Sunday, April 25, 2010

A Brief History Of La Fenice, Venice’s Opera House

Few structures around the world are as aptly named as the opera house in Venice, Italy. Having opened in 1792 as a replacement for the San Benedetto Theater that burned down in 1774—an all-too-common occurrence prior to theater electrification, where candles and later open gas lamps provided stage illumination—the company that managed its predecessor named the new facility Teatro La Fenice (“The Phoenix Theater”) in honor of the mythological bird that rises anew from its own ashes. The opera house was to suffer destruction twice more during its history, first in 1836 (taking a year to reopen) and again in 1996. While the 19th century fire was accidental in nature, the one 160 years later was quickly determined to be arson. Two electricians were subsequently sentenced to prison for the fire, which they set in order to avoid government fines due to delays in remodeling. The theater was rebuilt over the course of nearly two years, re-creating the facility down to the plasterwork, gilt-edged décor, and brightly colored carpeting.
Opera seasons in Venice were divided carefully into three parts—Fall (October to mid-December), Carnival (December 26 to mid-March), and Spring (April and May). The end of the 1790s through about 1825 saw a number of world premieres at La Fenice. Because tastes have changed considerably in the opera world over the ensuing decades, many of these works—and, in some cases, the entire output of the composers in question—have fallen into obscurity despite the fact that they were major hits in their day. This list includes "Sapho" by Giovanni Simone Mayr (known primarily as Donizetti’s mentor), "Orazi e Curiazi" by Saverio Mercadante, and "Il crociato in Egitto" by Giacomo Meyerbeer. The height of the bel canto era brought premieres by Gioacchino Rossini ("Tancredi" and "Semiramide"), Vincenzo Bellini ("I Capuleti e I Montecchi" and "Beatrice di Tenda"), and early pieces by Gaetano Donizetti ("Belisario" and "Maria di Rudenz").

The opera house in Venice boasted some of the brightest voices in all of opera during this time. Singers included Isabella Colbran (later the wife of Rossini), Domenico Donzelli, Giorgio Ronconi, and Maria Malibran. Many of the works of Giuseppe Verdi that enjoyed opening seasons elsewhere nonetheless attracted huge crowds at La Fenice. Some of the more stirring successes included debuts of "Nabucco," "Attila," "La traviata," and "Rigoletto." Sadly, the success the opera house enjoyed during the first half of the 19th century failed to be duplicated in the latter half. After the Austrians abandoned Venice to the Kingdom of Italy, the city fell well behind more vibrant art centers such as Milan, Turin and Rome. This was as much due to the provincialism of its residents as it was the impoverishment of the region. As an illustration of its second-class status, La Fenice hosted the premiere of Leoncavallo’s "La bohème," while the far more popular and lasting Puccini version enjoyed its premiere in Turin.

During the latter years of the 20th century, La Fenice made a name for itself by reviving operas that had generally fallen by the wayside. By attracting such megastars as Montserrat Caballe, Mirella Freni, Katia Ricciarelli (a native Venetian) and Marilyn Horne, the opera house brought back a number of works that had their premieres here some 100 years earlier. These included Donizetti's "Roberto Devereux" and the aforementioned "Maria di Rudenz," among others. Political corruption, financial hardship, and labor difficulties all contributed to the delay of reopening La Fenice after the arson attack of 1996. The house reopened on December 14, 2003, with a concert that featured music by Beethoven, Wagner and Stravinsky. The first opera produced in the rebuilt facility was Verdi’s "La traviata" in November 2004.

Thursday, April 15, 2010

One Day in Florence

The stunning Italian city of Florence attracts visitors in their droves year after year. Firenze, as it is known to the Italians, is one of the most important cultural centres in the country second only to Rome. A Renaissance city in the truest sense of the word, Florence is one of the most beautiful places for walking in Italy. A stroll along the serene River Arno, on which Florence sits, will take you past magnificent architecture, exquisite gardens and elegant piazzas; enough to engage your senses in the most delightful of ways.
If you are lucky enough to spend an extended break in Florence you will be able to explore at your leisure and really get under the skin of this enigmatic city. However, if you are like the many visitors, perhaps on a holiday walking in Italy, who arrive in Florence with only a short time to spare, there are certain experiences that you really shouldn't miss.
Morning
After rising early to the sounds of Florence awakening, set off for a stroll through the empty streets. Walking in Italy in the early hours through the echoing cobbled streets and alleys of Florence can be a truly magical experience. Say "Buongiorno" to the cafe owners as they set up their tables around the piazzas; smell the aromas of fresh coffee and pastries as they waft down the deserted streets; and enjoy the magnificent architecture in peace without the crowds jostling for the best vantage. Feel free to run your hands along the cool stone of the Duomo and marvel at the intricate craftsmanship. Finish your walk in the piazza by enjoying a traditional breakfast, of coffee, pastry and people watching.
A Day in the City
With only a day in Florence, you'll need to be choosy as to how you spend your time. One could, in reality, spend the entire day just walking. In Italy there is a wonderful surprise around every corner, and Florence is no exception. However, you will always regret it if you don't visit at least a few of the famous sights.
Obviously the Duomo should be high on your list, and you will certainly not be disappointed by the awe-inspiring interior and fabulous sweeping views from the top. However, the Baptistery, just next door, is sometimes overlooked in the rush and is every bit as breathtaking. The intricate mosaics which adorn the ceilings are nothing short of stunning. Another must see on your one-day agenda would have to be the famous Uffizi gallery. Pre-book so you can avoid the queues, and then wander through the rooms and corridors filled with one of the most extensive collections of art in the world. If you still haven't had your fill of culture, then head to the fabulous Pitti Palace or the Accademia which are both extraordinarily beautiful.
The Evening
By the time the sun begins to set you will probably be footsore but happy, and full to the brim with your memories of an inspiring day. Florence will now have become Firenze, and your experiences walking in Italy's most beautiful city will be embedded in your heart and soul forever. As you sip an aperitivo at a tiny out of the way bar and plan to try and find your way back to that amazing restaurant you saw earlier for your dinner, you will gaze around you in awe and realise with surprise, that you have fallen head over heels in love - with Florence.

Friday, April 09, 2010

Going to Florence? Think About a Bed and Breakfast

Staying at a bed and breakfast is one of the best ways to get to know and experience the real culture and traditions alive in Florence, Italy. You'll experience the Italian lifestyle and get a real affinity for the people and their customs, while seeing the sites at the same time. If you're the kind who likes to avoid the busy tourist traps and learn how the natives live, where they go and what they do, then don't count out a bed and breakfast!
Florence's history and culture are rich and date back as far as its ruins. The Italian Renaissance got its start in Florence. It was the place where the Medici's came to power, then fell. Girolamo, the prophet, was burned at the stake in Florence. Niccolo Machiavelli gave his famous speeches here. There are also architectural marvels everywhere. The Duomo is here and the Uffizi museum. And don't forget to see the Ponte Vecchio and Piazza della Signoria.
As much as there is to see in Florence, its bed and breakfast establishments will also charm you. Mostly restored and refurbished old homes and mansions, these accommodations are an eclectic mix of old and new. While painstaking restoration brings out the original historical charm of brick fireplaces, antiques, woodwork and other features of the represented period, the rooms are comfortably air-conditioned and contain many modern amenities such as Internet access, hot and cold showers, Jacuzzis and mini bars.
As is customary, bed and breakfasts in Florence serve breakfast! There can be a wide variety here, so you might need to check with the management to make sure you'll get the kind of meal you want or require. Some give full breakfasts with meat, eggs, toast, rolls and pancakes, while other bed and breakfasts will have more of a continental breakfast - juice, doughnuts and coffee. Note also that a few Florence bed and breakfasts charge extra for the meal, although it is included in the room price in most.
Here are some of the popular bed and breakfasts in Florence with a short description to help you choose just the right spot for your vacation:
A Florence View Bed and Breakfast - As the name suggests, this is the place to go for the most spectacular views from the heart of the city.
The Martin Dago Bed and Breakfast - This beautiful property exudes the atmosphere of Renaissance Florence and is located in a part of the city that has retained this traditional feel.
Villa Sestina Bagno a Ripoli Bed and Breakfast - Get away from the busy city at this hilltop B&B overlooking the city. It is close the city's monuments and only 15 minutes from Ponte Vecchio.
Bed and Breakfast Vittoria - This, too, is away from the hustle and bustle of the city, but close enough to enjoy its many attractions. Close the University Campus of Sesto Fiorentino, it offers special discounts to students and teachers.
If you really want to experience living in Florence for your brief stay, you should try a bed and breakfast and, temporarily at least, become Florentine!

Wednesday, April 07, 2010

Venice - Good Travel Tips

The best time to visit Venice is in early spring when the weather has warmed up a little but isn't too cold. Visiting in the height of summer can be quite muggy and humid, spring time is just that little bit more fresh!
Make sure you arrive in style by taking a water taxi from the airport. It's expensive, at about €100, but if you are with friends or agree to share, €25 or less per head is well worth it and you'll be dropped off at the nearest landing-stage to your hotel.
If you're staying for three days or more, invest €33 in a 72-hourACTV smart card. Unless you intend to sit in your hotel all day (why would you!?) you will save money over buying single tickets and it's much easier, you simply validate your ticket by passing it over the reader as you enter each landing-stage.
Don't go for the most expensive hotels, unless you intend to spend most of your time there. There are much cheaper hotels in Venice which serve as perfectly good bases! There is no shortage of gondoliers touting for your custom and, for a special occasion with a special friend, a gondola ride down the Grand Canal is unforgettable. If the gondola rides really are out of your price range you can cross the canal by traghetti - gondola ferries - for just 50 cents.
You MUST explore on foot. Don't panick when you become lost, which you almost certainly will, there are delights to be found in numerous discoveries to find until you get yourself back on track. Yellow street signs on buildings show the way to San Marco, Rialto & Accademia. Just slip away from the crowds, down alleys and across bridges, and you will soon lose yourself in Venice's backwaters. Go to Castello, Cannaregio or Dorsoduro, Sestieri.
Go to St Mark's Square either early in the morning, before the day-trippers arrive, or at night, when they have left. After dark, the lights and the music add a new ambience to this enchanting place. Fast food aside, if you are on a budget, don't eat within stone-throwing distance of the popular tourist venues. Instead, find the places where the locals eat to get a real sense of Venice, you will also save so much more money this way!
The Peggy Guggenheim Collection is extremely popular and worth a visit. Even if modern art isn't for you, there is a lovely sculpture garden and a terrace in front, where you can sit and watch the comings and goings of the Grand Canal.
I hope you'll find these travel tips helpful, just because the city of Venice is known to be hopelessly romantic; it's not just for couples, even as a solo traveller there is still plenty to do and see so don't be deterred when travelling alone.

Monday, April 05, 2010

A Florence Hotel Experience

Saint Gall Street on which the Florence establishment is found used to be what may be called a continuation of the Roman "Cardus maximus". This area used to be called the "Caffagio" literally translated to mean the forest for hunting. This was back in the 8th century.
When it comes to four star Florence hotels, luxury and a complete touch of customer satisfaction is put forward to ensure the perfect service. Many a Florence hotel are housed in traditionally built mansions. You may find a hotel is strategically perched at the center of the city, with it being also strategically set at a walking distance to the rail station. The peace and tranquility that is found inside such a hotel and its neighborhood is one that can make one relax and lay back with no worries.
The traditional look of a typical Florence hotel might shock the visitors once they get to see the decor that runs through the establishment. With a unique ambiance that graces every corner, the 4 star Florence hotel has a myriad of handcrafted and decorated furniture that exudes a feeling that is dominated by a traditional atmosphere. This whole setup ensures that one is taken back in time with the option of still using the most latest modern facilities that are found around.
When it comes to the rooms the establishment has come equipped with it the most comfortable amenities that can be found. The available 18 classic rooms are fitted with shower and even whirlpool bath and also a touch of modern comforts comprising of satellite TV, air conditioning, and Wi-Fi Internet. All this has the added option of a Florence hotel Jacuzzi which helps provide relaxation to its visitors. A Florence hotel Jacuzzi also comes accompanied with private bathrooms furnished in the most top of art wood and marble, where they also get to feature bath tubes and L'Occitan. All these with the help of the helping staff has ensured that maximum satisfaction has been achieved when and where required.
Located near the banks of the magnificent Arno River, in the residential area of Florence's opera house, peaceful and tranquility is assured. The magnificently themed traditional outlook combined with the advanced technology and tailor-made services puts the experience found here to a whole new level. It is only through personalized services that one gets to achieve the utmost satisfaction and this is exactly what is in store for any one who gets to come here.