Destination Spotlight: Madrid


Madrid is the capital of Spain, and it is a wonderful, safe, and vibrant city. It boasts a diverse cultural scene, exciting nightlife, and an incredible restaurant scene. 

It’s also a walkable city, which makes it perfect for tourists! However, leave yourself enough time to fully experience all of its beauty, as well as escape to visit the nearby cities like Toledo, Segovia, and Cuenca. Keep in mind that public transportation (metro and buses) is an easy way to get around.

Madrid is known as Europe's “sunniest capital”. This is because Madrid can experience about 300 days of sunshine every year! (*reminder to pack for the weather and include hats, light clothing, sunblock, sunglasses, etc) Also, balance indoor with outdoor activities to give yourself a chance to cool down!

Madrid is home to world-class museums, beautiful parks, tranquil gardens, architectural delights, and a truly rich culinary life.

The locals are known for being warm and hospitable - so, be sure to connect with them to experience the true flavor of the city! Madrid offers something for everyone and is a wonderful city to explore.

5 Things To Do

  1. Prado Museum: Are you an art lover? Then you should not miss a visit to the Prado Museum. It is home to an extensive collection of masterpieces by renowned artists such as Goya, Velázquez, and El Greco. It offers a wonderful journey through Spanish art and art history.

  2. The Royal Palace: This is one of the largest palaces in all of Europe. If you enjoy seeing palaces, it is a must-visit attraction. The palace boasts many opulent rooms and stunning architecture, and it allows you to completely immerse yourself in the rich history and lives of the Spanish royals.

  3. Plaza Mayor: Plaza Mayor is a lively square right in the center of the historic district. It is filled with charming cafes, restaurants, and shops, that are ideal for a leisurely day of shopping and eating. Enjoy the vibrant atmosphere while savoring traditional Spanish cuisine, people, and culture.

  4. Retiro Park: This park is a perfect break from the bustling Madrid streets. Picture the expansive oasis - perfect for lovely strolls and picnics by the scenic lake. You can also see the iconic Crystal Palace there and its gorgeous surroundings.

  5. Puerta del Sol: Puerta del Sol is the bustling city center and square, filled with life. While there, be sure to see the Kilometer Zero and shop along the Gran Vía. There are many delicious tapas bars there to enjoy!

4 Hidden Gems 

  1. San Fernando Market: Within the Lavapiés neighborhood, this unique Market is a hidden gem for those of you who enjoy culinary delights! In this market, you will find a wide range of Spanish products, fresh produce, and local delicacies. It will leave you with an authentic, rustic, and vibrant food experience.

  2. Montera's Secret Eden: In the middle of C/Montera Street, you will find an urban oasis, called Mintera’s Secret Eden. It is a beautiful and serene escape from the busy city and a perfect place to relax and enjoy the views.

  3. Chamberí Ghost Station: This closed Metro station has been preserved as a unique museum experience. You will find a special glimpse at the history of the city's transportation system.  You can see exhibits about this system with the original 1919 decor.

  4. El Capricho Park: Just outside of Madrid proper, you will find El Capricho Park. It is a true hidden gem, highlighting gorgeous landscaped gardens with fun hidden paths, alongside Spanish architecture that is picture-worthy.  This gem is perfect for an escape or a leisurely stroll - maybe pack a picnic!

5 Foods to Try

  1. Cocido Madrileño: This hearty Madrid stew is a classic dish enjoyed throughout Madrid. It is made with several meats (beef, pork, chorizo) with vegetables, chickpeas, and unique spices from the area. It has three parts: the broth, the meat and vegetables, and the chickpeas, and is a comforting dish that is quite filling.

  2. Tortilla Española:  (Spanish Omelette) A Spanish omelet is a true staple in Madrid’s cuisine. It is a tortilla Española made with eggs, potatoes, onions, olive oil, salt, and pepper - so delicious and satisfying! This traditional dish can be enjoyed as a tapas or you can order it as a main course.

  3. Jamón Ibérico (Iberian Ham): This cured ham and jamón Ibérico is a delicacy that is well known in Madrid. This top-quality ham comes from Iberian pigs and is known for being very rich in flavor. This tender ham is enjoyed as a dish on its own or as a part of a delicious charcuterie dish.

  4. Bocadillo de Calamares: A popular "fast food" (Squid Sandwich) dish in Madrid, it is a sandwich that is filled with fried crispy squid rings. Most locals enjoy this with a nice cold beer, and visitors enjoy it.

  5. Churros con Chocolate: This beloved Spanish treat is a must-try while visiting Madrid! It is a deep-fried dough pastry, and it is crispy on the outside while soft and warm on the inside. They are usually served with a side of rich hot chocolate to dip in. This indulgent snack is not to be missed - and can be a fast breakfast option.

Enjoy exploring the cultural, architectural, and culinary delights of Madrid!


Interested in planning your next vacation with one of our award-winning travel agents?  Simply fill out the form below and we will get back to shortly!


Quick Travel Tid-bits from our other articles...

Curious about the best airport lounges? Want to get in? Tips on how to get you in!....

Did you know that there are places in the airport you can go to escape the manic nature of the terminal? They’re called airport lounges. Airport lounges are some of the best places to spend time before your flight as they are their own getaway. They often offer free food and drinks, spacious seating, free Wi-Fi, and even some provide amenities like showers and nap pods. If you are in a larger airport some lounges offer spas, barbershops and workout equipment.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Why are passports taking so long?

It all boils down to health being tantamount. The offices were closed during COVID and are still not operating at 100%. This led to a backlog in requests. Labor in every field has been impacted from the pandemic, and the Department of State is no exception. There’s only so much each person can do, which leads to a ripple effect of consequential delays.

I need to renew or get my passport, NOW!!

RAVE REVIEWS

Real stories on how Life is Better Traveling travel advisors aided their clients during the outbreak and disruption of COVID-19.

"I wanted to also say what a pleasure it’s been planning our trip with you. We really think your ideas would have made our trip to Italy a trip of a lifetime. We are looking forward to re-booking this vacation when the virus situation is no longer an issue. I also can’t thank you enough for all your help. Reg and I are so looking forward to calling you with new dates someday hopefully soon."

Regis Family
Philadelphia, PA

 “Mary is ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! She was extremely knowledgeable about each of the cities we went to and different excursions we were able to try. She gave us wonderful recommendations of what to do and what is not worth the time and/or money. She was very organized and sent us a binder of our itinerary as well as all of the vouchers we would need for our trip. She set up personal transfers from the airports/train stations/hotels/etc. which was wonderful! We did not have to worry about what time we needed to leave or how we were going to get there. This allowed us to enjoy our trip and not stress about the details. I would recommend Mary to anyone looking for an amazing and stress-free trip! She thinks of every little thing and is there to guide you every step of the way! I will definitely be using her anytime we need a vacation and recommending her to all of our friends and family!!

Stephanie
Ohio


LIBTGreecemktgphoto

We have changed the Greece dates to 2023.  We had so many people interested in traveling with us, but still wanted to wait another year.  We want everyone to feel comfortable, so we have decided to move the dates to 2023.    

YES, sign me up to come with you!

Destination Spotlight: Barcelona

Barcelona, Spain truly captures the imagination, and is an ideal city to visit!

Barcelona's combination of stunning architecture, rich culture, beautiful beaches, and vibrant atmosphere makes it a great destination for travelers seeking a mix of history, art, entertainment, and relaxation.

Whether you're an art lover, a history buff, or simply seeking to soak up the lively atmosphere, there is no shortage of incredible sites to see or things to do. 

Let's dive into all of the wonders that you simply can't miss during your visit.

5 Sites To See

  1. The Gothic Quarter: For history enthusiasts, a visit to the Gothic Quarter is essential. Here, you'll find narrow medieval streets lined with charming shops, restaurants, and historic buildings. The stunning Barcelona Cathedral stands tall in this district, showcasing impressive Gothic architecture that dates back centuries.

  1. Park de la Ciutadella: This is an incredible oasis within the city limits. This expansive park offers lush greenery, serene lakes where you can rent rowboats or simply relax by the water's edge. It also houses several notable landmarks including the Cascada Monumental - an impressive waterfall monument designed by Josep Fontserè.

  1. Sagrada Familia: Designed by the renowned architect Antoni Gaudí, this breathtaking basilica combines Gothic and Art Nouveau elements, creating a truly unique masterpiece. Its intricate facades and towering spires make it a true symbol of Barcelona's architectural prowess.

  1. Park Güell: Explore another creation by Gaudí. This whimsical park offers panoramic views of the city along with colorful mosaic sculptures and structures that will transport you into a fairytale-like setting. Take a leisurely stroll through its winding paths and enjoy the harmonious blend of nature and art.

  2. La Rambla: La Rambla is one of Europe's most famous boulevards. This bustling street stretches for 1.2 kilometers and is lined with shops, cafes, street performers, and vibrant markets such as La Boqueria. Immerse yourself in its lively atmosphere as you explore its various attractions.

5 Foods to Try

  1. Pintxos: Originating from the Basque country but widely enjoyed in Barcelona, pintxos are bite-sized snacks served on toothpicks or skewers. These delectable morsels come in endless varieties, ranging from marinated anchovies and cured meats to grilled vegetables and cheese combinations.

  1. Tapas: Who doesn’t love Tapas? Barcelona is renowned for its tapas culture. These small plates of savory goodness are perfect for sharing and experiencing a variety of flavors in one sitting. Don't miss out on classics like patatas bravas (fried potatoes with spicy sauce), jamón ibérico (cured ham), and gambas al ajillo (garlic shrimp). 

  1. Paella: A visit to Barcelona would be incomplete without trying the iconic Spanish dish - paella. This flavorful rice dish is traditionally cooked with saffron, vegetables, and various meats or seafood. Head to a local restaurant or beachside chiringuito for an authentic paella experience.

  1. Crema Catalana: Have a sweet tooth? Crema Catalana is a must-try dessert in Barcelona. Similar to crème brûlée, this creamy custard is flavored with lemon zest and cinnamon before being caramelized on top - for that irresistible crunchy layer.

  1. Churros con Chocolate: This is a perfect treat any time of day. Indulge your senses with this classic Spanish treat - churros con chocolate! Crispy fried dough dipped in thick hot chocolate makes for the perfect combination of textures and flavors. Whether enjoyed as breakfast or an afternoon snack, churros con chocolate will leave you wanting more.

5 Hidden Gems To Explore

  1. Bunkers del Carmel: For breathtaking panoramic views of Barcelona, head to the Bunkers del Carmel. These former civil war bunkers are located on a hill and offer a fantastic viewpoint of the city skyline. It's a great spot to have a picnic or watch the sunset away from the tourist crowds.

  1. El Born Neighborhood: Located in the heart of Barcelona, El Born is a charming and vibrant neighborhood full of narrow medieval streets, trendy boutiques, cozy cafes, and historical sites. It is a great place to wander around, discover hidden squares, and soak up the local atmosphere.

  1. Mercat de Sant Antoni: While the Boqueria market is famous and worth a visit, the Mercat de Sant Antoni is a hidden gem for food lovers. Located in the Eixample district, this local market offers a wide variety of fresh produce, meats, seafood, and local delicacies. It is less crowded and gives you a more authentic experience.

  1. Sant Pau Recinte Modernista: This modernist complex in the Eixample district is often overshadowed by Gaudí's famous works, but it is a true hidden gem. Designed by architect Lluís Domènech i Montaner, the complex includes a hospital-turned-museum with stunning modernist architecture, beautiful gardens, and fantastic mosaic work.

  1. Parc del Laberint d'Horta: Tucked away in the Horta-Guinardó district, this hidden gem is Barcelona's oldest park. It features beautiful gardens, sculptures, and a labyrinth that gives the park its name. It is a peaceful and enchanting place to escape the city's hustle and bustle and enjoy some tranquility.

Enjoy the stunning city of Barcelona!


Interested in planning your next vacation with one of our award-winning travel agents?  Simply fill out the form below and we will get back to shortly!


Quick Travel Tid-bits from our other articles...

Curious about the best airport lounges? Want to get in? Tips on how to get you in!....

Did you know that there are places in the airport you can go to escape the manic nature of the terminal? They’re called airport lounges. Airport lounges are some of the best places to spend time before your flight as they are their own getaway. They often offer free food and drinks, spacious seating, free Wi-Fi, and even some provide amenities like showers and nap pods. If you are in a larger airport some lounges offer spas, barbershops and workout equipment.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Why are passports taking so long?

It all boils down to health being tantamount. The offices were closed during COVID and are still not operating at 100%. This led to a backlog in requests. Labor in every field has been impacted from the pandemic, and the Department of State is no exception. There’s only so much each person can do, which leads to a ripple effect of consequential delays.

I need to renew or get my passport, NOW!!

RAVE REVIEWS

Real stories on how Life is Better Traveling travel advisors aided their clients during the outbreak and disruption of COVID-19.

"I wanted to also say what a pleasure it’s been planning our trip with you. We really think your ideas would have made our trip to Italy a trip of a lifetime. We are looking forward to re-booking this vacation when the virus situation is no longer an issue. I also can’t thank you enough for all your help. Reg and I are so looking forward to calling you with new dates someday hopefully soon."

Regis Family
Philadelphia, PA

 “Mary is ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! She was extremely knowledgeable about each of the cities we went to and different excursions we were able to try. She gave us wonderful recommendations of what to do and what is not worth the time and/or money. She was very organized and sent us a binder of our itinerary as well as all of the vouchers we would need for our trip. She set up personal transfers from the airports/train stations/hotels/etc. which was wonderful! We did not have to worry about what time we needed to leave or how we were going to get there. This allowed us to enjoy our trip and not stress about the details. I would recommend Mary to anyone looking for an amazing and stress-free trip! She thinks of every little thing and is there to guide you every step of the way! I will definitely be using her anytime we need a vacation and recommending her to all of our friends and family!!

Stephanie
Ohio


LIBTGreecemktgphoto

We have changed the Greece dates to 2023.  We had so many people interested in traveling with us, but still wanted to wait another year.  We want everyone to feel comfortable, so we have decided to move the dates to 2023.    

YES, sign me up to come with you!

Destination Spotlight: Athens

Known as the birthplace of Western civilization and democracy, Athens is literally steeped in history, and this makes it an incredible place to visit and explore.

Athens is a vibrant, cultural hub with rich art and ancient architecture. You will find world-class museums, unique cultural events, fun music festivals, and theater - after all, it’s the birthplace of theatre!

You will view different architectural styles, ranging from ancient Greek ruins to neoclassical buildings and modern structures - which gives the city a very distinctive landscape. Take time to explore the charming neighborhoods on foot to truly experience their charm.

Let’s not forget the cuisine! Greek food is well-loved, and Athens is the perfect place to indulge in tavernas and trendy restaurants to taste a variety of culinary delights. 

Afterward, explore the nightlife scene. Throughout the city, you’ll find fun bars, clubs, and live music. In addition to this, Athens is situated near the coastline and has beautiful beaches. Nearby islands make for perfect day trips. 

Visit Athens for an unforgettable experience of rich history, culture, and cuisine. Also, Greeks are known for their hospitality and are ready to welcome you.

5 Things To Do

  1. The Acropolis: This is a must-visit site in Athens - a piece of incredible history! Explore the greats: the Parthenon, the Erechtheion, and the Temple of Athena Nike. You’ll also be able to enjoy beautiful views of the city.
  2. Ancient Agora: When you think of Athens, you probably picture ancient ruins. Well, this is a perfect spot for viewing this history. The Ancient Agora was historically a marketplace and civic center. You’ll be able to immerse yourself in the ruins of ancient temples, like the Stoa of Attalos and the Temple of Hephaestus.
  3. The Plaka neighborhood: Plaka has the most charming streets to casually walk around. It’s one of the oldest neighborhoods in all of Athens. You’ll see incredible architecture, sweet shops featuring local crafts, and find traditional tavernas to experience fabulous authentic Greek cuisine.
  4. Athens Central Market: This vibrant market is bursting with bustling stalls of fresh foods, spices, and Greek delicacies. It's the best place to view local culture - and the food is so authentic.
  5. National Archaeological Museum: Are you a fan of Greek history, art, or myths? This museum contains ancient artifacts, sculptures, pottery, jewelry, and more. Perfect for art fans and history buffs.

5 Hidden Gems

  1. Philopappos Hill: Located near the Acropolis, Philopappos Hill offers stunning views of Athens and the Parthenon. There are picturesque walking trails where you can view ancient monuments, too. So, if you like to hike, picnic, and explore, this is for you!

  2. Anafiotika: Anafiotika is a beautiful neighborhood that resembles those white-washed houses seen on the Greek islands (picture the Mamma Mia film). It’s so peaceful, and the perfect quick escape from the city for a day trip. You’ll be able to relax as you wander around pretty alleyways surrounded by vibrant flowers. And, the views are incredible. Bring your camera for insta-perfct moments.

  3. National Garden: This peaceful park is a hidden oasis in the heart of the city! There are stunning gardens, a pretty lake and zoo, and pretty shady pathways to explore.

  4. Kerameikos Cemetery: While you might think to skip seeing a cemetery, this gem is right near the Ancient Agora and is truly fascinating. The site features archeological history alongside green space, monuments, and ancient tombs.

  5. Gazi Technopolis: Catch all kinds of events, concerts, and such at this vibrant culture center that once was a gasworks factory. There are exhibits and festivals to check out, too. It’s the perfect place to experience the city's contemporary art scene.

5 Foods To Try

  1. Souvlaki: You may have had this at a Greek restaurant near you. This popular Greek street food skewer has grilled meats (usually pork, beef, or chicken) served on a skewer - or wrapped in a pita. It’s topped with delicious tzatziki and tomatoes and sometimes served with a side of fries.

  2. Loukoumades: This is a special sweet treat! It is small deep-fried dough balls found throughout Athens. They are light and fluffy and drizzled with honey and cinnamon. (sometimes served with nuts or ice cream) Kids love these!

  3. Moussaka: Moussaka is warm and delicious. It consists of layers of baked eggplant, minced meat, and a béchamel sauce. It’s hearty perfection.

  4. Taramasalata: This yummy unique dip is made from fish roe. It’s usually an appetizer. You dip bread or pita in it. It is pink, rich, and tangy. 

  5. Spanakopita: This pastry is made with crispy phyllo dough filled with a mixture of spinach, feta cheese, onions, and herbs. It’s a perfect snack on the go or a side dish - nice and savory.

Enjoy your visit to Athens!


Interested in planning your next vacation with one of our award-winning travel agents?  Simply fill out the form below and we will get back to shortly!


Quick Travel Tid-bits from our other articles...

Curious about the best airport lounges? Want to get in? Tips on how to get you in!....

Did you know that there are places in the airport you can go to escape the manic nature of the terminal? They’re called airport lounges. Airport lounges are some of the best places to spend time before your flight as they are their own getaway. They often offer free food and drinks, spacious seating, free Wi-Fi, and even some provide amenities like showers and nap pods. If you are in a larger airport some lounges offer spas, barbershops and workout equipment.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Why are passports taking so long?

It all boils down to health being tantamount. The offices were closed during COVID and are still not operating at 100%. This led to a backlog in requests. Labor in every field has been impacted from the pandemic, and the Department of State is no exception. There’s only so much each person can do, which leads to a ripple effect of consequential delays.

I need to renew or get my passport, NOW!!

RAVE REVIEWS

Real stories on how Life is Better Traveling travel advisors aided their clients during the outbreak and disruption of COVID-19.

"I wanted to also say what a pleasure it’s been planning our trip with you. We really think your ideas would have made our trip to Italy a trip of a lifetime. We are looking forward to re-booking this vacation when the virus situation is no longer an issue. I also can’t thank you enough for all your help. Reg and I are so looking forward to calling you with new dates someday hopefully soon."

Regis Family
Philadelphia, PA

 “Mary is ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! She was extremely knowledgeable about each of the cities we went to and different excursions we were able to try. She gave us wonderful recommendations of what to do and what is not worth the time and/or money. She was very organized and sent us a binder of our itinerary as well as all of the vouchers we would need for our trip. She set up personal transfers from the airports/train stations/hotels/etc. which was wonderful! We did not have to worry about what time we needed to leave or how we were going to get there. This allowed us to enjoy our trip and not stress about the details. I would recommend Mary to anyone looking for an amazing and stress-free trip! She thinks of every little thing and is there to guide you every step of the way! I will definitely be using her anytime we need a vacation and recommending her to all of our friends and family!!

Stephanie
Ohio


LIBTGreecemktgphoto

We have changed the Greece dates to 2023.  We had so many people interested in traveling with us, but still wanted to wait another year.  We want everyone to feel comfortable, so we have decided to move the dates to 2023.    

YES, sign me up to come with you!

Spotlight Destination: Florence


Florence, Italy is renowned for its rich history, incredible art, and stunning architecture. Visiting Florence is an exceptional experience. 

Considered the birthplace of the Renaissance, Florence is home to some of the most famous works of art in the entire world. Keep an eye out for masterpieces by Leonardo da Vinci, Michelangelo, and Botticelli. There are so many incredible pieces for you to see up close! 

Florence also boasts magnificent architecture throughout the city, reflecting its historical significance - you’ll view domes, palaces, gardens, and grandeur. Just imagine seeing stunning palaces like Palazzo Vecchio and Palazzo Pitti, showcasing the opulence of the Medici family. The historic center is a UNESCO World Heritage site and is incredible to explore on foot. 

Foodie alert! Don’t forget the delicious Italian cuisine. Florence offers cuisine that highlights traditional Tuscan flavors, paired with perfect Italian wines. It’s truly a foodie’s paradise. Florence is also perfect for a shopping spree! You will find the high-quality leather goods that Florence is famous for throughout the city in beautiful leather products, handmade jewelry, and Italian fashion brands. 

Florence is a dream. Immerse yourself in the romance of Italian culture and the timeless atmosphere.

5 Things To Do

  1. The Florence Cathedral (Duomo): Be sure to visit the Florence Cathedral. Also known as the Duomo di Firenze, this massive red dome is a true Italian landmark and one of the most recognizable cathedrals in the world. Take the time to see its stunning architecture. You can even climb to the top of the cathedral for incredible panoramic views of the city -highly recommend this!

  2. The Historic Florence Center: Be sure to stroll through Florence's historic center. Marked as a UNESCO World Heritage site, you can casually wander through history as you enjoy stunning Italian architecture, the Piazza della Signoria, the impressive Palazzo Vecchio, and the iconic Ponte Vecchio bridge over the Arno River.

  3. Uffizi Gallery: Art lovers will adore a trip to the Uffizi Gallery. This gallery is one of the most impressive galleries in the world. Its impressive collection of Renaissance art includes masterpieces like "The Birth of Venus" by Sandro Botticelli, "Annunciation" by Leonardo da Vinci, and more. It is a must-see!

  4. Pitti Palace and Boboli Gardens: Take an afternoon stroll around Pitti Palace. The palace was once the home of the powerful Medici family. Now it is a museum that has wonderful displays of art, historical clothing, and more. Just next to the palace, enjoy a peaceful escape as you relax and wander around the stunning Boboli Gardens.  There you will see beautiful pretty fountains, sculptures, and views of the city.

  5. The Galleria dell'Accademia: This museum is famous for being the home of David - Michelangelo's world-famous sculpture. There are also other incredible works by Michelangelo on view and a wide variety of Renaissance art. It is a truly wonderful experience. 

5 Hidden Gems

  1. Buchette del Vino: Have you heard of the "wine windows" of Florence? Buchette del vino are small openings in the walls of some of the ancient palaces in Florence. They were used years ago to sell wine to people as they strolled by the palaces, without paying the taxes of opening a shop. It's pretty unique - see if you can find them! Most of them can be found in the Santo Spirito neighborhood and in the city center.

  2. Opera del Duomo Museum: Opera fan? Right near the magnificent dome of Brunelleschi, you will find the Opera del Duomo museum. A less-traveled tourist spot, it houses one of the world's largest collections of Medieval and Renaissance sculptures. It is a must-see if you enjoy art!

  3. Villa Demidoff: There is nothing as lovely as an Italian garden for a perfect afternoon of relaxation. Enjoy a delightful garden retreat near the historical city center. The Villa Demidoff is a truly stunning garden. Be sure to spot the large 16th C statue Colosso dell’Appennino by artist Giambologna.

  4. San Marco Museum: If you are looking for a less crowded museum, try the San Marco. It is located inside of a Dominican monastery. There you will see beautiful art from the 16th century, including pieces by Beato Angelico.

  5. Arnolfo Tower: The Arnolfo Tower is a massive hidden gem - in plain sight. It is part of the Palazzo Vecchio. You can climb all the way to the top of it to see panoramic views of Florence and beyond.

5 Foods to Try

  1. Gelato: Who doesn’t love Gelato?! Your visit to Florence will only be complete by enjoying the best gelato in the world. Florence has famous gelaterias all over the city where you can enjoy a variety of rich and creamy flavors, including pistachio, stracciatella (a creamy base with chocolate shavings mixed in), Fragola (strawberry), and cioccolato (chocolate). 

  2. Bistecca alla Fiorentina: This dish is for steak lovers! In Florence, a large T-bone steak of aged beef is grilled, left rare on the inside, and seasoned to perfection with salt, pepper, and olive oil. It is usually served with potatoes, spinach, and beans, with Tuscan bread for dipping. Pair it with a glass of red wine and you have a meal you’ll never forget.

  3. Lampredotto: Lampredotto is a famous street food in Florence. This beloved Italian sandwich consists of boiled tripe that is seasoned with onion and parsley, with a green sauce, served on a delicious and crusty roll.

  4. Ribollita: Ribollita is a traditional Tuscan soup that is hearty and delicious. It is made with beans, some bread, a variety of vegetables, and more. It's a hearty and flavorful dish that is perfect after long walks around Florence. 

  5. Crostini Neri: Looking for a mid-day snack? Crostini neri is chicken liver pate that is served on crispy bread. It can also be a light meal. 

Enjoy beautiful Florence!


Interested in planning your next vacation with one of our award-winning travel agents?  Simply fill out the form below and we will get back to shortly!


Quick Travel Tid-bits from our other articles...

Curious about the best airport lounges? Want to get in? Tips on how to get you in!....

Did you know that there are places in the airport you can go to escape the manic nature of the terminal? They’re called airport lounges. Airport lounges are some of the best places to spend time before your flight as they are their own getaway. They often offer free food and drinks, spacious seating, free Wi-Fi, and even some provide amenities like showers and nap pods. If you are in a larger airport some lounges offer spas, barbershops and workout equipment.

CLICK HERE to read more.

Why are passports taking so long?

It all boils down to health being tantamount. The offices were closed during COVID and are still not operating at 100%. This led to a backlog in requests. Labor in every field has been impacted from the pandemic, and the Department of State is no exception. There’s only so much each person can do, which leads to a ripple effect of consequential delays.

I need to renew or get my passport, NOW!!

RAVE REVIEWS

Real stories on how Life is Better Traveling travel advisors aided their clients during the outbreak and disruption of COVID-19.

"I wanted to also say what a pleasure it’s been planning our trip with you. We really think your ideas would have made our trip to Italy a trip of a lifetime. We are looking forward to re-booking this vacation when the virus situation is no longer an issue. I also can’t thank you enough for all your help. Reg and I are so looking forward to calling you with new dates someday hopefully soon."

Regis Family
Philadelphia, PA

 “Mary is ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! She was extremely knowledgeable about each of the cities we went to and different excursions we were able to try. She gave us wonderful recommendations of what to do and what is not worth the time and/or money. She was very organized and sent us a binder of our itinerary as well as all of the vouchers we would need for our trip. She set up personal transfers from the airports/train stations/hotels/etc. which was wonderful! We did not have to worry about what time we needed to leave or how we were going to get there. This allowed us to enjoy our trip and not stress about the details. I would recommend Mary to anyone looking for an amazing and stress-free trip! She thinks of every little thing and is there to guide you every step of the way! I will definitely be using her anytime we need a vacation and recommending her to all of our friends and family!!

Stephanie
Ohio


LIBTGreecemktgphoto

We have changed the Greece dates to 2023.  We had so many people interested in traveling with us, but still wanted to wait another year.  We want everyone to feel comfortable, so we have decided to move the dates to 2023.    

YES, sign me up to come with you!

Flight delays are causing MAJOR issues all around the world!


I have been traveling so much the past three weeks that many nights I wake up not knowing where I am..LOL. I am so glad to be back to traveling. My family and I spent two weeks in Paris and London. Since restrictions were still in place to come back into the US, there weren’t too many tourists which we enjoyed. Not too many people sipping champagne with me on top of the Eiffel Tower.  

I do plan all of my own travel planning which most people seemed surprised I do. Since I do plan hundreds of trips a year, why would I want to plan my own? 

Simply, I want to experience my client’s experience. I use the same suppliers I book for you, and I go out with the same guides. I had an amazing experience with many of the tours I booked for us, but even I had some hiccups. To me they seemed little, but I did notice that it worried some of my family. This had me thinking, if you don’t know what to do, what do you do? 

If you read the news, I am sure you have read about all these flight delays and cancellations. There are actually dozens more delays and cancellations than are actually reported. Our clients have been experiencing them a lot including myself when I was coming back from London. A delay or cancellation is never fun, especially when you are on the plane and the pilot tells you the flight has been canceled, now get off. Yes, this happened to our clients.  

What have we told our clients to do when this has happened? It is quite simple. Be one of the first people to talk to the gate agent. Yes, that person who was tapping away on the computer for an hour before your flight and helps you scan your ticket, get to them first! The gate agent has a lot of power, and they are your fastest way to getting a new flight if yours was canceled. Ask for a same-day flight, or what can get you there the most direct and fastest.  

Now say you are delayed. Yeah, that means there is still hope that your flight is going! We don’t love delays but we like them better than a cancellation. Again, Go to the airline gate agent and talk with them about other options for connections. Most importantly, be patient and keep an eye on the flight times after your check-in, especially while you are at the gate. If you know you are going to miss your connection, head to that gate agent.  

This will all get sorted out but I personally don’t see it happening this summer or fall, so if you are traveling during this time, keep this email handy.  


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I need to renew or get my passport, NOW!!

RAVE REVIEWS

Real stories on how Life is Better Traveling travel advisors aided their clients during the outbreak and disruption of COVID-19.

"I wanted to also say what a pleasure it’s been planning our trip with you. We really think your ideas would have made our trip to Italy a trip of a lifetime. We are looking forward to re-booking this vacation when the virus situation is no longer an issue. I also can’t thank you enough for all your help. Reg and I are so looking forward to calling you with new dates someday hopefully soon."

Regis Family
Philadelphia, PA

 “Mary is ABSOLUTELY FANTASTIC! She was extremely knowledgeable about each of the cities we went to and different excursions we were able to try. She gave us wonderful recommendations of what to do and what is not worth the time and/or money. She was very organized and sent us a binder of our itinerary as well as all of the vouchers we would need for our trip. She set up personal transfers from the airports/train stations/hotels/etc. which was wonderful! We did not have to worry about what time we needed to leave or how we were going to get there. This allowed us to enjoy our trip and not stress about the details. I would recommend Mary to anyone looking for an amazing and stress-free trip! She thinks of every little thing and is there to guide you every step of the way! I will definitely be using her anytime we need a vacation and recommending her to all of our friends and family!!

Stephanie
Ohio


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We have changed the Greece dates to 2023.  We had so many people interested in traveling with us, but still wanted to wait another year.  We want everyone to feel comfortable, so we have decided to move the dates to 2023.    

YES, sign me up to come with you!

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