Ciaotraveler

Ballard Designs I only wish that I had stock in this company!   I have no  connection, I just love their European inspired designs in the furniture, textiles, decorative items and everything they sell.    

Sting's Tuscany Villa Valdarno Superiore valley (near Florence) (Architecture Digest photos) Sting's dining area (above) and music area (below) in his English manor. His kitchen in his London Townhome Not quite Sting's view, however, this was our hilltop outdoor dining experience with our Italian hosts above Lucca with gorgeous views of Pisa. Other Aldarno Superiore Valley Villas Villa Barberino can be rented. I picked up this brochure at the nearby winery we visited.

Olive Oil Research has shown that olive oil may lower the risk of heart disease since it reduces LDL (bad cholesterol) while leaving HDL (the good cholesterol) intact. It is important to note that quality extra virgin olive oil should be used within eighteen months of pressing. Unlike fine wine, good olive oil does not improve with age. The health benefits of antioxidant-rich oils wane if the oils are stored for too long or not properly. Antioxidants remain in the olive oil if the bottle is not exposed to heat and/or light. This is one of the main reasons why any producer of good olive oil would never bottle the oil in a clear bottle. It's advised  not to buy olive oils bottled in clear bottles. Tuscan Olive Trees are some of the richest olive producing plants in the world. Here are a few brand names from Italy.   Many USA growers import trees from Italy or Spain and are making equally fine olive oils.  Keep viewing...

Erbario Toscano Natural Fragrances and Soaps Made in Lucca, Italy We loved their shop in Lucca and bought most of our take home gifts.  ErbarioTuscano Products: Face Creams, Home Fragrances,  Shampoos, Soaps... Scents: Orange Cinnamon, Olive, Rose, White Musk, Wine...continue...