Weekend Entertainment

It's been way to long since I have been to movie theater. Seriously. I'm talking years. But "The Tourist" tempted me.  The beautiful costumes and the breathtaking backdrop intrigued me.  The majority of the movie is set in Venice, Italy so how could I resist?

The costumes and the scenery did not disappoint.  In fact, it made me long to be back in Italy.  I was in Venice last year so I  couldn't help but say to myself during the movie "I've been there" or "I've seen that" on more than one occasion.  I also fell in love with the classic modern style of Jolie's character, "Elise".  It turns out that Ferragamo designed the beautiful nude "Elise" shoe for the movie two heel heights, as well as with and without platforms, depending on the scene.  If you want to take home your very own  beige suede and/or  black leather versions of the "Elise," complete with metal heel, they are being sold in limited release in select stores worldwide coinciding with the launch of the film this past December. You  better hurry though....I just might beat you to it!

"The Tourist" Movie Trailer



The scenes in the lobby of the Danieli Hotel was actually a set. But I can tell you it was just as gorgeous as the real thing.  And the featured Doges Suite is actually in a different building! Ah, the magic of the movies!

I can't think of anything more magical than a coctail or late night dining on the Grand Canal.



Scenic Dining in Rome: Aroma at the Palazzo Manfredi

Italy is always on my mind. Always. There is no place I would rather be. Really. It has been a few years since I have have been to Rome but next time I am there I definitely want to check out the roof top restaurant, Aroma, at the 16 room Palazzo Manfredi Roma hotel. The Aroma restaurant has the most stunning view in Rome over looking the Colosseum. Doesn't it look like the perfect place to have a meal? I am sure I can linger here for hours. With a backdrop as stunning as the Colosseum, why would anyone ever want to leave?!

The hotel is owned by Counts Gofredo and Leonardo Manfredi and has recently undergone a renovation. The colors and design of the new hotel and restaurant respect the history of such a historic area while providing new life to the hotel.

 

Interiors.

   

   

Entertaining.

Cuisine.

Photos via Palazzo Manfredi.

Remembering Venice

A few months back I took a trip to Venice, Italy.  I stayed in a great central location at the Starhotels Splendid Venice which is just a 5 minute walk from St. Mark's Square and the Rialto Bridge.  I had a beautiful room overlooking the intersection of 2 small canals.   The location could not be beat.  I have stayed with this chain before so I knew I would not be disappointed with their Venice location.  And even though it is a chain hotel the design of each is unique to their location.

It is not unlike me to take pictures of the hotels I have stayed in.  I take pictures of everything.  I managed to take a few not so good pictures of my room and the view but forgot the public areas of the building.  As I sit here dreaming of Italy, I cannot forget the wonderful place I called home for 6 days.

Photos via Starhotels Splendid Venice.

The main dining room is a focal point of the hotel.  The glass ceiling lets in wonderful light during the day.

There is a small bar and  lounge off the entrance. I love the juxtaposition of the wicker chairs in a contemporary  setting.  It provides the space with a more relaxed feel.

A secondary dining room with views of a small canal.

The main lounge is a comfortable spot to mingle with friends and have a drink. I adore the colors of the room.

Sit back and relax....stay a while.

Gamberini Pasticceria (Bologna, Italy)

I received a bit of bad news yesterday that continues to haunt me so I thought I would do a quick post about something "happy".  And I thought what can be more exciting than an eyeful of delicious treats? My eyes about popped out of my head when passing the Gamberini Pasticceria in Bologna, Italy. I love this place...you can see why. 

Enjoy the sweet treats.....