The arena of Verona, Verona, Italy

The arena of Verona is a Roman amphitheatre in the historic centre of Verona. Built in 30 AC, they could accommodate 30,000 spectators at that time. The amphitheatre is 152 metres long, 128 meters wide and 32 metres high. It is often considered the third Roman amphitheatre for its dimensions, after the Colosseum (Flavian Amphitheatre) in Rome and Capua amphitheatre. It is also the best preserved, especially the internal structures of the building. The bleachers can accommodate today 22,000 seated spectators. Since 1913, the arena hosts performances of opera in the Festival of Verona and its acoustics is truly remarkable. There are also other shows and concerts presented in the arena.

Tips

If you want to buy tickets to attend to an evening opera or buy a subscription for the festival, you will find the program of the festival and the price on the site of the arena several months in advance.
It would be also advisable to book your stay in advance. Remember that spectators from all over the world arrive at the festival and closer hotels fill up easily.
If you go just for a show, enjoy your stay being 2 or 3 days more in the city; you won’t regret it.

Manoir des Pins, Sainte-Lucie des Laurentides, Quebec, Canada

Manoir des Pins is in Ste-Lucie-des-Laurentides, on Lake Sarrazin. These are cottages to rent; they are near or at the lake. There are packages with meals included, French cuisine with an affordable price. There are cottages for couples, families or groups that go from studios to 5 bedroom chalets. They are equipped with double jacuzzi and fireplace of natural stone. There is the possibility of having bikes to ride near the cottage, rowboats, kayaks, games, snow rackets and all that is included in the services offered for free. There is also the possibility of having massages but it is a paid service with appointments.

Tips

If you want to have a kitchen, you have to rent a 2 bedroom cottage or more. Notice that you should bring some items such as paper towels, aluminum foil and anything that is perishable (milk, coffee, juice, etc.). If you need an iron or a hairdryer, you should bring them too.
Note that you can buy firewood on place.
If you go in summer, do not forget the mosquito repellent and your beach umbrella.