Yes, it’s the spammers at work – tap, tap, tapping away.

And here’s the deal: sometimes we let them get through.  That’s right.  If they are actually coherent, and have written something that remotely relates to the article, we’ll say “ah, what the heck. Let’s let them in.”  But most haven’t read even the first paragraph – let alone the entire piece – and so write something completely ridiculous.

Come on – you can do better than that!  If you’re so determined to get your link all over the web, be a bit creative.  And at least read enough of the article to know whether what you’re putting out there makes even a modicum of sense.

Otherwise I’m afraid you’re wasting your time here. So, entertain us.  And if you’re clever – or earnest – we’ll let the comment – and your link – stand.

Cheers!

And we’re talking about cook-outs here today.  But a different kind of cook-out.  The kind of cook-out that’s specifically for the little ones.  Because this cook-out takes place in a book – a charming children’s book called “Bun, Onion, Burger.”

Written by Peter Mandel (and illustrated by Chris Eliopoulos,) “Bun, Onion, Burger” transports the little ones to the prep going on for a yummy barbeque.

With one to two words per page, this book is perfect for toddlers.  It’s also great for the older brothers and sisters who are learning how to read; as they’ll get a huge kick out of being able to read the book to the younger ones.

You know we love it when we find a great gift.  Well, “Bun, Onion, Burger” is just that for the “wee” crowd.  Check it out here: Amazon.com

And feeling a little hungry after reading?  Go for it – make your own bun – onion – burger.  We did!

Wishing everyone a WARM and cozy day!

That’s right, we have an entire category dedicated to the sale, and we’re adding new items everyday! So, come join in the fun – and the great savings – happening at the boutique.

A couple examples to entice you:

Italian pewter wine decanter

Alan Lee crystal champagne set

Happy New Year!

A Bella Figura USA Christmas

Merry Christmas to all!

On the last day in Venice before the beautiful Silver Whisper set off for Croatia, all of us who were part of the "Lidia group" had the pleasure of attending an elaborate luncheon in a fabulous private palazzo. 

As you would expect, the food and wine (from Lidia's vineyards, natch) was heavenly; but just as wonderful was the trip to the palazzo.

A thousand thanks – grazie mille – to Bob and Cindi for providing this video.  Bob filmed our journey from the ship's dock to the palazzo; and along the way you can see the spectacular architecture of Venice. 

But let me put all that aside for a minute to give you my recommendations for sleeping and eating.  After all, you’re not going to enjoy your visit much if you’re staying in a rat-trap hotel and consuming questionable food.

So first, the hotel: the Luna Hotel Baglioni. Oh my, what an exquisite place.  Just off Piazza San Marco (St. Mark’s Square) this hotel is the embodiment of old world charm.  A tad (note I said “tad”) less expensive than the Danieli, and definitely less than the famed Cipriani, this hotel is worth the euros.

The arrival to the Luna:

Oops, we had a bit of a traffic jam there in the lower left photo!

And the lovely room:

(Naturally there are fabulous Murano glass chandeliers and sconces.)  And if I wanted to nitpick, I’d say that “yes, there are things that are a bit worn, could use a face lift here and there,” but overall, it’s lovely.

Unfortunately, I neglected to take pics of the bath, which was sumptuous: large, all marble, with separate tub and shower, and a double vanity.  And even better than the two sinks: good lighting!

Besides the great digs, the staff is lovely: welcoming, gracious and attentive.  And as I write more about the trip, you’ll find that I won’t be nearly as complimentary about other hotel’s staff.

Now, for the food! After all, what’s the point of going to Italy and not having great dining experiences?  And  there’s only one Venice restaurant I’m going to mention in this post; and it’s a triple threat, as in fabulous ambiance, charming wait staff and luscious food: the Ristorante Antico Pignolo.

Antico Pignolo is located just a short walk from the cathedral, down a little alleyway at Calle Specchieri, 451. With indoor dining rooms and a beautiful courtyard, there’s space to suit everyone’s taste.  And if you love to dine al fresco, well, let’s just say that it doesn’t get much better than this.  But the real star is the food: sumptuous sea food, perfectly cooked meats, pastas to dream about, and desserts…  Well, by the time you get to the delectable desserts your mouth is in sensory overload!

And one of the things I always look for when I’m in a restaurant – locals.  That’s right, you don’t want a touristy place, but one where the locals eat.  And to my delight, we were surrounded by Italians, all enjoying leisurely, multi-coursed dinners – all with big smiles!

Now, everything in Venice is expensive, there’s just no getting around that.  And the food is no exception.  Dinner for two, with a bottle of wine, came to about $375.  I know, not exactly budget conscious – but when in Venice – indulge and enjoy.  At least, that’s my motto!

How to be included?

   * If you're already a Bella Figura USA  Fan on Facebook, and on the boutique's mailing list, just drop us a line at Contact Us and say "include me in the drawing."  Make sure your name and email address match the address you signed up with.

    * If you're not a Fan – become one now on our Bella Figura USA Facebook Page.  Then click on over to the boutique's Home Page, and sign up on our Mailing List (box in the upper left side.)  That's it – easy as pie!

The drawing will take place on Monday, October 19, and we'll announce the winner on the 20th.

Don't delay – sign up now!  We're just itching to give you a a beautiful gift from the Bella Figura USA boutique.