Genoa Travel

Gourmet Genoa

gabrielelagona — Thu, 03 Nov 2011 23:43:34 +0000

Savoring the Traditional Foods of Italy’s Northwest Coast

A vacation in Genoa is as much about savoring the Italian delicacies that sum up the very best of this Northwestern coastal province as it is about enjoying the lovely atmosphere. The very special traditional dishes of Genoa are influenced by this location that serves as Italy’s principal seaport. Located in the heart of Italy’s Liguria region and in close proximity to the French border, Genoa is well known for its ‘Mediterranean flair’. As a major sea-faring city, of course, scrumptious seafood delicacies are commonly featured in Genoa’s cuisine with local fisherman hauling in fresh anchovies, octopus, mussels, rock fish and scampi. Genoa’s focus on chartered fishing and seafood dining is very similar to vacationing in Los Cabos, Mexico. However, you won’t find accomodations in Genoa quite as secluded as; Cabo villas or the seafood dishes as spicy.

On vacation in Genoa, what traditional Italian dishes can you expect to find?

Tourists who have come to Genoa to eat won’t be disappointed. Dining out is a big event—a mixture of relaxation, and taking in the authentic Italian atmosphere in one of Genoa’s many restuarants in the lovely Old Town district where local workers who come to socialize will likely dine on hearty, no frills meals at rather reasonable prices such as these:

1. Seafood dishes: Genoa is also renowned for its bountiful seafood cuisine. Seafood establishments dot the landscape surrounding Genoa’s Porto Antico district, where hearty appetizers like Zuppa di pesce (fish soup), a soup of mussels and rock fish as well as mussels and seafood scampi often start off a meal.

2. Olive oil: Liguria is renowned for its light and fruity olive oil and most restaurants will feature their oil in pastas, on pizzas and as a bread dipper. As the main producing region of olive oil in all of Italy, oil from the Liguria region is aptly named “Olio Ligure” (or olive oil from Ligura) for the plant that is used to produce it and only grows within this region.

3. Pesto: One of the main regional dishes of Genoa is pesto. Made from basil, garlic, pine nuts and pecorino cheese ground together in the regions famous “Olive Ligure”, it is usually used as a sauce on pasta or pizza, and it’s also featured as a savory ingredient in local soups.

4. Breads and snacks: Focaccia bread is a Genoa tradition with almost every meal. This variety of flat bread made in the local bakeries and you can find it plain or stuffed with a variety of vegetables—olives and onions. Focaccia is also used as a crust to make vegetable pies or “torta”. If you are sight-seeing in Old Town Genoa, you can stop in at almost any café or bakery for a fresh focaccia.

5. Chickpeas: A major farming produce in Ligura Region, chickpeas are incorporated into a number of traditional Genoa dishes. For instance, farrinata, a type of panzaroti-like snack is folded in flaky chickpea flour, brushed with olive oil and stuffed with ricotta cheese and vegetables.

6. Delicious desserts: When in Italy, it’s a shame to miss dessert with so many sweet treats for the taking. And with the numerous bakeries and ice cream parlors scattered around town, you can’t resist a small taste of the freshly made gelato in numerous flavors (e.g., lime, almond, biscotti, etc.) or a local delicacies like Turkish delight or candied fruits—including include pineapple, cherries, apricots, and orange or grapefruit peel.

Genoa - La Superba! Italy is a country known for its natural beauty,...

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Genoa - La Superba!

gabrielelagona — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 21:13:19 +0000

Italy is a country known for its natural beauty, passionate lovers and rich history. The wonderful little country that is shaped like a boot is a massive tourist destination for people from all over the world, but a lot of people stick to the big names of Rome, Milan or Tuscany. Sure, you will have a magical experience in amongst the beautiful people, there is so much more to Italy than meets the eye. One example of these hidden gems in the Italian crown is the stunning region of Liguria, and in particular its capital, Genoa.A cultural hub

Perhaps the most striking aspect of Genoa is the importance of culture in this town. Although it is a relatively small town, Genoa is world-renowned for its incredible architecture, art galleries, and vibrant music scene. The town has a rich and glorious history - as the nickname “The Superb One” suggests, Genoa has a very interesting past, and artists throughout the ages have captured this. Visitors can expect to see art from the Middle Ages and Renaissance right through to work in more contemporary galleries. Knowledgeable locals add to this cultural experience by living a truly Italian life, celebrating art and music in the very way in which they move around the city. Laughter, stories, and beauty are a part of life here.

Geographically Blessed

One of the main reasons for Genoa’s unbelievable history and remarkable culture is its geographic location. Sandwiched between France and Tuscany, overlooking the deep blue Ligurian Sea, Genoa is ideally situated to absorb all of the sentiments of Europe, while offering views and beauty that are surpassed by no place on Earth. The centrality of the city also means that travellers can reach other points on grand European adventures - the Alps are a stone’s throw away - although you will be hard pressed to leave this charming little city willingly!

Food

The amazing placement of Genoa also spills over into its local dishes, and the food and wine in the region have no equal. The typical Mediterranean diet is in evidence, although there are a few unique twists. The inclusion of seafood is a prime example, as many dished embrace the rich fishing tradition in new and exciting ways. It has also been suggested that pesto originally comes from Genoa, so expect exciting combinations of seafood, pasta, pesto, and fine wine and oils. The city really is a food lover’s paradise.

This guest post was written by Victoria. She is a stay at home mom that is currently learning about the Top Canadian Banks and the Car Loan Calculator.

Genoa - A Hidden Jewel When people think about Italy, a few things automatically...

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Genoa - A Hidden Jewel

gabrielelagona — Tue, 01 Nov 2011 17:14:47 +0000

When people think about Italy, a few things automatically come to mind. Rome, fashion, food, shopping, art, sports cars and beautiful people. However, if you want to experience all of these things during your stay in this famous country, you are going to have to travel extensively. Rome for history, Turin for football, Milan for fashion - it all seems very spread out. However, you can actually experience all of these things in one town - Genoa, the undiscovered jewel that Italians have kept quiet for centuries.Genoa is an ancient town that lies between France and Tuscany, overlooking the Ligurian sea. It’s precarious and valuable position means that it has seen its fair share of battles over the centuries, but the town stands proudly to this day, resolute and beautiful in its own way. The modern city is like a postcard, and merges historic old buildings with modern day malls. A growing economy, based largely on the export of food, wine, fine oils and steel, means that the city has been able to grow without losing its historical importance. Many hours can be spent idly exploring the streets and discovering the ruins of battles, or simply taking in the beauty of the architecture.

If you want natural beauty you have come to the right place. Apart from the typical European Mediterranean climate, Genoa offers spectacular views of the famous Ligurian Sea, which is known for its astral, deep blue colouration. The landscape is dotted with some fantastic beaches, sheer cliffs, and many small islands. Further east lies Tuscany, so travellers with an urge to explore that romantic part of Italy can easily do so.

If all of this seems a bit too mundane, Genoa has all the conveniences and charm of a modern European city. The shopping is world class, and because of its proximity to world fashion hubs like Milan, Paris and London, Genoans know about style. The nightlife is vibrant and diverse, and music, which has always played a part in the life of Genoa, rings out all night long. Dance and party with the beautiful people and who knows, you might even spot a star or two! A great way to think of Genoa is as a more rustic, clandestine Monaco. Not as wealthy, but pristine and untouched, waiting for you to dive into. So give it a try, and allow yourself to be immersed in art, food, beauty and class.

This guest post was written by freelance writer Victoria. She is a stay at home mom that is currently learning about Canada and Education in Canada.

Genoa - La Superba! Italy is a country known for its natural beauty,...

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Tuscany, a Step Away from Cinque Terre

gabrielelagona — Mon, 24 Oct 2011 19:17:03 +0000

The beauty of Italy is that it is a country dense of interesting things to do, places to visit, and people to meet. Take Tuscany, for example. It is a region full of splendid places rich of art, culture and folklore far beyond city boundaries. Actually you can find more hidden treasures in country towns between main centers such as Lucca and Florence than in both cities together.The same happens between regions. North of Tuscany you can find the Liguria. The two regions barely touch their tips, but it’s right in this portion of land that you can find one of the most celebrated spots of Italy.

I am talking about Cinque Terre, a series of five delicious towns along the coast of Liguria that the UNESCO declared World Heritage site and the Italian government a national park. You can get easily to these jewels of the Italian coast from Tuscany and combine the best of two worlds. The majority of tourists enjoy their holidays in villas Tuscany coast near Massa, Carrara or Lucca. From here Cinque Terre is just a short drive away, and you can even dedicate a full day to each town in order to discover them to their fullest.

The five towns are called Vernazza, Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Manarola and Monterosso al Mare. Each one is not larger than a borough, dramatically perched on a cliff descending into the sea and backed by a steep inclination that for centuries has been the asper cultivation ground for vineyards and olive trees. Vementino, Bosco, and Albarola are the three grapes used to produce the two wines of Cinque Terre, the Sciacchetrà and the Cinque Terre, both renown and appreciated.

Formerly the economy of each one of these towns was based on fishing and some agricolture. These days tourism is the main resource. Thousands of visitors arrive here each year, especially during the summer season. However, the advice is to visit them during the fall season or at the end of the spring period. If you are a romantic one and would love to see the stormy sea from your cozy restaurant seat, you should be there during winter time. Nevertheless, the colorful houses crowding the rocks by the coast give the most scenic spectacle during sunny days. Should you trade a swim in the clear seawaters for less crowded days? I know, the choice is tough, but keep in mind that Cinque Terre are wonderful in any season!

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Pet Friendly Things to Do in Genoa, Italy

gabrielelagona — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 17:06:39 +0000

Your pets typically are more like family than animals. When you mix the desire to be with your animal with the cost of boarding during longer vacations, it’s not uncommon to see more families bringing their animals with them on vacation, especially dogs. In some cases they may even accompany a family on international vacations, such as to Genoa, Italy. Genoa is a large seaport city in Northern Italy, with a rich offering of arts, food, music and architecture. While many of the attractions and accommodations in Genoa do not allow pets, there are several offerings available which do. Always look for signs or postings stating that dogs are, or are not allowed, as regulations and allowances can change over time.

Pet Friendly Accommodations

One of the first concerns when booking a pet-friendly vacation to Genoa, Italy, is ensuring you have accommodations that allow pets. While the majority of hotels have a no pet policy, there are a wide range of accommodations that do allow pets, though there may be size restrictions. Sample options include Best Western Hotel Porto Antico, the Holiday Inn Genoa City, the Golden Tulip Moderno Verdi Hotel and the Columbus Sea Hotel. Call the hotel in advance and ask about their pet policy, including potential additional pet fees.

Beaches

Beaches provide entertainment for both you and your animals. However, the majority of public beaches in the Genoa area do not allow pets. In fact, until recently, only certain private beaches specifically allowed animals on the beach. Luckily, near the Genoa suburb of Vesima, there is now an animal-friendly aptly named “Vesima Beach”. This beach offers not only plenty of space for you and your animals to run around, but also offers other pet friendly amenities, such as plastic bags, hoses and shovels for animal clean up, as well as water fountains to help keep your animal hydrated.

Hiking

Just outside of Genoa you can access the Cinque Terre Trail System. You will need to take a train to get to the trail, but many trains in Italy allow animals like domesticated dogs. Check with the rail line before you buy your tickets to make sure your animal is allowed. Once you arrive you can follow the trail through five smaller villages including Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. The trails between each city show of magnificent views, and provide exercise for both you and your pet. Each city provides ample opportunities for site seeing as well, and also provides local restaurants for lunch on the trail. The area around the trail was made into a national park in 1999, so you will need to pay a trail entry fee, or purchase a trail entry pass. If you are bringing your dog, be aware that there are many stray cats throughout the Cinque Terre Trail. These cats are loved and cared for by a wide variety of locals and tourists, which keeps them near the trail. Always have your dog on a leash in these public areas.

About the Author: Kelly Marshall writes for Oh My Dog Supplies, the leader in high end travel goods for dogs, including airline approved dog carriers, car seat covers and other accessories for travel.

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Scuba diving in Liguria

gabrielelagona — Thu, 20 Oct 2011 17:04:26 +0000

The Italian Riviera attracts visitors from around the world with a combination of culture, cuisine, and gorgeous scenery. The craggy coast and blue sea, the picturesque towns and ancient cities- there is a lot to take in. What many visitors don’t realise is that the sightseeing doesn’t have to end at the water’s edge. The coast of Liguria can boast excellent scuba diving.

Portofino is the most popular dive destination, although there are plenty of choices. It’s about 40 minutes from Genoa and makes an easy day trip. The great draw card for divers is the marine reserve, home to a stunning array of red corals, sea sponges, octopus, anemones, scorpion fish, moray eels, and of course a huge variety of fish. Large barracuda and tuna are amongst those commonly seen by divers.

The area is famous for huge underwater carpets of corals and sponges, some of them brightly coloured in yellow, red, and purple. Sharp-eyed divers might also catch sight of any number of different nudibranch species- to call these fascinating and beautiful creatures ’sea slugs’ really doesn’t do them justice. Nudibranchs come in every colour of the rainbow and a huge variety of colours forms, some graceful, some ornate, and some very strange indeed.

As with all the best Mediterranean dive sites, Portofino offers more than just marine life. People have been intimately involved with the sea here for thousands of years and that fact is celebrated in more ways than one. Perhaps the most obvious (and spectacular) sign of human interaction with the underwater world is the magnificent Christ of the Abyss. This eight and a half foot bronze statue sits on the floor of San Fruttuoso Bay, delivering a benediction towards the surface more than 50ft above.

There are also less carefully placed artefacts in the waters off the coast, including several divable wrecks from the Second World War. The largest wreck in the world is near the small town of Santa Margherita. The Amoco Milford Haven is more than 1000ft long. Now known simply as the Haven, it’s a regular destination for guided dives.

The months between April and October are the best for diving in Liguria, although in the right conditions (and with right wetsuit!) year-round diving is a possibility. Average visibility is about 18m- not incredible but certainly enough to get a clear view of the wonderful wildlife and the other underwater attractions that bring divers to this area. Guided dives, instruction, and gear hire is available in Portofino, Sestri Levante, and Santa Margherita.

Jess Spate is an underwater photography enthusiast and a keen diver. She works for Mozaik Underwater Cameras- a leading online source for dive cameras and underwater video housing equipment.

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Genoa: 5 must see attractions

gabrielelagona — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 20:32:21 +0000

Here is a rundown of 5 places you must see when visiting the port city of Genoa.

The Aquarium of Genoa

The Genoa aquarium was originally built in 1992 as a celebration of 500 years since Christopher Colombus, the Genoan sailor, discovered the new world. This vast aquarium includes 70 tanks containing a colossal 6,000,000 liters of water and is home to a vast array of sea life.

Stadio Luigi Ferraris

Home to both of Genoa’s football clubs, Genoa FC and Sampdoria FC, The Luigi Ferraris stadium is the spot to see top class Italian football whilst in Genoa. Currently playing in Serie A and Serie B respectively, the stadium showcases matches every Saturday and often in midweek. Built in 1909, it is one of the oldest football stadiums in Italy.

Via Garibaldi

Via Garibaldi is street in the historical centre of Genoa. Beautiful buildings that date back to 1550, Via garibaldi is a delightful hidden treasure. If you have the chance to enter palazzo bianco or palazzo rosso you would even get a better taste of the history and beauty of Genoa. This is a must see. One can imagine what it would have been like to walk on this beautiful street where the wealthy of this city lived.

Galata Museo del Mare

Devoted solely to Genoa’s seafaring past, this museum will give you insights into the history of Italys biggest and busiest port. The Museum also includes a full-size replica of a 17th-century Genovese galleon.

Church of San Siro

A short walk from Via Garibaldi, The Church of San Siro is Genoa’s oldest church and was once the city’s cathedral from the 4th to the 9th century. Rebuilt in the 16th and 17th centuries, it now feels a bit like a haunted house—imposing frescoes line dank hallways, and chandeliers hold crooked candles flickering in the darkness.

Written by Ellis Green of LoveCruise.co.uk, A UK cruise company specializing in Last minute cruise deals and cruise and maritime voyages

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Five Great Festivals in Genoa

gabrielelagona — Wed, 31 Aug 2011 15:16:47 +0000

Genoa is a vibrant city brimming with culture, gorgeous architecture, unique food and that perfect sea side ambience that can only be appreciated by experience. The calling of sea birds, wafting salt and fish pungent on the ocean breeze and the unmistakable bustle of a busy port make Genoa an atmospheric, down to earth destination. You know you are going to get world class Italian food in the restaurants, that the hotels will be plush and the sightseeing memorable, but what about taking your adventure in Genoa to the next level? The following festivals and events will hopefully enrich your time in Genoa and make it all the more fun, entertaining and delicious.

Pesto e Dintorni Festival - October

Celebrate Genoa’s iconic contribution to Italian cuisine: Pesto! Every year the Palazzo Ducale blooms with local farmers, restaurateurs, and chefs sharing classic and new pesto dishes. Genoa keeps to a very strict pesto recipe composed of seven ingredients only: Basil, garlic, salt, olive oil, pine nuts, pecorino cheese and grana cheese. Fishermen bring fresh seafood pairings, wine makers supply the perfect vintage to complement the tangy, green sauce and the visitors get to eat! Try pesto on bruchetta, with olives, or with a dram chestnut liquor!

Circumnavigando Festival - December

This modern “circus” is an annual extravaganza of the world’s most unique street performers. All over downtown you will find these professional acts showcasing their talents. Illusionists, comedians, dance troupes and acrobats perform for your delight. There is of course a traditional yet innovative circus aspect including high wire artists, jugglers, clowns and animals. Modern music accompanies throughout the energetic bazaar.

International Poetry Festival - June

The Palazzo Ducale hosts this highly acclaimed celebration of poetry every year. Nobel Prize winners, renowned authors from around the world and budding writers, eager to learn, gather and listen to readings, musical performances and lectures. This is as much a learning experience for all, and experimentation is encouraged! Almost 100 free performances are open to all who appreciate poetry and there is a rousing dance party on the beach at the close.

La Regata delle Antiche Repubbliche Marinare - June

This exciting tradition takes place in Genoa every fourth year. Since 1956 this boat race has drawn thousands of spectators to the cities of Genoa, Pisa, Venice and Amalfi, which all alternate the honor of hosting. The rowing race is the main event and much prestige goes along with winning. The color and enthusiasm of the parade and merriment leading up to the frenzied finish are just as worthwhile. The waterfront is alight with the emblems and city colors of the four Italian ports and the sense of city pride and competition is electric. Cheer for white team waving the griffin flags, that’s Genoa!

Gezmataz Jazz Festival – July

Gather with the crowd in the Porto Antico on Genoa’s waterfront and join in the revelry! This is a festival for music lovers. Part performance and part educational workshop, Gezmataz will wow you with internationally acclaimed groups like the Yellow Jackets, Naked Truth and Brainkiller. For the five days of the event aspiring guitarists, drummers, bassists and saxophonists have the opportunity to study with professionals and at the end they put on a student concert!

Noella Schink is a travel and beauty writer from Portland, Maine. She recommends Auto Europe for your car rental needs next time you are living it up in Genoa.

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Genoa Aquarium

gabrielelagona — Sat, 13 Aug 2011 13:20:38 +0000

A naturally exciting experience awaits you at Europe’s largest marine park: 71 tanks, 800 species, and over 10,000 specimens set against the incomparable backdrop of the Gulf of Genoa.

It was first opened in 1992 for the Columbus celebrations, the 500-year anniversary of the discovery of the New World. Each year, its 600 square metres of exhibition surface attract more than one million visitors, who can admire all kinds of marine species - from dolphins and sharks to turtles and penguins – in their accurately reproduced natural marine habitat.

The tour (approx. 2 hours and 30 minutes) unfolds through the spectacular scenery of a myriad of sights of the Old Port of Genoa – the Aquarium is indeed located on the old wharf of Ponte Spinola – and through 40 large tanks, in addition to 19 open ones which use the space of a real ship called “Nave Italia”, allowing people to actually touch the fish by hand.

The reproduction of the original natural habitats of the individual species at the Genoa Aquarium is also wonderful: not only marine fauna but also reptiles, amphibians, and generally rainforest and freshwater animals. This extraordinary educational, scientific and visitor attraction facility consistently reflects its slogan: “Genoa Acquarium. Naturally exciting”.

Further information: www.acquariodigenova.it

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Top 3 Shore Excursions in Genoa

gabrielelagona — Sat, 06 Aug 2011 13:17:36 +0000

The beautiful city of Genoa is generally used as an embarkation or disembarkation port, so shore excursions here can be occasionally overlooked. We would strongly advise you to spend a day in Genoa before you begin/after you finish your cruise, it’s definately a city worth exploring further!

Here we have compiled a guide to our top 3 recommended shore excursions that you can look forward to.

1. The Genoa Highlights Tour
This very popular tour, complete with its own English speaking tour guide, will take you around Genoa’s most interesting and traditional places. You will take in the medieval Old Town, which along with being the biggest in Europe, gives the oppurtunity to see it’s Noble past in the form of Romanesque churches & 16th century palazzos. After then viewing the Historical Centre, the San Lorenzo cathedral and Christopher Colombo’s house, you will enjoy the sensational view of Genoa from the famous Spianata Castelletto.

2. Outlet Shopping
This is specially crafted for those who are interested in fashion. You will be met at the port in Genoa by your English speaking driver, who will then take you directly to the McArthur Glen outlet shopping centre, which is one of the biggest and well regarded shopping outlets in Italy. You will then have 6 hours to shop and take your pick from the many restaurants available to enjoy lunch, before being taken back to the port in Genoa. Stores here include; Versace, Cavalli, Dolce & Gabbana, Trussardi, Prada, Guess, Bulgari, Moschino, Fratelli Rossetti and various American brands!

3. The Best of Genoa Tour
This incredible tour begins as soon as your driver and Licensed tour guide pick you up from the pier in Genoa and begin the short 10 minute journey for Europe’s largest Aquarium! During your time in the Aquarium of Genoa you will be given the oppurtunity to unlock a universe teaming with life and full of mysterious creatures. It can prove to be a pleasantly emotional experience as you grapple with the concept of the immensity of the ocean you ride above and the richness it holds beneath, in some ways recreating your cruise experience! You will come face-to-face with dolphins, sharks, penguins, a variety of fish and many other sea creatures during your adventure through the marine world.

Upon leaving the Aquarium, you will first stop off at the panoramic terrace of Castelletto, where you will see the historical centre of Genoa, the port and the lighthouse which is regarded as the symbol of the town. Next up is a Walking Tour through the old city, where you will enjoy numerous highlights fully explained and detailed by your guide. Some of these include; Palazzo Ducale, the Church of Saint Andrea & the Piazza San Matteo among others. You will also be given plenty of free time to enjoy your own lunch/explore the town further. A highly recommended tour for the more active sightseers, although folding wheelchairs are accepted.

Written by Ellis Green of www.lovecruise.co.uk

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