The Mediterranean, along with its many other attractions, offers an enviable selection of fine cuisine that is sure to entice a great many holidaymakers this summer. The abundance of healthy ingredients in the Mediterranean diet, such as lean white meat or fish, olive oil, and fresh vegetables, has been linked with long and healthy life by scientists for many years. However, the exact scientific reason as to why this combination of foods is quite so nutritionally beneficial remained unclear.
A recent study by scientists based both in the UK and the US goes some way towards a definitive answer. As reported by the BBC, the new research finds that the combination of leafy salad or vegetables and olive oil produces nitro fatty acids, which leads to lower blood pressure and other associated health benefits.
Incorporation of aspects of the Mediterranean lifestyle seems to be beneficial for health, with many people taking a break in southern Europe specifically to do exactly that, you can explore more European holiday places to enjoy the trip in the best way possible. From east to west here is a short guide to three fantastic Mediterranean locations:
Le Meridien Limassol Spa & Resort, Cyprus
With its surrounding landscaped gardens and waterfalls and its free shuttle service directly to the city of Limassol, the resort perfectly combines peace and tranquillity with convenience and freedom. The city has been undergoing something a revamp recently with a new marina already in use and a commercial area due to open this summer. There will be a no better opportunity to sample authentic Mediterranean cuisine than in one of the dozen new restaurants and bars in Limassol this summer. Visitors later in the year can enjoy the famous Wine Festival of Cyprus, which takes place throughout September in the city’s Municipal Garden.
Riviera Resort, Malta
This resort in the northern bay area of Malta makes for an ideal base from which to enjoy some island hopping. The small island of Comino is barely two kilometers away and the larger island of Gozo is a little further northwest. Gozo offers fantastic dining opportunities such as Patrick’s Lounge in Victoria, which serves a variety of local and European favorites, and Gianni’s in Xaghra, a well-recommended Italian eatery with a range of International dishes. The short, moderately-challenging walking trails on Gozo present the ideal digestive aid and the clear waters lend themselves nicely to a spot of after-dinner snorkeling.
Garden Lago Resort, Majorca
Garden Lago is situated on the northeastern coast of the island in Port d’Alcudia. The nearby town of Alcudia plays host to the ancient ruins of Pollentia, which was the first city founded by the Romans in the Balearic after their conquest in 123 BC. The area is therefore highly suited to history buffs and those with a keen sense of adventure. Culinary enthusiasts are also well catered for, with Port d’Alcudia boasting some fine Mediterranean restaurants, such as Como En Casa and Moma. Both eateries come highly recommended for tapas lovers and devotees of Mediterranean cuisine.