PLACES What You Need to Know: Tips for Hiking the Cinque Terra From Monterosso to Vernazza Posted on June 1, 2024July 6, 2024 Our hike from Monterosso to Vernazza promised an adventure, yet it was tougher than any of us anticipated. A pinch of research would have clued us in, but we skipped that step. Similarly, we overlooked the weather forecast, adding another layer of unpredictability to our journey. “What could go wrong?” Read more
LIFESTYLE What You Need to Know: Should You Buy a One Euro Home in Italy? Posted on May 31, 2024June 28, 2024 Did you know that you can own a piece of Italian paradise for just one euro? It sounds too good to be true, but this dream is becoming a reality for some. This initiative aims to revitalize aging and underpopulated rural areas, but what’s the catch? The short answer us I don’t know–yet. But in this blog post, we’re diving into the romantic world of one euro homes in Italy. Read more
PLACES Italy Unplugged: Embracing Slow Travel Instead of a Bucket List Posted on April 8, 2024July 5, 2024 In an era of fast-paced travel, Italy invites you to slow down and savor life’s pleasures through the art of slow travel. This blog encourages you to unwind in the Italian countryside, where time stands still among the olive groves and vineyards. We’ll introduce you to agriturismos, where you can participate in the local harvest, quaint towns. Read more
CULINARY TRAVEL Great Meals: Our Octopus Dinner with Don Fernando Posted on April 3, 2024June 14, 2024 We both sat there staring at the plate placed before me. When I ordered a seafood salad, I figured I’d see a little crab and shrimp over some leafy greens with a splash of vinaigrette. I had no idea someone would go into the kitchen and out the back door to the canals beyond, scoop up whatever was unfortunate enough to swim into the net, and serve al fresco with a splash of olive oil and a dash of salt and pepper. We sat there, staring at the seafood salad I ordered. This is the story about My Octopus Dinner on the Venice Canals at Don Fernando’s in Treviso, Italy. Read more
PLACES Discovering Italian Medieval Towns: San Gimignano, Matera, and Ravello Posted on April 2, 2024August 12, 2024 Italy is home to countless historic towns and villages that have preserved their medieval charm through the centuries. This blog invites readers to step back in time and explore Italy’s lesser-known historic havens. From the fortified walls of San Gimignano to the ancient pathways of Matera, we’ll guide you through destinations where history is alive and well-preserved. Read more
PLACES A Day in Tuscany: Organic Winery and Local Food at Il Vecchio Maneggio Posted on March 30, 2024June 26, 2024 I’m taking you along on my adventure through Tuscany, a place famous for its picture-perfect landscapes and deep history. But there’s a twist – we’re going eco-friendly. We’ll also see why their food and wine just taste different (in a good way!) and learn why picking organic and local stuff isn’t just a trend—it’s a choice that’s better for us and the planet. Spending the day at Il Vecchio Maneggio is more than just eating and drinking; it’s about making decisions that help keep our earth healthy. Read more
PLACES Spring Fun in Italy: A Birthday to Remember Posted on March 28, 2024June 29, 2024 Today is my birthday and I am spending ot and the month of March in Italy. Spring in Italy has been full of surprises. Despite my initial concerns about the cold potentially spoiling the enjoyment of Italy’s famous natural beauty, my worries were unfounded. The weather is unexpectedly warm, a pleasant surprise that probably points to global warming. The heavy coat I brought, expecting to shield against the chill, has become my personal sauna. Read more
PLACES Returning to Rome: A Journey Filled with Unexpected Twists Posted on March 14, 2024June 14, 2024 As I stepped off the plane, the familiar excitement of returning to Rome hit me. The city’s lively noise greets me like an old friend. I love Rome for its surprises around every corner, where a simple wrong turn can lead you to something ancient. I’ve been inside the Coliseum, walked through the Forum, and even tossed a coin into the Trevi Fountain, making a promise to come back one day. Today, I’m keeping that promise. Read more