Boiled Octopus or Chocolate factory? Well it’s that time of year again. The traditional end of August panic as Mum’s realize that their youngest hasn’t got the right sized ruler for their new school, tinged with disappointment as we cover up our barbecue’s, well in the knowledge that our weather this summer hasn’t quite lived up to expectations for the eighth year in a row. But fear not! We’ve already been treated this summer to excitement and joy from team GB in the most unlikely of events (who had ever heard of team dressage?) And Quality Villas is on hand with more wacky yet really enjoyable activities. Our ‘things to do’ guide has two more entries with the beautiful Island of Elba and of course Umbria. And alongside the natural beauty and fascinating monuments that all our Villa’s are in close proximity to, there are a few less known treats too. I was as surprised as anyone to find that Perugia, Umbria’s capital, has a chocolate factory (if I knew I would have already visited it) White, milk, dark, truffles, melting, not melting … the list is endless. In fact, knowing Italy (as opposed to the UK), it probably is melting; you better get down there quick. But in all seriousness, we have a fantastic range of Villa’s in Umbria, a great place to end your summer. I hope I haven’t made you too hungry, if so then let me mention the boiled octopus on the island of Elba. This island’s seafood is legendary, and the Villa’s aren’t bad either, a very good choice of destination at this time of year. But there’s obviously more to a holiday and a region than food, so please read our full ‘things to do’ guide for both these regions and others in Italy where we have Villas available here at http://www.qualityvillasitaly.co.uk/.