Being a foodie myself, I have always been intrigued on the origins of exclusive ingredients have come about. Truffles Hunting? Making of coke? Wine Making? How Jamon is made? And of course cheese! The most famous cheese that all of us probably know of would be the famed Parmigiano Reggiano produced in certain region in Northern Italy! It is more commonly known to us as Parmesan cheese. Not to be afraid, this is not a foodie guide that you are reading at but my visit to a local Parmigiano Reggiano factory in the city of Parma. Without going too deep into the history of Italy, there are a couple of beloved food in the country which are namely, truffles, parma ham, balsamic vinegar and of course the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.
Monthly Archives: May 2018
Chapter Wanderlust: Hotel Palace Bologna
After a fast 30 mins train ride from Florence, I arrived in Bologna. It was short and crowded. Thankfully the ride was short. It was the most crowded Italian train that I have ever taken, thankfully I still managed to get some space for my luggage. Bologna can be said as the major connection or railstop in the northern part of the country. So the trains here are pretty frequent. Bologna train station is located just on the fringe of the city, so from there it is an easy 15 to 20 mins walk to the central area. I booked my accommodation kind of last min since I was actually due to stay with a friend in town. However there is some glitch that she has last min which result in me making other plans. I decide to put up in Hotel Palace Bologna since the location is good and it is well priced. I would say that it is a solid 3 star hotel.
Chapter Wanderlust: Florence
In fact, I have been to Florence 6 years ago, back then in 2012, although that was part of a day tour so it is more of a little touch and go in Florence. I was captivated by the Duomo and more so by the Arno River, with the Ponte Vecchio across it. The sight is one that I would love to lay eyes once again. Furthermore, on the ending phase of my whirlwind trip in Europe, the fantastic The Mall outlet will be nice for some shopping. I had 4 main to do list in Florence, The Duomo, Arno River, Central Market and Piazzale Michelangelo! In fact there is something very funny on my fate with Florence. A lot of my thoughts and interest begin back then in 2003 after watching a Hong Kong TVB Drama about pilots, Triumph In The Skies. With many of the filming sites located in Florence, it sure sparkes my interest in seeing them in person.
Chapter Wanderlust: Florence Cooking Class & Central Market Tour
Another pretty interesting and unique activity that I have done during my travels would definitely be taking part in a cooking class. This is probably the first time that I have done so while travelling. Italian cuisine it shall be. It is something that we always dine out for? Like, lets go for some pasta! Lets order pizza in! It is nice to finally to see how it is really done by the locals right in their backyard. Of course, while Bologna is named as the true heart of Italian cooking and cuisine, Florence is not far back as well! Cooking class are pretty common in Florence too! In fact, in terms of a true authentic local market, the Florence Central Market is the most famous one in the country! I have been keen on visiting the Central Market for the longest time after hearing about it! Visiting market is one of my hobbies! Somehow I got the idea of doing a cooking lesson to have a hands on experience on making some Italian food!
Chapter Wanderlust: The Mall Florence Factory Outlet (Prada Outlet)
I believe this would be something that many people would be interested in! Especially the shopping fanatics or those who have a keen eye for branded leather goods. In fact this place is so tempting that even those who are prudent in spending, will spend! You definitely can’t resist yourself if you are here. Of course, for those who specifically make a trip here, you already know what you want! The Mall Florence is one of the most famous factory outlet in Europe or Italy where many famous brand were from. This include brands like Gucci, Prada, Miu Miu. In fact I would say that 90% of the people come here just to get their hands on Prada or Gucci! They are also the one that have the largest presence at The Mall!
Chapter Wanderlust: Girasole Room – Accademia Museum Florence Airbnb X Thoughts on Airbnb
Welcome to another milestone of Seeing The World In Steps! This is the first time that I am staying in an Airbnb! Seemingly I have heard many good stuff about Airbnb and how it has revolutionize the hospitality industry! In this post, I would like to share my thoughts on it and the Airbnb that I have booked in Florence, the Girasole Room – Accademia Museum. On a side track, you peeps can look forward to another trip report that is coming up in the later part of the year! Peking to Beijing! Yes! I have just booked my tickets to Beijing! That is going to be No.59 coming up very soon! While I was looking over my accomodation options in Florence, I chance upon this lovely listing that looks really good. I am also very keen to give Airbnb a try after hearing so much about it!
