Thursday, January 22, 2009

Planning a Honeymoon in Italy

Here are five excellent reasons to consider planning a honeymoon in Italy:

The Food
Honeymooners in Italy should always sample the delicious regional cuisine. Hearty game and other rustic specialities are enjoyed in the north of Italy, while the south of Italy is best-known for its seafood and vegetable dishes. Additionally, Bologna is known as the country's gastronomic capital.

The Wine
Those who choose a honeymoon in Italy are in luck! Italy cultivates more grape varieties than anyone else and almost every region produces memorable wines. Reds include Tuscany's popular Chianti and Piedmont's robust Barolo, while Verdicchio and Gavi are among Italy's distinctive whites.

The Art
Newlyweds honeymooning in Italy should know that the land of Michelangelo and Leonardo da Vinci reputedly has 60% of the world's most important works of art and half of these are in Florence. Galleries in every main city display stunning Renaissance works and many, such as the Guggenheim in Venice, have amazing modern collections.

The Nature
Honeymooners can enjoy the fabulous scenery and wildlife of the national parks, such as those in Abruzzo and Friuli Venezia Giulia. Sicily has two parks and Mount Etna to explore. If you're mountain-minded, try inland Sardinia or head north into the Alps.

The Shopping
Fashionistas on their honeymoons should head for Milan, but most cities have stores selling the latest from Prada, Armani, and Versace. Bargains can be found in designer outlets, particularly in Tuscany, and at street markets around the country. If you can't afford designer duds, you can always look!

A honeymoon in Italy is a wonderful choice year 'round! There are almost always bargain flights to be had by those brides and grooms who are willing to shop around and if you work with a travel agent, you may just be able to get great deals on hotels, car rental, tours, and honeymoon perks like free champagne and upgrades.


Click to read more about planning a honeymoon