Two 18-year-old girls aspire to become professional football players in Gurinder Chadha's gentle comedy.
Only In London: Chadha captures the city's cultural diversity beautifully as Parminder Nagrarebels against her orthodox Sikh upbringing–with Hounslow providing the perfect suburban backdrop.
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Are you in need of a good “chick flick”? Time to get the cookie dough and ice cream out, get your “stretchy pants” on and veg. out for this next movie.
In Bridget Jones Diary, Renée Zellweger stars as the perpetually-single Bridget in this canny update of Pride &Prejudice.
Only In London: Visit Borough Market and you'll easily spot Bridget's little flat near the pub, not to mention the restaurant that's the setting for Firth and Grant's hilarious dust-up
Borough Market
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Since I mentioned it before, it only seemed right to add Notting Hill to my list of “London movies”.
It's from the same makers as out Love Actually, but Notting Hill is a funny, light-hearted fantasy romance that has its tongue pressed enough into its cheek just about enough.
Only In London: Notting Hill is one of London's most multicultural hot spots, which means it's odd that Curtis' film doesn't reflect that. Still, the area looks the best it ever has–though Portobello Road is where you'll find Grant's bookshop.
Portobello Road
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Ready for a good mystery? Everyone loves a good mystery and Sherlock Holmes is iconic for solving mysteries throughout England (London in particular).
Sir Conan Doyle's sleuth gets a post-modern update, with Robert Downey Jr playing a beefed-up version of Holmes.
London location: Shot in and around London (as well as Liverpool and Manchester), Ritchie's London of yesteryear is a romantic place of heaving bosoms and ridiculously cool heroes.
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John Cleese hauled Ealing comedy legend Charles Crichton out of retirement to co-write and direct this acid-tongued shout-out to the classic comedy crime caper. Cleese plays a barrister swept up in a robbery plot; Michael Palin outraged stutterers worldwide as an animal-loving getaway driver; and two Yanks, Jamie Lee Curtis, and Kevin Kline offer scathing observations on British life.
London location: The iconic scene where Kline dangles Cleese out of a window was shot at New Concordia Wharf in Bermondsey.
New Concordia Wharf
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Okay, time to pop some popcorn, and get comfy on your couch. My first “London movie” choice is Four Weddings and a Funeral.
Floppy-haired Charles (Hugh Grant) is looking for The One in Richard Curtis's sweet, soppy movie. The capital provides a picture-perfect backdrop as Grant and his band of twenty-something aristo Londoners date, flirt, and consider settling for sub-standard partners in an effort to get down the aisle. Proof that spending every sunny Saturday at a friend's wedding is not a modern affliction.
London location: Charles lives (and has that romantic, rainy reunion) on Highbury Terrace in Highbury Fields, the lucky sod. He also wanders along the South Bank and has a matrimonial meltdown at Smithfield's St Bartholomew the Great.
Highbury Fields
South Bank
Smithfield’s St. Bartholomew the Great
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Have you ever watched a movie and fallen in love with where it took place? I remember the first time I saw Notting Hill with Julia Roberts and deciding for sure that I was going to live in London one day, right there in Notting Hill. Then when I saw The Holiday (one of my favorite movies to watch during Christmas), you know the one with Kate Winslet and Cameron Diaz, I decided for sure that I'd like to visit the country side of England and see all the little charming towns. Maybe I could even house sit for someone in the English countryside like it happened in the movie!
Movies have such a powerful effect on our imagination, and no doubt, they have influenced many people by inspiring them to travel to their favorite movie or television locations.
If London is on your travel bucket list, be sure to check out these movies to get you and your travel companion in the mood. Are you trying to convince a group of friends to go with you? These movies will help! Over the next couple of weeks, I will share, what movies you should watch (or re-watch) to get you in the spirit to travel to London.
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Feeling a bit down, a bit lethargic, a bit dreary (after learning all about the places you need to visit in Rome)? What you need is a little bit (or a lot) of tiramisu, the classic Italian dessert.
Tiramisu:
Though you might not need an excuse to eat it, pronounced tira-mi-su means “pick-me-up” and is a perfect end to a meal or even a post sightseeing snack. What better medicine could there be? Its current name derives from the Venetian dialect and is now considered a typical dessert of this region, but other regions are competing to be proclaimed place of origin of this cake: first of all, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Piedmont and Tuscany. The classic tiramisu is made with savoiardi or lady fingers or biscuits, take your pick of the words, dunked in an espresso coffee, then layered with a mascarpone and fresh egg custard and sprinkled with chocolate powder. When eating out, be sure to check it’s ‘fatto in casa’, or made in house.
Gelato:
In Italian, the word congelato means frozen, and the word congelare means to freeze. Although gelato is the Italian version of ice cream, it’s not merely Dreyer’s with a European, artisanal flair. Like ice cream, gelato contains milk, sugar, and flavorings such as fruit or nuts, but it has less cream than ice cream and usually no egg yolks. Whether you’re ordering gelato in Italy (or at an authentic gelateria elsewhere), you should know gelato-related terminology. If you’re in need of a serious dose of caffeine, order affogato. You’ll get a scoop of gelato doused in espresso. If you want to make your gelato extra decadent, opt for gelato con panna to get gelato topped with whipped cream. And for an Italian ice cream sandwich, order brioche con gelato. If you want authentic gelato, don’t buy it from a shop that uses ice cream scoops. Instead, gelato should be scooped with a spade or paddle. The flat surface is better equipped to gently scoop up your flavor of choice. “Not only can you work gelato with the spade to soften it up, but there's a whole artistry,” Morano said. Who woudn't want to have their first taste of gelato in Italy? From the first memorable taste of genuine gelato, most people might want to bring home that fresh, flavorful dessert back to their homes.
Tiramisu
Gelato
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Begin your last day with an espresso and head over to the Trevi fountain. The Trevi Fountain is one of the top attractions in Rome and one of the most famous fountains in the world. Trevi fountain, like all great pieces of art, tells a story. In the center of the fountain is a statue of Oceanus, standing under a triumphal arch. His chariot is being pulled by two sea horses, one wild and one docile, representing the opposing moods of the sea. Left of the arch is the statue of Abundance. The statue of Health stands right of the arch. The four statues at the top symbolize: Abundance of Fruits- holding a horn of plenty, Fertility of Crops- holding ears of wheat, Products of Autumn- holding a cup and bunches of grapes, Joy of Prairie and Gardens- adorned with flowers. When the fountain is open roughly €3,000 is thrown into it every day as people follow the tradition of throwing coins over their shoulders. The legend holds that a coin thrown into the fountain will ensure a return to Rome. This tradition also dates back to the ancient Romans who often threw coins in water to make the gods of water favor their journey or help them get back home safely. (Throw in a second coin if you’re seeking love – even a third for wedding bells!) What many don’t know is that the coins are collected every night and given to an Italian charity called Caritas. Caritas, in turn, use the money for a supermarket program giving rechargeable cards to Rome’s needy to help them get groceries. Keep with tradition and toss in a coin for good luck!
Next, head over to the Pantheon church. The Pantheon at Rome is the most preserved and influential building of ancient Rome. It is a Roman temple dedicated to all the gods of pagan Rome. Even today, almost 2000 years after its construction, the breathtaking pantheon is a remarkable building to see. The spectacular design, proportions, elegance and harmony are a striking reminder of the architecture of the great Roman Empire. When Michelangelo saw this wonder for the first time he said that it looks more like the work of angels, not humans. The most fascinating part of the Pantheon is its giant dome, with its famous hole in the top (The eye of the Pantheon, or oculus). The dome was the largest in the world for 1300 years and until today it remains the largest unsupported dome in the world! The diameter of the dome is 43.30 meters or 142ft (for comparison, the United States Capitol dome is 96 feet in diameter). The design of the Pantheon is so that a perfect sphere could sit inside symbolizing the vault of heaven. Such a spectacle in the eye! While there, be sure to be respectful and keep your voice low.
After a good lunch, stroll over to Largo di Torre Argentina, which is also known as a cat sanctuary. The cats are well taken care of by a local charity, and feeding them is prohibited.
Lastly, we have Piazza Navona to explore. This elegant showcase Square in Rome is built on the Stadium of Domitian. Dominitian’s ancient stadium, in the heart of the city, is now adorned with fine Renaissance and Baroque buildings, designed by the most famous architects of the 16C and 17C. The breathtaking magnificence of the piazza was meant to show the authority of Pamphili family, who had their own palace facing the square. The piazza is one of Rome’s liveliest squares, full of tourists, portrait painters, vendors, musicians, mime artists , shops and restaurants. Piazza Navona is considered one of Rome’s most beautiful squares. If possible, visit at sunset as the sight of the Square is awe-inspiring.
Now that you’ve accomplished an impressive three-day tour. Enjoy a great glass of wine and rest up before heading back from this wondrous city.
Trevi Fountain
the Pantheon
Piazza Navona
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Since in my last post I mentioned to go grab some dinner, it only seemed appropriate to talk about Italian cuisine before I moved on to talking about our last day of visiting Rome.
Known for its diverse palate and regional cuisine, Italy’s culinary identity can be quite difficult to define. But pasta forms an integral part of its gastronomical personality and comes in a variety of different shapes and sizes. Agnolotti: Piedmont: Most commonly crimped, square-shaped and stuffed with meat, agnolotti (or ‘priest hats’) is the primary pasta of Piedmont, in the northwestern region of Italy. Farfalle: Lombardy: Universally recognised as the ‘bow-tie’, farfalle borrows its name from the Italian word for ‘butterflies’. Despite its intricate design, this good-looking variety remains the signature pasta of the northwestern Italian region of Lombardy. Curzetti Stampae: Liguria: Originating from the pastel-coloured coastal stretch of the Italian Riviera, curzetti stampae (or Corzetti stamps), are a fresh pasta unique to the northwestern Italian region of Liguria. Strozzapreti: Emilia Romagna Strozzapreti, (or ‘priest-choker’), is a hand-rolled variety of pasta from the northern Italian region of Emilia-Romagna. Gigli: Tuscany Gigli, (or ‘lilies’), is a type of dried pasta from the lush-green patch-worked pastures of Tuscany, in Central Italy. Bucatini: Lazio Bucatini (from Italian ‘buco’ meaning ‘hole’), is a spaghetti-like pasta with a hollow centre, that derives from the central Italian region of Lazio.
Spaghetti alla Chitarra: Abruzzo Spaghetti alla chitarra is a variety of egg pasta from the Abruzzo region of Central Italy. Penne: Campania: Penne (or ‘pen’) is a well-known variety of Italian pasta that is said to have arisen from the south of Italy, in the region of Campania. Orecchiette: Puglia: Head southeast to Italy’s ‘heel’ and you will find the pasta speciality of Puglia: ‘orecchiette’ (or ‘little ears’). Ziti: Sicily: Ziti (or ‘bride-grooms’) is the chunkier Sicilian version of Campanian penne, from the rugged, southernmost region of Italy. Ready to satisfy your tastebuds?
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The best way to begin your second day is to hop aboard the Metropolitana (subway) and take a ride to the Colosseo station. Once you've arrived, stop by the ticket counter and purchase your one ticket that will grant access to the Colosseum, Palatine Hill and the Roman Forum (If possible, avoid first Sundays)! There are many spigots throughout the area with fresh water, grab a bottle before leaving.
The Colosseum is an amphitheatre in the center of the city Rome, in Italy. It is also known as the Flavian Amphiteatre. It is the largest amphitheatre in the world and considered to be one of the greatest Roman architecture and engineering works. It was used for a variety of events and could hold 50,000 people. Earthquakes and stone robbers left it in ruins, but part of it still stands today.
Now, it’s time to hike up the Palatine Hill! It may be wise to get a private tour if possible. The views from the hill towers are stunning and overlook the Roman Forum and Circus Maximus. On your way back, keep left to arrive at the Forum to take in even more majestic views.
The Roman Forum was once Ancient Rome's district of basilicas, public spaces, and temples, that made up the Roman Empire's political, commercial, and social center. It is located in a valley between Capitoline and Palatine Hills. When the Roman Empire fell, the Forum did as well. Much of its stone and marble was removed and reused elsewhere. It was used as pastureland in the Middle Ages, and in the 1800s excavations began, which continue even today. The Roman Forum is world famous and a popular tourist destination because it was the forum in Ancient Rome that held the Senate House, making it the most important. Some of the most famous ruins in the Roman Forum include the Temple of Vesta, the Temple of Saturn, the Arch of Titus, the Rostra, the Temple of Castor and Pollux, and the Curia, the Senate House. This is truly an exciting spot in Rome you wouldn’t want to miss!
Colosseum
Roman Forum
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Coffee, and I mean great coffee, is on every street corner, available in every bar and café. They call it some different names, though, so if you’re ordering coffee in Italy, keep these tips in mind:
“Un café” will get you a shot of espresso. It’s a strong, dark and bitter shot of coffee. “Un café Americano” will get you a watered down espresso. It’s as close to a regular cup of coffee as it gets, and then you can add sugar.
Don’t make the mistake of ordering “un latte,” because you will get a funny look, and then receive a warm cup of milk. That’s what latte is in Italian — milk. Instead, “un café macchiato” is coffee with a stain of milk. You can also order a cappuccino in Italy, but only do so in the mornings for breakfast. The Italians believe that the milk will fill you up, so you don’t want to drink it after noon, otherwise you won’t be hungry.
Another excellent coffee drink is “un café shakirato.” It’s a shot of espresso, lightly sweetened and shaken with ice until it’s all foamy on top.
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To get the most out of your day, start early! You want to arrive at the Vatican in the morning to beat the crowds. Be sure to dress humbly in reverence of the religious city-state. Take an early walk and explore the global city streets. You can sit on the gorgeous Spanish Steps and take in the ethos, and people-watch before beginning your adventure.
Next, head over to the Vatican museums. There are over 54 Christian and art galleries within the city, and the collections are stunning. Architects known to have worked on the design of St. Peter's Basilica include Donato Bramante, Raphael, Antonio da Sangallo the Younger, Michelangelo, Jacopo Barozzi da Vignola, Giacomo della Porta, Carlo Maderno, and Gian Lorenzo Bernini. Michelangelo, the architect responsible for designing the main dome of the Basilica, was also a sculptor and a painter, who became one the greatest artists of his time. The high, domed ceiling is ornately decorated with painted stucco depictions of Christ, several saints, and numerous other heavenly hosts. Gilt trim borders each image and creates an awe-inspiring grandeur throughout the entire space. The use of grandiose designs and decorations is common throughout Baroque architecture; it facilitates the desired overwhelming effect felt by the viewer. Artist or no artist if you see St. Peter Basilica’s Ceilings you can’t help but marvel!
Be sure to visit the Sistine Chapel, which holds the striking ceiling art done by legendary artist, Michelangelo.
Once you’ve gotten your fill of art, stop by Via delle Grazie and grab some coffee (see next post about important information about Italian coffee). To top your day off, have some fun at the beautiful neighborhood Trastevere.
If possible, check out the award-winning La Gatta Buia, they have an unbelievable Fiori di Zucca!
Vatican
St. Peter’s Basilica
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Rome is an extraordinary capital, and it can take weeks or more to get in all the sites, cuisine, and culture. Travelling can often be stressful when visiting a place that has so much to offer, but don’t let it! Take each day ONE DAY at a time.
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In Rome, scooters are a part of the culture, as familiar as pizza and gelato. A lot of people use them in cities because the traffic is so awful. Roman motorini often swerve into oncoming traffic to beat slower moving vehicles. Moped drivers see red lights as more of a suggestion than a rule, and believe crosswalks and sidewalks are just as well suited for scooters as they are for pedestrians. Looking for a designated scooter lane? Any space between two cars is fair game. Rome ranks among the cities with the most registered scooters in the world. With congested traffic and little parking, it’s no wonder that the motorino has found such a devoted following in the Eternal City. Now, Romans don’t even need their own bikes to start scootering: They can get on the back of someone else’s. A new service, called Scooterino, matches riders with spare back seats with people going in the same direction. Want an authentic trip around the city?
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Ciao Bella (hello beautiful)! If you are curious as to where you should travel next for your next vacation, why don’t you check your “bucket list items”? Rome, Italy tends to be on a lot of people’s bucket list, and there is a reason why. Beautiful architecture, great history and culture, delicious food, and all around fun city life! Take a peek at this attached video to see what Rome has to offer its visitors. Then, please check in on these daily blogs to learn a little bit more about Rome!
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The Petits Four- translated, petit four means small oven, and are also known as mignardises. The fours are little bite-sized pastries that can also be savory if you choose. The sweet option includes a sugary glaze atop a crispy biscuit. These pastries are perfect for tea parties.
Sweet success! We made it through our list of “10 Sweet Treats to Eat While Visiting Paris”. On your upcoming trip to Paris, make sure you bring your appetite, as well as your “stretchy pants”. After trying all of these amazing desserts, you might need your stretchy pants (no judgement here).
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Don’t worry my French pastry fans, I did not forget about Croissants (which in my personal opinion is what comes to mind first when I think of a French pastry). This buttery, flaky wonder is a signature French pastry. There are so many ways to top it; you can use fruit, chocolate, fondant, or a compote of your choosing. You will not be disappointed. Croissants pair really well with a good cup of espresso or tea…so sit back and enjoy!
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These cream puffs are created using puff pastry as well. They swell while cooking and are hollow. The oozing center can be either whipped cream or custard. Interestingly enough, once you add chocolate as your topping, it then becomes a profiterole. There are various toppings you can add to this pastry, from ice cream to fruit and even spun caramel.
Consumer warning: Choux à La Crème (these delicious desserts) are “poppable” and can easily be consumed in multiples.
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Named after the hotel that serves the dessert (Hotel Tatin), the tarte Tatin is a unique upside-down pastry. Its ingredients include caramelized fruit prepared with sugar and butter. It pairs famously with a bit of tart crème Fraiche.
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