Dream of Italy® - Italian Travel News Blog

Tuscan Town of Volterra Launches "New Moon" Tour

2009-11-02T18:54:00.001-05:00

Surely by now, you've heard about, if not read some of (it is not just for teens and tweens) the Twilight series books by Stephanie Meyer. The second film installment of her Vampire saga - New Moon - is due to hit theaters November 20th and Tuscany plays a starring role...

You see, in the story, the royal family of vampires, the Volturi, hail from the Tuscan town of Volterra and the main characters find themselves there in a dramatic turn in the story. For the In honor of the movie, the tourism office of Volterra has put together a unique three-day tour package.

Whether you're into the vampire series or not, find out why Volterra is worth visiting and learn more details about the tour!

October 2009 Issue - Special Report: Treasures of Tuscany

2009-10-28T19:07:00.002-04:00

The October 2009 issue of Dream of Italy is a special report - Treasures of Tuscany - exploring the hidden corners of one of Italy's most popular regions. Here is what paid subscribers will be reading about:

Lingering in Lovely Lucca
The Lucca Details: Hotels, Apartment Rentals, Restaurants, Private Guides and Great Shopping

Studying Italiano in Lucca

Historic Locanda Toscanini - Transformed by an American Journalist and her Italian Architect Husband

La Petraia: An Organic Farm and Little Piece of Paradise in Chianti

Ready to dive into this issue but not a paid susbcriber? Become one today and get access to this issue, more than 70 other, 10 issues over the coming year and the BONUS DVD Visions of Italy: The Great Cities!

Italian Cities Vie for 2020 Olympics

2009-10-27T22:15:00.005-04:00

The President of the Italian Olympic Committee (CONI), Gianni Petrucci, will face a multiple-choice decision in endorsing a 2020 Olympics candidate after Bari (one of the major cities in Puglia) declared its interest in Olympic candidacy joining Palermo, Rome and Venice.

In response to Bari’s move, Petrucci joked, “There are as many cities bidding as there are pizzas in Naples.” According to Inside the Games, Petrucci is worried about how the international community will view this Italian outcry for the Olympics. Any city bidding for candidacy must be endorsed by CONI, but no city has yet to consult the Italian Olympic Committee before making their interest public.

Rome narrowly lost the bid to Athens in 2004 by 25 votes and has been the only other Italian city to host the games in 1960, although Turin hosted the Winter Olympic Games in 2006 However, a 2020 Olympics in Rome would also mark the 150th anniversary as Italy’s capital.

CONI will wait until next year to decide on a city and the final decision made by the International Olympic Committee will be in 2013. -- Michael Lowe

When in Rome...Find Free Drinking Water

2009-10-27T22:00:00.003-04:00

When I was in Italy three years ago, I found myself holding a beer more often than not. No, it's not because I'm an alcoholic, but because a glass of beer was that much more cost-effective than a glass of water. And, let’s face it, who’s not on a budget these days?

Whether it's bubbly or flat, water, for some strange reason, tends to be the most expensive liquid in Europe and “tap” water just doesn’t seem to exist in some restaurants.

However, next time in Rome, you might be able to forgo the expensive acqua naturale and fill up your own Nalgene or Sigg bottle at a drinking fountain for free. The NY Times has discovered two Web sites with downloadable maps pinpointing Rome’s free fountains.

The first is from the Acea Group, an Italian industrial group managing energy, waste and, of course, water. Acea’s map shows dozens of blue pedestals scattered across Rome including high traffic areas such as the Coliseum and Pantheon. The PDF can be downloaded on this page under the link Mappa dei Nasoni – cartina.

The second, and more straightforward Web site is Watermap – a big blue icon announcing “Gratuita!” announces the suitable place to click. Watermap is similar to Acea’s version, although with more street names and detailing (it’s also a bit more colorful, if you’re the aesthetic type). Watermap’s website also has this cool video posted front and center.

Watermap from WatermapRoma on Vimeo.

Whichever map you decide, you now have the tools to confidently visit Italy’s capital city knowing you can save a pretty euro by taking advantage of its extensive network of fountains. Move aside, Trevi – you’ve got company. -- Michael Lowe

Shroud of Turin To Go On Display in April 2010

2009-10-21T15:22:00.005-04:00

From April 10 to May 23, 2010, the Holy Shroud of Turin will be on display at the Cathedral of Torino. This will be the first time the Shroud will be seen by the public since 2002 when it underwent a restoration to remove patches and burnt pieces of cloth. It was last on display in the Jubilee Year 2000.

The Shroud itself is a linen sheet woven in a herringbone pattern and is said to have been made before Christ. Embedded in the fabric is a faint impression of an image reminiscent of a crucified man which have led followers to believe it is the piece of fabric draped over Christ’s body before burial.

But, with the faithful, come the prudent. Over the years, radio carbon dating has produced evidence that the Shroud was actually made during the Middle Ages, well after Christ’s death and, just last week, an Italian scientist, Luigi Garlaschelli claimed that he recreated a copy of the Shroud by painting a piece of fabric with pigment, baking it in an over and then washing.

Garlaschelli claims this is evidence enough to disprove that the Shroud is real, but for a brief period in the spring of 2010, you can decide for yourself. Bookings to see the Shroud can be made starting in December at http://www.sindone.org/ - Michael Lowe

Enjoy New Year's Eve in Umbria

2009-10-18T22:09:00.004-04:00

Music and Markets Tours presents the best of live jazz from Umbria Jazz Winter in hilltop Orvieto, remarkable food and wine, and the unique winter beauty of Tuscany and Umbria.

Revel in a jazzy New Year's Eve, stroll Tuscan lanes, visit an olive farm and vineyard, and shop at world-class outlets.

Complete details on the Music and Markets Web site or call (877) 260-6383

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Florence, Rome and Venice Voted Best European Cities

2009-10-16T15:55:00.004-04:00

For those of us who love Italy it is no surprise that 25,000 Conde Nast Traveler readers have chosen Florence, Rome and Venice, respectively, as the top three cities in Europe. This year, readers chose from over 10,000 properties and destinations according to regional categories.

Other notable awards include Capri and Sicily in the third and fifth spots for European islands, hotels Il San Pietro in Positano (on the Amalfi Coast) and Il Pellicano in Tuscany taking first and second in the Southern European hotel category and Villa D’Este in Lake Como taking fourth in the European Resorts category.

The awards will appear in the November issue of Conde Nast set to hit newsstands on October 20th. For the full list of results: www.cntraveler.com/readerschoice -- Michael Lowe

Related:

Villa d'Este Reveals the Recipe for Frank Sinatra's Favorite Risotto (Free Access Article)

Inside Villa d'Este's Culinary World (Free Access Article)

Italian Art News

2009-10-15T22:06:00.004-04:00

Lots of art news coming out of la bel paese these days. Here's a quick summer of art news you should know about:

You may have already heard that art experts think they have discovered a previously unknown ink and pencil drawing by Leonardo da Vinci. And they figured it out in a most modern way - through fingerprints. They matched a fingerprint on the portrait of a young woman (originally thought to be that of a 19th century German artist) to the print of an index or middle found on Leonardo's "St. Jerome" in the Vatican. The artwork is valued at $150 million.

Nicole Martinelli of Zoomata.com has written for Dream of Italy about how to see an art restoration in Florence. Now, over on her site, she tells art lovers how they can see the restoration of Caravaggio’s 1609 masterpiece “Adoration of the Sheperds.” Groups of 10/15 people will be allowed to watch restorers at work in Rome’s lower chamber of parliament. Hurry, the restoration is expected to be completed in January.

If you can't make it to Italy, you can take in some of Leonardo da Vinci's rare sculptures at Atlanta's High Museum of Art through February. Some of the master's sketches are also on display. The centerpiece of the collection a nearly 30-foot recreation of da Vinci's destroyed horse statue, which towers over the plaza outside the High.

Win a Copy of Seafood alla Siciliana

2009-10-08T10:04:00.004-04:00

WINNERS: Toni Lydecker has chosen mcjip@roadrunner.com, Tony and NewYorkPR to receive copies of her book. Contact us with your snail mail address!!

Toni Lydecker, a frequent contributer to Dream of Italy, wrote about Sicilian cooking schools for the newsletter while she was in the process of researching her new book, Seafood alla Siciliana: Recipes and Stories from a Living Tradition. Now our readers have the chance TO WIN ONE OF THREE COPIES of the book!

The location of Sicily, surrounded by three seas, explains the importance of seafood to the island's unique crossroads cuisine, fed over the centuries by trading, invasions, and occupations. In her book, Lydecker explores this rich tradition and shares recipes gathered in the kitchens of cooks whose specialties range from couscous with fish to pistachio-crusted shrimp.

HOW TO WIN A COPY OF Seafood alla Siciliana: Be over 18 and leave a comment telling us below about your favorite place in Sicily and why or the place you would most like to visit in Sicily and why. Author Toni Lydecker will choose her favorite three winners based on the content and thoughtfulness of their answers. Please only enter if you live in the U.S. or Canada as the books can only be shipped to addresses in those countries. You must leave a comment with your entry before 11:59 p.m. ET, Friday, October 23, 2009 to be entered into the drawing. Be sure to include an e-mail to reach you (if your Blogger profile doesn't include one) or be sure to check back the week of October 25th to see if you won!

Win a Copy of 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Must Go

2009-10-08T09:51:00.004-04:00

Frequent Dream of Italy contributor Susan Van Allen has a new book out and five lucky Dream of Italy Facebook Fans WILL WIN A COPY of 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go! If you're already a Facebook fan, you're already entered to win. Not a fan? Become one with just a click here and you will be entered to win.

Reading Susan's new book is like having a fun-loving, savvy girlfriend whispering in your ear on a femme-friendly ride up and down the Italian boot. She focuses on the feminine aspects of Italy, where Venus—the Vixen Goddess of Love and Beauty—and The Madonna—The Nurturing Mother of Compassion—reign side-by-side. 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go is full of humor and passion, guiding you to discover such delights as masterpieces that glorify womanly curves, the palace where Audrey Hepburn lived in Roman Holiday, bewitching gardens, blissful beaches, sublime places for shopping, lively wine bars and chic jazz clubs. You’ll become inspired to join a cooking class taught by revered grandmas, ski in the Dolomites or paint a landscape in Tuscany.

HOW TO WIN A COPY OF 100 Places in Italy Every Woman Should Go: Just be over 18 and become a Fan of Dream of Italy on Facebook. If you’re already a fan, you’re already entered as we will be randomly choosing five winners from among all of our Facebook Fans. You must become a Fan before 11:59 p.m. ET, Friday, October 23, 2009 to be entered into the drawing. Books will be shipped to winners anywhere in the world.

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Win a Copy of La Passeggiata

2009-10-08T09:15:00.001-04:00

WINNERS: G. G. Husak has chosen AK, Maureen Sheldon and Laura to receive copies of her book. Contact us with your snail mail address!!

If you've ever been to Italy, you probably know what a passeggiata is...the Italian ritual of taking an early evening walk. Author G.G. Husak has written a book entitled Passeggiata: Strolling Through Italy about the annual pilgrimages she and her husband began to take to Italy once they became empty-nesters. You can WIN ONE OF THREE COPIES by telling us about your favorite walk in Italy!

Wandering together along out of the way paths in tiny hill towns and seacoast villages, Husak and her husband explore breathtaking scenery. By traveling light and learning the vagaries of Italian life, they have become Italian in spirit. The book provides many practical hints on how to travel like the locals, reminding us that even novice travelers can learn valuable lessons from immersion in another way of life, and that one’s companion can be an essential part of the pleasure of a journey.

HOW TO WIN A COPY OF Passeggiata: Be over 18 and leave a comment below telling us about your favorite walk (passeggiata) in Italy and why. Author G.G. Husak will choose her favorite three winners based on the content and thoughtfulness of their answers. You must leave a comment with your entry on our blog before 11:59 p.m. ET, Friday, October 23, 2009 to be entered into the drawing. Books will be shipped to winners anywhere in the world. Be sure to include an e-mail to reach you (if your Blogger profile doesn't include one) or be sure to check back the week of October 25th to see if you won!

Special Offer on Italian Olive Oil

2009-10-07T11:53:00.002-04:00

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Dream of Italy readers will receive a free Canonica Verde Spice Blend with any order over $75.

Use Offer Code: DreamSpice99 in shopping cart during checkout. We will add the Canonica Verde Selection to your order. One offer per household, quantities are limited; expires October 30, 2009.

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Slick Sicily Hotel: Atelier Sul Mare

2009-09-27T17:34:00.003-04:00

When Ann Cochran was visiting Sicily to write September's print newsletter stories on Cefalù and Siracusa, she heard about a funky, art hotel on the coast between Cefalù and Palermo. We didn't have room for it in the print newsletter this month but it is worth mentioning for those looking for an interesting hotel stay:

If you have a car, consider Atelier Sul Mare, an avant-garde art hotel about a half-hour from Cefalù in the direction of Palermo. Owner Antonio Presti transformed a boxy 1960's hotel into this quasi-modern art museum. Fifteen rooms, decorated by different artists, represent modern architecture, pop art, sexuality, and socialism.

The room pictured above is the Lunaria, inspired by Sicilian author Vincenzo Consolo who writes about the fall of the moon (notice the moon-shaped bed) as a metaphor for the decline of power but also of culture and poetry.

Art is on display in 20 "standard" rooms but they are not themed. On hotel review sites, you'll find former guests either love or hate it. Spend some time on the hotel's Web site, which has detailed photos and videos, before you book.

Atelier Sul Mare
Via Cesare Battisti, 4
Castel di Tusa
(39) 0921 334295
Rates: Art rooms start at 80 euros per person, per night, with breakfast. Standard rooms start at 60 euros.

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2009-09-27T17:25:00.003-04:00

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Notes + Video From My Visit to the Dolomites

2009-09-23T15:28:00.002-04:00

This was my first visit to the Dolomite Mountains in northern Italy. It is the perfect picturesque place to get away from it all and take in some fresh mountain air. Here are some notes and thoughts (and look for more detailed articles in upcoming newsletters):

It is easy to combine a visit to the Dolomites with a visit to Venice - you get the best of both of both worlds really. A city experience followed by an encounter with nature. Cortina d'Ampezzo, one of the major towns in the Dolomites, is two hours from Venice. You'd probably do best renting a car but there are options to join an organized outdoor-focused tour or arrange for other transportation options.
I learned that the Ladini people - an ethnic minority - are prevalent in the Dolomites. They have lived in these mountains for thousands of years and have their own language and culture. One of my hiking guides, Karen, is of Ladini heritage and their culture and history to me in this VIDEO.
The summer experience in the Dolomites is all about hiking to rifugios (mountain huts) for lunch, dinner or an overnight stay. There are over 100 rifugios open the public (and many more private ones). My friends at GuideStarMountain.com who hosted me offer a service where you can hike from hut-to-hut each day and they will take care of your luggage transfer! See VIDEO of hiking views, VIDEO of a mountain church and rifugio in the snow, VIDEO hanging out with goats at another rifigio.
Don't think there isn't luxury among the outdoor activities. I stayed at the incredible Rosa Alpina where my luxurious room (see VIDEO) was a treat to come back to each afternon. They have a two-Michelin star restaurant, a spa and have their own mountain rifugio for special meals (see VIDEO of my lunch there).
The weather can be nice this time of year - had some great days in the 60s and 70s most days BUT it also SNOWED a few inches which caught me by surprise! (See VIDEO)

Notes + Video From My Visit to Venice

2009-09-23T15:20:00.002-04:00

This was my first time back to Venice in awhile. Here some notes and thoughts about my short time there on this trip (more to come in future newsletters):

Yes, Venice can be crowded. For some reason, I felt like the big tourist areas were more crowded than ever. Only 60,000 Venetians live in Venice but one of my guides told me that in the middle of summer as many as 80,000 tourists can fill the city on any given day. More and more of them are day trippers from large cruise ships.

That said, you can still get away from the crowds here and get lost in the maze of calle (alleyways) especially in the more residential neighborhoods. I spent my time in search of new and different experiences (especially those that get you away from crowds) and have written about the photography tour I took for the September print issue.

This was the first time I stayed in an apartment rental instead of a hotel. I went absolutely bonkers over the amazing views this apartment had - I could watch (and hear) the gondolas go by from three windows facing the canal. See photo above and definitely see this VIDEO.

When I booked my stay, I didn't even realize the Venetian Film Festival was going on! Perhaps I should have checked our own site's events calendar earlier (we're updating if for fall and winter now). When I found out, I got a ticket for a movie screening. See our YouTube Channel for a series of videos on the film festival venues.

I still think one of the coolest things to do in Venice is to sit at one of the cafes in St. Mark's Square at night and listen to the orchestras play. See VIDEO.

Introducing See You In Italy

2009-09-22T15:12:00.000-04:00

It's about the wine, wonderful weather, the music of the language, history and art.

It's called Italy. But you can call it Home.

See You in Italy lists homes in Umbria and Tuscany at all prices ranges.

Stew and Midge Vreeland bought and renovated in Italy ten years ago and have been helping others live the dream since then. See apartments to villas on the site.

E-mail Stew directly at mailto:stew@seeyouinitaly.com

They will be in Italy in October to help you find your dream...

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Learning About the Ladini of the Dolomites

2009-09-17T15:30:00.004-04:00

As I did a bit of reading before traveling to the Dolomites, I knew that there was an ethnic minority - the Ladini - or Ladins, in English, who lived in this area of Italy. There are some 30,000 Ladini in the Dolomites who speak their own language (Ladino - which is taught in school) and try to preserve their ancient culture.

I was fortunate that one of our hiking guides with GuideStarMountain.com, Karen Pizzolini, is an expert on this culture of her ancestors. Since the Ladini are a recognized minority in Italy, television time is provided for programming in their native language. Karen produces monthly segments in Ladino that air on the television station, Rai 3.

In the video below, Karin shares a brief introduction to the culture, history and language of the Ladini:

Dog Days in the Dolomites of Italy

2009-09-14T08:04:00.002-04:00

You would never believe that today it is SNOWING -- HARD! Look at the new friend I met on the trail of Cinque Torri while hiking on Friday...He's a better climber than I am!

Hiking in the Dolomites: The Views!

2009-09-13T05:22:00.002-04:00

Here's a quick look at some of the amazing views when hiking in the Dolomites. Italy's Dolomite Mountains are such a dramatic yet peaceful place to visit. If you're new to hiking or to the area, it is best you set out with a guide. Our guides for this trip are from GuideStarMountain.com

Venice Film Festival: A Peek at the Venues

2009-09-09T18:07:00.003-04:00

Just back to my apartment rental after seeing a terrific film - Il Grande Sogno - at the Venice Film Festival. This is not my best video work (and haven't figured out how to string my Flip videos together into one) but these short clips take you inside the venues on the Venetian island of Lido.

Gondolas Gliding Past My Windows

2009-09-08T18:58:00.006-04:00

I've arrived in Venice and cannot believe the amazing views from my apartment windows. And such incredible sounds...everything you imagine Venice to be and more. The weather could not be better...

Dream of Italy Seeks Travel Writing Intern(s)

2009-09-06T16:25:00.002-04:00

Our award-winning subscription travel newsletter Dream of Italy is looking for one or two talented and motivated fall interns who want a chance to break into or advance in the field of travel writing. Interns should be current college students or recent college graduates who are passionate about Italy and equally passionate about journalism and online media.

Interns can work virtually and set up their own schedules with a minimum commitment of 10 hours per week. Interns will be paid a small stipend (or we can work with your college for you to get credit).

Interns will have the chance to write for Web site/blog and the print newsletter and will end the internship with well-respected travel writing clips. Former interns have gone on to great careers in journalism and public relations and the editor/publisher is very happy to mentor interns in all facets of travel writing, journalism and the publishing industry. Interns will gain an insider’s view of how a travel Web site works.

Preference will be given to those intern candidates who can speak Italian or who have studied in Italy or traveled there. Obviously excellent writing and research skills are essential. Strong Web skills – such as basic knowledge of HTML and a basic understanding of search engine optimization – are desirable. Also looking for interns who are not shy about reaching out to sources or to media in an effort to promote Dream of Italy – previous experience at a public relations agency would also be considered a plus.

To apply, please send a cover letter and resume ASAP to Editor and Publisher Kathy McCabe at kathy@dreamofitaly.com Please include a writing sample related to Italy and/or travel, please include that as well.

Overview of Dream of Italy Intern Tasks:

• Research article ideas, fact- check completed articles.
• Write short articles for print newsletter and e-mail newsletter.
• Locate sources for Italian travel news and write short blog posts.
• Locate photos and edit/post them to site.
• Research events in Italy for our online calendar.
• Assist in organizing and fact-checking Dream of Italy’s e-books.
• Assist in publicity efforts for Dream of Italy’s holiday gift subscription promotion – follow-up with media, use social media to promote deal.

Live Like a Local with Truly Venice

2009-09-03T22:38:00.004-04:00

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Venezia in Style

Truly Venice invites you to experience the iconic city of Venice by living like a local - renting a truly Venetian apartment, not an impersonal hotel room or a standard tourist flat, but a real home away from home.

Plan now! What are you waiting for?

September and October are the perfect months for visiting this unique city, the Biennale D'Arte and the International Film Festival are on, the climate is stable and mild, the city is flourishing with events and interesting people. Lay back and relax the last warm days of the year!

Alternatively you can take advantage of our special offers and low season rates from early November to late March when the city is more quiet (no cues anywhere), the restaurants will treat you superbly (then there aren't too many people around so they must do an extra effort). The Acqua Alta (high tide) is no hitch at, if that should worry you, then you can still easily get around the city without any problems. It is part of the Venetian charm!

You only have a couple of days?

The minimum recommended stay is three to four nights to see the most important sights (we can point them out to you, if so desired) to start understanding the city's values and get a glimpse of the non-touristy places of the city as well. Not necessarily you need to plan a monthly stay. Venice's Marco Polo Airport is close to the city center with many daily flights.

However, if you wish to truly experience the Venetian way of living, explore the diverse sestieri (six districts) and feel part of the city then you should plan a weekly stay at least. Venice offers a wide range of entertainment (concerts, museums, art collections, the Biennale, the film festival, fine food and traditional wine bars) and is among the most beautiful and culturally interesting cities of the world.

We can help you...

Truly Venice manages more than 80 apartments for holiday rentals in the historical city center, selected for their great location, picturesque view or unique style. We carefully inspect them and make sure they meet our high standards. Only the finest apartments are published and the portfolio is always improving. We invite you to discover our newly listed homes such as the Cà Pesaro apartment , Veronese apartment or the San Trovaso apartment.

Every property is accurately described on our website and the photo galleries feature large updated pictures . At arrival you will be met and taken to the apartment by our staff and provided with insiders information such as (in)expensive local restaurants (where Venetians eat), boutiques and general information on how to get around. Please visit our Guestbook with hundreds of enthusiastic comments from past clients, some of whom visit us regularly.

We offer self-catering apartments for anyone's taste. Contact us today if you need any advice! I have no doubt that we can help you finding the accommodations suitable for your needs: be it for a romantic escape with your partner, a family holiday or a large group celebration. We are looking forward to assisting you planning your stay in Venice!

Yours Sincerely,

Daniela Scarcia
General Manager
http://www.truly-venice.com/
info@truly-venice.com

Advertise Your Italy Business with Dream of Italy

2009-08-26T20:53:00.006-04:00

I know many of those who follow Dream of Italy and the Dream of Italy Blog are themselves involved in the business of travel to Italy. So this blog post is for them - to share latest opportunities we have to connect Italian travel enthusiasts with the businesses (especially small ones) who want to serve them. Here are the online sponsorship and advertising opportunities we're currently offering (at special rates!):

Sponsored Sections - We have divided all of our content (well over 700 articles) into sections or hubs, with all of our Umbria content, for example,linked off one Umbria section page. We have over 30 section pages and each one is available for an exclusive sponsorship with a text ad at the top of the main section page. (See Rome example)
Ads in Dream of Italy E-mail Updates - Twice a month, we send out an e-mail update to thousands and thousands of passionate Italophiles. We have room for two ads in each of these e-mail updates. (See a recent example) The ad package includes
one 60-word linked ad with photo in one Dream of Italy e-mail update and that same ad appearing as a blog post (labeled as an ad) on the Dream of Italy Blog.

Sponsored E-mails Devoted Exclusively to Your Company - The sponsored e-mail is sent to our list but features your company alone, no editorial copy from Dream of Italy, no other ads. This is a great opportunity to capture our audience with your unique offerings. In order to provide maximum exposure for our advertisers and maintain our readership, only one sponsored e-mail per month is available. (See a recent example)

The best thing about all of our advertising opportunities? They are much less expensive than you imagine and well-priced for small businesses. We have limited advertising opportunities and they are filling up so contact us today for more information.

And don't just take our word for it. Here's what one satisfied Dream of Italy advertiser has to report:

"I've been a huge fan of Kathy McCabe and Dream of Italy for many years, so advertising with Dream of Italy was natural for me. Each time we place an ad in one of the twice monthly e-mail updates, we see an immediate increase in our Web traffic and sales as a direct result. If you own or operate an Italy or travel-based business, I cannot think of a better way to reach your target audience than advertising with Dream of Italy."
-- Laura Faust, Ciao Laura