🇮🇹Italy's Luxury Trains - Review of ItaliaRail and Italo

ABBEY: Our entry to Italy was by train. We onboarded TrenItalia from Bellinzona to Milano Centrale. Then ItaliaRail going to Firenze Santa Maria Novella until the final stop at Poggibonsi-San Gimignano.

We were shocked by the amount of people at Milano Centrale. Maybe because it is the last days before the New Year and everyone is eager to go home and be with their families. The ride is the usual; food is included in the ticket. The seats are comfortable and almost clean. There is no lounge for ItaliaRail as well as TrenItalia unlike with Italo when we went from Firenze S.M. to Roma Tibirtuna. 

We were given drinks as well as pastries on the lounge and got good seats while waiting for our train. The locomotive didn’t disappoint. The first class has large space for our luggages, is almost quiet and organized. We enjoyed our coffee, warm pastry and munchies.

Italy's Luxury Trains - Review of ItaliaRail and Italo

WILL: In our 20 years of travel experience, comfort has always been a priority, balancing it with the cost to fit within our budget. Today, as we wrap up our Italy trip, let's dive into Italy's Luxury Class train travel.

EUR47.90 / pax — From Milan to Florence we booked through ItaliaRail Business Quiet. I do not want to rant but can’t let this pass:

• Purchasing tickets through ItaliaRail led us to an unexpected twist – being assigned to a Trenitalia Train. Foolishly, I assumed there'd be lounges aplenty at major Italian stations. Milan's bustling crowds proved me wrong, highlighting the need for better lounge access planning.
• Despite the "Quiet" label, the Business Coach was anything but tranquil. Chatter about food drowned out any hopes of a nap, and dusty windows obscured the scenery.
• On the bright side, a steaming cup of coffee accompanied by hot bread was a pleasant surprise. Plus, the pristine water closets were a saving grace.

Eur75.90 / pax — From Florence to Roma Tiburtina we booked Italo Club Executive Class. It only tooked us less than an hour riding this Italy’s luxury train. 

• The Florence Italo Club Lounge offered a dedicated space with an attendant serving drinks and sandwiches, unlike other self-service lounges.
• Snagging seats just before the driver's cabin gave us an air of exclusivity. Quiet and spacious, with foldable tables providing ample legroom, it was a journey worth savoring.
• While reveling in comfort, we almost missed the underwhelming snack – more suited for a schoolyard than a luxury train. 

In conclusion, ItaliaRail fell short of our expectations, while Italo exceeded them, making our journey to Rome a pleasant one. Cheers to comfortable travels! On to our next adventure :) 

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ItaliaRail

(W) https://www.italiarail.com/

Italo

(W) https://www.italotreno.it/en

Boost Iron Absorption with this Tasty Broccoli and Pork Liver Dish

Ingredients:

Broccoli 

Pork liver (thin slices)

Onion (cut into slices for sautéing)

Garlic (minced)

Oyster sauce (optional)

Sauté half of the onion then  half of the garlic.

Next put in the pork liver. Fry for 3-5 minutes. Put in a bowl and set aside.

On same pan, sauté the remaining onion then garlic.

Toss in the broccoli and stir fry for a couple of minutes.

Add back the liver. Add salt and pepper to taste or a couple of oyster sauce.

Serve with rice. 

Boost Iron Absorption with this Tasty Broccoli and Pork Liver Dish

VERDICT

WILL: Broccoli is renowned for its vitamin C punch, while pork liver shines with its iron content. But did you know that vitamin C actually enhances iron absorption? If not, let me introduce you to this recipe that harnesses their combined benefits.

How's the taste, you ask? Well, with broccoli playing a supporting role, the pork liver takes center stage, delivering a rich, savory flavor. The contrasting textures of crunchy broccoli and tender, not overcooked pork liver make for a delightful pairing, especially when served with rice.

So, there you have it—a nutritious meal that won't break the bank. Don't hesitate, get cooking and enjoy the health benefits!

Lunch Buffet Bargain at $15.90: TAP Craft Beer at Dhoby Ghaut

ABBEY: How can you catch up with friends? Sit down with food. That’s what we did as we head to TAP for their lunch buffet. There is variety of foods like honey sesame chicken, kung pao chicken, basil tofu pork (which is on the spicy side), chicken curry, spaghetti bolognese as well as soup, salad and rice. However the one that stood out is the garlic butter shrimp. They’re tasty and juicy. 

We always looked out if another batch came and indulged ourselves to the seafood delight. Perfect for the two-hour timing and on to the next one. Food may differ per visit. 

Lunch Buffet Bargain at $15.90: TAP Craft Beer at Dhoby Ghaut

WILL: Hey, fellow foodies! If you're on the hunt for a wallet-friendly buffet experience right in the heart of Dhoby Ghaut, look no further than TAP Craft Beer and Bar at 9 Penang Road! I'm telling you, their buffet rate of $15.90++ is an absolute steal, especially considering its prime location.

Recently, I had the pleasure of dining there with our friends Medel and Atieh, and let me tell you, it was a blast! We couldn't believe the value for money we were getting.

Now, here's the kicker – their menu changes daily! Yep, you heard that right. So, if you're the adventurous type who loves a good culinary surprise, TAP Craft Beer and Bar is the place to be. During our visit on a Sunday, we were treated to mouthwatering delights like Garlic Butter Prawn and Basil Tofu Pork. Talk about satisfying our protein cravings!

Oh, and did I mention how conveniently located they are? You can spot them near the famous spiral staircase of Fort Canning – talk about easy access!

So, if you're looking for a budget-friendly buffet that doesn't compromise on taste or variety, We highly recommend giving TAP Craft Beer and Bar a try. Your taste buds – and your wallet – will thank you! Cheers to good food!

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TAP

(W) https://www.tapthat.com.sg

(H) Saturday - Thursday : 11.30AM - 11PM / Friday :11.30AM - 12 Midnight

(A) 9 Penang Road 01-08/09 Singapore 238459

(T) 69706989