Huawei Nexus 6P Review

Introduction

Last year, a dramatic change came to Google’s Nexus offering. The upper-mid range phone that was the Nexus 5 was replaced by a premium and much more expensive model made by Motorola. Skip time ahead about a year to this fall and we are offered a true premium package with a significantly lower price tag. The Nexus 6P is beautifully designed by Huawei to please both power users and average users alike.
Huawei Nexus 6p review

Last year’s Motorola Nexus 6 was a huge hit, literally. Unfortunately the phablet did not age well, the price of Motorola’s offering was too high from the start then fell too low at the end of its life cycle. This year, Google decided to do two things differently with the Nexus release: launch and sell Nexus phones exclusively on the brand new Google Store, and release two Nexus phones offering the same experience in two different models of hardware, one larger and more powerful than the other, lower cost model.

Huawei and Google conceived a perfect sequel to the Nexus 6 – it’s the first time Huawei is on board the Nexus program as well but their track record of excellent premium phones has positioned them as an ideal choice for a Google hardware partner.

The 6P offers a perfect balance of premium feel, software experience, and attention to detail without skimping out in other aspects (such as the camera experience or build quality).
Key Features

5.7″ screen with 1440p resolution (518ppi)
Android 6.0 Marshmallow with quickest software updates from Google
Quad-core 1.55 GHz Cortex-A53 & Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A57, 3GB of RAM, Adreno 430 GPU; Snapdragon 810 v2 chipset
32GB, 64GB, or 128GB of storage
12.3MP camera with laser autofocus and dual-LED flash; 1.55µm pixels; 8MP selfie camera
2160p video capture
Cat. 6 LTE (300Mbps); Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac; Bluetooth 4.2; GPS/GLONASS; NFC; USB Type-C port with USB host
Fingerprint reader; Android Pay
3,450mAh Li-Po battery with fast charging

Main disadvantages

Quite expensive outside the US and no major carrier-subsidized version in the US
No expandable storage
Lacks wireless charging
Lacks a cable TV out option
No Optical Image Stabilization (OIS) for the camera
No FM radio

Huawei’s Nexus 6P improved where the Nexus 6 just barely make the mark. The 6P does manage to be a bit taller than the 6, but the narrower body of the 5.7″ screen of the 6P makes it significantly manageable with one hand. The new camera experience yields much better than the 6 did. And the use of current generation Samsung’s AMOLED panels proves to be a welcome improvement to Motorola’s OLED displays.

USB Type-C was a sure choice, ensuring a nudge for other smartphone makers to adopt the new USB standard.

In the past, every single Nexus device had some kind of compromise, however, we think this may be the first time a Nexus device has ever gotten every aspect about performance, camera, battery, and design just right. But we wouldn’t know until we check that thoroughly first hand.

Resource from :http://www.gsmarena.com

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Sony Xperia Z5 Compact Review

Introduction

When it comes to the Compact family, Sony has quite a reputation to live up to. The Z3 Compact is arguably one of the company’s most-successful models.
Sony Xperia Z5 Compact

Amidst an industry increasingly pushing toward more and more screen real estate, sometimes to absurd levels, as much as 6.0-inches in a handheld device, there is an ever-growing niche for high-end devices on the sub 5.0-inch scale. The Z5 Compact embodies that same concept – flagship-grade specs in a compact body with a 4.6-inch display.

With the kind of horsepower the Z5 Compact has, it can definitely handle anything you throw its way. The high-end Qualcomm 810 chipset also comes with a powerful Adreno 430 GPU, just like the one in the Z5. Coupled with an HD resolution should equal some impressive pixel-pushing performance. Gaming should be a fluent experience all around, given you don’t mind some eye-strain on the 4.6 inch display.
Key features

4.6″ 16M-color 720 x 1280 IPS LCD capacitive touchscreen with Mobile BRAVIA Engine 2, Triluminos technology and X-Reality engine; scratch-resistant glass, oleophobic coating
Android OS v5.1.1 Lollipop
Quad-core 1.5 GHz Cortex-A53 and Quad-core 2 GHz Cortex-A57; Qualcomm MSM8994 Snapdragon 810, Adreno 430, 2GB RAM
23 MP camera with 2160p@30fps video; 5.1 MP front-facing camera with 1080p@30fps video
32GB of built-in storage and a microSD card slot
LTE Cat.6 (300Mbps); Dual-band Wi-Fi a/b/g/n/ac; A-GPS/GLONASS receiver, Bluetooth v4.1, FM radio with RDS
Active noise cancellation with a dedicated mic
2,700mAh non-removable battery
IP68 certified – dust and water proof up to 1.5 meter and 30 minutes
Fingerprint sensor

Main disadvantages

Screen bezels are wider than the last generation
Non-removable battery
Heavier and thicker than its predecessor

Beside the new chipset, there is also the new 23MP camera on the back and 5.1MP one on the front, both borrowed from the Z5. Also, the fingerprint reader, conveniently embedded inside the power button, which is arguable one of the most convenient approaches to date. Throw in a slightly bigger battery, some slight hardware upgrades such as Bluetooth 4.1, faster Cat.6 LTE and software improvements and you get about pretty much all improvements the Z5 Compact has to offer over its predecessor.

Sony Xperia Z5 Compact Sony Xperia Z5 Compact Sony Xperia Z5 Compact Sony Xperia Z5 Compact
Sony Xperia Z5 Compact in official press photos

We can’t help but feel that phone could have delivered bigger upgrades than that. The resolution is still the same at 720p, so is the amount of RAM at 2GB, combine that with the inevitable price difference and you are in a situation where the already popular Z3 Compact could remain a better deal for a lot of users.

On the other hand, the price difference between the pair is significant at around €150, making life a bit hard for the Z5 Compact, especially if it aspires to be as successful as its predecessor.

But let’s not get ahead of ourselves. The most important thing is that the Z5 Compact looks and feels like a genuinely new product and not just some slightly updated version of its precursor. That’s alone is enough to warrant a full length review. So jump on.

Resource from :http://www.gsmarena.com

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10 Top Tourist Attractions In Australia By tube6 On March 13, 2016In Tour cable_beach_broome

Australia is a vast country that is just slightly smaller than the continental United States. So it probably shouldn’t be surprising that a country this large would also be home to some of the most unusual destinations and creatures in the world. Among the many iconic sites and landmarks you can visit in Australia are Ayers Rock and the Sydney Opera House. While these spots are very popular with tourists, there are a number of tourist attractions in Australia that aren’t as well-known but are just as impressive.

10. Cable Beach, Broome
Cable Beach is located in Broome in Western Australia and is considered by some to be this state’s most popular destination. It is a stunning beach, known for its white sands, beautiful sunsets and the brilliant blue waters of the Indian Ocean. Cable Beach is also famous for its camel rides on the beach. Those who prefer motorized transportation can choose to cross the sands in a four-wheel-drive vehicle instead.

9. Fraser Island
This beautiful island, which is located in Queensland, boasts rainforests, sand dunes, more than 100 freshwater lakes and pretty colored sand cliffs. Fraser Island, which is just a short ferry trip from Hervey Bay, is also considered to be the largest sand island in the world. This island boasts another unusual claim to fame — its dingoes are considered to be some of the most pure in all of Australia, as they have not had as many chances to crossbreed with dogs as their mainland cousins have had.

8. Great Ocean Road
The Great Ocean Road, which is located in Victoria, is considered to be one of the most beautiful drives in Australia. This 243 km (151 mile) drive starts in Torquay, which is located about 100 km (60 miles) from Melbourne, and ends in Allansford. As it travels along Victoria’s beautiful southwest coastline, the Great Ocean Road passes by some of the most stunning scenery in Australia, including The Twelve Apostles, which are pretty limestone stack formations that rise out of the ocean near Port Campbell National Park. There are also a number of places along the Great Ocean Road where you can spot some of Australia’s famous wildlife, including kangaroos, fur seals and emus.

7. Purnululu National Park
Located in Western Australia, Purnululu National Park is home to one of Australia’s most unique tourist attractions known as the Bungle Bungle Range — striking orange-and-black-striped sandstone domes that resemble huge beehives. Surprisingly, the site was known only to local Aboriginal Australians and farmers until recently. In fact, it only became famous after a documentary was made of the area in 1983. The park is also home to Cathedral Gorge, an amazing natural amphitheater. Because Purnululu National Park is located in a fairly remote area, visitors to its two campsites must pack in and out all of their essential supplies.

6. Blue Mountains National Park
The Blue Mountains National Park is located in New South Wales, approximately 80 km (50 miles) west of Sydney. Its proximity to the biggest city in Australia has made this scenic park a popular day trip for both tourists and locals alike. The park is probably best known for the Three Sisters, a rock formation that towers 900 meter (3000 foot) above the Jamison Valley. The Blue Mountains National Park features miles of trails for hikers and mountain bikers, and it is also a popular natural playground for adventurers who enjoy adrenaline sports such as rock climbing and abseiling. Visitors who prefer a more tame way to enjoy the Blue Mountains National Park can climb aboard the glass-roofed carriages of the Katoomba Scenic Railway, which is the steepest passenger railway in the world.

5. Whitsunday Islands
This stunning collection of 74 islands lies in the middle of Australia’s Great Barrier Reef, making them a perfect jumping off spot for travelers looking to explore the amazing and colorful marine life that live in the waters of this area. Although most of the Whitsunday Islands are deserted, seven do have outstanding resorts on them, including the world-famous One&Only on Hayman Island, a favorite of celebrities and the rich and famous. One of the most beautiful of the Whitsunday Islands is Whitehaven Beach, which boasts blinding white sands. These islands are the perfect choice for travelers seeking a blissful vacation on a lovely tropical island or for those who enjoy hours of snorkeling and scuba diving.

4. Kakadu National Park
Located in Australia’s Northern Territory, about three hours north of Darwin, Kakadu is the country’s largest national park. There is a lot to see in Kakadu National Park, including a large concentration of Aboriginal rock art; some of which are estimated to be up to 20,000 years old. This park is also home to many different species of wildlife, including wallabies, dingoes and crocodiles. In addition, Kakadu National Park, which is home to one-third of Australia’s bird species, is a birdwatcher’s dream.
3Uluru/Ayers Rock
Uluru/Ayers Rockflickr/Corey Leopold

One of the world’s largest monoliths, Ayers Rock is also one of the top tourist attractions in Australia. Located within the Uluru-Kata Tjuta National Park of the Northern Territory, this large sandstone formation stands more than 340 meters (1,100 feet) high. One of the rock’s peculiarities is that it changes colors dramatically at sunset from terra cotta to blue, violet and red. The local Aboriginal tribe, known as Anangu, call the rock Uluru and regard it as a sacred site.

2. Great Barrier Reef
One of the top destinations for underwater explorers and scuba divers is the world’s largest barrier reef system, famously known as the Great Barrier Reef. Located in the Coral Sea, the Great Barrier Reef encompasses a huge area of more than 2,900 coral reefs and hundreds of islands and cays. The best way to explore the Reef is by one of the numerous boat cruises that run along the northern coast of Queensland. The town of Cairns is regarded as the main gateway to the Reef, but other towns also offer cruise operations.

1. Sydney Opera House
Regarded as a 20th century architectural masterpiece, the Sydney Opera House was designed and built by architect, Jørn Utzon, to reflect the image of a huge sailing ship. It houses multiple venues that together host more than 1,500 performances each year. Surrounded by the beautiful scenery of the Sydney Harbour and the Royal Botanic Gardens, the famous Opera House in Sydney is one of Australia’s most famous landmarks.

Resource from : http://www.touropia.com

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10 Best Places To Visit In The Peloponnese

With its claim as one of the birthplaces of modern civilization, its glorious and historic past, delicious cuisine, balmy climate and perfect beaches, Greece beckons travelers looking for a vacation out of the ordinary. Natural beauty vies with man-made wonders in the sun-gilded province of the Peloponnese, with its olive groves, mountain peaks, vineyards and pristine sandy beaches. Visitors can choose to relax at the seaside, explore mysterious ruins or partake in some of Greece’s vivacious and compelling culture here. An overview of the best places to visit in the Peloponnese:

10. Ancient Corinth
Silhouetted against the wide expanse of the sky, crumbling, ornate columns of carved stone stand in testament to the ancient Greeks’ architectural skill. The stark remains of ancient Corinth are perfect if you enjoy photography. In particular, the Temple of Apollo presents a beautiful tableau with its fluted columns and plinths surrounded by wildflowers and the craggy mountain peaks in the background. Another favorite sight in the ancient city is the Acrocorinth, a brooding hilltop fortress considered one of the finest in Greece, first built thousands of years ago. Artifacts from various excavations, such as mosaics, statues, sarcophagi and tools are housed in the Archaeological Museum of Ancient Corinth, located nearby.

9. Kardamyli
This quaint sea-side town features whitewashed homes, stately cypress trees, historic buildings like the atmospheric church of Saint Spyridon and pretty, pebble-strew beaches. Homer wrote of this city in the Iliad, bearing witness to the city’s millennia-old past. Frescoes in the Byzantine Church of Eisodia and the ruins of Mourtzinos Castle are a draw for visitors, though simply strolling through town, sampling the area’s delicious cuisine and enjoying the spectacular sea views offer visitors a feel for what drew people to this delightful place so long ago.

8. Corinth Canal
Severing Peloponnese from the rest of the Greek mainland, this canal creates a visual spectacle with its sheer rock walls plunging into a chasm of blue water that you can best enjoy from a sturdy footbridge that spans the canal. While ancient Greeks first attempted to create a canal more than two thousand years ago, it was not completed until 1893. The canal stretches across the length of the isthmus, and you can book a ticket on a tour boat to marvel at the engineering feat from water level, or if you’re feeling particularly adventurous, try bungee jumping for an entirely different perspective of the canal.

7. Ancient Olympia
Nearly three thousand years have passed since this area held the first Olympic games in the shadow of the stately Mount Kronos, a tribute to the god, Zeus. The remains of temples honoring both Zeus and Hera can be found here, their graceful columns offering a picturesque ruin where you can wander freely. The flame for the modern Olympic Games is still lit in front of the Temple of Hera. The centerpiece of the site is the 200-meter (650 feet) track of the stadium itself, entered by way of a long arched tunnel. The vast sanctuary complex built to house competitors thousands of years ago has yielded a wealth of artifacts, exhibited in the on-site Olympia Archaeological Museum.

6. Monemvasia
Dramatic cliffs plunge straight down into the Aegean, highlighting the beauty of this ancient stone village connected to mainland Peloponnese by a causeway. People have lived here for at least a thousand years, with many of the medieval buildings drawing visitors with their picturesque simplicity. The rocky outcrop provided protection for the village during invasion and today offers dramatic photo opportunities. The ocean takes center stage on this tiny island, and you can enjoy a range of water sports including scuba diving, sea kayaking and snorkeling.

5. Nafplio
Poised on the coast and long famous as a port city, this historic town commands sweeping ocean views as well as offering a wonderful glimpse into modern Greek village life with its quaint town squares, sidewalk cafes, charming wrought-iron embellished homes and atmospheric, 400-year-old Palamidi Fortress. If you’re a history buff, the historic Venetian Headquarters building off Syntagma Square houses the city’s archaeological museum, with a range of exhibits recalling the city’s Byzantine, Roman and Ottoman influences. Visitors in need of relaxation can head down to Karathona Beach, a sheltered, sandy beach with delightful views.

4. Simos Beach
The small island of Elafoniso, hosts Simos Beach, often hailed by locals as the best beach in the Peloponnese. The clear water reflecting an aquamarine sky frames the fine, sandy beach offering quaint wicker sun parasols and lounging chairs at Simos. Depending on the time of year you visit Greece, a trip to the seaside, with its cool breezes and refreshing water temperatures, provides the perfect antidote to the warm inland sunshine. The protected bay is popular with kayak enthusiasts, and the gentle, clear waves prove enticing for swimmers and snorkelers alike. There are also toilets and showers for public use, and both a market and a pizza parlor provide snacks for hungry beach-goers.

3. Mycenae
This fascinating ruin of a flourishing civilization four thousand years ago features enormous, meticulously shaped stone block foundations in an excellent state of preservation. You can still walk through the famous Lion’s Gate, climb into the site’s secret cistern and explore the royal tholos tombs. The ruins of the Acropolis that was once the home of the fabled Agamemnon and his wife Clytemnestra sprawl across a broad lookout over the valley and olive orchards. From here you can enjoy a breathtaking display from every angle of the city’s ancient layout, a patchwork of modern fertile fields and layers of the lofty mountain peaks beyond. Greater insight into the lives of people who lived here can be found at the Mycenae Archaeology Museum, located just over a mile from the ruins.

2. Mystras
Located inland from the coast in the southern Peloponnese region and framed by the tall peaks of Mount Taygetos, Mystras has an almost magical air with its hilltop palace, orange tile-roofed Byzantine churches and sweeping views of mountain tops and lushly green valleys. The city served as the capital of the Peloponnesus in the 14th and 15th centuries, ruled by relatives of the Byzantine emperor. Some of the buildings, such as Agios Demitrios and the Pantanassa, still feature rich murals dating from several hundred years ago. To best enjoy the breathtaking natural scenery, you can hike any of the various trails at the Lagadas Climbing Park, some of which feature waterfalls. The area is also famous for its olives grown in the fertile soil, and you can enjoy delicious food incorporating local produce in the city’s cafes.

1. Epidaurus
The spectacular ruins of this enormous theater are almost perfectly intact, belying the millennia since its construction in the 4th century BCE. Still in use today, you might be lucky enough to catch a performance here and enjoy its almost perfect acoustics. This marvel of ancient engineering still holds up to 14,000 people, and it’s rumored the crowd can hear the sound of a match being struck on stage due to the theater’s superior design. There’s a nearby museum that features information about the construction of the theater, as well as history of Epidaurus and its renown as a center for the healing arts in ancient times.

Resource from : http://www.touropia.com

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How To Spend 2 Weeks In Brazil

Brazil is an expansive South American nation with diverse cultural influences and spectacular natural beauty. This sample itinerary for spending 2 weeks in Brazil includes some of the world’s most photographed natural wonders, white-sand beaches and historic monuments. Boasting one-third of the world’s rainforests and an enormous coastline to boot, Brazil is the perfect destination for people who love to explore the great outdoors. In addition to its natural beauty, Brazil has a rich history that can be experienced through its stunning architecture and world-class museums. Brazil’s famous music, food and art fill the streets in the many outdoor markets and festivals that take place throughout the year.

Foz do Iguaçu (3 nights)
Begin your Brazilian vacation with a stay in the vibrant, multicultural city of Foz do Iguaçu. Bordering Argentina in the Brazilian state of Paraná, Foz do Iguaçu is most well known for the network of giant waterfalls that cascade along its border. We recommend a three-night stay in Foz do Iguaçu so that you can take in Iguazu Falls National Park by footbridge and boat and also see the falls from the Argentinean side. Don’t miss Parque Das Aves where you can get up close with incredible birds like the toucan, macaw, cassowary and pink flamingo.

Curitiba (2 nights)
From Foz do Iguaçu, your Brazil itinerary takes you east to the larger city of Curitiba. Long an important economic center of Brazil, Curitiba boasts restored historic architecture like the Old City Hall and the colonial buildings of Largo da Ordem. On Sundays, a lively artisan market with more than 1,000 vendors can be found on the old cobblestone streets of Largo da Ordem and Praca Garibaldi. You can also view art exhibits at the Museu Oscar Niemeyer, an incredibly modern and unique building that is shaped like an eye. To take in some natural beauty, visit the Botanical Garden of Curitiba where you can stroll through the palace-like greenhouses, the labyrinthine French gardens and the Botanical Museum.

Morretes (day trip from Curritiba)
At some point during your two-night stay in Curitiba, you can take a short trip to Morretes, a quaint historic city that is just an hour away. Whether you take the train or bus to Morretes, you’ll have the opportunity to enjoy stunning views of the rainforest as you travel down in elevation. In the city of Morretes, you can view restored churches that were built as far back as the 1700s, walk the cobblestone path along the Nhundiaquara river and dine on barreado, the traditional beef stew of Paraná that Morretes is particularly famous for.

Sao Paulo ( 1 night)
The next stop on our itinerary is a short visit to the country’s largest metropolis, Sao Paulo. One of the world’s most populated cities and Brazil’s economic center, Sao Paolo boasts towering skyscrapers, grand museums and bustling urban markets. Zona Central is where many of the city’s historical and prominent buildings are located, including an imposing Neo-Gothic style cathedral. Make your way to Avenida Paulista to view the exhibits at Museu Arte Sao Paulo, enjoy a relaxing walk through Trianon Park and go shopping at Shopping Pátio Paulista.

Paraty (2 nights)
Paraty is located along the Bay of Ilha Grande and bordered by a backdrop of lush rainforests and mountains. The Trindade district has spectacular white-sand beaches for swimming, surfing and snorkeling. To enjoy a secluded beach, rent a kayak and paddle to one of the tropical islands that lie within the bay. With a rich historic center and art scene, the mainland of Paraty has much to offer visitors as well. In Centro Historico, you can go inside many of the city’s old colonial mansions that have been converted to restaurants, hotels, art galleries and shops. Make sure to schedule a walking tour of the “Gold Path,” a historic cobblestone road that meanders through dense vegetation in the Parque Nacional da Serra da Bocaina.

Ilha Grande (2 nights)
From Paraty, this Brazil itinerary brings you to the pristine island of Ilha Grande for a two-night stay in what can only be described as a tropical paradise. Despite its peerless natural beauty, the colorful history of this island has fortuitously forestalled over-development. Once home to pirates, lepers and prisoners, Ilha Grande has nothing left from its harsh past but some stone foundations. The untouched beaches and rainforest have since become protected parkland, which has helped to further preserve the island’s beauty. Stay in one of the luxurious beachside resorts and soak up the local culture in Vila do Abraão.

Rio de Janeiro (3 nights)
Cap off your 2 weeks in Brazil with a visit to one of the most beautiful cities in the world, Rio de Janeiro. Home to the world famous Carnival festival, the city of Rio dances to a Samba beat all year long. You’ll find the year-round party at the outdoor music jams and samba clubs in Lapa, which is considered the center of Rio’s nightlife. By day, head to Copacabana Beach and Ipanema Beach for the sun and surf or view Brazil’s historic relics and fine art at Museu Histórico Nacional. Look up from almost any street in Rio and you’ll see Cristo Redentor, the open-armed statue of Jesus Christ that sits atop Corcovado Mountain. You can reach this peak and enjoy an unforgettable view of the entire city by taking a narrow-gauge train.

Resource from : http://www.touropia.com

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How To Spend 2 Weeks In Italy

Getting to visit Italy is a dream come true, but planning out how to see all the sights in one fortnight can be tough. After all, you can’t miss the capital city of Rome, which hosts such landmarks as the Sistine Chapel and the Colosseum, or the romantic cities of Verona and Venice, where Shakespeare’s stories and gondola rides rule. You’ll also want to enjoy the fashion of Milan, the beauty of Tuscany, the classic pizza in Naples and the history of Pompeii. Use this 2 weeks in Italy itinerary to plan the perfect trip that hits all the highlights of Italy without missing a thing.

Milan (1 Night)
Begin your Italian adventure in the city of Milan, a destination synonymous with finances and fashion. Milan was damaged heavily during World War II, but was rebuilt to be a grand city with plenty of history. You won’t want to miss the amazing museums, including the Pinacoteca di Brera and the Leonardo da Vinci Museum of Science and Technology. Then, climb to the roof of the Duomo, a 14th century cathedral, and soak in views of the entire city. Don’t leave Milan without seeing a live performance at La Scale Theater, strolling through the Piazza del Duomo or shopping at the ritzy Galleria Vittorio Emanuele.

Verona (stopover)
On your way from Milan to Venice, spend some time in the city of Verona. This city of love was the setting for Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet, and you can actually tour Casa di Giulietta, which is now a symbol of romance and eternal love. Verona also boasts a number of Roman ruins, like the amphitheater that is one of the world’s largest and was built nearly 2,000 years ago. Round out your stay with some window shopping along the Via Mazzini, a pedestrian-friendly stretch of upscale Italian boutiques.

Venice (2 nights)
As arguably one of the most scenic cities on the planet, Venice definitely deserves a spot on your Italy itinerary. Built on a lagoon, Venice is surrounded by water, which means that scenic bridges, water taxis and gondolas are all around you. The hub of the city is the Piazza San Marco, where you will also find the incredible Saint Mark’s Basilica and the Palazzo Ducale. Be sure to soak in the sights from the Rialto Bridge, which is more than 800 years old, or the Rialto Market, which boasts everything from antiques to cheap souvenirs.

Vernazza (2 nights)
Cinque Terra, or five lands, is one of the most scenic destinations in all of Italy. Made up of five different villages along the coast, Cinque Terra boasts cliffs that head straight into the sea, some of the best coastal hiking in all of Europe, sand and pebble beaches ideal for swimming and a vibrant culture that almost feels removed from mainland Italy. One of the villages, Vernazza, makes a fantastic home base for your two nights in the area. In Vernazza, be sure to hike the 90 minutes to Monterosso, try a slice of the local pesto pizza and sip the ubiquitous wine of the area, called Vino de la Cinque Terre.

Florence (3 nights)
Next up is Florence, the Renaissance city that is known the world over for its incredible architecture. For art lovers, the number one stop in Florence should be the Uffizi Gallery, which boasts an amazing collection of paintings by European masters like Titian and Botticelli. Other great museums in the city include the Pitti Palace, the Gucci Museum and the Bargello. Stroll through the old town center to see the Duomo di Firenze, complete with a dome by Brunelleschi, the Giotto Tower, the Palazzo Vecchio and the bustling Mercato del Porcellino, a market filled with vendors from throughout the region. We recommend spending 3 nights here of your 2 weeks in Italy.

Tuscany (day trip from Florence)
While you’re staying in Florence, sneak away for a day trip to see more of what Tuscany has to offer. The province of Tuscany is well known for its incredible selection of wines and delicious food, so come hungry to make the most of it all. You might head to Pisa to spot the famed leaning tower, you could do some wine tasting in the vineyards of Chianti or you could tour through ancient Roman ruins in the city of Lucca.

Naples (3 nights)
Naples boasts the designation of being one of the oldest cities in the Western World as well as the birthplace of pizza. While you’re there, start with a tour of the Castel dell’Ovo at Porto Santa Lucia, an unusually shaped castle that houses the Museum of Prehistory. Then, make your way to the Duomo, the largest cathedral in Naples and the site of some Roman ruins. After some sightseeing in Naples, make your way to a pizzeria and order the classic pizza margherita, which comes topped with tomatoes, olive oil, fresh basil and mozzarella cheese.

Pompeii (day trip from Naples)
A great day trip from Naples is Pompeii, the ruined city that was engulfed after an explosion from nearby Mt. Vesuvius nearly 2,000 years ago. In Pompeii, you can walk through the ruins and see a number of incredible structures that are amazingly well preserved given their age. Among the landmarks include the amphitheater, which could seat more than 20,000 people, the House of the Vetti, the Basilica, the Forum Granary and several public bathhouses. You can walk along the same streets as the residents of Pompeii did two millennia ago, and you can also visit the National Archaeological Museum to see the site’s most impressive remains and artifacts.

Amalfi Coast (day trip from Naples)
To see some of the most beautiful scenery in all of Italy, and to live the high life for a day, head to the Amalfi Coast. The area is the perfect spot for a day trip from Naples, letting you see some of the most famous beaches without paying a fortune for coastal accommodation. You can tour a number of historic churches and landmarks in the area, but the real draw to the Amalfi Coast is the coast, the beach and the opportunities to rent yachts, sip cocktails overlooking the water and stay active in the sunshine. There are a number of beautiful villages along the Amalfi Coast, just some of which include Positano, Cetara and Amalfi itself.

Rome (3 nights)
Of course, absolutely no getaway to Italy would be complete without spending time in Rome. The Eternal City, as it is known, is the heart of Western civilization, and it boasts world-class museums like the Galleria Borghese and the Capitoline Museums. You can also admire the Sistine Chapel in Vatican City, stroll through the ruins of the Colosseum and spot landmarks like the incredible Trevi Fountain. Rome also offers amazing shopping along streets like via del Corso and via Condotti, and the nightlife in areas like Testaccio is not to be missed.

Resource from : http://www.touropia.com

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10 Most Amazing Destinations In Southern Italy

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The Mezzogiorno, or “midday” region of Italy refers to the Southern section of this historically and artistically important nation. The area boasts some of the oldest cities in Italy, as well as a number of important sites from what was once part of Ancient Greece. The historical importance of the area draws some tourists, while others flock here for the warm Mediterranean climate and island life. Here is a look at some of the top destinations in Southern Italy:

10. Maratea
The attraction of this town is easy to explain. From its position along the rocky Mediterranean coast to its Medieval town to its ritzy harbor, this is one of Southern Italy’s top resort sites. Staying here in the summer requires pre-planning as many places are booked a year or more in advance. It is, however, a very seasonal town, and much of the area closes between October and March. Sunbathing, watersports, and high-end amenities are just part of the reason that this is a perennial favorite for tourists.

9. Sorrento
Sorrento is the perfect blend of designated resort town and tourist-friendly old Italian city. It is easily reached from Naples via rail, and has both the amenities that tourists find comforting as well as unique and higher-end antiquities for sale in the old town. A ferry leaves from here to the isle of Capri, and it is a great jumping off point for Pompeii. However, Sorrento is also known for excellent gourmet cuisine, stunning cliff dwellings (though no beaches), and stunning views of Mt Vesuvius.

8. Paestum
This ancient Greek city was originally called Poseidonia for the god of the sea. The side boasts three well preserved Greek temples. The oldest temple in Paestum is the Temple of Hera, built around 550 BC by Greek colonists. Paestum is often visited as a day trip, as the sites to see are limited. Besides the three ancient Greek temples there is a museum, and some enchanting buffalo farms. However, hotels are good here, and so is the food, so it’s worth an overnight.

7. Alberobello
This fairytale town is the world’s best example of Trullo architecture. Trulli homes are known for their conical stone roofs that are made without mortar. These dry-stone buildings are made from local limestone; none are older than the 14th century. Though the homes can be found across the Itria Valley in Apulia, Alberobello is the only town truly marked by this type of construction. In addition to Trulli-gazing, visitors here can also stay in trullo homes, drink in trullo bars and shop in trullo shops.

6. Tropea
This ancient and stunning town sits among sugar sand beaches and stark cliffs. Once believed to be founded by Hercules, Tropea’s natural beauty still maintains an otherworldly draw for lovers of sand and sun. Not to miss are the town’s two most notable churches- the Santa Maria del’Isola, a medieval church that was built on its own island just off the coast (though siltation and years has built a land bridge between it and the mainland). The second church to see is the local cathedral, with two unexploded bombs from WWII sitting right outside their front door. It was believed to be protected by the local patron saint.

5. Sassi di Matera
The Sassi di Matera are cave dwellings situated in the old town of Matera in the region of Basilicata. The Sassi originate from a prehistoric settlement, and are among the first human settlements in Italy. Many of the houses, which are dug into the tufa rock, are really only caverns, and the streets in some parts of the Sassi often are located on the rooftops of other houses. These dwellings were inhabited by farmers and their livestock until the 1950’s. Today, the jumble of stone buildings and their interior caves are a haunting and beautiful site.

4. Naples
Naples, or Napoli, is the third largest city in Italy. To some it is huge, filthy, crime-ridden and falling apart, to others it is edgy and atmospheric. This coastal Southern city definitely has its own personality. Many favorite Italian foods originated in Naples and its surrounding area such as pizza, and spaghetti. These dishes are taken seriously here and usually feature fresh, locally grown ingredients. Tourist attractions in Naples include a huge Medieval castle, Castel Nuovo, as well as the seaside fortress of Castel del’Ovo. The city is also next to the Vesuvius, the only active volcano on the European continent.

3. Capri
Located in the Bay of Naples, Capri is an island rich in mythology and history. Sirens were said to have lured sailors to their death here with their sultry songs. The Roman emperor Tiberius lived here until his death in 37 A.D. Villa Jovis, the emperor’s imperial residence, is one of the island’s most popular attractions. Capri’s most famous natural attraction is the Blue Grotto, a waterfront cave that’s accessible by boat when the tide is right. Riding the Seggiovia chair-lift in the city of Anacapri to the summit of Monte Solaro is a favorite activity too. The 15-minute trip offers spectacular views of the island and sea.

2. Pompeii & Herculaneum
Along the shadow of volcanic Mt Vesuvius sit several Roman towns that were destroyed by a sudden eruption in AD 79. The most famous of these is Pompeii, whose ruins can be viewed extensively. Archaeologists found the remains from 3,000 holdouts from this town of 20,000 who had refused to flee and paid the price. The ash buried the town, but in many ways preserved a day in the life of Roman times. Nearby is the wealthier, smaller town of Herculaneum, who suffered a similar fate. The population was smaller, around three hundred, but the homes are a better example of how the wealthy once lived, and are worth seeing.

1. Amalfi Coast
For anyone who has ever wanted to imagine themselves in a James Bond coastal car chase, a rented convertible and drive along the Amalfi coast roads is a must. This patchwork of lush forests, and sheer cliffs over the jewel-toned Mediterranean is stunning and familiar, as it is the backdrop of many a Hollywood classic. There are many small towns in which to stay, shop, and eat, with their own beautiful white-walled stone cliff dwellings. For those who are nervous about driving along the narrow coastal roads, beautiful water tours between Sorrento and Salerno are easy to find and beautiful in their own right.

Resource from : http://www.touropia.com

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