The verdant rolling hills of Tuscany are not manicured by gardeners but by the sheep and animals that roam there. During the spring the hills are framed by yellow and red poppies. On top of the hills are lovely villas that have been there for hundreds of years. They are framed by Italian Cypress Trees in the front and are protected by the same trees in the back of the villas.
The sides of the villas have dense foliage as well.
These villas in Feng Shui terms are sitting in the “Belly of the Dragon”. Since the dragon is a mythical character that is considered to be auspicious, being in this position is good Feng Shui.
To understand the the “Belly of the Dragon”, picture a large armchair with a high back and large
arms on either side of it to place your hands comfortably when you sit on it. When you sit in this
chair you are protected and you are sitting in the “Belly of the Dragon”.
The nearby towns near the villas are Asciano and Piensa. Both are lovely and filled with historic homes and cobblestone streets and excellent restaurants. The streets are narrow and winding.
Navigating through the streets could present some challenges.
The Chiant Region of Tuscany is a must to see because the landskape changes there. The hills there are sculptured by the rows of grape vines. The grapes are growing in neat little rows.
The Castle Brulio is a must see. Be prepared for a winding hilly road to get there.
The owner is heir to Chianti Wine and lives in part of the castle but it is open to the public.
If you travel as far as Pisa the City of Lucca is unforgettable. It is a walled city with many interesting sites to see. One of which is Puccini’s home. If you are brave enough to rent a car,
and navigate the winding streets and hills leading up to the city, it will be an adventure that you
will not forget. With each turn that you make you will see an awe inspiring vista.
Drive to the Ligurian Coast and spend some time in Santa Margarita. There you will be captivated by the homes that are painted in colors of coral greens and yellows. You can see the work of the ancient artisans in each edifice. The colors blend into the landskape that is framed by
the harbors and boats.
From Santa Margarita take a train to the Cinque Terra. They are five towns carved out of the hills that are connected to each other. Farmers have labored for centuries to grow crops there and make this town self sufficient. Be prepared for walking and hiking to get there but it is well
worth the effort.
Do not expect to eat pizza and lasagna there that you are used to in the states. The pizza has a thin crust and different cheese. The lasagna consists of thin noodles that are not baked. It has a little sauce on it and you add your own parmesan cheese.
If you are able to experience Tuscany it will remain a wonderful memory for you. You can call on
the memory of good Feng Shui whenever you need to think of things that bring you harmony balance and peace.