Ponte Vecchio, the ‘Old Bridge’ of Florence

Think of Florence, Italy and you probably picture the iconic image of the Ponte Vecchio as well. This bridge is the oldest of six in Florence and one of only four in the world lined with shops. It’s believed a bridge has spanned this section of the Arno River since Roman times and the current structure was built in 1345.  The Ponte Vecchio survived the destruction of World War II, the great flood of 1966 and was recently featured in a novel by Dan Brown.

Ponte Vecchio, Florence

The Top 5 Squares in Florence

In Italy, a public space is called a piazza and the top squares in Florence are found in the city’s historic centre. Some squares took their present form during the Middle Ages; others date back to Roman times. And a hilltop lookout named for a famous Renaissance artist offers panoramic views of the rooftops below. Today they all attract visitors seeking out the history, art and architecture of the great city of Florence.

Piazza della Signoria, Florence

Great Art Museums of Florence

Our tour of Italy last summer first took us to Rome and Capri. Then we said farewell to the beautiful island of the Sirens and ventured inland and north to the region of Tuscany, a land of sunflowers, hill towns and the birthplace of the Renaissance. We arrived in Florence mid-afternoon and started our visit on a high note, touring two of the world’s greatest art museums: the Accademia Gallery and the Uffizi Gallery.

Tuscan Field of Sunflowers

5 Film Remedies for Holiday Burnout

The holiday season is over and credit cards bills will soon follow. Many of us have already seen more than enough snow for one winter. Or maybe you're on tech overload. I'd like to recommend five movies that can slow life down and take you away to a simpler time and place. No car chases or nail-biters in these films; their appeal is enchanting scenery and brilliant cinematography. Pour a cup of tea (or glass of wine), put your feet up and dream of sunny skies in Italy or France.