to sleep:
Comfort Hotel Donatello Firenze City from  € 53.98 per night
Ideally located in the city centre the hotel provides an easy access to the best tourist attraction in Florence.
Diva Hotel from € 54.00 per night
With an ideal position to visit the city, this 3 star hotel provides a very good solution to spend a relaxing holidays.
Tourist House Liberty from € 54.00 per night
Very comfortable hotel with Tuscan style furniture that provides an ideal solution to visit Florence sightseeing.

{{l:HIRM|l:HIMI|l:HIFI|t:HIRM|t:HIFI|t:HIMI}}

The best spots are along Broadway and along Seventh Avenue, up to 59th Street, you can choose also Broadway and 50th Street, 52nd Street, 54th Street and 58th Street where additional screens will be set up. As the ball drops beginning at 11:59 p.m. on New Year’s Eve, there will be normally more than one million people in Times Square and millions more following the ball drop on nationwide.

When the Ball Drops in Times Square, thousands of confetti falls on the crowd creating one of the most enjoying experience in New York. The City is famous for it’s exciting  New Year’s parties, and 2012 will be no different, with events including Dick Clark’s Rockin New Years Eve with amazing guests such as Justin Bieber, Lady Gaga, Pitbull etc..  The Radio City Christmas Spectacular, Big Apple Circus, Deadmau5 at Pier 36, and much more.



View Larger Map

Don’t miss one thing more! Write your hopes and dreams on the New Year’s Eve Wishing Wall, located at the Times Square Visitor center (7th Ave between 46th & 47th Sts). Your wish will be collected and added to the confetti released at midnight onto the crowd in Times Square. Certainly the best way to see you dream come true!

Ball Drop in Times Square

Times Square New Year’s Eve Ball Drop

Where: Times Square
When: December 31, 6:00 p.m.
http://www.timessquarenyc.org

Midnight Run

Emerald Nuts Midnight Run
Looking for a truly unique way to celebrate New Year’s Eve in New York City? We suggest for you this four-mile run in the famous Central Park where you can enjoy also a (non-alcoholic) champagne toast, fireworks, and great music! For this special occasion people wear funny costumes and dance in Central Park before midnight and after that marathoners start their 4 mile race accompanied by amazing fireworks that illuminate the sky. Enjoy the dancing and costume contest of the Emerald Nuts Midnight Run that take place in Central Park Bandshell, on the 72nd Street Transverse. There’s an incredible energy there since several thousand people attend this event each year.

Where: Central Park, New York
When: Saturday, December 31 Costume Parade and Contest – 11:00 p.m. / Fireworks and Race -Midnight
http://www.nyrr.org

Brooklyn Bridge Walk

Brooklyn Bridge Walk into the New Year
If you want to try something  different  for the New Year’s Eve in New York the Brooklyn Bridge Walk certainly represent an original way to enjoy this special night. The 17th Annual Brooklyn Bridge Walk into the New Year  starts at 10.15 and 11.15 (registration begins at 9:45 p.m., about $50) from McDonald’s Restaurant, 160 Broadway between Liberty and Cortlandt Streets and ends at midnight on Saturday 31 December 2011.
Walking the Brooklyn Bridge is a thing that you can do every time on your own but we recommend to do the amazing guided tour held for the New Year when parties, music and dance follow you providing beautiful memories.

Where: 160 Broadway between Liberty and Courtlandt Streets, New York City
When: Registration for the walk begins at 9:45 p.m. Walk 10:15p.m. -  11:15p.m.
http://newyorktalksandwalks.com

Parties in New York

Enjoy the craziest party in town and see what the city has to offer. You’ll find delicious food, amazing cocktails, music, a lot of celebrities and much more. These places will provide a wonderful setting for the last night of the year and give you the opportunity to live a real special night far from ordinary.

Lair

Lair
Saturday December 31st, 2011
8pm – 4am

The perfect location to make this year evening the special one. Enjoy this special party celebrating with delicious cocktails served for 6 hours and unique food prepared by the worldwide famous chef Chris Cheung. Dance, good music and fun are awaiting for you.

Cipriani 42nd street

Cipriani 42nd street
Saturday, December 31st, 2011
9pm – 3am

Celebrate the New years Eve with elegance and style and spend the evening with the international elite in a Venetian atmosphere. Cipriani 42nd street was built in 1921 following the inspiration of the Italian Reniassance making it the perfect setting to welcome the 2012 taking advantage of the impeccable service and the renowned Italian cuisine.

Gansevoort Park Avenue

Gansevoort Park Avenue
Saturday, December 31st, 2011
8 pm – 4 am

The place is really breathtaking and perfect to spend the most important night of the year. The exclusive velvet-rope style will take you in a fabulous world made by 6 different lounges with its own style and music that will meet every guest.

Dave and Buster’s Foto

Dave & Buster’s
Saturday, December 31st, 2011
7pm – 1am

The party held here is one of hottest in town. Enjoy the five hours open bar and the exquisite food during the buffet dinner, you won’t regret! Dave and Buster’s offers you a live broadcast of the New Year’s Eve ball drop using multiple screens that will make the countdown really exciting.

{{ t:HINY}}

Christmas Markets

For your Christmas Holiday we suggest a very traditional thing to visit such as Germany Christmas Markets. Christmas Markets are an important ingredient of Germany festive magic. Frankfurt, Hamburg and Dusseldorf Markets light up the city centre at this time of the year, attracting tourist from all Europe and locals as well to live the holiday atmosphere in a real “Winter Wonderland” set. In the town and villages along this country you’ll enjoy an idyllic scenario for the most special Christmas 2011 market break.

Half-timbered houses are beautifully lit and the aromas of mulled wine and cinnamon spread into air in this time of the year. Guests can stop by cozy hotels and the Christmas shopping is friendly and relaxed.  The Christmas markets in these cities are particularly famous and quite big so we suggest to visit these three places and enjoy the festive atmosphere.

Dusseldorf

Dusseldorf Christmas Markets 17th November – 23rd December 2011
In Dusseldorf Christmas Market take place from 17th November to 23rd December 2011. Taking a walk through the centre during the Christmas time is really a worthy experience. Unlike in other cities, in fact, the traditional Christmas market is not staged in one only place but is distributed along all the best city’s spots. On the market square in front of the historic Town Hall (Rathaus) famous artisans present their goods in characteristic stalls. In the Flinger Strasse, the Christmas wares are perfect replicas of the marvelous town houses.

Recommended Hotels in Dusseldorf are:
Relexa hotel Airport Düsseldorf-Ratingen
Hilton Dusseldorf Hotel
Innside by Melia Dusseldorf Derendorf

Hamburg

Hamburg Christmas Markets 21st November – 23rd December 2011
On your way to the best Christmas markets you can’t miss the beautiful city of Hamburg where the Christmas Market take place from 21st November 2011 to 23rd December 2011. Old-fashioned carousels bring joy to everyone’s eyes, not just the kids. Hamburg has so much to offer during this time of the year: you can taste a mug of glühwein on you tour on the lake Alster or you could enjoy a Christmas exhibition in one of the city’s museums. The Hamburg Town Hall Christmas Market is filled with hand-painted Christmas goods from the nearby areas, woodcarvers from Tyrol, bakers form Aachen or gingerbread makers from Nuremberg and the pottery is made by artists from the Lausitz region. There are really plenty of magical moments to live both for children and adults.

Recommended Hotels in Hamburg are:
Meininger Hotel Hamburg City Center
Achat Plaza Hamburg Buchholz
TOP CityLine Hotel Panorama Inn

Frankfurt

Frankfurt Christmas Markets 23rd November – 22nd December  2011
Frankfurt Christmas Market ( from 23rd November – 22nd December 2011) is well renowned as one of the hugest ones in Germany for number of visitors and size. The sophisticated and creative stand decorations, the surrounding scenarios of the Römerberg and Paulsplatz and the tall Christmas tree also contribute to make it one of most magnificent ones. Frankfurt’s historical old town is nicely decorated with thousand of fairy lights reflecting on the windows of the ancient buildings. If you feel too cold you can always warm yourself with a delicious cup of the famous apple wine served everywhere along the streets and taste a “Bethmännchen”, Frankfurt’s popular marzipan delight.

Recommended Hotels in Frankfurt are:
Hotel Elbe
Hotel Memphis
Innside Frankfurt Niederrad

If you’ve ever desired to live the magic wintertime charm of the old world, then these cities are the right place for you! Lovingly decorated Christmas Markets invite locals and tourists to a relaxing stroll, providing not only unique present ideas, but also a delicious variety of traditional culinary specialities.

Casa de la Luna

Casa de la Luna
3-Star Hotel

Bolivar 57 Centro Historico
06000 Mexico City

Bristol

Bristol
3-Star Hotel

Plaza Necaxa Col. Cuahutemoc 17
6500 Mexico D.f.

Casa Blanca

Casa Blanca
4-Star Hotel

La Fragua, Col-tabacalera 7
6030 Mexico D.f.

 
 
{{ l:HIMEXI | t:HIMEXI }}

Inverlochy Castle, Scotland

Located amongst the fabulous Scottish West Highlands scenery, this castle is an award-winning luxury hotel and restaurant. It was erected in 1863 by Lord Abinger, near the ancient, XIII century castle. The fortress had been a private residence for about hundred years until 1969, when it was converted into an enchanting hotel. The castle has been renovated and upgraded but the enchanting impressive style and Victorian grandeur remain unchanged. The Great Hall, where guests are welcomed, has a nicely frescoed ceiling, Venetian crystal chandeliers and a stunning staircase, reflecting the relaxed, peaceful atmosphere of a past age. The property comprises a total of 17 accommodation units all individually conceived with sumptuous décor.

Tuscany, Italy

If you wish an unforgettable wedding, Tuscany with its history, art, evocative landscapes, tempting food and delicious wines is the place right for you. 
The green hills that gently overlook the enchanting countryside surrounded by Etruscan walls, tiny cypress trees and stunning palaces offer a perfect setting for the most extraordinary wedding. You can choose between beautiful cities such as Florence and Siena or characteristic villages such as Arezzo and Lucca that house amazing artistic treasures. In all these places can be organized a civil wedding in amazing and historical city halls or private villas. The effect will be simply spectacular.

Central Park, NY

Central Park is certainly a romantic and beautiful place where to say “I do”. We recommend some spots for your wedding day that can be chosen according to the number of guests that will be invited (200 people maximum). Ladies Pavilion, the Pond, Cherry Hill, Cop Cot, Bethesda Terrace, Belvedere Plaza, Wagner Cove, Summit Rock and Harlem Meer are very popular but the Conservatory Garden is probably one of the most requested. In this evocative setting guests can walk through the English garden adorned with beautiful magnolia and lilac trees and appreciate the statue of Frances Hodgson Burnett. To the north is located the Italian garden, where you can admire the beautiful fountain and the wisteria pergola. The French garden provides spring tulips and houses the sculpture of Walter Schott “Three Dancing Maidens”.

{{ l:HINY | t:HINY | l:HIFI | l:HISI | l:HIARE | l:HILU }}