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Campo Santa Margherita, Venice

Hans Only-Be, Practical Guide to Venice, Venetian

If you’re looking for a real Venetian experience, look no further than Campo Santa Margerhita. This bustling Italian courtyard is the social hub of the Dorsoduro district, and at any given time you’re bound to find something going on there. The square itself isn’t all that impressive; however, it’s a peaceful spot, dotted with a few trees and benches. The long open courtyard is surrounded by cafes, bars, offbeat shops and even some private residences – a number of which date back to the 14th century. The buildings enclose the space, making it feel warm, sheltered and friendly. Perhaps that’s what draws so many people to visit and chat. Photo: Miles Heller The great thing about Campo Santa Margherita is that it’s a local hangout more than a tourist attraction. Far from the hawkers and trinket vendors of the big tourist spots, the Campo hosts a weekday market and a largely local clientele. People show up all throughout the day. Some come to shop for produce, bread, or other daily essentials at the market stands. Some come to browse and window shop at the trendy boutiques. Some come for a leisurely lunch or an afternoon coffee. It’s really the heart of the neighborhood, and you’re sure to find something happening late into the night – even when everything else in Venice is closed down. Right in the middle of the Campo Santa Margherita, you’ll find a flowing water fountain, engraved with a depiction of a mermaid. Fountains like this are common throughout the city’s campos, and while they’re certainly lovely, they’re more than just decorations. Bring a bottle with... read more

Eat with Locals in Tel Aviv

Mónica Boixeda Do you like travelling?, general-en, Travel Tips

Anyone who wants to go beyond standard tourism seeks to experience a culture directly. This means you need to spend some time with the locals and search out the best food a city has to offer, which is, of course, easier said than done. For your next trip to Tel Aviv, however, all of this can be easily accomplished. Foto: austinevan Everyone knows that a good meal cooked at home by someone who cooks well and cares deeply about the quality of the food they serve is better than experience you can have in just about any restaurant, where you will just be one of a large number of guests being served. Through EatWith Israel, you can arrange to eat in the home of an “EatWith certified host”, someone who has passed the company’s standard and safety measures. These hosts invite you to their homes to enjoy a meat that they will prepare specially for you and their other guests. This is a great option for a variety of travelers. It is great for groups to have a fun evening out together without having to worry about where to go or making restaurant reservations. At the same time, it is perfect for solo travelers who can join a group of other individuals looking for a new and fun experience. Here, you will be guaranteed interesting dinner conversation. Budget travelers will also like the options presented since most hosts allow you to bring your own alcohol, which can often be the most expensive item on your bill at a restaurant. And families with young children will like this option as... read more

Quartiere Coppedé

Sepelaci Only-Be, Practical Guide of Rome, Roman

Quartiere means neighborhood, although the Quartiere Coppedè isn’t exactly a neighborhood. Hidden in the bowels of the city, it is made up of 18 palazzos, noble constructions that are accompanied by other palaces and buildings. Amid these, there is a square called Piazza Minzio unto which the doors of the architectural structures open. It also has a fountain called Fontanna delle Rane (Fountain of the Frogs). The complex formed by these buildings was designed by architect Gino Coppedè, after whom it is also named. Work began in 1913 and continued until 1927, which is when the last of the buildings that make up the complex was completed. This range of years resulted in an mix of architectural styles as they were being built, and you can find a variety of elements from many styles. From the unique, free style of the architect to art nouveau detailing or even baroque art, these all come together in the facades and interiors of these palazzos. This great variety means that no matter how many times you have visit this particular area of Rome, you are pretty much guaranteed to find some detail that you overlooked on a previous visit. And surprises are hidden in every nook and cranny, so it’s easy to miss one or more even after several visits. The most prominent buildings there are the three homes that open to the Fontana delle Rane, especially the Villina delle Fate (Villa of the Fairies), which was built in 1920. The spectacular nature of this area makes it a special place in the Quartiere Coppedè. And while all of this area is... read more