Podcasts about Amalfi Coast

Venice has evolved and changed in response to many difficult circumstances over the centuries. Today the city faces environmental and overtourism pressures  - how will it adapt? Katy chats with journalist Erica Hill about a a new film exploring local initiatives aimed at retaining the economic benefits of tourism while preserving this beloved city and its unique culture.“Saving Venice” and the entire “The Whole Story with Anderson Cooper” library is available to stream now on Max or enjoyed as a “showcast” wherever you get your podcasts.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/278NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

The kind of woman who says “YES!” to a retreat in Paris has already decided she's a big deal. And as you listen to this episode, I'm hosting Euphoric's first-ever Thought Leader Mastermind there, a city pulsing with history, romance, and magic. In this episode, I want to catch you up on what I have planned for this summer and beyond, both for myself and for Euphoric. (BTW, I'm sharing my entire European trip on Instagram. Check it out if you crave beaches, delicious food, and that vintage European vibe.) While I love online transformation and Zoom rooms, nothing beats in-person experiences. Flying across the world for personal growth does something remarkable for your nervous system. It isn't just inspiring - it expands your identity.  It's why I strive to include in-person components to my major programs, from the Empowered AF Coach Certification program (which starts this fall!) to this very mastermind.  Let this be your invitation to make bold moves before you think you're ready. Lean into the summer season, savor its energy, invest in yourself, and keep saying YES to the next version of you.   IN THIS EPISODE: How claiming the “thought leader” identity catapulted me to 6-figure breakthroughs, best-selling authorship, and unforgettable client transformations  What we cover in the Thought Leader Mastermind, from booking high-level speaking gigs, to how I wrote my book All the amazing things my clients are doing, from hosting VIP weekends in France to business masterminds in South Africa My dreamy summer across Europe: Rome to the Amalfi Coast, Slovenia, and Poland, and how deep rest and rich culture fuel my deep work Details on the next Thought Leader Mastermind (with keynote speaking workshops in LA!) and how in-person experiences skyrocket your confidence, identity, and career   LINKS/RESOURCES MENTIONED Thought Leader Mastermind is now accepting applications for the next round. Click here to apply.  Awarded the most empowering book in the sober curious genre, be sure to get your copy of Euphoric: Ditch Alcohol and Gain a Happier, More Confident You today and leave your review.  Follow @euphoric.af on Instagram. And as always, rate, review, and subscribe so we can continue spreading our message far and wide.

Summer's here and it's time for la spiaggia (the beach)! Everyone knows the Amalfi Coast but if you're looking for sandy beaches and fewer crowds, head to the Adriatic and Ionian coastlines of the Puglia region where you'll find some of Europe's cleanest and most popular escapes.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/277NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

Planning your first trip to Italy? Or even your fifth? Listen for essential tips, funny mishaps, and insider advice to help first-time visitors have a smooth, unforgettable Italian adventure - from handling cash and booking trains to finding the perfect pasta and packing smart.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/276NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Lazio, Puglia, Abruzzo, Calabria with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

Podcast lovers, today we're sharing our favorite pods to get you immersed in Italian history, culture and language before your trip. From exciting history to modern Italian culture and creative new ways to stay up to date with Italian news all while learning your passato prossima verb conjugations.. there's a podcast to keep you entertained on a very long flight or even your daily walk.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/275NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania and Lazio with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share travel tips and tales from Naples / Napoli and its surrounding islands. They recount Tommaso's first chaotic yet enlightening experiences in Napoli. Key Points: • Train Travel Tips: Finding your train number on digital displays on the train doors. • Business Class: A worthwhile upgrade for comfortable travel from Verona to Naples. • Taxi Travel: Use the designated taxi stand to avoid scams. Naples Experiences: • Chaotic Driving: First impressions of Napoli's' traffic mayhem. Lane markers and traffic signals? Just suggestions. • Sensory Overload: A city full of graffiti, scooters, and constant activity. Memorable Moments: • “Freddie Mercury”: A man resembling Freddie Mercury scavenges wooden panels in Napoli. • Enthusiastic Taxi Driver: A driver shares stories of his travels around America. • Pizza Pilgrimage: A quest for authentic Neapolitan pizza amidst championship celebrations. Futbol Championship Night: • Game Night: Streets filled with fans, fireworks, and endless car horns honking during the city-wide celebrations • Loudest Audio Ever: A memorable, noisy dinner while savoring pizza amidst the chaos. Airport and Departure: • Naples Airport: Arrive early due to long lines and potential gate changes. • Ryanair: Our first experience with budget airline travel. Final Thoughts: • Travel tips for navigating Naples and the Amalfi Coast. • A taste of Naples' vibrant, chaotic energy. • Teaser for upcoming episodes on Treviso and the island-hopping adventures.

Join travel advisors Ryan and Julie as they explore "retirement moons" - celebratory trips marking life's next chapter. Learn essential planning tips and discover top destinations for your dream retirement adventure.What is a Retirement Moon?A celebratory trip taken at retirement time, growing in popularity as retirees are more active and healthy. It's a reward for decades of work and kickoff to a new lifestyle.Timing: Plan for a few months after retirement to decompress and handle life transitions.Budgeting: Decide between splurge vs. sustainable spending. Use retirement gifts, bonuses, and extra time for cost-effective options.Trip Style: Choose solo, couple, or group travel. Consider adventure vs. relaxation focus.Health & Insurance: Essential travel insurance and medical prep for international trips.Length & Pacing: Take advantage of unlimited time off for slower, extended stays.InternationalItaly: Tuscany, Amalfi Coast, Lake Como - perfect for slow-paced cultural immersionNew Zealand & Australia: Extended stays justify long travel timesEuropean River Cruises: Stress-free, all-inclusive travelJapan: Unique culture and culinary experiencesSouth Africa: Multi-week safaris and wine countryDomestic USAlaska: Land tours and cruises with extended explorationNational Parks: Multi-park road trip adventuresNapa/Sonoma: Wine country relaxation and indulgenceFlorida Keys & Charleston/Savannah: Laid-back Southern charmExpert Planning TipsBook Early: Start planning 1-2 years ahead for best optionsUse Travel Advisors: Professional planning for seamless, personalized tripsAdd Personal Touches: Special dinners, photography sessions, surprise upgradesAvoid Over-Planning: Balance structure with flexibility for spontaneous discoveriesFeatured: Quincy, MassachusettsVisit the United States Naval Ship Building Museum and explore the greater Boston area.Contact Wonder and Beyond TravelWebsite: WonderandBeyondTravel.comReady to plan your retirement moon? Contact Ryan and Julie for personalized travel planning services.Keywords: retirement travel, retirement moon, senior travel, Alaska cruises, European river cruises, Italy travel, National Parks road trips, travel planning for retireesReady to plan your vacation? Most families are confused and overwhelmed when planning a vacation. We work with you to plan a trip perfect for your family. Saving you time, money, and stress! Visit our website www.allthingstravelpodcast.com and click on "Plan Your Next Vacation" Join the travel conversations and the fun in our Facebook Page and Instagram Page! Please share the show with your travel buddies!! Click this link and share the show! Never miss an episode and help us take you to the top with us by following and leaving a 5-Star review on your favorite podcasting app!

Step into an Italy that few English speakers reach but a place that holds untold wonders. The Marche region is only 3 hours from Rome by car (the same distance as Florence) and it was the vacation of dreams for our friend, Glam Italia guide book author Corinna CookeRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/274NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania and Lazio with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

This podcast features K Hahn or Kracker Moon. (her alter ego.) She explains her part of the Hahn team both with their music and art. Both K and James explain the music side of their creativity and their great work with world-class artists. Hubby James R. Hahn is the original muralist for the Cabbage Patch Kids phenomenon. For over 45 years he has created custom art, design & large-scale murals worldwide. James has been the featured artist for 3 years at the US Dali Museum and the international Le Man ...on the #1 rated cruise ship in the world: Crystal Symphony, the Grand Prix in Long Beach CA, Chateau de Jalesnes - France, the Boston World Trade Center FEI events, Station Casinos - Las Vegas, the Amalfi Coast & many more. Clients include Patrón Tequila, Perrier-Jouët, Champagne Taittinger, Boy Scouts of America, Trend Group Italy & more.  Recently the Hahn's redesign of Grove Isle in Miami won an international design award from Turkey, along with regional "Best of" awards in the Florida restaurant, bar & design market. The team is available to book for their Live Painting Exhibitions, which are 1 hour shows with custom energetic music, big screen projection, keynote-motivation speaking and feature James creating a unique work of art, which is completed & signed during an audience-participation digital countdown to ZERO. The Hahn's recently completed a 45 country WORLD TOUR, being invited as Artist-in-Residence by some of the most prestigious chateaux/castles and Royal families of Europe. 2-james-hahn.pixels.com/

Tune in if you've ever:Felt lost after doing the thing you thought you wantedQuestioned your passionsNeeded permission to evolve without having it all figured outLet's surrender together.In this very off-the-cuff, zero-script episode, I spill all the tea from my dream trip through Rome, Sorrento, and the Amalfi Coast (spoiler: Sorrento is the real star

What happens when you follow the whisper of a dream—and it leads you to a whole new life in Italy? Today's guest, Chris Sobolev, co-owner of Super Savvy Travelers and a rising fine artist, returns to share the extraordinary “after” story of what's happened since her first appearance on the show in July 2024. For those of you who have been in my world for a while, you know I love all things Italian. If you are new, welcome! My love of Italy began in 1996 when I opened my first business, an entertainment PR company, where I worked with celebrities, visual and performing artists. I named it Capri PR because of my fascination and love of Italy and the Amalfi Coast. Same time, famous author Frances Mayes wrote and released her memoir Under the Tuscan Sun. I was so enamored with her, the story and her lifestyle. I said at the time, “I want her life!” The dream was planted. It was not until 2017 after 9 yrs in my coaching business that I honored that dream thanks to my coach at the time who helped me recover my dreams and make money with joy.  The result of that coaching session was a month-long stay in Florence, Italy that changed my life. Three more trips to Italy happened between 2017-2024. This is how Chris and I met as you will find the full story in our conversation. Now, Chris is living the dream she once only imagined—owning several homes in Italy, making art, and running a thriving YouTube channel and Italian Home Ownership business with her husband, Pete. But it wasn't all la dolce vita at first. In this inspiring follow-up, we talk about the inner and outer transformations that got her there: rebuilding confidence, navigating online and offline stalkers, redefining her worth, and restructuring her business to align with high value clients, joy, authenticity, and ease. Whether you're dreaming of an Italian lifestyle or longing to unlock your next creative chapter, this conversation is rich with permission, possibility, and practical insight. You'll hear: The soulful connection that drew Chris (and me!) to Italy What changed in her business and mindset to make her dreams real Her advice for anyone longing to own a home in Italy and how she and her husband consult and take you through the process How art, following her joy, friendship, and inner work fueled her breakthroughs Get ready to be inspired by what's possible when you say YES to the life your intuition has been whispering to you each day. Find all her ways to connect in show links and how to apply to discuss Italian Home Ownership. Show links: IG: @chrissobolev and @supersavvytravelers LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chris-sobolev-41a08713/ All About Italy FB Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/205311277354653 FB: Chris Sobolev https://www.facebook.com/chris.ellis.3720 YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@SuperSavvyTravelersLLC YouTube: @ChrisSobolovFineArt Fine Art Website: https://www.chrissobolev.com/ Italian Home Ownership First Steps: You will find all the  initial qualifications to have a zoom call with Chris by reading the application: https://www.supersavvytravelers.com/italian-home-ownership/ High Performing Women Entrepreneurs: Learn the NEW success paradigm that becomes a catalyst for lasting transformation professionally & personally. Ask yourself, is it time to change your success metrics to align with today's challenging times? Free INSTANT ACCESS:  https://marladiann.com/prioritizing-desires/  

Apples and strudel, alpine cheeses and speck in Italy? Yes you can. Head to the northern region of South Tyrol with us and discover the traditional dishes and wine of the Dolomites mountains and beyond.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/273NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania and Lazio with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

New York Times bestselling author Sarah Penner is Jane Healey's guest to discuss her latest novel. The Amalfi Curse is an enthralling story of secrets, shipwrecks, and sea-witches set along the Amalfi Coast that alternates between 1821 and present day Positano. Set against the dazzling backdrop of the Amalfi Coast, this bewitching novel shimmers with mystery, romance, and the untamed magic of the sea.

Looking for "hidden Italy"? This may be the place you're looking for! Immaculate coastline, tiny mountain towns that non-Italians rarely find, fresh, local food, and rosemary which may be the key to everlasting youth. In this episode, we're talking about the Cilento (pronounced chee-len-toe). Head south from the heavily-touristed Amalfi Coast to find it. The Cilento is a National Park full of mountains, lush forests, small towns and cities, some of the best food you'll ever eat, and, of course, the Costa del Cilento which stretches from Agropoli to Sapri. If you'd like to support Only A Bag and you're headed to the Amalfi Coast (or anywhere!) you can use our ⁠Booking.com⁠ link to book your next trip! And if you'd like to donate, you can do so at our Ko-fi (pronounced "coffee"), linked ⁠here⁠. If you have any questions, you can find us on our website⁠ or on Instagram and ⁠Bluesky!Thank you so much for listening!

Fluent Fiction - Danish: Balancing Adventure and Planning on the Amalfi Coast Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/da/episode/2025-05-10-22-34-02-da Story Transcript:Da: På den storslåede Amalfi-kyst, hvor klipperne mødte det glitrende blå hav, var foråret begyndt at sprede sin magi.En: On the magnificent Amalfi-coast, where the cliffs met the glittering blue sea, spring had begun to spread its magic.Da: Blomsterne blomstrede langs kystvejene og fyldte luften med deres søde duft.En: Flowers bloomed along the coastal roads, filling the air with their sweet fragrance.Da: Freja, en nysgerrig rejseforfatter, spejdede mod horisonten, ivrig efter at opdage de skjulte perler, som denne italienske skat gemte på.En: Freja, a curious travel writer, gazed toward the horizon, eager to discover the hidden gems this Italian treasure held.Da: Ved hendes side stod Nikolaj, en velovervejet arkitekt, der betragtede det samme landskab med en planlagt omhu.En: By her side stood Nikolaj, a thoughtful architect, who observed the same landscape with a planned meticulousness.Da: De to venner havde meget forskellige tilgange til livet.En: The two friends had very different approaches to life.Da: Freja var altid klar til at kaste sig ud i det ukendte, mens Nikolaj fortrød et hvert trin, de tog uden en klar plan.En: Freja was always ready to dive into the unknown, while Nikolaj regretted every step they took without a clear plan.Da: Denne tur var ingen undtagelse.En: This trip was no exception.Da: Freja ønskede at udforske små, afsides landsbyer langs kysten og skrive om deres charme.En: Freja wished to explore small, secluded villages along the coast and write about their charm.Da: Nikolaj ønskede blot at holde sig til rejseplanen og undgå uheld.En: Nikolaj just wanted to stick to the itinerary and avoid mishaps.Da: De begyndte deres tur fra Napoli tidligt om morgenen.En: They began their trip from Napoli early in the morning.Da: Solen dansede over bølgerne, og vinden bragte lyden af fiskerbåde, der tøffede ud til dagens arbejde.En: The sun danced over the waves, and the wind carried the sound of fishing boats chugging out to their day's work.Da: Men midt i deres idylliske morgen, begyndte Freja at føle sig svimmel.En: But amidst their idyllic morning, Freja began to feel dizzy.Da: Hun kastede et blik mod Nikolaj, som straks bemærkede, at hendes ansigt blev mere og mere blegt.En: She glanced at Nikolaj, who immediately noticed her face growing paler.Da: "Er du okay?"En: "Are you okay?"Da: spurgte Nikolaj bekymret, mens han støttede hende mod en nærliggende mur.En: Nikolaj asked worriedly, supporting her against a nearby wall.Da: Freja nikkede svagt, men hendes ben svigtede hende.En: Freja nodded weakly, but her legs gave way.Da: Nikolaj kæmpede mod sin trang til at panikke.En: Nikolaj struggled against his impulse to panic.Da: Landbyen, de var i, var langt fra større byer.En: The village they were in was far from larger cities.Da: Der var ingen lægeklinik omkring.En: There was no medical clinic around.Da: Mens Freja forsøgte at insistere på at fortsætte, greb Nikolaj sin telefon.En: While Freja tried to insist on continuing, Nikolaj grabbed his phone.Da: Han fandt nummeret til en lokal taxi og forklarede situationen på sit endnu halvtøvende, men forståelige italienske.En: He found the number for a local taxi and explained the situation in his still hesitant but understandable Italian.Da: Inden længe blev de hentet og kørt til det nærmeste hospital i Sorrento.En: Before long, they were picked up and driven to the nearest hospital in Sorrento.Da: Personalet arbejdede hurtigt, og efter en kort konsultation blev Freja lagt i en seng med intravenøs væske for udtørring.En: The staff worked quickly, and after a brief consultation, Freja was placed in a bed with intravenous fluids for dehydration.Da: Da Freja vågnede, så hun Nikolaj sidde ved siden af, hans ansigt fyldt med lettelse.En: When Freja awoke, she saw Nikolaj sitting beside her, his face filled with relief.Da: "Jeg burde have lyttet til dig," sagde Freja stille.En: "I should have listened to you," Freja said quietly.Da: "Jeg var for opsat på eventyret."En: "I was too caught up in the adventure."Da: Nikolaj klemte hendes hånd.En: Nikolaj squeezed her hand.Da: "Og jeg lærte noget i dag," indrømmede han, "at planlægning er godt, men vi må også være fleksible."En: "And I learned something today," he admitted, "that planning is good, but we must also be flexible."Da: Nogle dage senere gik de to ud igen, da Freja havde fået sin styrke tilbage.En: A few days later, they set out again after Freja had regained her strength.Da: Denne gang havde de en fælles forståelse for hinandens ønsker.En: This time, they had a mutual understanding of each other's wishes.Da: Freja havde sin notesblok klar, mens Nikolaj gik med på lidt flere spontane afstikkere, end han normalt ville have gjort.En: Freja had her notebook ready, while Nikolaj agreed to a few more spontaneous detours than he normally would have taken.Da: Skæbnens hænder havde slynget dem en uventet udfordring, men det havde også bragt dem tættere.En: The hands of fate had thrown them an unexpected challenge, but it had also brought them closer.Da: Med havet som baggrund og solen, der igen kyssede deres ansigter, vandrede de videre langs den dragende Amalfi-kyst.En: With the sea as a backdrop and the sun once again kissing their faces, they continued along the alluring Amalfi coast.Da: De havde fundet balancen mellem plan og eventyr, mellem drift og omtanke.En: They had found the balance between plan and adventure, between drift and deliberation. Vocabulary Words:magnificent: storslåedeglittering: glitrendehorizon: horisontenmeticulousness: omhuregretted: fortrøditinerary: rejseplanenmishaps: uheldidyllic: idylliskepaler: blegtimpulse: trangdehydration: udtørringrelief: lettelseflexible: fleksiblemutual: fællesspontaneous: spontanedetours: afstikkerefate: skæbnenschallenge: udfordringalluring: dragendedrift: driftdeliberation: omtankecurious: nysgerrigaspiration: ønskeadmit: indrømmeunexpected: uventetconsultation: konsultationintravenous: intravenøssecluded: afsidescharm: charmesqueezed: klemte

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Luca's Leap: Tales from the Amalfi Coast Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-05-10-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: La brezza marina si mescolava con il profumo dei fiori di limone, mentre il sole splendeva sopra la Costiera Amalfitana.En: The sea breeze mingled with the scent of lemon flowers as the sun shone over the Costiera Amalfitana.It: Luca, il vivace e competente guida turistica, guidava il suo gruppo lungo un sentiero scosceso sopra la scogliera.En: Luca, the lively and knowledgeable tour guide, was leading his group along a steep path above the cliff.It: Amava il suo lavoro.En: He loved his job.It: Le sue parole fluivano come il mare sottostante, narrando storie del passato e del presente di questa terra incantata.En: His words flowed like the sea below, narrating stories of the past and present of this enchanted land.It: Nel mezzo del gruppo, Giulia si fermava spesso per catturare l'essenza del paesaggio con la sua macchina fotografica.En: In the middle of the group, Giulia often paused to capture the essence of the landscape with her camera.It: I suoi occhi brillavano ogni volta che trovava qualcosa di nuovo e bello, un perfetto contrasto tra cielo e mare o le ombre affascinanti delle antiche rovine.En: Her eyes sparkled every time she found something new and beautiful—a perfect contrast between sky and sea, or the fascinating shadows of ancient ruins.It: “Che panorama incredibile!En: "What an incredible view!"It: ” esclamò Giulia, fermando Luca con un gesto.En: exclaimed Giulia, stopping Luca with a gesture.It: "Hai mai pensato di scrivere su questi luoghi?En: "Have you ever thought about writing about these places?"It: "Luca sorrise, ma la sua mente vagava.En: Luca smiled, but his mind wandered.It: "A volte ci penso", ammise.En: "Sometimes I think about it," he admitted.It: "Ma non so se sono capace.En: "But I don't know if I'm capable."It: "Matteo, il suo amico e compagno guida, camminava poco dietro di loro.En: Matteo, his friend and fellow guide, was walking a little behind them.It: Aveva sentito la conversazione e si avvicinò con incoraggiamento.En: He had overheard the conversation and approached with encouragement.It: “Dovresti provarci, Luca.En: "You should try, Luca.It: Hai una passione che pochi hanno.En: You have a passion that few have.It: Chi meglio di te può raccontare la vera anima di questi luoghi?En: Who better than you to tell the true soul of these places?"It: ”Il sole cominciò a calare, dipingendo il cielo di rosa e arancione.En: The sun began to set, painting the sky pink and orange.It: Erano giunti al punto panoramico, uno dei più belli della costiera.En: They had reached the scenic viewpoint, one of the most beautiful on the coast.It: Luca si trovava davanti a quella vastità, il blu infinito del Mediterraneo.En: Luca stood before that vast expanse, the endless blue of the Mediterranean.It: In quel momento, la bellezza lo colpì come un'onda.En: In that moment, the beauty struck him like a wave.It: Il sogno nascosto di scrivere il suo libro tornò alla superficie.En: The hidden dream of writing his book resurfaced.It: Con un respiro profondo, Luca si voltò verso i suoi amici.En: With a deep breath, Luca turned to his friends.It: “Voglio farlo”, disse, sentendo la decisione farsi chiara.En: "I want to do it," he said, feeling the decision become clear.It: “Voglio scrivere un libro.En: "I want to write a book.It: Raccontare queste storie al mondo.En: To tell these stories to the world."It: ”Giulia gli sorrise.En: Giulia smiled at him.It: “Sarei felice di aiutarti con le foto.En: "I would be happy to help with the photos.It: Insieme potremmo catturare lo spirito di questo luogo.En: Together we could capture the spirit of this place."It: ”Matteo gli diede una pacca sulla spalla.En: Matteo gave him a pat on the back.It: “Prenditi il tempo di cui hai bisogno.En: "Take the time you need.It: Coprirò i tuoi tour se vuoi dedicarti a scrivere.En: I'll cover your tours if you want to dedicate yourself to writing."It: ”Era come se un peso fosse stato tolto dal petto di Luca.En: It was as if a weight had been lifted from Luca's chest.It: “Grazie, entrambi.En: "Thank you, both of you.It: Farò del mio meglio.En: I'll do my best."It: ”Con un rinnovato senso di scopo, Luca si girò di nuovo verso la costa.En: With a renewed sense of purpose, Luca turned again towards the coast.It: La decisione era stata presa.En: The decision had been made.It: Avrebbe iniziato a scrivere il suo libro, a lavorare sui suoi racconti, contaminando i suoi tour con il suo nuovo progetto.En: He would start writing his book, working on his stories, intertwining his tours with his new project.It: Con il supporto di Giulia e Matteo, Luca era finalmente pronto a bilanciare la sua vita da guida turistica con quella di aspirante scrittore.En: With the support of Giulia and Matteo, Luca was finally ready to balance his life as a tour guide with that of an aspiring writer.It: Il cammino davanti a lui era luminoso, come la luce che danzava sulle onde sottostanti.En: The path ahead was bright, like the light dancing on the waves below.It: Avrebbe continuato a raccontare storie, sia nella sua voce che nella sua penna, scoprendo che la bellezza della Costiera Amalfitana non risiedeva solo nei suoi paesaggi, ma anche nelle storie che era pronto a condividere.En: He would continue to tell stories, both in his voice and in his pen, discovering that the beauty of the Costiera Amalfitana was found not only in its landscapes, but also in the stories he was ready to share. Vocabulary Words:the breeze: la brezzato mingle: mescolarsiknowledgeable: competentethe cliff: la scoglierato narrate: narrandothe scent: il profumofascinating: affascinantethe essence: l'essenzasparkle: brillarethe ruins: le rovineto admit: ammettereto approach: avvicinarsiencouragement: incoraggiamentothe soul: l'animato wander: vagarevivid: vivacethe shadow: l'ombrato capture: catturareancient: anticheto strike: colpirewave: ondaexpanse: vastitàrenewed: rinnovatothe purpose: lo scopoto intertwine: intrecciarethe viewpoint: il punto panoramicoto resurface: tornare alla superficieto balance: bilanciarethe landscape: il paesaggioto dedicate: dedicarsi

Fluent Fiction - Hindi: Brushstrokes of Confidence: Anaya's Artistic Awakening Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hi/episode/2025-05-10-22-34-01-hi Story Transcript:Hi: अमल्फी कोस्ट की नज़रें अपनी ओर खींचते हुए, हाई स्कूल के छात्र बस से उतरे।En: As the sights of the Amalfi Coast drew their attention, the high school students got off the bus.Hi: समुद्र की फुहार और खट्टे नींबुओं की ताजगी वातावरण में फैली हुई थी।En: The spray of the sea and the freshness of sour lemons were spread in the atmosphere.Hi: अनाय, प्रणव और इशानी ने ठंडी हवा का अनुभव लिया।En: Anaya, Pranav, and Ishani experienced the cool breeze.Hi: ये उनका स्कूल ट्रिप था, जहां सब नए अनुभवों के लिए उत्सुक थे।En: This was their school trip, where everyone was eager for new experiences.Hi: अनाय एक कलाकार थी, लेकिन वह खुद पर विश्वास नहीं कर पाती थी।En: Anaya was an artist, but she didn't have faith in herself.Hi: उसकी सहेली इशानी हमेशा उसे प्रोत्साहित करती।En: Her friend Ishani always encouraged her.Hi: प्रणव, जो बहुत मिलनसार और मौज-मस्ती में रहता, उसके बड़े व्यक्तित्व के कारण अनाय कहीं खो जाती।En: Pranav, who was very sociable and always in fun, made Anaya feel lost because of his large personality.Hi: हालांकि, प्रणव दिल से अनाय की कला का प्रशंसक था, लेकिन उसे कभी ईर्ष्या भी होती थी।En: However, Pranav genuinely admired Anaya's art but sometimes felt envious.Hi: ट्रिप पर कुछ खास बात थी - एक कला प्रदर्शनी, जिसमें छात्रों को अपनी कलाकृतियाँ दिखानी थी।En: There was something special about the trip - an art exhibition where students had to showcase their artwork.Hi: अनाय के मन में सोचा - "क्या मेरी कलाकृतियां सचमुच इतनी अच्छी हैं?En: Anaya thought to herself, "Are my artworks really that good?"Hi: " वह खुद से संघर्ष करती रही, जबकि इशानी कहती, "अनाय, ये तुम्हारा मौका है।En: She continued to struggle with herself, while Ishani said, "Anaya, this is your chance.Hi: दिखाओ कि तुम क्या कर सकती हो।En: Show what you can do."Hi: "उन्होंने समुद्र के किनारे एक जगह खोजी।En: They found a spot by the sea.Hi: वहाँ नीला आसमान और समुद्र का समंदर सचमुच किसी पेंटिंग से कम नहीं थे।En: There, the blue sky and the vast sea truly looked like something out of a painting.Hi: अनाय ने टालमटोल करते हुए अपनी पेंटिंग्स निकालीं।En: Hesitantly, Anaya took out her paintings.Hi: इशानी और प्रणव ने मिलकर उसकी मदद की।En: Ishani and Pranav helped her set up.Hi: जब सब कुछ तैयार हुआ, तो देखते ही देखते वहां एक छोटी प्रदर्शनी जैसी लगने लगी।En: When everything was ready, it soon started to look like a small exhibition.Hi: अनाय की कला वहां की सुंदरता में घुलने लगी।En: Anaya's art began to blend with the surrounding beauty.Hi: जब अन्य छात्रों ने देखा, तो सबने उसकी तारीफ की।En: When other students saw it, they all praised her.Hi: प्रणव ने कहा, "अनाय, तुम तो कमाल की कलाकार हो।En: Pranav said, "Anaya, you are an amazing artist."Hi: " यह सुनकर अनाय के चेहरे पर मुस्कान खिल उठी।En: Hearing this, a smile spread across Anaya's face.Hi: दिन ढलते-ढलते अनाय को आत्मविश्वास मिल गया।En: As the day ended, Anaya gained confidence.Hi: उसे समझ आ गया कि उसकी कलाकृतियाँ भी उतनी ही खूबसूरत थीं जितनी अमल्फी कोस्ट।En: She realized that her artworks were as beautiful as the Amalfi Coast.Hi: अपनी कला के माध्यम से उसने न केवल खुद को बल्कि अपने दोस्तों के साथ भी रिश्ते को मजबूत किया।En: Through her art, she strengthened her bond not just with herself but also with her friends.Hi: यह यात्रा उसके लिए एक नया अध्याय ले आई।En: This trip brought a new chapter for her.Hi: अब अनाय खुद पर गर्व महसूस कर रही थी।En: Now Anaya felt proud of herself.Hi: उसने सीखा कि उसकी दृष्टि कितनी अनोखी है, और उसका आत्मविश्वास अब आसमान छूने लगा है।En: She learned how unique her vision was, and her confidence started to soar.Hi: इस तरह, एक साधारण यात्रा ने उसके जीवन को नए रंगों से भर दिया।En: Thus, an ordinary journey filled her life with new colors. Vocabulary Words:sights: नज़रेंbreeze: हवाeager: उत्सुकencouraged: प्रोत्साहितsociable: मिलनसारenvious: ईर्ष्याexhibition: प्रदर्शनीhesitantly: टालमटोलadmired: प्रशंसकpraised: तारीफconfident: आत्मविश्वासbond: रिश्तेunique: अनोखीvision: दृष्टिsoar: आसमान छूनेordinary: साधारणspread: फैलीadmired: प्रशंसकstruggle: संघर्षblend: घुलनेrealized: समझconfidence: आत्मविश्वासchapter: अध्यायcolors: रंगोंencouraged: प्रोत्साहितhesitantly: टालमटोलtrust: विश्वासjourney: यात्राstretched: फैलीartworks: कलाकृतियाँ

Fluent Fiction - Swedish: Lost in Translation: Adventures on the Amalfi Coast Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/sv/episode/2025-05-10-22-34-02-sv Story Transcript:Sv: Solen stod högt på den italienska himlen.En: The sun stood high in the italienska sky.Sv: Astrid och Lars strosade längsmed Amalfi-kustens vackra klippor.En: Astrid and Lars strolled along the beautiful cliffs of the Amalfi-coast.Sv: Astrid, en äventyrlig svensk turist, hade med sig sin ryggsäck precis som alltid.En: Astrid, an adventurous Swedish tourist, had her backpack with her, as always.Sv: Lars, hennes avslappnade vän, följde med för att hålla henne ur trubbel.En: Lars, her laid-back friend, tagged along to keep her out of trouble.Sv: De kom till en liten, charmig hamn.En: They arrived at a small, charming harbor.Sv: Fiskebåtar vaggade lätt i vågorna.En: Fishing boats gently rocked in the waves.Sv: En glad fiskare vinkade till dem.En: A cheerful fisherman waved to them.Sv: Astrid stannade, fascinerad av hans färgglada nät.En: Astrid stopped, fascinated by his colorful nets.Sv: Hon satte ner sin ryggsäck bredvid hans.En: She set her backpack down next to his.Sv: Efter ett litet samtal med Lars tänkte de gå vidare.En: After a brief conversation with Lars, they thought about continuing on their way.Sv: Astrid sträckte sig efter sin ryggsäck, men den var borta.En: Astrid reached for her backpack, but it was gone.Sv: I hennes plats låg en annan, full med fiskeredskap och gamla tidningar.En: In its place lay another, full of fishing gear and old newspapers.Sv: "Åh nej!"En: "Oh no!"Sv: utbrast Astrid.En: exclaimed Astrid.Sv: "Vi har blandat ihop våra väskor!"En: "We've mixed up our bags!"Sv: Lars försökte lugna henne.En: Lars tried to calm her.Sv: "Ta det lugnt, Astrid.En: "Take it easy, Astrid.Sv: Vi ordnar det här."En: We'll sort this out."Sv: Fiskaren märkte förvirringen och log roat.En: The fisherman noticed the confusion and smiled amusedly.Sv: Men han talade bara italienska.En: But he only spoke italienska.Sv: Astrid och Lars gjorde några tafatta försök på engelska, men språkbarriären var för stor.En: Astrid and Lars made a few awkward attempts in English, but the language barrier was too big.Sv: Lars fick en idé.En: Lars got an idea.Sv: "Rita något," föreslog han.En: "Draw something," he suggested.Sv: Astrid tog fram ett papper från Lars' ficka och började skissa.En: Astrid pulled out a piece of paper from Lars' pocket and began to sketch.Sv: Hon ritade en enkel bild av en fisk.En: She drew a simple picture of a fish.Sv: Fiskaren kikade över hennes axel, och hans ansikte sken upp i ett stort leende.En: The fisherman peeked over her shoulder, and his face lit up with a big smile.Sv: Han skrattade och nickade.En: He laughed and nodded.Sv: Med ett stort tecken med handen bytte de tillbaka ryggsäckarna.En: With a grand gesture of his hand, they exchanged backpacks back.Sv: Astrid kände en våg av lättnad.En: Astrid felt a wave of relief.Sv: Hon kramade sin väska hårt.En: She hugged her bag tightly.Sv: "Tack så mycket," sa hon försiktigt och nickade vänligt till fiskaren.En: "Thank you so much," she said cautiously and nodded kindly to the fisherman.Sv: De tre satte sig på en bänk och delade en gelato som tack.En: The three sat on a bench and shared a gelato as a thank you.Sv: Fiskaren bjöd på historier om hans dagliga liv till melodin av vågorna.En: The fisherman shared stories of his daily life to the melody of the waves.Sv: Astrid förstod inte orden men kände vänskapen och glädjen i luften.En: Astrid didn't understand the words but felt the friendship and joy in the air.Sv: När de gick vidare längsmed stranden, kände Astrid sig annorlunda.En: As they walked further along the beach, Astrid felt different.Sv: Hon kände sig mer självsäker och mer avslappnad.En: She felt more confident and more relaxed.Sv: "Nästa gång," sa hon till Lars med ett leende, "bryr jag mig inte om att inga ord behövs.En: "Next time," she said to Lars with a smile, "I won't mind that no words are needed.Sv: Det viktigaste är leenden och lite kreativitet."En: The most important thing is smiles and a bit of creativity."Sv: Lars skrattade.En: Lars laughed.Sv: "Jag tror vi klarar oss bra i vilken hamn som helst nu."En: "I think we can handle any harbor now."Sv: Och så fortsatte deras äventyr längs den glittrande Amalfi-kusten, omfamnande allt som resan hade att erbjuda.En: And so their adventure continued along the sparkling Amalfi-coast, embracing all that the journey had to offer. Vocabulary Words:strolled: strosadeadventurous: äventyrliglaid-back: avslappnadecharming: charmigrocked: vaggadefascinated: fascineradconversation: samtalexclaimed: utbrastcalm: lugnaconfusion: förvirringenamusedly: roatlanguage barrier: språkbarriärenawkward: tafattasketch: skissapeeked: kikadegesture: teckenrelief: lättnadhugged: kramadetightly: hårtcautiously: försiktigtmelody: melodinconfident: självsäkerembracing: omfamnandesparkling: glittrandejourney: resancontinued: fortsattewaves: vågornafishing gear: fiskeredskapbackpack: ryggsäcksmile: leende

Want to know how to say thank you in Italian? Go beyond "grazie" and learn about the many different ways to express your appreciation in Italian language and culture. Plus we revisit tipping (again) with our friend Monica who gives you the Italian hospitality perspective.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/272NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania, Basilicata and Lazio with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Amalfi Coast: A Comical, Picture-Perfect Proposal Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-05-08-22-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: Sulla splendida Costiera Amalfitana, quando la primavera iniziava a sbocciare, il sole splendeva brillantemente sulle acque cristalline.En: On the splendid Costiera Amalfitana, when spring began to blossom, the sun shone brilliantly over the crystal-clear waters.It: Lì, un piccolo ristorante a picco sul mare offriva una vista spettacolare.En: There, a small restaurant perched on the sea offered a spectacular view.It: Era il luogo perfetto per una serata romantica.En: It was the perfect place for a romantic evening.It: Lorenzo aveva pianificato tutto nei minimi dettagli.En: Lorenzo had planned everything down to the smallest detail.It: Aveva deciso che quella sarebbe stata la sera giusta per chiedere a Giulia di sposarlo.En: He had decided that would be the right evening to ask Giulia to marry him.It: Voleva sorprenderla con una cena elegante, una vista incantevole e una proposta che avrebbe ricordato per sempre.En: He wanted to surprise her with an elegant dinner, an enchanting view, and a proposal she would remember forever.It: Al suo fianco, Marcello, il suo migliore amico, lo aveva aiutato a scrivere una lunga e poetica lettera d'amore.En: By his side, Marcello, his best friend, had helped him write a long and poetic love letter.It: Nel ristorante, i tavoli erano decorati con candele profumate al limone e posizionate in modo da offrire una vista mozzafiato del tramonto.En: In the restaurant, the tables were decorated with lemon-scented candles and positioned to offer a breathtaking view of the sunset.It: Lorenzo era nervoso ma entusiasta.En: Lorenzo was nervous but excited.It: Marcello, con la sua solita aria scherzosa, aveva giocato con la lettera e i dettagli della prenotazione per il ristorante.En: Marcello, with his usual playful demeanor, had toyed with the letter and the reservation details for the restaurant.It: “Lorenzo, non dimenticare la busta,” disse Marcello, porgendogli un biglietto scambiato per errore.En: “Lorenzo, don't forget the envelope,” said Marcello, handing him a card mistakenly swapped.It: Giulia arrivò poco dopo.En: Giulia arrived shortly after.It: Era radiosa, il suo sorriso illuminava la serata.En: She was radiant, her smile lighting up the evening.It: Sedettero a un tavolo vicino alla vetrata.En: They sat at a table near the glass window.It: Lorenzo era affascinato dalla bellezza del momento e iniziò la cena.En: Lorenzo was captivated by the beauty of the moment and began the dinner.It: Durante il dessert, Lorenzo si schiarì la gola e porse la busta a Giulia.En: During dessert, Lorenzo cleared his throat and handed the envelope to Giulia.It: Lui era sicuro che fosse la sua dichiarazione d'amore.En: He was sure it was his love declaration.It: Invece, Giulia lesse sorpresa: "Invito speciale per l'evento adozione gatti."En: Instead, Giulia read, surprised: "Special invitation for the cat adoption event."It: “Umm, Lorenzo?” chiese Giulia, confusa ma divertita.En: “Umm, Lorenzo?” asked Giulia, confused but amused.It: "Cos'è questo?En: "What's this?It: Pensavo fossimo qui per cena."En: I thought we were here for dinner."It: Lorenzo guardò la nota, meravigliato.En: Lorenzo looked at the note, bewildered.It: Marcello, che li osservava a distanza, aveva un sorriso di colpevole divertimento.En: Marcello, watching them from a distance, had a smile of guilty amusement.It: Lorenzo si arrabbiò, ma poi esplose a ridere con Giulia.En: Lorenzo was upset, but then he burst out laughing with Giulia.It: La situazione era più comica che tragica.En: The situation was more comical than tragic.It: Giulia rise, prendendo la mano di Lorenzo.En: Giulia laughed, taking Lorenzo's hand.It: “È così adorabile tutto questo.En: “This is all so adorable.It: Mi piace vedere gatti.En: I like seeing cats.It: Ma mi piace di più vederti ridere.” Lorenzo capì che il momento era perfetto nella sua imperfezione.En: But I like seeing you laugh even more.” Lorenzo realized the moment was perfect in its imperfection.It: Senza ulteriori indugi, si inginocchiò, ignorando le parodistiche risate di Marcello da lontano.En: Without further delay, he knelt down, ignoring Marcello's parody laughs from afar.It: “Giulia, vuoi sposarmi?” chiese Lorenzo con un sorriso genuino, la sua voce dolce come la brezza marina.En: “Giulia, will you marry me?” Lorenzo asked with a genuine smile, his voice sweet as the sea breeze.It: Giulia, commossa, annuì entusiasta.En: Giulia, moved, nodded enthusiastically.It: “Sì, Lorenzo, certo che voglio.” La serata si concluse con risate e promesse.En: “Yes, Lorenzo, of course I will.” The evening concluded with laughter and promises.It: Anche Marcello si unì al loro brindisi, prendendosi la colpa per il miscuglio.En: Even Marcello joined in their toast, taking the blame for the mix-up.It: Lorenzo capì che la vera magia era nell'inaspettato, e quel piccolo errore aveva reso la serata indimenticabile.En: Lorenzo understood that the true magic was in the unexpected, and that little mistake had made the evening unforgettable.It: La Costiera Amalfitana brillava sotto la luna, mentre i tre amici celebravano l'avventura dell'amore.En: The Costiera Amalfitana sparkled under the moon, as the three friends celebrated the adventure of love. Vocabulary Words:the spring: la primaverato blossom: sbocciarethe detail: il dettaglioto surprise: sorprendereenchanting: incantevolethe proposal: la propostathe sunset: il tramontoto clear one's throat: schiarirsi la golathe envelope: la bustato be bewildered: essere meravigliatoguilty: colpevoleto be upset: arrabbiarsito kneel down: inginocchiarsithe breeze: la brezzato nod: annuirethe promise: la promessato join: unirsithe toast: il brindisithe mix-up: il miscugliothe adventure: l'avventurasplendid: splendidato shine: splenderecrystal-clear: cristallineto perch: a piccospectacular: spettacolarethe evening: la seratato be nervous: essere nervosothe demeanor: l'ariathe mistake: l'errorethe smile: il sorriso

Beppe, a native Italian, started his journey in active travel over two decades ago and, with the help of his wife Heather, co-founded Tourissimo, one of the top adventure travel companies in Italy. With years of expertise designing cycling and adventure tours across all 20 regions of Italy, Beppe and Heather have the inside scoop on the most authentic and unforgettable experiences Italy has to offer.So grab your espresso (or a glass of vino Italiano), and let's explore Italy region by region!Northern Italy: Adventure, Culture, and Alpine BeautyLombardy (Lombardia)Running along the Swiss border, Lombardy is Italy's largest and wealthiest region—a land of striking contrasts and cultural riches. Home to nearly 10 million people, Lombardy contains 12 of Italy's largest cities: Milan, Bergamo, Brescia, Como, Mantua, Pavia, Cremona, Lecco, Lodi, Monza, Sondrio, and Varese. The region blends modern sophistication with old-world charm, from the fashion capital and bustling metropolis of Milan to the serene, postcard-perfect landscapes of Lake Como.Lombardy is dotted with some of Italy's most beloved lakes, including Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Lake Idro, and many more. Picturesque villages like Bellagio offer sun-drenched escapes along Lake Como's shores, while the medieval towns of Bergamo and Mantova enchant visitors with cobblestone streets, sweeping views, and centuries of history.Culinary lovers will be spoiled for choice with Lombardy's 60 Michelin-starred restaurants—3 with three stars, 6 with two stars, and 51 with one star. Be sure to savor the region's iconic Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy saffron-infused dish that's a local staple. Wine enthusiasts won't want to miss a glass of Franciacorta, Italy's sparkling answer to Champagne.November is a wonderful time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It's also the perfect season to explore Lombardy's slice of the Alps, where charming mountain towns await nestled among the peaks. For an unforgettable adventure, consider attending the 2025 Winter Olympics, which will be held in Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo!Tourissimo Tip– If you are flying into Milan, select the correct airport because Milan has two airports! For info, check out the following Tourissimo blog: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/avoid-this-common-travel-mistake-know-milans-two-airportsVenetoVeneto, the birthplace of Prosecco, Polenta, and the iconic Spritz, is a region rich in charm, culture, and culinary delights. Stretching from the Italian Riviera to the Venetian Pre-Alps and the stunning Dolomites, Veneto is home to both natural beauty and historic towns. Its capital, the enchanting floating city of Venice, is world-famous for its canals, gondolas, labyrinthine streets, and undeniable romance.Each of Venice's islands offers something special: admire the colorful houses of Burano, renowned for its lace-making traditions; visit Murano, celebrated for its centuries-old glassblowing artistry; and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of Torcello. Exploring these islands by vaporetto (water bus) offers a quieter, more authentic glimpse into Venetian life. Tourissimo Tip–For a few more suggestions, check out Tourissimo's blog on the Venetian Lagoon: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/our-favorite-destinations-in-the-venetian-lagoonBeyond Venice, Veneto boasts a treasure trove of picturesque towns. Verona, Padua, Vicenza, and Asolo each offer their own distinct history and beauty. Visit Castelfranco Veneto for a charming escape or head to Bardolino to enjoy a boat ride on Italy's largest lake, Lago di Garda. Stroll the waterfront in Castelletto sul Garda or circle the freshwater moat of Cittadella, a red-brick medieval town full of character.In the countryside, the hills of Prosecco promise stunning vineyard views, while the medieval town of Montagnana offers a taste of the past. Nature lovers can visit the volcanic Euganean Hills in Este, and cheese lovers shouldn't miss the small town of Asiago, home to one of Italy's most famous cheeses.Veneto's culinary scene shines with 34 Michelin-starred restaurants—2 with three stars, 3 with two stars, and 29 with one star. Indulge in local specialties like Bigoli in Salsa, a hearty Venetian pasta with anchovy sauce, and toast with a glass of Prosecco, Grappa, or the regional favorite, the Select Spritz. And don't forget—Venetians love to celebrate, so let loose and join the party!Tourissimo Tips–Another fun suggestion is Veneto Marostica, the City of Chess, where they do a living chess match with hundreds of people dressed in medieval costumes every two years: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/marostica-the-city-of-chessPiedmont (Piemonte)Nestled at the foot of the Alps and bordered on three sides by the Mediterranean Sea, Piedmont is one of Italy's most underrated gems. With a diverse landscape that offers adventure and beauty year-round, this region is perfect for both winter skiing and summer hiking and biking, thanks to its stunning Alpine scenery.But Piedmont isn't just about breathtaking views—it's steeped in rich history and cultural significance. As the first capital of Italy, it boasts grand palaces, remarkable art, and sacred relics like the famed Shroud of Turin. The capital city of Turin is a vibrant hub, home to Europe's largest outdoor food market and the monthly Gran Balon flea market, a haven for vintage and antique lovers.Venture beyond the city and you'll discover a region bursting with charm and flavor. Tour the Langhe Hills, a paradise for vineyard visits, and sample Bagna Cauda, a warm anchovy and garlic dip beloved by locals. Wander the lakeside town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore, or stroll the cobbled streets of Neive, where views of rolling hills and storybook cottages create an unforgettable setting. In Asti, you can witness the September medieval horse races and visit the majestic Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e San Gottardo. For a true fairy-tale escape, head to Macugnaga in the valley of Monte Rosa, a perfect base for both skiing and hiking. And just outside of Turin lies the hidden gem of Lake Orta, a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.Piedmont's culinary scene is just as spectacular. With 35 Michelin-starred restaurants—2 with three stars, 3 with two stars, and 30 with one star—the region is a paradise for food lovers. Dine in Alba during white truffle season (September to January), and savor iconic regional dishes like Agnolotti del Plin and Coniglio Arrosto. Wine enthusiasts will be in heaven here—Piedmont is the land of Barolo, the "king of wines," and Barbaresco, two of Italy's most prestigious reds.Tourissimo Tips:Piedmont is home to the Slow Food movement: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/why-piedmont-is-renowned-for-its-slow-foodTourissimo Tip–Check out this blog for a guide to a day of eating in Turin: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/a-day-of-eating-in-turinTourissimo Tip–One of the Best Meals of Your Life will be at the Piazza Duomo in Alba!Emilia-RomagnaLocated in central Italy along the Adriatic coast, Emilia-Romagna is a vibrant and diverse region known for its perfect blend of “slow food” and “fast cars.” This area is considered both the culinary and automotive capital of Italy, offering rich traditions, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.Food lovers will be in heaven here. Emilia-Romagna is the birthplace of iconic Italian delicacies such as Mortadella, Tortellini in Brodo, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, traditional Balsamic Vinegar, Lambrusco, and egg-based fresh pastas like lasagna, tortellini, and tagliatelle. A visit to Parma lets you savor authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano and world-class Prosciutto, as well as enjoy the elegant Teatro Regio opera house.The region also has a need for speed—it's home to legendary automotive brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati. For car enthusiasts, the Ferrari Museum in Modena is a must-see. Emilia-Romagna even has a dedicated cycling tourism office, and in summer 2023, it played host to several stages of the Tour de France, which began in nearby Florence.Beyond the food and cars, Emilia-Romagna offers a range of enchanting destinations. The capital city of Bologna is known for its Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the scenic Santuario Madonna di San Luca. In Ravenna, marvel at the dazzling, colorful mosaics and the historic San Vitale Basilica. Along the coast, vibrant seaside resorts like Cervia, Cesenatico, and Rimini create a lively, carnival-like party atmosphere from late May through September. For a more peaceful experience, explore the medieval gem of Brisighella, a lesser-known treasure full of charm.When it comes to fine dining, Emilia-Romagna doesn't disappoint. The region boasts 24 Michelin-starred restaurants, including one three-star, three two-star, and twenty one-star establishments. Visitors are often struck by the warmth and generosity of the locals—some of the most hospitable people in Italy—who express their love through exceptional food and outstanding service.Tourissimo Tips:Did you know that there is a whole other country within Emilia Romagna? https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/san-marino-the-other-small-country-within-italyTourissimo Tip–Pietra di Bismantova was an inspiration for Dante: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/pietra-di-bismantova-the-inspiration-for-dantes-purgatoryTourissimo Tip–You can cross the Rubicon: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/crossing-the-rubiconTrentino-South TyrolNestled along Italy's northern border with Switzerland, Trentino–South Tyrol is a stunning mountainous region that blends Italian and Austrian influences, making it a top destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its striking Alpine scenery, exceptional cuisine, and rich cultural duality, this region offers the best of both worlds.The South Tyrol capital, Bolzano, is renowned for having the highest quality of life in Italy, combining the clean, efficient infrastructure often associated with Germany with the flavorful food and spirited lifestyle of Italian culture.Outdoor adventurers will be captivated by the Dolomites, with their dramatic limestone peaks—ideal for hiking, skiing, and breathtaking vistas. Don't miss the Alpe di Siusi, Europe's largest Alpine meadow, which is especially stunning in spring and summer. Explore shimmering Lake Garda and uncover the region's medieval past through spectacular castles like Schloss Tirol, Castel Roncolo, and Castel d'Appiano.Tourissimo Tip–An off-the-beaten-path outdoor paradise can be found in the Alps of Trentino. Check out the Val di Sole. This is one of the areas that Beppe and Heather regularly go to on their personal vacations in Italy: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-wild-dolomitesThe culinary offerings here reflect the region's unique blend of cultures. Traditional dishes range from Bratwurst and Goulash to Italian-style pastas with hearty meats like deer. Foodies should try Speck, a savory smoked ham, perfectly paired with a glass of Gewürztraminer, a fragrant white wine native to the area. The region also produces excellent white wines and lighter reds that pair beautifully with its alpine cuisine.When it comes to fine dining, Trentino–South Tyrol excels with 33 Michelin-starred restaurants, including three three-star, five two-star, and twenty-five one-star establishments, making it one of Italy's most impressive gourmet regions.LiguriaLocated along Italy's rugged northwestern coastline, Liguria—also known as the Italian Riviera—boasts dramatic cliffs, colorful seaside villages, and incredible culinary traditions. The region is best known for the five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, as well as the glamorous resort towns of Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure.Tourissimo Tip– If you visit the Cinque Terre, don't forget to look up, and hike up away from the crowds to see the heroic vineyards: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-heroic-winemaking-of-the-cinque-terreBecause of the narrow, winding roads with steep drop-offs, many travelers prefer to explore the region via the local train or by public or private boat. If you're planning to hike the famous trails, be aware that entrance permits are now required due to landslides and overtourism.In the regional capital of Genoa, dive into maritime history, visit the iconic San Lorenzo Cathedral, and wander the city's old port area. Just outside Genoa, discover the secluded San Fruttuoso Abbey, accessible only by boat or footpath. In Vernazza, one of the Cinque Terre towns, visit the Doria Castle and the beautiful Santa Margherita Church.Liguria is also a celebrity hotspot, and its cuisine is just as impressive as its scenery. Known as the birthplace of pesto, the region is famous for Pesto alla Genovese, made with a special local basil. Be sure to try the region's olive oil, garlic, cheeses, and exceptional seafood, especially the anchovies. Other regional specialties include Focaccia di Recco, a cheese-filled flatbread, and lighter olive oils that perfectly complement Ligurian dishes.For fine dining, Liguria is home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants, all with one star, offering refined cuisine rooted in the region's coastal and agricultural traditions.Friuli-Venezia Giulia (Friuli)Tucked between Veneto, Austria, and Slovenia, Friuli-Venezia Giulia is a lesser-known gem that offers a unique blend of Alpine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and coastal charm. The region features part of the Dolomites, ideal for hiking, skiing, and capturing breathtaking scenery.The capital, Trieste, is a refined port city with a fascinating blend of Italian, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic influences. Don't miss the Miramare Castle, perched over the sea with stunning views. In Cividale del Friuli, stroll through cobbled streets and sample Frico, a savory, crispy dish made of cheese and potatoes, best enjoyed with a glass of Schioppettino, a bold red wine native to the region.For outdoor adventures and relaxation, spend a beach day at Lignano Sabbiadoro, camp in Sistiana, bike the trails around Grado, or explore the ancient Roman ruins in Aquileia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the enormous Grotta Gigante (Giant Cave), stroll through Unity of Italy Square, and tour the Revoltella Museum for modern art.Friuli-Venezia Giulia is also home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants, including two two-star establishments and five one-star venues, reflecting the region's quiet but impressive culinary scene.Tourissimo Tip– A hotel that Heather and Beppe love in Cormons is La Subida. It's a unique, high-end, and rustic property nestled in nature that boasts a 1-Michelin star restaurant: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/hotels-we-love-la-subidaAosta ValleyNestled in the northwestern tip of Italy, where it borders Switzerland and France, the Aosta Valley is Italy's smallest and highest region—a true mountain paradise. This alpine jewel is renowned for its dramatic snowcapped peaks, storybook castles, and a unique blend of French and Italian culture, as both languages are spoken here.The region is home to Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco), Europe's highest peak, which straddles the borders of Italy, France, and Switzerland. While the summit lies on the French side, visitors on the Italian side can experience the Skyway Monte Bianco, a breathtaking cable car ride offering panoramic views of the Alps.Key landmarks include the striking Matterhorn, the impressive Fénis and Savoy Castles, and the Bard Fortress, one of the largest and most remarkable fortifications in the Alps. After a day in the mountains, relax in one of the region's thermal spas, and indulge in Fonduta, a rich, velvety cheese fondue perfect for chilly alpine evenings.Wine lovers should sample the region's distinctive red mountain wines, especially Enfer d'Arvier, known for its bold flavor and high-altitude character.Tourissimo Tip–A fun tradition is the Friendship Cup, a communal cup of coffee: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-friendship-cup-of-valle-daostaCentral Italy: History, Art, and Rolling HillsTuscany (Toscana)Tuscany, the heart of the Renaissance, is a captivating region of rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, vineyards, and timeless art and architecture. Located just below Italy's northern regions, it's a haven for art lovers, history buffs, and food and wine enthusiasts alike. From Chianti to Brunello di Montalcino, the region offers a wide variety of world-class wines.The regional capital, Florence, is one of Italy's most walkable and safe major cities, making it ideal for solo travelers. Admire its architectural wonders while sipping on Chianti Classico and indulging in a local favorite—Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Must-see landmarks in Florence include the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Galleria dell'Accademia, home to Michelangelo's David. For iconic views, head to Piazzale Michelangelo.Beyond Florence, explore the historic cities of Siena, Lucca, and San Gimignano, each offering its own charm. Don't miss the Leaning Tower of Pisa or the Siena Cathedral, and spend time in the picturesque public squares like Piazza del Campo, Piazza della Signoria, and Piazza del Duomo.For off-the-beaten-path adventures, discover medieval hilltop villages such as Sorano, or head to the Maremma coast for scenic beaches and bold wines. Tuscany also shines in its culinary excellence, boasting 41 Michelin-starred restaurants—including 1 three-star, 5 two-star, and 35 one-star establishments.Tourissimo Tip–3 places in Tuscany you didn't know existed: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/three-places-in-tuscany-you-did-not-know-existedUmbriaUmbria, often called the "Green Heart of Italy," is the country's only completely landlocked region, nestled between Tuscany, Lazio, and Le Marche. Though it lacks large cities, Umbria more than makes up for it with breathtaking natural beauty, medieval towns, and a rich culinary tradition.One of Umbria's most impressive sights is the Cascata delle Marmore (Marmore Falls)—the second tallest waterfall in Europe. Nature lovers and photographers alike will be amazed by its dramatic 165-meter drop. The region is also home to Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, one of Italy's most revered saints, and a major pilgrimage destination.Food lovers will delight in Umbria's hearty, earthy cuisine, featuring lentils, mushroom-based dishes, cured meats, and the prized black truffle (Tartufo Nero di Norcia). Pair these specialties with a glass of Sagrantino di Montefalco, a robust red wine unique to the region.Umbria's culinary excellence is further reflected in its four Michelin-starred restaurants: Casa Vissani, Vespasia, Ada, and Elementi. Each holds one Michelin star, offering refined takes on the region's rustic flavors.Tourissimo Tip–Norcia is definitely one of Italy's culinary gems: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/norcia-one-of-italys-culinary-gemsMarcheLocated in central Italy on the Adriatic side, Marche is a beautiful region with a population of 1 million people, known for its charming towns, rich history, and welcoming, hardworking culture. The region offers stunning destinations like Urbino and Ancona, along with pristine beaches such as Spiaggia della Due Sorelle, Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo, Mezzavalle, and the Riviera del Conero, not to mention many picturesque nature reserves.Must-see landmarks include Castello di Gradara, Palazzo Ducale di Urbino, the Sanctuary of the Holy House of Loreto, Cattedrale di San Ciriaco, Tempio del Valadier, and the breathtaking underground Frasassi Caves. Marche's favorite cities and nearby towns also include Gubbio, Assisi, Perugia, Orvieto, and Cascia.For those drawn to religious history, highlights include the Papal Basilica of Saint Francis, the Sacred Convent of Saint Francis, Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, and Basilica di Santa Chiara in Assisi, as well as the Basilica of Santa Rita da Cascia. History lovers should visit Rocca Paolina, Piazza IV Novembre, Fontana Maggiore, Piazza del Comune, and Grotta di Monte Cucco, while museums like Narni Sotterranea, the National Gallery, and Nobile Collegio del Cambio offer rich cultural experiences.This region is famous for its culinary tradition, especially its mastery of seafood, and is home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants — including Uliassi in Senigallia, proudly holding three Michelin stars, along with one two-star and five one-star establishments. No visit would be complete without tasting Olive all'Ascolana, fried stuffed olives that perfectly capture Marche's local flavor. All of this, combined with the region's natural beauty and warm, fun, and friendly locals, makes Marche a truly unforgettable destination in the heart of Italy.Tourissimo Tip–Ascoli Piceno, the town where the Ascoli olive is from, is beautiful, especially at night when it appears to glow: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/ascoli-piceno-the-italian-town-that-glows-at-nightLazioLazio, one of Italy's central regions, though often considered a southern region by Italians, is a place rich with history, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems. At its heart is the capital city of Rome, a destination overflowing with opportunities for exploration. Essential sites include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Roman Forum, Spanish Steps, St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and countless other remarkable attractions. No visit to Rome is complete without savoring its famous dishes, including Cacio e Pepe — a creamy cheese and pepper pasta — along with local favorites like Spaghetti alla Gricia, Pasta all'Amatriciana, and Pasta Carbonara, best enjoyed with a glass of crisp Frascati wine while taking in views of the Colosseum. Lazio as a whole has 107 two-star Michelin restaurants and 105 one-star restaurants. If you find yourself in the Trastevere neighborhood, there are many wonderful popular restaurants, including La Scaletta and Le Mani in Pasta.Another must-see is Vatican City, home to the Vatican and its world-renowned religious and artistic treasures. In December 2025, Rome will host the Jubilee, or Holy Year — a significant Catholic Church event focused on forgiveness, reconciliation, and spiritual renewal, held only once every 25 years and drawing pilgrims from across the globe.Beyond Rome, Lazio offers a beautiful coastline and peaceful countryside, perfect for travelers seeking quieter escapes. Among its hidden gems is Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman city that once served as the bustling port of Rome, located at the mouth of the Tiber River. With its blend of legendary landmarks, culinary traditions, religious significance, and off-the-beaten-path treasures, Lazio is a captivating region waiting to be explored.Tourissimo Tip–There's a wonderful project underway to create a cycle path around the perimeter of Rome: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/cycling-in-rome-grab-a-bike-and-bike-the-grabAbruzzoAbruzzo, known as Italy's green region, lies in the central-eastern part of the country and boasts a stunning combination of mountains, coastline, and unspoiled nature. Along the beautiful Trabocchi Coast, visitors can admire the historic trabocchi — ingenious wooden fishing structures built by fishermen centuries ago to safely fish the Adriatic waters, many of which have now been converted into charming seaside restaurants where you can dine on fresh seafood while suspended above the waves with sunsets as your backdrop. When it comes to dining, Abruzzo currently boasts four Michelin-starred restaurants; there are three 1-star restaurants and one 3-star restaurant. Food lovers shouldn't miss Arrosticini, the region's famous grilled lamb skewers, or a glass of bold Montepulciano d'Abruzzo red wine. Outdoor enthusiasts have countless opportunities for adventure, from swimming at the Stiffe Caves and strolling the Ponte del Mare to relaxing on the beaches of Riserva Naturale Guidata Punta Aderci and hiking to the iconic Rocca Calascio. Lakeside escapes await at Lago di Scanno and Lago di Barrea, while the towering Gran Sasso d'Italia and the expansive Parco Nazionale d'Abruzzo, and Lazio e Molise offer breathtaking scenery and pristine trails. The region is home to many national parks — Abruzzo, Lazio, Molise National Park, Gran Sasso and Laga Mountains National Park, and Maiella National Park — perfect for hiking, biking, trail running, and spotting the highest peaks of the Apennine Mountain Range. Cyclists can enjoy the Bike to Coast cycle path, a 131 km (81.4 mile) route running along the Adriatic coast from Pescara to Vasto. History and architecture lovers will appreciate sites like Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio, Centro Storico di Sulmona, Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere, and the Medieval Village of Pacentro. For a uniquely tranquil experience, visit the enchanting Gardens of Ninfa. Abruzzo is also a fabulous winter skiing destination and keeps traditions alive with events like Transumanza, the seasonal migration of livestock, primarily sheep, between the high-altitude pastures of the region. With its mountain majesty, historic villages, flavorful cuisine, and coastal charm, Abruzzo offers something unforgettable for every traveler.Tourissimo Tips:More info on the trabocchi coast: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/abruzzos-trabocchi-coastAbruzzo Bike to Coast is a beautiful bike path along the coast: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/cycling-along-abruzzos-coastMoliseOne of Italy's most untouched and lesser-known regions, Molise is famously nicknamed “the region that doesn't exist,” though it's rich in history, traditions, and natural beauty. This quiet region offers a mix of beaches and mountains, including part of the National Park of Abruzzo within the Apennines mountain range, filled with abundant wildlife, hiking trails, and winter ski opportunities. Tourissimo Tip–The Region That Doesn't Exist: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-italian-region-that-doesnt-existThe capital city, Campobasso, is home to notable sites like Monforte Castle and several Romanesque churches, while the charming coastal town of Termoli draws visitors for its beaches, trabucchi (historic fishing huts now serving fresh seafood), and local specialties like brodetto, a traditional seafood stew. Along the Molise coast in Termoli, dining at a trabucchi offers fresh catches with a side of Adriatic views. History buffs should visit the Samnite ruins in the Pietrabbondante archaeological area, the well-preserved Saepinum Archaeological Area, and landmarks like Lago di Castel San Vincenzo, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Purification, Monforte Castle, and the Basilica of Saint Mary of Sorrow. A must-see is the Marinelli Bell Foundry, founded in 1339. It's the oldest continuously operating bell foundry in the world, Italy's oldest family business, and the official provider of bells to the Vatican. Food lovers can sample Cavatelli, a local pasta specialty, paired with Tintilia, a rare red wine unique to Molise. The region is also home to seven one-star Michelin restaurants and several local food tours that showcase its rustic culinary traditions. While Molise's quiet charm and untouched landscapes make it a special destination, visitors should note that English is not widely spoken, making it a truly authentic Italian experience for those eager to explore one of the country's hidden gems.Southern Italy: Sun, Sea, and Ancient WondersCampania The birthplace of Neapolitan pizza, the Mediterranean Diet, and Mozzarella di Bufala, Campania is one of Italy's most vibrant and culturally rich regions. Home to the bustling regional capital Naples (Napoli), it boasts some of the country's most iconic destinations, including Pompeii, the stunning Amalfi Coast, and the tranquil Cilento Coast.Along the sparkling, deep-blue waters of the Golfo di Napoli, you'll find must-visit coastal towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, as well as the famous islands of Ischia, Capri, and the colorful Procida. Visitors can hike the breathtaking Path of the Gods, explore the hauntingly preserved ruins of Archaeological Pompeii, forever shadowed by the gray cone of Mt. Vesuvius, and savor the region's culinary gems like ultra-fresh seafood and crisp Falanghina wine.History and culture lovers shouldn't miss Sansevero Chapel Museum, San Carlo Theatre, the Catacombs of San Gennaro, and the lush Villa Cimbrone Gardens. Campania also impresses with its historic castles, including the Royal Palace of Caserta, Ovo Castle, and Castello Aragonese d'Ischia. Wine enthusiasts should head to the province of Avellino, known for producing some of the best wines in southern Italy.Tourissimo Tip–Wine is also grown inland on the Amalfi Coast, and there are some vines that are 250 years old (pre-phylloxera): https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/old-vines-on-the-amalfi-coastNature lovers will be drawn to the Cilento, Vallo di Diano, and Alburni National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and cultural heritage, featuring ancient ruins like Paestum and Velia, the majestic Padula Charterhouse, and idyllic coastal villages.Campania is also a paradise for food lovers, home to 51 Michelin-starred restaurants, including one three-star, eight two-star, and forty-two one-star establishments. From world-famous landmarks to hidden treasures, Campania offers an irresistible blend of history, nature, food, and coastal charm.CalabriaWith its rugged coastlines, dramatic landscapes, and hidden treasures, Calabria is a must-visit region in southern Italy. Known for its bold flavors and rich culinary traditions, visitors should sample 'Nduja, a spicy, spreadable sausage paste, and the region's famous Calabrian chiles. The local cuisine embraces cucina povera, a tradition of simple, hearty dishes featuring handmade pasta made with just flour and water. Calabria offers a growing fine dining scene with six one-star Michelin restaurants. For nature lovers, Calabria is home to three stunning national parks — Sila, Aspromonte, and Pollino — ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and immersing in untouched landscapes. Along the coast, Capo Vaticano stands out as one of the world's most beautiful beaches, offering breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters. History buffs and castle enthusiasts can explore impressive fortresses like Castello Ruffo di Scilla, Castello Murat, Castello di Le Castella, and Castello Aragonese. Don't miss charming towns and villages such as Tropea, famous for its clifftop views and beaches, as well as Scilla, Pentedattilo, and Le Castella. With its authentic culture, stunning coastlines, flavorful cuisine, and rich history, Calabria remains one of Italy's most captivating yet underrated regions.Tourissimo Tip–Way off the beaten path, lies a  unique museum in Mammola, Calabria https://calabriastraordinaria.it/en/news/visit-to-musaba-the-sistine-chapel-of-calabriaPugliaKnown as the Maldives of Italy, Puglia is a sun-drenched region celebrated for its whitewashed hill towns, ancient olive groves, and miles of stunning coastline. With a dry Mediterranean climate and scenery that often feels more Greek than Italian, Puglia is famed for its beaches in Salento, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside towns. One of its most iconic sights is the fairytale-like trulli houses of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This region is also a food lover's paradise, offering specialties like Orecchiette pasta with turnip greens, the classic Fave e Cicoria (fava bean purée with wild chicory), and fresh seafood paired with crisp vegetables. Wine lovers can savor Primitivo, a bold local red. For fine dining, the region boasts nine one-star Michelin restaurants, blending rustic flavors with refined culinary creativity.Puglia is dotted with unique cities and towns worth exploring, including Locorotondo, Otranto, Lecce, Monopoli, Ostuni, Gallipoli, Bari, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare. Nature and history enthusiasts will enjoy visiting extraordinary sites like the Grotte di Castellana, the dramatic Cave of Poetry, the ancient Basilica San Nicola, and the scenic Gargano Peninsula. With its thousand-year-old olive trees, Puglia is the largest olive oil producer in the world, known for its strong, spicy oils. The locals here are famously warm and welcoming, going out of their way to make visitors feel at home.Puglia's blend of natural beauty, rich tradition, and heartfelt hospitality makes it one of Italy's most captivating and underrated destinations.Tourissimo Tip–Here are some of the gems of Puglia: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/some-of-the-gems-of-pugliaBasilicataBasilicata, a remote yet captivating region with a population of just 500,000, offers a wealth of unique experiences despite its secluded location. Among its most intriguing destinations are the ghost town of Craco and the ancient cave city of Matera, both steeped in history and cinematic charm. Other towns worth visiting include Maratea and Palombaroa, each offering its own cultural and scenic appeal.Tourissimo Tip–Matera is magical! https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/destination-highlight-matera-the-city-of-stonesThe region is rich in historical and religious landmarks, such as the Crypt of Original Sin with its remarkable frescoes, and the medieval Melfi Castle. Don't miss the towering Statue of Christ the Redeemer in Maratea, a striking monument that overlooks the Tyrrhenian coast.For a taste of local flavor, try Peperoni Cruschi—crispy, sun-dried peppers that are a beloved regional delicacy. Basilicata is also known for its exceptional wines, especially the bold, full-bodied reds of Aglianico del Vulture DOC, made primarily from the Aglianico grape. White wine lovers will appreciate the region's Greco di Tufo and Fiano varietals as well. Basilicata also has a total of 14 one-star Michelin restaurants. Adventurers can experience an adrenaline rush on The Angel's Flight, a giant zip line that offers stunning views and a thrilling ride through the Lucanian landscape.SicilySicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a world of its own, offering a diverse landscape of coastlines, mountains, and magical towns such as Cefalù, Palermo, Taormina, Catania, Noto, Agrigento, and Syracuse. Palermo serves as the cultural and diplomatic capital of the region, while Catania stands as its business hub.A volcanic island and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sicily boasts a rich collection of cultural and natural treasures. Highlights include the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples, the active volcano Mount Etna, the stunning Duomo di Cefalù, and the picturesque islands of Stromboli, Bella, and Ortigia. The region is also home to the renowned Baroque Triangle in the Val di Noto region of southeastern Sicily, where the eight towns of Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, Modica, Noto, Palazzolo Acreide, Ragusa, and Scicli have been recognized by UNESCO for their outstanding examples of late Baroque architecture.Sicily's culinary scene is just as impressive. Indulge in traditional Sicilian cannoli, filled with sheep's milk ricotta cheese and always stuffed fresh to order. Take a street food tour to savor local favorites like arancini, and don't miss sipping on a glass of Nero d'Avola, one of Sicily's most famous wines. The region is also internationally celebrated for its top-tier agriculture and winemaking.For a taste of authentic Italian charm beyond the tourist trail, explore the towns featured in I Borghi Più Belli d'Italia—Italy's list of its most beautiful hidden gems. Tourissimo Tip–This is a great tip for all 20 regions of Italy. Find out more here: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-most-beautiful-small-towns-in-italyFood lovers will be delighted to know that Sicily is also home to 23 Michelin-starred restaurants, including three two-star establishments and twenty with one star.Tourissimo Tip–If you visit Corleone, you should definitely learn about the legacy of the Mafia. We in North America tend to have a romanticized view of the mafia, but for the locals, the history is more brutal. See some photos and learn more here: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/letizia-battaglia-groundbreaking-photojournalist-who-fearlessly-documented-the-mafia-in-her-native-sicilySardiniaSardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily, is a rugged, rural paradise known for its natural beauty, deep-rooted traditions, and ancient history. The island is home to features like the Apennine Coast, the Adriatic Coast, and the Apennine Mountains. Most of Sardinia's population lives in the capital region of Cagliari, but much of the island remains untouched, offering visitors a glimpse into authentic Italian island life.One of Sardinia's most fascinating distinctions is that the Barbagia region is recognized as a Blue Zone—an area with an unusually high number of centenarians. This longevity is attributed to the region's healthy diet, active lifestyle, and strong sense of community. For outdoor enthusiasts, inland Sardinia offers some of the best biking and hiking experiences in all of Italy.Tourissimo Tip–What is a Blue Zone? https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/blue-zoneThe island's coastlines are just as enticing. Costa Smeralda is often described as paradise on earth, with stunning beaches like Spiaggia di Tuerredda, Cala Goloritzé, and Spiaggia di Porto Giunco perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Don't miss the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park (Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena), a protected area with crystal-clear waters and pristine landscapes.Charming towns such as Alghero, Bosa, and Cagliari add to the island's appeal. Many of Sardinia's towns are nestled in the mountains located in the island's center, offering a peaceful and scenic escape.Cultural and historical attractions abound. Must-see sites include the Nora Archaeological Park, Bastione di Saint Remy, Parco Archeologico Naturalistico di Santa Cristina, and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Cagliari. For an unforgettable natural wonder, venture into the Frecce delle grotte srl and Neptune's Grotto, stunning sea caves accessible by boat or stairs carved into cliffs.Sardinia is also home to a unique ancient civilization. Scattered across the island are over 7,000 nuraghe—megalithic stone structures built during the Nuragic Age (c. 1900–730 BC). These mysterious, tower-like buildings are the island's most iconic symbol, and some scholars believe there were once over 10,000 nuraghe structures in total.Religious architecture also impresses, with highlights like the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e Santa Cecilia, the Church of the Holy Trinity of Saccargia, and the Basilica di San Simplicio showcasing Sardinia's spiritual and artistic heritage.Sardinian cuisine reflects its mountainous geography. Surprisingly, for an island, the diet leans more toward land-based ingredients than seafood. Signature dishes include Porceddu (roast pig), Fregola (a traditional Sardinian pasta), and the adventurous Casu marzu—a sheep's milk cheese intentionally infested with live maggots and considered a local delicacy. Sardinia also holds 16 one-star Michelin restaurants.To accompany these flavors, try a glass of Cannonau red wine, known for its high polyphenol content and potential health benefits, or the refreshing Vermentino white wine, perfect for warm Mediterranean days.Tourissimo Tip–Magic Trick or Pasta Making? https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/magic-trick-or-pasta-making From the Alps to the Mediterranean, each Italian region is a world of its own. Want to see it all? Check out Tourissimo's amazing trip planning and Italian information at tourissimo.travel! Buon viaggio!From the Alps to the Mediterranean, each Italian region is a world of its own. Want to see it all? Check out Tourissimo's amazing trip planning and Italian information at tourissimo.travel! Buon viaggio! 

100 RUNS OF A LIFETIME Bart Yasso, the “Mayor of Running” brings us a travel guide featuring the world's ultimate Races and trails. Runners of all skill levels—even those going from couch to 5k—will find something unforgettable among these 100 runs and races, including all six of the iconic World Marathon Majors to courses that traverse Hawaii, Iceland, and Italy's stunning Amalfi Coast. This extraordinary guidebook contains 100 of the best running routes around the globe. With one-of-a-kind experiences for every type of runner, from novices to seasoned marathoners, runners will find the best routes for scenic views, on-course entertainment, and new PRs.Become a supporter of this podcast: https://www.spreaker.com/podcast/arroe-collins-like-it-s-live--4113802/support.

Step into the world of Italian hotels where everything (except the hospitality) is smaller than what you're probably used to. In this episode we let you know the quirks and thrills when it comes to staying at a hotel in Italy.Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/271NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania and Lazio with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

Deviating slightly from the episode we expected to make, this week we're talking about the Amalfi Coast. We've touched on it slightly before, but with the summer season starting to ramp up, we wanted to talk about how to get to this popular summer destination, things to look out for, some pastries to try, and how to not get trapped out there! If you'd like to support Only A Bag and you're headed to the Amalfi Coast (or anywhere!) you can use our Booking.com link to book your next trip! And if you'd like to donate, you can do so at our Ko-fi (pronounced "coffee"), linked here. Thank you so much for listening! WebsiteInstagramBluesky

Sicily on your mind? If it's not, perhaps it should be. Hear the travel stories of exploring this wonderful island from our guest Brie, who listened to her heart and headed to Sicily for countless adventures on land and by sea. Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/270NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Veneto, Lombardy, Campania and Lazio with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

Beppe, a native Italian, started his journey in active travel over two decades ago and, with the help of his wife Heather, co-founded Tourissimo, one of the top adventure travel companies in Italy. With years of expertise designing cycling and adventure tours across all 20 regions of Italy, Beppe and Heather have the inside scoop on the most authentic and unforgettable experiences Italy has to offer.So grab your espresso (or a glass of vino Italiano), and let's explore Italy region by region!Northern Italy: Adventure, Culture, and Alpine BeautyLombardy (Lombardia)Running along the Swiss border, Lombardy is Italy's largest and wealthiest region—a land of striking contrasts and cultural riches. Home to nearly 10 million people, Lombardy contains 12 of Italy's largest cities: Milan, Bergamo, Brescia, Como, Mantua, Pavia, Cremona, Lecco, Lodi, Monza, Sondrio, and Varese. The region blends modern sophistication with old-world charm, from the fashion capital and bustling metropolis of Milan to the serene, postcard-perfect landscapes of Lake Como.Lombardy is dotted with some of Italy's most beloved lakes, including Lake Maggiore, Lake Como, Lake Garda, Lake Iseo, Lake Idro, and many more. Picturesque villages like Bellagio offer sun-drenched escapes along Lake Como's shores, while the medieval towns of Bergamo and Mantova enchant visitors with cobblestone streets, sweeping views, and centuries of history.Culinary lovers will be spoiled for choice with Lombardy's 60 Michelin-starred restaurants—3 with three stars, 6 with two stars, and 51 with one star. Be sure to savor the region's iconic Risotto alla Milanese, a creamy saffron-infused dish that's a local staple. Wine enthusiasts won't want to miss a glass of Franciacorta, Italy's sparkling answer to Champagne.November is a wonderful time to visit, with cooler temperatures and fewer tourists. It's also the perfect season to explore Lombardy's slice of the Alps, where charming mountain towns await nestled among the peaks. For an unforgettable adventure, consider attending the 2025 Winter Olympics, which will be held in Milan-Cortina d'Ampezzo!Tourissimo Tip– If you are flying into Milan, select the correct airport because Milan has two airports! For info, check out the following Tourissimo blog: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/avoid-this-common-travel-mistake-know-milans-two-airportsVenetoVeneto, the birthplace of Prosecco, Polenta, and the iconic Spritz, is a region rich in charm, culture, and culinary delights. Stretching from the Italian Riviera to the Venetian Pre-Alps and the stunning Dolomites, Veneto is home to both natural beauty and historic towns. Its capital, the enchanting floating city of Venice, is world-famous for its canals, gondolas, labyrinthine streets, and undeniable romance.Each of Venice's islands offers something special: admire the colorful houses of Burano, renowned for its lace-making traditions; visit Murano, celebrated for its centuries-old glassblowing artistry; and soak up the peaceful atmosphere of Torcello. Exploring these islands by vaporetto (water bus) offers a quieter, more authentic glimpse into Venetian life. Tourissimo Tip–For a few more suggestions, check out Tourissimo's blog on the Venetian Lagoon: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/our-favorite-destinations-in-the-venetian-lagoonBeyond Venice, Veneto boasts a treasure trove of picturesque towns. Verona, Padua, Vicenza, and Asolo each offer their own distinct history and beauty. Visit Castelfranco Veneto for a charming escape or head to Bardolino to enjoy a boat ride on Italy's largest lake, Lago di Garda. Stroll the waterfront in Castelletto sul Garda or circle the freshwater moat of Cittadella, a red-brick medieval town full of character.In the countryside, the hills of Prosecco promise stunning vineyard views, while the medieval town of Montagnana offers a taste of the past. Nature lovers can visit the volcanic Euganean Hills in Este, and cheese lovers shouldn't miss the small town of Asiago, home to one of Italy's most famous cheeses.Veneto's culinary scene shines with 34 Michelin-starred restaurants—2 with three stars, 3 with two stars, and 29 with one star. Indulge in local specialties like Bigoli in Salsa, a hearty Venetian pasta with anchovy sauce, and toast with a glass of Prosecco, Grappa, or the regional favorite, the Select Spritz. And don't forget—Venetians love to celebrate, so let loose and join the party!Tourissimo Tips–Another fun suggestion is Veneto Marostica, the City of Chess, where they do a living chess match with hundreds of people dressed in medieval costumes every two years: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/marostica-the-city-of-chessPiedmont (Piemonte)Nestled at the foot of the Alps and bordered on three sides by the Mediterranean Sea, Piedmont is one of Italy's most underrated gems. With a diverse landscape that offers adventure and beauty year-round, this region is perfect for both winter skiing and summer hiking and biking, thanks to its stunning Alpine scenery.But Piedmont isn't just about breathtaking views—it's steeped in rich history and cultural significance. As the first capital of Italy, it boasts grand palaces, remarkable art, and sacred relics like the famed Shroud of Turin. The capital city of Turin is a vibrant hub, home to Europe's largest outdoor food market and the monthly Gran Balon flea market, a haven for vintage and antique lovers.Venture beyond the city and you'll discover a region bursting with charm and flavor. Tour the Langhe Hills, a paradise for vineyard visits, and sample Bagna Cauda, a warm anchovy and garlic dip beloved by locals. Wander the lakeside town of Stresa on Lake Maggiore, or stroll the cobbled streets of Neive, where views of rolling hills and storybook cottages create an unforgettable setting. In Asti, you can witness the September medieval horse races and visit the majestic Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e San Gottardo. For a true fairy-tale escape, head to Macugnaga in the valley of Monte Rosa, a perfect base for both skiing and hiking. And just outside of Turin lies the hidden gem of Lake Orta, a peaceful retreat away from the crowds.Piedmont's culinary scene is just as spectacular. With 35 Michelin-starred restaurants—2 with three stars, 3 with two stars, and 30 with one star—the region is a paradise for food lovers. Dine in Alba during white truffle season (September to January), and savor iconic regional dishes like Agnolotti del Plin and Coniglio Arrosto. Wine enthusiasts will be in heaven here—Piedmont is the land of Barolo, the "king of wines," and Barbaresco, two of Italy's most prestigious reds.Tourissimo Tips:Piedmont is home to the Slow Food movement: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/why-piedmont-is-renowned-for-its-slow-foodTourissimo Tip–Check out this blog for a guide to a day of eating in Turin: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/a-day-of-eating-in-turinTourissimo Tip–One of the Best Meals of Your Life will be at the Piazza Duomo in Alba!Emilia-RomagnaLocated in central Italy along the Adriatic coast, Emilia-Romagna is a vibrant and diverse region known for its perfect blend of “slow food” and “fast cars.” This area is considered both the culinary and automotive capital of Italy, offering rich traditions, warm hospitality, and unforgettable experiences.Food lovers will be in heaven here. Emilia-Romagna is the birthplace of iconic Italian delicacies such as Mortadella, Tortellini in Brodo, Parmigiano-Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma, traditional Balsamic Vinegar, Lambrusco, and egg-based fresh pastas like lasagna, tortellini, and tagliatelle. A visit to Parma lets you savor authentic Parmigiano-Reggiano and world-class Prosciutto, as well as enjoy the elegant Teatro Regio opera house.The region also has a need for speed—it's home to legendary automotive brands like Ferrari, Lamborghini, and Maserati. For car enthusiasts, the Ferrari Museum in Modena is a must-see. Emilia-Romagna even has a dedicated cycling tourism office, and in summer 2023, it played host to several stages of the Tour de France, which began in nearby Florence.Beyond the food and cars, Emilia-Romagna offers a range of enchanting destinations. The capital city of Bologna is known for its Piazza Maggiore, the Two Towers, and the scenic Santuario Madonna di San Luca. In Ravenna, marvel at the dazzling, colorful mosaics and the historic San Vitale Basilica. Along the coast, vibrant seaside resorts like Cervia, Cesenatico, and Rimini create a lively, carnival-like party atmosphere from late May through September. For a more peaceful experience, explore the medieval gem of Brisighella, a lesser-known treasure full of charm.When it comes to fine dining, Emilia-Romagna doesn't disappoint. The region boasts 24 Michelin-starred restaurants, including one three-star, three two-star, and twenty one-star establishments. Visitors are often struck by the warmth and generosity of the locals—some of the most hospitable people in Italy—who express their love through exceptional food and outstanding service.Tourissimo Tips:Did you know that there is a whole other country within Emilia Romagna? https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/san-marino-the-other-small-country-within-italyTourissimo Tip–Pietra di Bismantova was an inspiration for Dante: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/pietra-di-bismantova-the-inspiration-for-dantes-purgatoryTourissimo Tip–You can cross the Rubicon: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/crossing-the-rubiconTrentino-South TyrolNestled along Italy's northern border with Switzerland, Trentino–South Tyrol is a stunning mountainous region that blends Italian and Austrian influences, making it a top destination for nature lovers and outdoor enthusiasts. With its striking Alpine scenery, exceptional cuisine, and rich cultural duality, this region offers the best of both worlds.The South Tyrol capital, Bolzano, is renowned for having the highest quality of life in Italy, combining the clean, efficient infrastructure often associated with Germany with the flavorful food and spirited lifestyle of Italian culture.Outdoor adventurers will be captivated by the Dolomites, with their dramatic limestone peaks—ideal for hiking, skiing, and breathtaking vistas. Don't miss the Alpe di Siusi, Europe's largest Alpine meadow, which is especially stunning in spring and summer. Explore shimmering Lake Garda and uncover the region's medieval past through spectacular castles like Schloss Tirol, Castel Roncolo, and Castel d'Appiano.Tourissimo Tip–An off-the-beaten-path outdoor paradise can be found in the Alps of Trentino. Check out the Val di Sole. This is one of the areas that Beppe and Heather regularly go to on their personal vacations in Italy: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-wild-dolomitesThe culinary offerings here reflect the region's unique blend of cultures. Traditional dishes range from Bratwurst and Goulash to Italian-style pastas with hearty meats like deer. Foodies should try Speck, a savory smoked ham, perfectly paired with a glass of Gewürztraminer, a fragrant white wine native to the area. The region also produces excellent white wines and lighter reds that pair beautifully with its alpine cuisine.When it comes to fine dining, Trentino–South Tyrol excels with 33 Michelin-starred restaurants, including three three-star, five two-star, and twenty-five one-star establishments, making it one of Italy's most impressive gourmet regions.LiguriaLocated along Italy's rugged northwestern coastline, Liguria—also known as the Italian Riviera—boasts dramatic cliffs, colorful seaside villages, and incredible culinary traditions. The region is best known for the five picturesque villages of Cinque Terre, as well as the glamorous resort towns of Portofino and Santa Margherita Ligure.Tourissimo Tip– If you visit the Cinque Terre, don't forget to look up, and hike up away from the crowds to see the heroic vineyards: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-heroic-winemaking-of-the-cinque-terreBecause of the narrow, winding roads with steep drop-offs, many travelers prefer to explore the region via the local train or by public or private boat. If you're planning to hike the famous trails, be aware that entrance permits are now required due to landslides and overtourism.In the regional capital of Genoa, dive into maritime history, visit the iconic San Lorenzo Cathedral, and wander the city's old port area. Just outside Genoa, discover the secluded San Fruttuoso Abbey, accessible only by boat or footpath. In Vernazza, one of the Cinque Terre towns, visit the Doria Castle and the beautiful Santa Margherita Church.Liguria is also a celebrity hotspot, and its cuisine is just as impressive as its scenery. Known as the birthplace of pesto, the region is famous for Pesto alla Genovese, made with a special local basil. Be sure to try the region's olive oil, garlic, cheeses, and exceptional seafood, especially the anchovies. Other regional specialties include Focaccia di Recco, a cheese-filled flatbread, and lighter olive oils that perfectly complement Ligurian dishes.For fine dining, Liguria is home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants, all with one star, offering refined cuisine rooted in the region's coastal and agricultural traditions.Friuli-Venezia Giulia (Friuli)Tucked between Veneto, Austria, and Slovenia, Friuli-Venezia Giulia is a lesser-known gem that offers a unique blend of Alpine landscapes, rich cultural heritage, and coastal charm. The region features part of the Dolomites, ideal for hiking, skiing, and capturing breathtaking scenery.The capital, Trieste, is a refined port city with a fascinating blend of Italian, Austro-Hungarian, and Slavic influences. Don't miss the Miramare Castle, perched over the sea with stunning views. In Cividale del Friuli, stroll through cobbled streets and sample Frico, a savory, crispy dish made of cheese and potatoes, best enjoyed with a glass of Schioppettino, a bold red wine native to the region.For outdoor adventures and relaxation, spend a beach day at Lignano Sabbiadoro, camp in Sistiana, bike the trails around Grado, or explore the ancient Roman ruins in Aquileia, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Be sure to visit the enormous Grotta Gigante (Giant Cave), stroll through Unity of Italy Square, and tour the Revoltella Museum for modern art.Friuli-Venezia Giulia is also home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants, including two two-star establishments and five one-star venues, reflecting the region's quiet but impressive culinary scene.Tourissimo Tip– A hotel that Heather and Beppe love in Cormons is La Subida. It's a unique, high-end, and rustic property nestled in nature that boasts a 1-Michelin star restaurant: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/hotels-we-love-la-subidaAosta ValleyNestled in the northwestern tip of Italy, where it borders Switzerland and France, the Aosta Valley is Italy's smallest and highest region—a true mountain paradise. This alpine jewel is renowned for its dramatic snowcapped peaks, storybook castles, and a unique blend of French and Italian culture, as both languages are spoken here.The region is home to Mont Blanc (Monte Bianco), Europe's highest peak, which straddles the borders of Italy, France, and Switzerland. While the summit lies on the French side, visitors on the Italian side can experience the Skyway Monte Bianco, a breathtaking cable car ride offering panoramic views of the Alps.Key landmarks include the striking Matterhorn, the impressive Fénis and Savoy Castles, and the Bard Fortress, one of the largest and most remarkable fortifications in the Alps. After a day in the mountains, relax in one of the region's thermal spas, and indulge in Fonduta, a rich, velvety cheese fondue perfect for chilly alpine evenings.Wine lovers should sample the region's distinctive red mountain wines, especially Enfer d'Arvier, known for its bold flavor and high-altitude character.Tourissimo Tip–A fun tradition is the Friendship Cup, a communal cup of coffee: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-friendship-cup-of-valle-daostaCentral Italy: History, Art, and Rolling HillsTuscany (Toscana)Tuscany, the heart of the Renaissance, is a captivating region of rolling hills, cypress-lined roads, vineyards, and timeless art and architecture. Located just below Italy's northern regions, it's a haven for art lovers, history buffs, and food and wine enthusiasts alike. From Chianti to Brunello di Montalcino, the region offers a wide variety of world-class wines.The regional capital, Florence, is one of Italy's most walkable and safe major cities, making it ideal for solo travelers. Admire its architectural wonders while sipping on Chianti Classico and indulging in a local favorite—Bistecca alla Fiorentina. Must-see landmarks in Florence include the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore (Duomo), Ponte Vecchio, Palazzo Vecchio, the Uffizi Gallery, and the Galleria dell'Accademia, home to Michelangelo's David. For iconic views, head to Piazzale Michelangelo.Beyond Florence, explore the historic cities of Siena, Lucca, and San Gimignano, each offering its own charm. Don't miss the Leaning Tower of Pisa or the Siena Cathedral, and spend time in the picturesque public squares like Piazza del Campo, Piazza della Signoria, and Piazza del Duomo.For off-the-beaten-path adventures, discover medieval hilltop villages such as Sorano, or head to the Maremma coast for scenic beaches and bold wines. Tuscany also shines in its culinary excellence, boasting 41 Michelin-starred restaurants—including 1 three-star, 5 two-star, and 35 one-star establishments.Tourissimo Tip–3 places in Tuscany you didn't know existed: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/three-places-in-tuscany-you-did-not-know-existedUmbriaUmbria, often called the "Green Heart of Italy," is the country's only completely landlocked region, nestled between Tuscany, Lazio, and Le Marche. Though it lacks large cities, Umbria more than makes up for it with breathtaking natural beauty, medieval towns, and a rich culinary tradition.One of Umbria's most impressive sights is the Cascata delle Marmore (Marmore Falls)—the second tallest waterfall in Europe. Nature lovers and photographers alike will be amazed by its dramatic 165-meter drop. The region is also home to Assisi, the birthplace of St. Francis, one of Italy's most revered saints, and a major pilgrimage destination.Food lovers will delight in Umbria's hearty, earthy cuisine, featuring lentils, mushroom-based dishes, cured meats, and the prized black truffle (Tartufo Nero di Norcia). Pair these specialties with a glass of Sagrantino di Montefalco, a robust red wine unique to the region.Umbria's culinary excellence is further reflected in its four Michelin-starred restaurants: Casa Vissani, Vespasia, Ada, and Elementi. Each holds one Michelin star, offering refined takes on the region's rustic flavors.Tourissimo Tip–Norcia is definitely one of Italy's culinary gems: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/norcia-one-of-italys-culinary-gemsMarcheLocated in central Italy on the Adriatic side, Marche is a beautiful region with a population of 1 million people, known for its charming towns, rich history, and welcoming, hardworking culture. The region offers stunning destinations like Urbino and Ancona, along with pristine beaches such as Spiaggia della Due Sorelle, Parco Naturale Monte San Bartolo, Mezzavalle, and the Riviera del Conero, not to mention many picturesque nature reserves.Must-see landmarks include Castello di Gradara, Palazzo Ducale di Urbino, the Sanctuary of the Holy House of Loreto, Cattedrale di San Ciriaco, Tempio del Valadier, and the breathtaking underground Frasassi Caves. Marche's favorite cities and nearby towns also include Gubbio, Assisi, Perugia, Orvieto, and Cascia.For those drawn to religious history, highlights include the Papal Basilica of Saint Francis, the Sacred Convent of Saint Francis, Basilica di Santa Maria degli Angeli, and Basilica di Santa Chiara in Assisi, as well as the Basilica of Santa Rita da Cascia. History lovers should visit Rocca Paolina, Piazza IV Novembre, Fontana Maggiore, Piazza del Comune, and Grotta di Monte Cucco, while museums like Narni Sotterranea, the National Gallery, and Nobile Collegio del Cambio offer rich cultural experiences.This region is famous for its culinary tradition, especially its mastery of seafood, and is home to seven Michelin-starred restaurants — including Uliassi in Senigallia, proudly holding three Michelin stars, along with one two-star and five one-star establishments. No visit would be complete without tasting Olive all'Ascolana, fried stuffed olives that perfectly capture Marche's local flavor. All of this, combined with the region's natural beauty and warm, fun, and friendly locals, makes Marche a truly unforgettable destination in the heart of Italy.Tourissimo Tip–Ascoli Piceno, the town where the Ascoli olive is from, is beautiful, especially at night when it appears to glow: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/ascoli-piceno-the-italian-town-that-glows-at-nightLazioLazio, one of Italy's central regions, though often considered a southern region by Italians, is a place rich with history, iconic landmarks, and hidden gems. At its heart is the capital city of Rome, a destination overflowing with opportunities for exploration. Essential sites include the Colosseum, Trevi Fountain, Pantheon, Roman Forum, Spanish Steps, St. Peter's Basilica, the Sistine Chapel, and countless other remarkable attractions. No visit to Rome is complete without savoring its famous dishes, including Cacio e Pepe — a creamy cheese and pepper pasta — along with local favorites like Spaghetti alla Gricia, Pasta all'Amatriciana, and Pasta Carbonara, best enjoyed with a glass of crisp Frascati wine while taking in views of the Colosseum. Lazio as a whole has 107 two-star Michelin restaurants and 105 one-star restaurants. If you find yourself in the Trastevere neighborhood, there are many wonderful popular restaurants, including La Scaletta and Le Mani in Pasta.Another must-see is Vatican City, home to the Vatican and its world-renowned religious and artistic treasures. In December 2025, Rome will host the Jubilee, or Holy Year — a significant Catholic Church event focused on forgiveness, reconciliation, and spiritual renewal, held only once every 25 years and drawing pilgrims from across the globe.Beyond Rome, Lazio offers a beautiful coastline and peaceful countryside, perfect for travelers seeking quieter escapes. Among its hidden gems is Ostia Antica, an ancient Roman city that once served as the bustling port of Rome, located at the mouth of the Tiber River. With its blend of legendary landmarks, culinary traditions, religious significance, and off-the-beaten-path treasures, Lazio is a captivating region waiting to be explored.Tourissimo Tip–There's a wonderful project underway to create a cycle path around the perimeter of Rome: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/cycling-in-rome-grab-a-bike-and-bike-the-grabAbruzzoAbruzzo, known as Italy's green region, lies in the central-eastern part of the country and boasts a stunning combination of mountains, coastline, and unspoiled nature. Along the beautiful Trabocchi Coast, visitors can admire the historic trabocchi — ingenious wooden fishing structures built by fishermen centuries ago to safely fish the Adriatic waters, many of which have now been converted into charming seaside restaurants where you can dine on fresh seafood while suspended above the waves with sunsets as your backdrop. When it comes to dining, Abruzzo currently boasts four Michelin-starred restaurants; there are three 1-star restaurants and one 3-star restaurant. Food lovers shouldn't miss Arrosticini, the region's famous grilled lamb skewers, or a glass of bold Montepulciano d'Abruzzo red wine. Outdoor enthusiasts have countless opportunities for adventure, from swimming at the Stiffe Caves and strolling the Ponte del Mare to relaxing on the beaches of Riserva Naturale Guidata Punta Aderci and hiking to the iconic Rocca Calascio. Lakeside escapes await at Lago di Scanno and Lago di Barrea, while the towering Gran Sasso d'Italia and the expansive Parco Nazionale d'Abruzzo, and Lazio e Molise offer breathtaking scenery and pristine trails. The region is home to many national parks — Abruzzo, Lazio, Molise National Park, Gran Sasso and Laga Mountains National Park, and Maiella National Park — perfect for hiking, biking, trail running, and spotting the highest peaks of the Apennine Mountain Range. Cyclists can enjoy the Bike to Coast cycle path, a 131 km (81.4 mile) route running along the Adriatic coast from Pescara to Vasto. History and architecture lovers will appreciate sites like Basilica di Santa Maria di Collemaggio, Centro Storico di Sulmona, Santo Stefano di Sessanio, Abbey of San Giovanni in Venere, and the Medieval Village of Pacentro. For a uniquely tranquil experience, visit the enchanting Gardens of Ninfa. Abruzzo is also a fabulous winter skiing destination and keeps traditions alive with events like Transumanza, the seasonal migration of livestock, primarily sheep, between the high-altitude pastures of the region. With its mountain majesty, historic villages, flavorful cuisine, and coastal charm, Abruzzo offers something unforgettable for every traveler.Tourissimo Tips:More info on the trabocchi coast: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/abruzzos-trabocchi-coastAbruzzo Bike to Coast is a beautiful bike path along the coast: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/cycling-along-abruzzos-coastMoliseOne of Italy's most untouched and lesser-known regions, Molise is famously nicknamed “the region that doesn't exist,” though it's rich in history, traditions, and natural beauty. This quiet region offers a mix of beaches and mountains, including part of the National Park of Abruzzo within the Apennines mountain range, filled with abundant wildlife, hiking trails, and winter ski opportunities. Tourissimo Tip–The Region That Doesn't Exist: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-italian-region-that-doesnt-existThe capital city, Campobasso, is home to notable sites like Monforte Castle and several Romanesque churches, while the charming coastal town of Termoli draws visitors for its beaches, trabucchi (historic fishing huts now serving fresh seafood), and local specialties like brodetto, a traditional seafood stew. Along the Molise coast in Termoli, dining at a trabucchi offers fresh catches with a side of Adriatic views. History buffs should visit the Samnite ruins in the Pietrabbondante archaeological area, the well-preserved Saepinum Archaeological Area, and landmarks like Lago di Castel San Vincenzo, the Cathedral of Saint Mary of the Purification, Monforte Castle, and the Basilica of Saint Mary of Sorrow. A must-see is the Marinelli Bell Foundry, founded in 1339. It's the oldest continuously operating bell foundry in the world, Italy's oldest family business, and the official provider of bells to the Vatican. Food lovers can sample Cavatelli, a local pasta specialty, paired with Tintilia, a rare red wine unique to Molise. The region is also home to seven one-star Michelin restaurants and several local food tours that showcase its rustic culinary traditions. While Molise's quiet charm and untouched landscapes make it a special destination, visitors should note that English is not widely spoken, making it a truly authentic Italian experience for those eager to explore one of the country's hidden gems.Southern Italy: Sun, Sea, and Ancient WondersCampania The birthplace of Neapolitan pizza, the Mediterranean Diet, and Mozzarella di Bufala, Campania is one of Italy's most vibrant and culturally rich regions. Home to the bustling regional capital Naples (Napoli), it boasts some of the country's most iconic destinations, including Pompeii, the stunning Amalfi Coast, and the tranquil Cilento Coast.Along the sparkling, deep-blue waters of the Golfo di Napoli, you'll find must-visit coastal towns like Positano, Amalfi, and Ravello, as well as the famous islands of Ischia, Capri, and the colorful Procida. Visitors can hike the breathtaking Path of the Gods, explore the hauntingly preserved ruins of Archaeological Pompeii, forever shadowed by the gray cone of Mt. Vesuvius, and savor the region's culinary gems like ultra-fresh seafood and crisp Falanghina wine.History and culture lovers shouldn't miss Sansevero Chapel Museum, San Carlo Theatre, the Catacombs of San Gennaro, and the lush Villa Cimbrone Gardens. Campania also impresses with its historic castles, including the Royal Palace of Caserta, Ovo Castle, and Castello Aragonese d'Ischia. Wine enthusiasts should head to the province of Avellino, known for producing some of the best wines in southern Italy.Tourissimo Tip–Wine is also grown inland on the Amalfi Coast, and there are some vines that are 250 years old (pre-phylloxera): https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/old-vines-on-the-amalfi-coastNature lovers will be drawn to the Cilento, Vallo di Diano, and Alburni National Park, a UNESCO World Heritage Site celebrated for its biodiversity, dramatic landscapes, and cultural heritage, featuring ancient ruins like Paestum and Velia, the majestic Padula Charterhouse, and idyllic coastal villages.Campania is also a paradise for food lovers, home to 51 Michelin-starred restaurants, including one three-star, eight two-star, and forty-two one-star establishments. From world-famous landmarks to hidden treasures, Campania offers an irresistible blend of history, nature, food, and coastal charm.CalabriaWith its rugged coastlines, dramatic landscapes, and hidden treasures, Calabria is a must-visit region in southern Italy. Known for its bold flavors and rich culinary traditions, visitors should sample 'Nduja, a spicy, spreadable sausage paste, and the region's famous Calabrian chiles. The local cuisine embraces cucina povera, a tradition of simple, hearty dishes featuring handmade pasta made with just flour and water. Calabria offers a growing fine dining scene with six one-star Michelin restaurants. For nature lovers, Calabria is home to three stunning national parks — Sila, Aspromonte, and Pollino — ideal for hiking, wildlife spotting, and immersing in untouched landscapes. Along the coast, Capo Vaticano stands out as one of the world's most beautiful beaches, offering breathtaking views and crystal-clear waters. History buffs and castle enthusiasts can explore impressive fortresses like Castello Ruffo di Scilla, Castello Murat, Castello di Le Castella, and Castello Aragonese. Don't miss charming towns and villages such as Tropea, famous for its clifftop views and beaches, as well as Scilla, Pentedattilo, and Le Castella. With its authentic culture, stunning coastlines, flavorful cuisine, and rich history, Calabria remains one of Italy's most captivating yet underrated regions.Tourissimo Tip–Way off the beaten path, lies a  unique museum in Mammola, Calabria https://calabriastraordinaria.it/en/news/visit-to-musaba-the-sistine-chapel-of-calabriaPugliaKnown as the Maldives of Italy, Puglia is a sun-drenched region celebrated for its whitewashed hill towns, ancient olive groves, and miles of stunning coastline. With a dry Mediterranean climate and scenery that often feels more Greek than Italian, Puglia is famed for its beaches in Salento, crystal-clear waters, and charming seaside towns. One of its most iconic sights is the fairytale-like trulli houses of Alberobello, a UNESCO World Heritage Site. This region is also a food lover's paradise, offering specialties like Orecchiette pasta with turnip greens, the classic Fave e Cicoria (fava bean purée with wild chicory), and fresh seafood paired with crisp vegetables. Wine lovers can savor Primitivo, a bold local red. For fine dining, the region boasts nine one-star Michelin restaurants, blending rustic flavors with refined culinary creativity.Puglia is dotted with unique cities and towns worth exploring, including Locorotondo, Otranto, Lecce, Monopoli, Ostuni, Gallipoli, Bari, Alberobello, and Polignano a Mare. Nature and history enthusiasts will enjoy visiting extraordinary sites like the Grotte di Castellana, the dramatic Cave of Poetry, the ancient Basilica San Nicola, and the scenic Gargano Peninsula. With its thousand-year-old olive trees, Puglia is the largest olive oil producer in the world, known for its strong, spicy oils. The locals here are famously warm and welcoming, going out of their way to make visitors feel at home.Puglia's blend of natural beauty, rich tradition, and heartfelt hospitality makes it one of Italy's most captivating and underrated destinations.Tourissimo Tip–Here are some of the gems of Puglia: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/some-of-the-gems-of-pugliaBasilicataBasilicata, a remote yet captivating region with a population of just 500,000, offers a wealth of unique experiences despite its secluded location. Among its most intriguing destinations are the ghost town of Craco and the ancient cave city of Matera, both steeped in history and cinematic charm. Other towns worth visiting include Maratea and Palombaroa, each offering its own cultural and scenic appeal.Tourissimo Tip–Matera is magical! https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/destination-highlight-matera-the-city-of-stonesThe region is rich in historical and religious landmarks, such as the Crypt of Original Sin with its remarkable frescoes, and the medieval Melfi Castle. Don't miss the towering Statue of Christ the Redeemer in Maratea, a striking monument that overlooks the Tyrrhenian coast.For a taste of local flavor, try Peperoni Cruschi—crispy, sun-dried peppers that are a beloved regional delicacy. Basilicata is also known for its exceptional wines, especially the bold, full-bodied reds of Aglianico del Vulture DOC, made primarily from the Aglianico grape. White wine lovers will appreciate the region's Greco di Tufo and Fiano varietals as well. Basilicata also has a total of 14 one-star Michelin restaurants. Adventurers can experience an adrenaline rush on The Angel's Flight, a giant zip line that offers stunning views and a thrilling ride through the Lucanian landscape.SicilySicily, the largest island in the Mediterranean Sea, is a world of its own, offering a diverse landscape of coastlines, mountains, and magical towns such as Cefalù, Palermo, Taormina, Catania, Noto, Agrigento, and Syracuse. Palermo serves as the cultural and diplomatic capital of the region, while Catania stands as its business hub.A volcanic island and UNESCO World Heritage Site, Sicily boasts a rich collection of cultural and natural treasures. Highlights include the awe-inspiring Valley of the Temples, the active volcano Mount Etna, the stunning Duomo di Cefalù, and the picturesque islands of Stromboli, Bella, and Ortigia. The region is also home to the renowned Baroque Triangle in the Val di Noto region of southeastern Sicily, where the eight towns of Caltagirone, Militello Val di Catania, Catania, Modica, Noto, Palazzolo Acreide, Ragusa, and Scicli have been recognized by UNESCO for their outstanding examples of late Baroque architecture.Sicily's culinary scene is just as impressive. Indulge in traditional Sicilian cannoli, filled with sheep's milk ricotta cheese and always stuffed fresh to order. Take a street food tour to savor local favorites like arancini, and don't miss sipping on a glass of Nero d'Avola, one of Sicily's most famous wines. The region is also internationally celebrated for its top-tier agriculture and winemaking.For a taste of authentic Italian charm beyond the tourist trail, explore the towns featured in I Borghi Più Belli d'Italia—Italy's list of its most beautiful hidden gems. Tourissimo Tip–This is a great tip for all 20 regions of Italy. Find out more here: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/the-most-beautiful-small-towns-in-italyFood lovers will be delighted to know that Sicily is also home to 23 Michelin-starred restaurants, including three two-star establishments and twenty with one star.Tourissimo Tip–If you visit Corleone, you should definitely learn about the legacy of the Mafia. We in North America tend to have a romanticized view of the mafia, but for the locals, the history is more brutal. See some photos and learn more here: https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/letizia-battaglia-groundbreaking-photojournalist-who-fearlessly-documented-the-mafia-in-her-native-sicilySardiniaSardinia, the second-largest island in the Mediterranean after Sicily, is a rugged, rural paradise known for its natural beauty, deep-rooted traditions, and ancient history. The island is home to features like the Apennine Coast, the Adriatic Coast, and the Apennine Mountains. Most of Sardinia's population lives in the capital region of Cagliari, but much of the island remains untouched, offering visitors a glimpse into authentic Italian island life.One of Sardinia's most fascinating distinctions is that the Barbagia region is recognized as a Blue Zone—an area with an unusually high number of centenarians. This longevity is attributed to the region's healthy diet, active lifestyle, and strong sense of community. For outdoor enthusiasts, inland Sardinia offers some of the best biking and hiking experiences in all of Italy.Tourissimo Tip–What is a Blue Zone? https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/blue-zoneThe island's coastlines are just as enticing. Costa Smeralda is often described as paradise on earth, with stunning beaches like Spiaggia di Tuerredda, Cala Goloritzé, and Spiaggia di Porto Giunco perfect for sunbathing and swimming. Don't miss the La Maddalena Archipelago National Park (Parco Nazionale dell'Arcipelago di La Maddalena), a protected area with crystal-clear waters and pristine landscapes.Charming towns such as Alghero, Bosa, and Cagliari add to the island's appeal. Many of Sardinia's towns are nestled in the mountains located in the island's center, offering a peaceful and scenic escape.Cultural and historical attractions abound. Must-see sites include the Nora Archaeological Park, Bastione di Saint Remy, Parco Archeologico Naturalistico di Santa Cristina, and the Museo Archeologico Nazionale di Cagliari. For an unforgettable natural wonder, venture into the Frecce delle grotte srl and Neptune's Grotto, stunning sea caves accessible by boat or stairs carved into cliffs.Sardinia is also home to a unique ancient civilization. Scattered across the island are over 7,000 nuraghe—megalithic stone structures built during the Nuragic Age (c. 1900–730 BC). These mysterious, tower-like buildings are the island's most iconic symbol, and some scholars believe there were once over 10,000 nuraghe structures in total.Religious architecture also impresses, with highlights like the Cattedrale di Santa Maria Assunta e Santa Cecilia, the Church of the Holy Trinity of Saccargia, and the Basilica di San Simplicio showcasing Sardinia's spiritual and artistic heritage.Sardinian cuisine reflects its mountainous geography. Surprisingly, for an island, the diet leans more toward land-based ingredients than seafood. Signature dishes include Porceddu (roast pig), Fregola (a traditional Sardinian pasta), and the adventurous Casu marzu—a sheep's milk cheese intentionally infested with live maggots and considered a local delicacy. Sardinia also holds 16 one-star Michelin restaurants.To accompany these flavors, try a glass of Cannonau red wine, known for its high polyphenol content and potential health benefits, or the refreshing Vermentino white wine, perfect for warm Mediterranean days.Tourissimo Tip–Magic Trick or Pasta Making? https://www.tourissimo.travel/blog/magic-trick-or-pasta-making From the Alps to the Mediterranean, each Italian region is a world of its own. Want to see it all? Check out Tourissimo's amazing trip planning and Italian information at tourissimo.travel! Buon viaggio!From the Alps to the Mediterranean, each Italian region is a world of its own. Want to see it all? Check out Tourissimo's amazing trip planning and Italian information at tourissimo.travel! Buon viaggio! 

Hi everyone, Carl Gould here with your #70secondCEO. Just a little over a one-minute investment every day for a lifetime of results.   If somebody is a client now, for me, I call every week.  I call, text, follow up, and even if they say, listen Carl, I'm going to be gone for two weeks, let's pick up when I get back. Oh, where are you going? Oh, I'm going to the Amalfi Coast, I'm going on a trip to Italy, I'm going to the Poconos, I'm going to see my mother-in-law, whatever. Next thing I'm going to do is, top 10 things to do when you go visit your mother-in-law. I don't have to be selling all the time, but I want to be in touch all the time. If they're a client later, and let's assume later is next year, whatever, you can put them in a different sequence. But first things first, let's just understand client now, our traffic, client now, client later. And then, let's focus on the client now, what is the offer that gets them off the fence? I could tell you, having been a franchisee and been a franchisor, been a master franchisor, been a multi-unit franchisee and franchisor, I'll be flexible. You bring me a candidate and you say to me, hey Carl, I think I can move this person off  the fence, but I need something. You got to give me something. Six months free royalties, you know, $5,000 marketing co-op, right? Go next to your client nows and say, what's the Ferrari offer I just gave Cody?  Like and follow this podcast so you can learn more. My name is Carl Gould, and this has been your #70secondCEO.   

Ever wondered how you could take an extended trip to Italy and explore on your own terms? Our guests Kristen and Jason came up with a plan to do exactly that. Lucky for us they're sharing their tips and tricks for managing a working vacation in our beloved Italia!Read the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/269NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Campania and Lazio with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

Planning a trip to the Amalfi Coast? In this week's episode, Italy travel expert and returning guest Dianne Bortoletto joins me to share everything you need to know for an unforgettable visit to one of Italy's most breathtaking regions.From iconic cliffside towns and sparkling sea views to delicious food and warm local hospitality, Dianne reveals what makes the Amalfi Coast so magical—and how to experience it like a pro.We chat about must-see stops, the best way to explore by land and sea, and practical tips for first-time visitors—like managing luggage on steep streets, choosing the right base, and planning the perfect itinerary.Whether you're dreaming of a boat trip to Capri, a day in Pompeii, or just soaking up the views with a spritz in hand, this episode is packed with inspiration and advice to help you make the most of your Amalfi adventure.⭐️ Guest - Dianne Bortolleto (And Away We Go f1 Podcast)

Italy is home to many famous lakes but today we're visiting the quieter shores of Lake Bolsena in Lazio. This is definitely untold territory where you'll find countless small villages, castles, deep volcanic lakes and stories for the ages. Our guest, local guide Elena, shares her beautiful region nestled between Rome and FlorenceRead the full episode show notes here > untolditaly.com/268NEW! - the Untold Italy app - DOWNLOAD FOR iOS  •  DOWNLOAD FOR ANDROIDThe app is FREE to download and check out our Milan guide and general travel content. Upgrade to PREMIUM  for a one time fee to access Rome, Florence, Venice, Sorrento, Cinque Terre, Amalfi Coast, Capri, Ischia, Tuscany, Campania and Lazio with much more to comeSupport the showJoin our mailing list and get our FREE Italy trip planning checklist - subscribe here | Join us on tour: Trip schedule | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Visit our online store | Follow: Instagram • Facebook • YouTube • Italy Travel Planning Community • Online travel assistantThe Untold Italy travel podcast is an independent production. Podcast Editing, Audio Production and Website Development by Mark Hatter. Production Assistance and Content Writing by the other Katie Clarke - yes there are two of us!

Welcome to another exciting episode of "Dishing with Stephanies Dish." In this episode, I am joined by my fellow travel enthusiast, Michael Kenney from Defined Destinations, as we dive into the world of adventurous group travel. Fresh from their trips to Croatia and Asia, they're setting their sights on a new journey to Sicily, Italy. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a wanderlust-driven explorer, you'll discover the unique experiences that Sicily promises, from breathtaking historic cities to mesmerizing volcanoes and, of course, delectable Italian cuisine. Join Stephanie and the Michaels for a delightful conversation about the joys of traveling with a group, the thrill of meeting new people, and the authentic charm that awaits in Sicily. Whether you're considering joining their next adventure or simply living vicariously through their tales, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the magic of defined destinations. Let the journey begin!Stephanie Hansen:Hello, everybody. Welcome to the podcast, Dishing with Stephanie's Dish. I hope you're doing great today. I am here with my friend, Michael Kenney, and Michael and I have been traveling together a couple years now. Right, Michael?Michael Kenney:Yeah. We've had, two trips under our belt. So it's, a trip to Croatia and, just recently that Cambodia Vietnam trip. So we've been we've been putting some miles down, Stephanie.Stephanie Hansen:I actually actually was somewhere last night and ran into someone from our trip, and we were comparing our bracelets from when we met the Buddhist monk because both of us still have ours on. Yes.Michael Kenney:Mine, like, just kinda fell apart.Stephanie Hansen:It was such a Oh,Michael Kenney:I woke up in the sun.Stephanie Hansen:Trip. Yes. I'm I'm gonna keep it on as long as I can. It was such a life changing trip. Asia was somewhere that I'd always wanted to go and really didn't have the confidence to do it by myself. So you gave me confidence. Going with other people gave me confidence, and we ended up having such a great time. Pretty good.Stephanie Hansen:I have had another great trip with you. We went to Croatia, and that was an awesome trip. We were on kind of like an exclusive private yacht with, Stan, our tour guide, who was probably one of the best tour guides ever.Michael Kenney:For sure.Stephanie Hansen:And you're going back there to Croatia this summer, aren't you?Michael Kenney:Yeah. Personally, I'm not. I'm gonna have somebody else. I'm a little envious because, yeah, that that trip was straight out of a dream. And, you and your, listeners, followers, they were so much fun.Stephanie Hansen:So Yeah. We did have a good time.Michael Kenney:Yeah. It was great.Stephanie Hansen:So I wanted to podcast with you because people ask me all the time about these trips and, like, how it works and what we do and, you know, like, are you, like, checking people's passports? I'm like, no. Silly. I'm not. But we have a trip coming up to Sicily, a taste of Sicily, which you have so sweetly on your your background there. That's smart. October 14 through the twenty second. And our final payments, I think, are due in June. So we're kind of in the hunt for getting everybody signed up and confirmed.And I wanted to talk with you. I've been to Italy a lot, actually, but I've never been to Sicily. So I'm excited about what that area is gonna be like and you've been. So I thought, alright. Let's just talk a little bit about this and get to know a little bit about how these trips work. So, I like to do trips with people because I like to travel with others. And people always ask me, well, are they food trips? Yes. They are food.Like, we eat food. We enjoy food. We talk about food, but it isn't, like, exclusively a food trip. We know that when you're going to some of these historic destinations that you also wanna see some of the beautiful sites. So we try to mix in some food things like special tastings, special wine events, or special dinners, but we also wanna give you some time to explore the region on your own so that you can go to the restaurants that really appeal to you. And, you know, when you're going with the group, sometimes it's not easy to go to some of these really exclusive special places because you have a larger group. Our group on a trip like this would be, what, would you say, like, less than, like, 26 probably?Michael Kenney:Yeah. It this group size will be anywhere from 20 to 30 maximum on this trip. So it's a real nice, you know, size group for sure.Stephanie Hansen:And you've been to Sicily before. When was the last time you went?Michael Kenney:I was with a group two years ago in Sicily. So I've been there three other times. So just most recently, just two years ago.Stephanie Hansen:And you and I like, I kinda gave you my short list of places. And you asked me about Sicily, and I was like, oh, well, I don't know. I've never really thought about that. And you were like, oh my gosh. It's one of your favorite places in Italy. So tell me what it is that you love about Sicily in particular.Michael Kenney:Yeah. No. That that that's a great question. You already mentioned you've been to Italy several times, and we get a lot of people that have been to Italy. And they're like, alright. I've already done that. Or maybe you haven't, you know, seen the the Colosseum and Venice and things like that. Sicily is is Italian, but it's an island in the middle of the Mediterranean.Michael Kenney:So it's just it's it's it's similar, but it's different. I think everything is elevated. Their food, their sites. I mean, the history has a whole Greek, northern the Arabs. It's a Spanish influence in Normans. They've all kinda come to this island in the middle of the the Mediterranean and put, like, their best foods, their their best everything. And it's kinda mixes and makes a Sicilian dish, which is really cool. So it's it's similar, yes, with their pastas and things like that in Mainland Europe, but it's it's a different notch.Michael Kenney:I think it's above, regular standard Italian food. It's just the flavors, the the spices, everything like that is just it's so good. And that's just the food side of it. And then, of course, I already mentioned with with the Greeks in the Spanish and the Normans, they have their own architectures that they brought, a mix of different languages. So you really feel like you're in a whole another country. It says in Italy, but the Sicilians say we're Sicilian first, then we're Italian.Stephanie Hansen:That's funny.Michael Kenney:So it's it's really so different, of an experience on that end. And I even have, a couple of friends going on this trip, and they've never been to Europe before. And they're saying, hey. We're we're gonna join you on this trip because it sounds lovely, but we've never been to Europe. We've never seen the Colosseum, things like that. Like, is this a good trip for us to take? I go, for sure it is. I mean, you don't have these, you know, the Leaning Tower Of Pisa, but once you get get to these places, you'll say, oh my gosh. I mean, a church that's, a thousand years old, or the little villages that are, you know, 500 years old and just oozing with this with charm.So you're really, having this real great Italian Sicilian experience, but maybe not knowing the sites, but it'll kinda resonate even better when you come back and tell your stories. It's just a beautiful, beautiful trip.Stephanie Hansen:And I think, you know, I've been to Rome. I've been to a lot of the little Italian islands on sailing trips with my husband. And we've been to Naples. We've been to Venice. We've been all over, really. And each of Italy has its own uniqueness, but the islands themselves are just something different because you really did get a lot of influences of people coming through and the trading that happened. And they also weren't as involved in the wars because they were sort of moving to the mainland. So you get a lot of different preservation possibilities, and the culture just held up because they weren't impacted by the wars in the same way.Michael Kenney:Exactly. And I think even early on, Sicilians were were very poor as well. So a lot of things just really, held. So they didn't, you know, knock down buildings and build new skyscrapers, things like that. It's like you're being, on the set of The Godfather, which was filmed there too, part of it at least. And, it was, like, set in time, and you're going there and just really experiencing the the feel, the taste, the smell, even you could call, like, the grit of, like, Palermo. I mean, it has this edge to it in a sense, like, this is a real living city. It sound like all spruced up to be perfect, like, on a set, but that's what makes it so so fantastic.It it's it's real. And I don't think you always get that experience that you're in in Central Rome, and they they, you know, it's all beautiful up. Again Palermo and all these cities that will visit are extremely beautiful but it has it's just a different edge to it and every group that I've ever been there with Stephanie if they've come back and said wow this is a dream. Not just the food, the sites, the experiences, the people. The people are real. They're they're fabulous. So it's it's a real real, just an amazing immersion, if you will, to Sicily.Stephanie Hansen:One of the things that people ask me about too, and I'll be honest with you. I'm not really, like, someone that you would think of as a group traveler. I like a certain amount of, alone time. I don't love to have every single thing coordinated for me. My husband, as you know, is a big adventurer and explorer. He's always the first one to do anything crazy on these trips. But it having a group is it's so nice when it's a smaller group like this because you do get to meet new people. You do get to create a community amongst your travelers.And I'll tell you, my friend Laurie Bargini that went on our Asia trip with us, she was very she's a big traveler too, and she was like, I don't know about this group thing. I was like, just give it a try. Like, Asia's a good one to test it out because it's probably a destination you wouldn't go alone. And she signed up right away for Sicily. She was like, I loved the group elements because when I wanted to, I had a group of friends and it was fun and we could hang out together and do fun things, but also when I wanted to be alone, I could do that too. It she thought it added a whole another layer to the travel experience than you just get either with you and your spouse or you and your friends because you have this whole other dynamic of people that for the most part is pretty great.Michael Kenney:Yeah. I know. And I and that's great. And Laurie was great. I'm glad she signed up because on the flight back from Asia, she sat next to me on the flight, and that's a seventeen hour flight. And if she wants to go back, then that that that's great.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah. It's good. Well, you know she talked to you the whole time probably.Michael Kenney:No. I tried to again, maybe it's like the group element. You know, have time on, time off. So I'm glad that was brought up. And I've been doing group tours for twenty eight years now, which I I I can't believe. And I I first started getting into tourism because I wanted to see sites. I'm like, I know I can't pay for it, so I need to be a tour guide and and going from that. I didn't realize the whole experience and having shared experiences with others was gonna be my highlight.And to this day, that's my favorite part is going to meet people that I've never met before and going having these shared experiences with. And and sometimes, you know, you build friends for a lifetime off of that.Michael Kinney:I think especially our last group too, we we really, built that with several of the the travelers, which is great. So and I so if you're hesitant, like, well, I'd like to this trip sounds great or any of our trips, but I am kind of worried about that. We really try to balance all our tours out. It's it's it's imperative that we have that balance of, some of the group time to have these, shared experiences to leisure time so that you can go and have your own adventures. And that is so crucial to all of our trips. That's why our hotels, and we can talk about that later, are centrally located. So once we go out and do, say, our city tour, our our our food tour in Palermo and walking around, you'll have, like, the remainder of the day to go explore on your own or some of those new friends that you met. Maybe you can go out and have a glass of wine with them.But again, it's all about that balance. And we each and every itinerary that we put together, we really work on making sure we have that balance in in the trips itself. Because I think that is the success of it. So we don't pack the days all day long on, like, seeing this, this, and this. We give you the nice highlights, and we'll have some other fun inclusions. But again, each place that we go to centrally located hotels, we have that free time too. So you can do your own thing or jump on with a group that you've met and have cocktails, Aperol spritzes in the main, Piazza later on. So it it's so fun, but it it really comes back.You register for a trip, but you don't know you're gonna meet some great people. And at at the end of the trip, it's typically these, these people and these, shared experiences come back, and that's where the meaning of the the trip comes in. It's so it's it's so much fun to see them build together.Stephanie Hansen:On each of the trips that I've done with you, we've had solo travelersMichael Kenney:Mhmm.Stephanie Hansen:Which I think people are like, oh, you know, I don't know. I don't have a partner to go with or my friend can't go. And that to me has also been super fun, like the solo travelers and the friends that they've made. And, like, one of the gals I saw from our Asia trip, I saw our friend Annie last night, and she was a solo traveler. Ended up pairing up with Laurie in a room and sharing, actually, actually, which a lot of solo travelers don't wanna share. I get that. But in this case, they both did, and they are like fast friends.Michael Kenney:That I mean, that's that's so much fun to see that. First off, if, you know, we all have it like your maybe your husband or wife or friend they don't want to go but you're like interested in this trip. We get that on all of our trips and we specifically specifically have, several single rooms set aside for those, adventure traveler seekers to have that. So you can pick your own room and go as a single or maybe you want us to to pair you up. We can do that too and get you in contact with another solo traveler like lorian annie did and that typically works out really well too but it's it's I think the like minded people looking for adventures you'll never feel like you're by yourself on any of our trips So, like, oh, I'm a third wheel. Never ever ever. And sometimes that's the best way to travel because you don't have to make sure your traveling partner is having a great time. You only can worry about yourself.Hey. I'm gonna have a great time. And, you know, all of our trip travelers that I've I've ever heard from, they've had a great time going solo, and they meet these like minded people. And, again, all of a sudden, they have friends for a lifetime, like, you know, Lori and Annie did. So if you're you're even thinking about it, like, I'm solo and I'm a little skeptical about going by myself, give us a call. Send us an email. We we can get you your own, room, single, room. They are filling up quick, though.We have a few left, or we can pair you up with somebody too to share that single supplement. But, again, you'll never feel like a third wheel with any of our tours. And this, in addition, just works really, really well for single travelers, and you'll meet some probably good friends on it.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah. And, also, like, ladies, some of you I know, like, getting coming out of relationships or divorce, you wanna do something unique. I have someone in my family who are shall remain nameless, who's gonna be joining us, who wanted to get back to Europe, but she's just not in a relationship status that would work for that as the way she thought it was gonna be. So I was like, come with us. Like, we're gonna have a ball. There's men. There's women. You know, my husband has come on some trips, but others, he hasn't.And Mhmm. It's just there's a great mix of people.Michael Kenney:Yeah. No. It it it it's great. Now this isn't a singles trip, but maybe you can find Giuseppe at the local cafe. You never know. So you never know. So anyway, yeah, it it works great for whatever status you are in life, single, you know, whatever. It these really, really work really nice.And sometimes, like, my brother came, and we shared a room on our the last trip, and he just wanted to kind of have a experience and get away from, you know, what's going on in life over here and just do a reset. And he came back and said, I'm really recharged. And he's kinda like going into he's retired, and he wants to do something else in his, you know, second part of his life. And he he's going after something right now because he he was able to kinda just disconnect Yeah. And then just take it all in and then kinda come back and, like, let's go. So regardless from relationships to job hunting or whatever, sometimes these trips are great. Even if you go solo, that could even be better.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah. Just to get a reset.Can you give us, like, without, like, going into all the detail, like, a high level, not day by day, but just, like, what are the towns we're gonna visit? What are because we're gonna be in, I think, three different areas.Michael Kenney:Yeah. Correct. So if you if you go on our, at definedestinations.com and look at, taste of Sicily Twenty Twenty Five, you can find the day by day, itinerary on that, and you'll get to be able to see through it. But again, it reads like a brochure, and you go through each item. And everything that we mentioned on that, it's, it is included. But the neat thing is we go from the North to the South and then all the way over to the, the East side of the island. So you're really having a great feel for the entire island itself. And, we have three nights in Palermo, and then we have one night in Agrigento, which is at the very southern on the beach, our hotel's right on the beach.You can walk right down there. And even October mid October is a great time to go too because the temperatures are, like, mid seventies, so it's super comfortable. And the water temperature is still pretty nice if you want to jump in. And then we have three nights in Siracoosa. So we we have these, like, kind of, hub and spoke places that we we do our adventures from the but we always come back to our centrally located place. So, anyway, we'll we'll find the Palermo. We have a connection. If you do our included flights, there's no, direct flights from from Minneapolis into Sicily.So we have a connection, on that.Stephanie Hansen:And let me just touch on that because some people want to work with the travel agent to have all of the flight things arranged for them, and that is an option with you. But you also do have options where people can meet you at the destination. So, like, for me, we have a lot of miles that we're always trying to burn up. Yeah. So for us, we book our own airfare so that we can use our miles, and then we sometimes add a few days on at the end, or we might even go to a different destination. With your group travel plans, both of those options are available to people.Michael Kenney:A %. I'm glad you asked that too because, yes, there's people that have miles or if they only wanna stay exclusively with Delta or United or whatever, that's fine. Our trips truly begin and end at at the hotels. With that, we do offer an included group package you can jump on, but the whole group will not be on that flight for sure. It's just an option to do that. And my my team can also, get you, flights separate from that too if you wanted to come early like you said, Stephanie, or stay light. Hey. I wanna go see the Colosseum on this trip.Great. My team can put a pre tour, post tour package together if you want to do that. Or even if you don't want any of our help, that's fine. You can just book our land only. You'll be able to see our group flight numbers on there too so you can kinda coordinate that. But the great thing is that both, airports, in Palermo we fly into, and then we fly out of Catania. They're close to both, towns, so you can easily take an Uber. So it's really pretty easy to get to and from, and that's where the, the the the tour start from.So if you're hesitant, hey. I need to book the group air. Don't worry about that. You don't have to do that by any means. We're happy to help you, on all the other aspects too to to get the airfare, with that. So, yep, we fly into Palermo. We'll settle into our our our three, our centrally located hotel, which is fabulous. Again, remind me that we need to touch on the the hotels too a little bit.Stephanie Hansen:Yep.Michael Kenney:But it's right in the center. We'll do a food tour of one of the local markets. Again, like you mentioned, maybe we have some guests on the trip that could care less about food or wine tastings. It's just a a piece of of our trip. So even if you're, a modest food lover or you only like cornflakes, there's gonna be some fun things to do on this as well. And we find that, you learn a lot about the culture through the food. Yeah. That's the reason we we do part of that too.So it'll be fun regardless. You're going through the markets. You're learning about the foods. Things like that. We go to, the the Cathedral Of Monreali, which, hey. We're seeing another church. We typically don't always do that, but this is really specific. This church is beautiful.It's got, it's it's a massive church built in the twelfth century, and they're famous for all its mosaics. The whole interior, the churches, all these fine mosaics they did almost a thousand years ago. It's unreal. So it's beautiful that we'll be doing that. We'll go to Cefalu, a little, seaside village, which is outside of Palermo a little ways. Maybe you've seen White Lotus. Part of that was filmed there or all parts of the, that, season two was filmed in Sicily. So we'll have a lot of White Lotus moments, as well on that, which which will be a lot of fun.And then from there, we'll be driving after our three nights in, in Palermo. We'll be heading south, crossing the entire, island itself. Absolutely beautiful. Even our coach rides, which aren't a lot, that they're just stunning. And and enjoying the countryside is absolutely beautiful. And we'll be going to that's where Agrigento is, and it feels like you're being stuck in Greece. Like, wow. There's all these Greek ruins, you know, two, three thousand years old.It's like, this is unbelievable. They have some of the better Greek ruins even outside of Athens, which is amazing. So walking through Agrigento, experiencing that, seeing that during the sunset, it's it's it's magical. I use that word a lot, but I think the whole trip really is. And then we we we settle into our hotel right on the beach, which is lovely. And then from there, we'll be going over to Siracusa, which is one of my favorite places ever. My first time I went to Sicily, we didn't go there. And I went back and I said, how do we skip that the first time? Siracoosa is, it's unbelievable.And you've agreed too. We we're staying right in they called it Ortega. That's like the old city of Siracusa. And we're staying right inside the city wall. So our bus will drop our private bus for our group will drop us off, and then we have to walk about ten minutes to our hotel, which is on a small little alleyway. And we'll talk about that later on. But it's a great location that we'll be doing, having different experiences, seeing all the the ruins, walking around at night. It's just beautiful.And from there, we'll be out we'll also be going to see Mount Etna, which is still an active volcano. We'll be on the sides of it. It's unbelievable. All of a sudden, you feel like you're being transported onto the moon. You see the vents and things like that. It's beautiful. And they grow some amazing wines there too on the slopes of it, and we'll be tasting some of those.Stephanie Hansen:That's so cool.Michael Kenney:Yeah. It's it's it's it really is pretty cool, because of that that rich soil just offers great Sicilian wines and the dry and the the elevation. So it it culminates to be really, really good. So, work on your Sicilian, reds. They're they're quite good.Stephanie Hansen:It will be exciting. Yeah.Michael Kenney:No. It it it's great. So I mean, it's it's seven, nights, a nine day trip, in Sicily. You'll have a real good flavor of the city, of all the areas that we visit. So it's it's quite nice. And if you go on the, the website, you'll see all the the inclusions as well. So we include mostly everything that we've talked about. There's really, we don't include all the meals because we want some experiences, for yourself too to go out and go, hey.Michael Kenney:We're gonna go to this little restaurant or whatever. Mhmm. And we have a local guide with us the entire time that will really help, talk about the history, and, you know, what's going on with the people itself, but then just pointing out great restaurants and other little experiences you can doStephanie Hansen:during the free And that's I love that because when we go to some of these places, like, I think I told you my husband is, he's kind of an you know, he's in venture. He always wants to do his own thing. So if we land in a place, he's like, okay. We're gonna take off. We're gonna go do this. We're gonna do that. And, you know, we try to balance, like, doing the group things with also him having his best life and doing some unique, food experiences just on our own. So every everybody gets a little bit of everything.It's a real delightful mix. You've been to Sicily. Now I think this will be, you said, your third time, fourth time?Michael Kenney:Fourth time.Stephanie Hansen:I'm so impressed that you're coming.Michael Kenney:Yeah. I'd well, I can't miss with your groups too. I can't go on all our trips, but this is definitely one I I, notched away because I think, part of me still is in Sicily. There's there's just something about it, and you can't you know, I've been to other parts of Italy plenty of times, and I feel like I'm an Italian, but, there's just something with Sicily. Maybe I meant I meant the grit. I've talked about that. It feels like a real city, real sites, real food, just from the the different markets, the fish markets is just everything seems really authentic.Stephanie Hansen:I love it.Michael Kenney:That's what I really, really love, and I think the guests do too. I'm I'm just envisioning myself walking and through Palermo with my last group, and there was, like, there was music being played in the streets, and people are sitting down and having glasses of wine. There was no festival going on. It was just this this zest for life thatStephanie Hansen:Yeah. The Italians just in general, they stay up late. They eat late. So they have, like, a happy hour kind of at, like, six to seven, and then they go home and get ready to go out for the dinner time in a lot of cases. So they spend a lot of time outdoors, and they like to do it when it's not in the blazing hot sun. So things really there's a great nightlife. People are, out and about into all hours of the evening, which is fun. So I'm just super excited.So if people wanna join us, you said I mean, I know we've got some rooms booked already. Yeah. So are there some rooms left if people wanna book, and what is the timeline that they should be doing that, and how do they do it?Michael Kenney:Yeah. That's a great question. So I said we have about we can handle maximum of 30 people. So we have about seven rooms up, so about 14 people. So if someone calls and say, well, will this be booked up by next week? It probably won't be, but I always tell people, go ahead, put your deposit down, hold the seat on the trip itself. And you just have to go to definedestinations.com. You can book everything right then then and there. It's super simple process.You just put your your information in. You don't need a valid passport right now to to enter that in. But you just go ahead and you fill that out, put your deposit down, at least then you'll you'll have a, a seat held for you. Then you can work on if you wanna get your own air fryer or if you wanna stay earlier, you know, stay after later on the trip itself. You you can do that all right there as well. So it's pretty simple.Stephanie Hansen:And then once you're booked and we know who's coming, we usually try to have a call to kinda give everybody the particulars of that trip. Sometimes depending on our time frame, we try to get together in person. I wasn't able for the last one because I had so many things coming, and I'm not sure what'll happen with this one because I've got the cookbook coming out, in September. But one way or another, we will see each other's faces, and we will get on that plane, and we will arrive together and have a blast. So I'm looking forward to it, and we've got other trips planned. I know we're trying to book another Croatia trip possibly for the following year for the fall and something in the spring. So if you guys have any destinations you wanna check out with me, let me know. I'm always looking for new places to go. You just went to the Galapagos. It sounded like it was amazing.Michael Kenney:Yeah. It that that was, fabulous. I was just doing a site inspection because we're looking about having groups go to the Galapagos and the Amazon, and it it was it was unreal. I loved it. Completely different experience from going to, to going to Sicily. Well, that's great. There's so many experiences to have on our on the world, and we only have so much time to be able to do those. So you gotta kinda hit that hierarchy of, you know, what's what's important.For anybody that's just thinking about it or if this is the first time you've ever even heard of Sicily, please take a look at this because it is really a magical trip, and we have so many fun inclusions. Our hotel locations are in the city center. I wanted to mention that, not, just because we're on tiny little streets. So you mentioned, like, the the nightlife. It's we're not on a bustling street where all the cars are going by. It's like you feel like you're a local. You'll go out the door, and there's mama Rosita across the street, you know, cutting herStephanie Hansen:Yeah. Sitting outside. Yes.Michael Kenney:That's the experience we want, not just on this trip, all of our trips. We want you to feel like you're kind of a, a local for even three nights when we're there, so you'll know where the the nearest bakery is and, the restaurants. And I think you'll have that on this trip. I it's it's reallyStephanie Hansen:I love it.Michael Kenney:Something else with all our hotels. You'll absolutely love that. We know exactly where to stay, and sometimes that's overwhelming when you're looking at doing a trip in your own, like, where should I go? What should I where should I stay? Like, it's overwhelming. We want this to be just book the trip. We're gonna be taking care of all the highlights for you.Stephanie Hansen:Pack your bags and come along. Yes.Michael Kenney:Exactly. So that's that's what's really important to us. And IStephanie Hansen:think I'm looking forward to it. It's gonna be awesome. I'm gonna release this podcast, not this Friday, but next Friday. So k. Between now and then, you guys, I hope you get your seats booked, and I hope to see you on this amazing trip. Thanks, Michael.Michael Kenney:Wonderful. Thanks, Michael.Stephanie Hansen:It was awesome. It's defined destinations. You can find them at defineddestinations.com. Taste of Italy is right on the front page. Click that, and you can see all the itinerary of the whole trip. And we're gonna have a great time.Michael Kenney:Taste of Sicily.Stephanie Hansen:Yes. The tasteMichael Kenney:of Sicily.Stephanie Hansen:Oh, what did I call it? What did I say? Taste ofMichael Kenney:Italy. We have one of those too. Oh, okay. The Sicily one.Stephanie Hansen:Taste of Sicily specifically. Yes. And then if you like Italy, you can go back because there are a lot of places to go back to. Amalfi Coast is great, but it's different. And, like, I there I've been to a lot of different places in Italy, and they're all a little bit different. And I like them all for different reasons. So I'm really excited to explore Sicily.Michael Kenney:Yep. It's gonna be great. Well, thanks so much for the time.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah. We'll talk soon.Michael Kenney:Yep.Stephanie Hansen:Bye. Bye bye.Stephanie's Dish Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stephaniehansen.substack.com/subscribe

Welcome to another exciting episode of "Dishing with Stephanies Dish." In this episode, I am joined by my fellow travel enthusiast, Michael Kenney from Defined Destinations, as we dive into the world of adventurous group travel. Fresh from their trips to Croatia and Asia, they're setting their sights on a new journey to Sicily, Italy. Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a wanderlust-driven explorer, you'll discover the unique experiences that Sicily promises, from breathtaking historic cities to mesmerizing volcanoes and, of course, delectable Italian cuisine. Join Stephanie and the Michaels for a delightful conversation about the joys of traveling with a group, the thrill of meeting new people, and the authentic charm that awaits in Sicily. Whether you're considering joining their next adventure or simply living vicariously through their tales, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the magic of defined destinations. Let the journey begin!Stephanie Hansen:Hello, everybody. Welcome to the podcast, Dishing with Stephanie's Dish. I hope you're doing great today. I am here with my friend, Michael Kenney, and Michael and I have been traveling together a couple years now. Right, Michael?Michael Kenney:Yeah. We've had, two trips under our belt. So it's, a trip to Croatia and, just recently that Cambodia Vietnam trip. So we've been we've been putting some miles down, Stephanie.Stephanie Hansen:I actually actually was somewhere last night and ran into someone from our trip, and we were comparing our bracelets from when we met the Buddhist monk because both of us still have ours on. Yes.Michael Kenney:Mine, like, just kinda fell apart.Stephanie Hansen:It was such a Oh,Michael Kenney:I woke up in the sun.Stephanie Hansen:Trip. Yes. I'm I'm gonna keep it on as long as I can. It was such a life changing trip. Asia was somewhere that I'd always wanted to go and really didn't have the confidence to do it by myself. So you gave me confidence. Going with other people gave me confidence, and we ended up having such a great time. Pretty good.Stephanie Hansen:I have had another great trip with you. We went to Croatia, and that was an awesome trip. We were on kind of like an exclusive private yacht with, Stan, our tour guide, who was probably one of the best tour guides ever.Michael Kenney:For sure.Stephanie Hansen:And you're going back there to Croatia this summer, aren't you?Michael Kenney:Yeah. Personally, I'm not. I'm gonna have somebody else. I'm a little envious because, yeah, that that trip was straight out of a dream. And, you and your, listeners, followers, they were so much fun.Stephanie Hansen:So Yeah. We did have a good time.Michael Kenney:Yeah. It was great.Stephanie Hansen:So I wanted to podcast with you because people ask me all the time about these trips and, like, how it works and what we do and, you know, like, are you, like, checking people's passports? I'm like, no. Silly. I'm not. But we have a trip coming up to Sicily, a taste of Sicily, which you have so sweetly on your your background there. That's smart. October 14 through the twenty second. And our final payments, I think, are due in June. So we're kind of in the hunt for getting everybody signed up and confirmed.And I wanted to talk with you. I've been to Italy a lot, actually, but I've never been to Sicily. So I'm excited about what that area is gonna be like and you've been. So I thought, alright. Let's just talk a little bit about this and get to know a little bit about how these trips work. So, I like to do trips with people because I like to travel with others. And people always ask me, well, are they food trips? Yes. They are food.Like, we eat food. We enjoy food. We talk about food, but it isn't, like, exclusively a food trip. We know that when you're going to some of these historic destinations that you also wanna see some of the beautiful sites. So we try to mix in some food things like special tastings, special wine events, or special dinners, but we also wanna give you some time to explore the region on your own so that you can go to the restaurants that really appeal to you. And, you know, when you're going with the group, sometimes it's not easy to go to some of these really exclusive special places because you have a larger group. Our group on a trip like this would be, what, would you say, like, less than, like, 26 probably?Michael Kenney:Yeah. It this group size will be anywhere from 20 to 30 maximum on this trip. So it's a real nice, you know, size group for sure.Stephanie Hansen:And you've been to Sicily before. When was the last time you went?Michael Kenney:I was with a group two years ago in Sicily. So I've been there three other times. So just most recently, just two years ago.Stephanie Hansen:And you and I like, I kinda gave you my short list of places. And you asked me about Sicily, and I was like, oh, well, I don't know. I've never really thought about that. And you were like, oh my gosh. It's one of your favorite places in Italy. So tell me what it is that you love about Sicily in particular.Michael Kenney:Yeah. No. That that that's a great question. You already mentioned you've been to Italy several times, and we get a lot of people that have been to Italy. And they're like, alright. I've already done that. Or maybe you haven't, you know, seen the the Colosseum and Venice and things like that. Sicily is is Italian, but it's an island in the middle of the Mediterranean.Michael Kenney:So it's just it's it's it's similar, but it's different. I think everything is elevated. Their food, their sites. I mean, the history has a whole Greek, northern the Arabs. It's a Spanish influence in Normans. They've all kinda come to this island in the middle of the the Mediterranean and put, like, their best foods, their their best everything. And it's kinda mixes and makes a Sicilian dish, which is really cool. So it's it's similar, yes, with their pastas and things like that in Mainland Europe, but it's it's a different notch.Michael Kenney:I think it's above, regular standard Italian food. It's just the flavors, the the spices, everything like that is just it's so good. And that's just the food side of it. And then, of course, I already mentioned with with the Greeks in the Spanish and the Normans, they have their own architectures that they brought, a mix of different languages. So you really feel like you're in a whole another country. It says in Italy, but the Sicilians say we're Sicilian first, then we're Italian.Stephanie Hansen:That's funny.Michael Kenney:So it's it's really so different, of an experience on that end. And I even have, a couple of friends going on this trip, and they've never been to Europe before. And they're saying, hey. We're we're gonna join you on this trip because it sounds lovely, but we've never been to Europe. We've never seen the Colosseum, things like that. Like, is this a good trip for us to take? I go, for sure it is. I mean, you don't have these, you know, the Leaning Tower Of Pisa, but once you get get to these places, you'll say, oh my gosh. I mean, a church that's, a thousand years old, or the little villages that are, you know, 500 years old and just oozing with this with charm.So you're really, having this real great Italian Sicilian experience, but maybe not knowing the sites, but it'll kinda resonate even better when you come back and tell your stories. It's just a beautiful, beautiful trip.Stephanie Hansen:And I think, you know, I've been to Rome. I've been to a lot of the little Italian islands on sailing trips with my husband. And we've been to Naples. We've been to Venice. We've been all over, really. And each of Italy has its own uniqueness, but the islands themselves are just something different because you really did get a lot of influences of people coming through and the trading that happened. And they also weren't as involved in the wars because they were sort of moving to the mainland. So you get a lot of different preservation possibilities, and the culture just held up because they weren't impacted by the wars in the same way.Michael Kenney:Exactly. And I think even early on, Sicilians were were very poor as well. So a lot of things just really, held. So they didn't, you know, knock down buildings and build new skyscrapers, things like that. It's like you're being, on the set of The Godfather, which was filmed there too, part of it at least. And, it was, like, set in time, and you're going there and just really experiencing the the feel, the taste, the smell, even you could call, like, the grit of, like, Palermo. I mean, it has this edge to it in a sense, like, this is a real living city. It sound like all spruced up to be perfect, like, on a set, but that's what makes it so so fantastic.It it's it's real. And I don't think you always get that experience that you're in in Central Rome, and they they, you know, it's all beautiful up. Again Palermo and all these cities that will visit are extremely beautiful but it has it's just a different edge to it and every group that I've ever been there with Stephanie if they've come back and said wow this is a dream. Not just the food, the sites, the experiences, the people. The people are real. They're they're fabulous. So it's it's a real real, just an amazing immersion, if you will, to Sicily.Stephanie Hansen:One of the things that people ask me about too, and I'll be honest with you. I'm not really, like, someone that you would think of as a group traveler. I like a certain amount of, alone time. I don't love to have every single thing coordinated for me. My husband, as you know, is a big adventurer and explorer. He's always the first one to do anything crazy on these trips. But it having a group is it's so nice when it's a smaller group like this because you do get to meet new people. You do get to create a community amongst your travelers.And I'll tell you, my friend Laurie Bargini that went on our Asia trip with us, she was very she's a big traveler too, and she was like, I don't know about this group thing. I was like, just give it a try. Like, Asia's a good one to test it out because it's probably a destination you wouldn't go alone. And she signed up right away for Sicily. She was like, I loved the group elements because when I wanted to, I had a group of friends and it was fun and we could hang out together and do fun things, but also when I wanted to be alone, I could do that too. It she thought it added a whole another layer to the travel experience than you just get either with you and your spouse or you and your friends because you have this whole other dynamic of people that for the most part is pretty great.Michael Kenney:Yeah. I know. And I and that's great. And Laurie was great. I'm glad she signed up because on the flight back from Asia, she sat next to me on the flight, and that's a seventeen hour flight. And if she wants to go back, then that that that's great.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah. It's good. Well, you know she talked to you the whole time probably.Michael Kenney:No. I tried to again, maybe it's like the group element. You know, have time on, time off. So I'm glad that was brought up. And I've been doing group tours for twenty eight years now, which I I I can't believe. And I I first started getting into tourism because I wanted to see sites. I'm like, I know I can't pay for it, so I need to be a tour guide and and going from that. I didn't realize the whole experience and having shared experiences with others was gonna be my highlight.And to this day, that's my favorite part is going to meet people that I've never met before and going having these shared experiences with. And and sometimes, you know, you build friends for a lifetime off of that.Michael Kinney:I think especially our last group too, we we really, built that with several of the the travelers, which is great. So and I so if you're hesitant, like, well, I'd like to this trip sounds great or any of our trips, but I am kind of worried about that. We really try to balance all our tours out. It's it's it's imperative that we have that balance of, some of the group time to have these, shared experiences to leisure time so that you can go and have your own adventures. And that is so crucial to all of our trips. That's why our hotels, and we can talk about that later, are centrally located. So once we go out and do, say, our city tour, our our our food tour in Palermo and walking around, you'll have, like, the remainder of the day to go explore on your own or some of those new friends that you met. Maybe you can go out and have a glass of wine with them.But again, it's all about that balance. And we each and every itinerary that we put together, we really work on making sure we have that balance in in the trips itself. Because I think that is the success of it. So we don't pack the days all day long on, like, seeing this, this, and this. We give you the nice highlights, and we'll have some other fun inclusions. But again, each place that we go to centrally located hotels, we have that free time too. So you can do your own thing or jump on with a group that you've met and have cocktails, Aperol spritzes in the main, Piazza later on. So it it's so fun, but it it really comes back.You register for a trip, but you don't know you're gonna meet some great people. And at at the end of the trip, it's typically these, these people and these, shared experiences come back, and that's where the meaning of the the trip comes in. It's so it's it's so much fun to see them build together.Stephanie Hansen:On each of the trips that I've done with you, we've had solo travelersMichael Kenney:Mhmm.Stephanie Hansen:Which I think people are like, oh, you know, I don't know. I don't have a partner to go with or my friend can't go. And that to me has also been super fun, like the solo travelers and the friends that they've made. And, like, one of the gals I saw from our Asia trip, I saw our friend Annie last night, and she was a solo traveler. Ended up pairing up with Laurie in a room and sharing, actually, actually, which a lot of solo travelers don't wanna share. I get that. But in this case, they both did, and they are like fast friends.Michael Kenney:That I mean, that's that's so much fun to see that. First off, if, you know, we all have it like your maybe your husband or wife or friend they don't want to go but you're like interested in this trip. We get that on all of our trips and we specifically specifically have, several single rooms set aside for those, adventure traveler seekers to have that. So you can pick your own room and go as a single or maybe you want us to to pair you up. We can do that too and get you in contact with another solo traveler like lorian annie did and that typically works out really well too but it's it's I think the like minded people looking for adventures you'll never feel like you're by yourself on any of our trips So, like, oh, I'm a third wheel. Never ever ever. And sometimes that's the best way to travel because you don't have to make sure your traveling partner is having a great time. You only can worry about yourself.Hey. I'm gonna have a great time. And, you know, all of our trip travelers that I've I've ever heard from, they've had a great time going solo, and they meet these like minded people. And, again, all of a sudden, they have friends for a lifetime, like, you know, Lori and Annie did. So if you're you're even thinking about it, like, I'm solo and I'm a little skeptical about going by myself, give us a call. Send us an email. We we can get you your own, room, single, room. They are filling up quick, though.We have a few left, or we can pair you up with somebody too to share that single supplement. But, again, you'll never feel like a third wheel with any of our tours. And this, in addition, just works really, really well for single travelers, and you'll meet some probably good friends on it.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah. And, also, like, ladies, some of you I know, like, getting coming out of relationships or divorce, you wanna do something unique. I have someone in my family who are shall remain nameless, who's gonna be joining us, who wanted to get back to Europe, but she's just not in a relationship status that would work for that as the way she thought it was gonna be. So I was like, come with us. Like, we're gonna have a ball. There's men. There's women. You know, my husband has come on some trips, but others, he hasn't.And Mhmm. It's just there's a great mix of people.Michael Kenney:Yeah. No. It it it it's great. Now this isn't a singles trip, but maybe you can find Giuseppe at the local cafe. You never know. So you never know. So anyway, yeah, it it works great for whatever status you are in life, single, you know, whatever. It these really, really work really nice.And sometimes, like, my brother came, and we shared a room on our the last trip, and he just wanted to kind of have a experience and get away from, you know, what's going on in life over here and just do a reset. And he came back and said, I'm really recharged. And he's kinda like going into he's retired, and he wants to do something else in his, you know, second part of his life. And he he's going after something right now because he he was able to kinda just disconnect Yeah. And then just take it all in and then kinda come back and, like, let's go. So regardless from relationships to job hunting or whatever, sometimes these trips are great. Even if you go solo, that could even be better.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah. Just to get a reset.Can you give us, like, without, like, going into all the detail, like, a high level, not day by day, but just, like, what are the towns we're gonna visit? What are because we're gonna be in, I think, three different areas.Michael Kenney:Yeah. Correct. So if you if you go on our, at definedestinations.com and look at, taste of Sicily Twenty Twenty Five, you can find the day by day, itinerary on that, and you'll get to be able to see through it. But again, it reads like a brochure, and you go through each item. And everything that we mentioned on that, it's, it is included. But the neat thing is we go from the North to the South and then all the way over to the, the East side of the island. So you're really having a great feel for the entire island itself. And, we have three nights in Palermo, and then we have one night in Agrigento, which is at the very southern on the beach, our hotel's right on the beach.You can walk right down there. And even October mid October is a great time to go too because the temperatures are, like, mid seventies, so it's super comfortable. And the water temperature is still pretty nice if you want to jump in. And then we have three nights in Siracoosa. So we we have these, like, kind of, hub and spoke places that we we do our adventures from the but we always come back to our centrally located place. So, anyway, we'll we'll find the Palermo. We have a connection. If you do our included flights, there's no, direct flights from from Minneapolis into Sicily.So we have a connection, on that.Stephanie Hansen:And let me just touch on that because some people want to work with the travel agent to have all of the flight things arranged for them, and that is an option with you. But you also do have options where people can meet you at the destination. So, like, for me, we have a lot of miles that we're always trying to burn up. Yeah. So for us, we book our own airfare so that we can use our miles, and then we sometimes add a few days on at the end, or we might even go to a different destination. With your group travel plans, both of those options are available to people.Michael Kenney:A %. I'm glad you asked that too because, yes, there's people that have miles or if they only wanna stay exclusively with Delta or United or whatever, that's fine. Our trips truly begin and end at at the hotels. With that, we do offer an included group package you can jump on, but the whole group will not be on that flight for sure. It's just an option to do that. And my my team can also, get you, flights separate from that too if you wanted to come early like you said, Stephanie, or stay light. Hey. I wanna go see the Colosseum on this trip.Great. My team can put a pre tour, post tour package together if you want to do that. Or even if you don't want any of our help, that's fine. You can just book our land only. You'll be able to see our group flight numbers on there too so you can kinda coordinate that. But the great thing is that both, airports, in Palermo we fly into, and then we fly out of Catania. They're close to both, towns, so you can easily take an Uber. So it's really pretty easy to get to and from, and that's where the, the the the tour start from.So if you're hesitant, hey. I need to book the group air. Don't worry about that. You don't have to do that by any means. We're happy to help you, on all the other aspects too to to get the airfare, with that. So, yep, we fly into Palermo. We'll settle into our our our three, our centrally located hotel, which is fabulous. Again, remind me that we need to touch on the the hotels too a little bit.Stephanie Hansen:Yep.Michael Kenney:But it's right in the center. We'll do a food tour of one of the local markets. Again, like you mentioned, maybe we have some guests on the trip that could care less about food or wine tastings. It's just a a piece of of our trip. So even if you're, a modest food lover or you only like cornflakes, there's gonna be some fun things to do on this as well. And we find that, you learn a lot about the culture through the food. Yeah. That's the reason we we do part of that too.So it'll be fun regardless. You're going through the markets. You're learning about the foods. Things like that. We go to, the the Cathedral Of Monreali, which, hey. We're seeing another church. We typically don't always do that, but this is really specific. This church is beautiful.It's got, it's it's a massive church built in the twelfth century, and they're famous for all its mosaics. The whole interior, the churches, all these fine mosaics they did almost a thousand years ago. It's unreal. So it's beautiful that we'll be doing that. We'll go to Cefalu, a little, seaside village, which is outside of Palermo a little ways. Maybe you've seen White Lotus. Part of that was filmed there or all parts of the, that, season two was filmed in Sicily. So we'll have a lot of White Lotus moments, as well on that, which which will be a lot of fun.And then from there, we'll be driving after our three nights in, in Palermo. We'll be heading south, crossing the entire, island itself. Absolutely beautiful. Even our coach rides, which aren't a lot, that they're just stunning. And and enjoying the countryside is absolutely beautiful. And we'll be going to that's where Agrigento is, and it feels like you're being stuck in Greece. Like, wow. There's all these Greek ruins, you know, two, three thousand years old.It's like, this is unbelievable. They have some of the better Greek ruins even outside of Athens, which is amazing. So walking through Agrigento, experiencing that, seeing that during the sunset, it's it's it's magical. I use that word a lot, but I think the whole trip really is. And then we we we settle into our hotel right on the beach, which is lovely. And then from there, we'll be going over to Siracusa, which is one of my favorite places ever. My first time I went to Sicily, we didn't go there. And I went back and I said, how do we skip that the first time? Siracoosa is, it's unbelievable.And you've agreed too. We we're staying right in they called it Ortega. That's like the old city of Siracusa. And we're staying right inside the city wall. So our bus will drop our private bus for our group will drop us off, and then we have to walk about ten minutes to our hotel, which is on a small little alleyway. And we'll talk about that later on. But it's a great location that we'll be doing, having different experiences, seeing all the the ruins, walking around at night. It's just beautiful.And from there, we'll be out we'll also be going to see Mount Etna, which is still an active volcano. We'll be on the sides of it. It's unbelievable. All of a sudden, you feel like you're being transported onto the moon. You see the vents and things like that. It's beautiful. And they grow some amazing wines there too on the slopes of it, and we'll be tasting some of those.Stephanie Hansen:That's so cool.Michael Kenney:Yeah. It's it's it's it really is pretty cool, because of that that rich soil just offers great Sicilian wines and the dry and the the elevation. So it it culminates to be really, really good. So, work on your Sicilian, reds. They're they're quite good.Stephanie Hansen:It will be exciting. Yeah.Michael Kenney:No. It it it's great. So I mean, it's it's seven, nights, a nine day trip, in Sicily. You'll have a real good flavor of the city, of all the areas that we visit. So it's it's quite nice. And if you go on the, the website, you'll see all the the inclusions as well. So we include mostly everything that we've talked about. There's really, we don't include all the meals because we want some experiences, for yourself too to go out and go, hey.Michael Kenney:We're gonna go to this little restaurant or whatever. Mhmm. And we have a local guide with us the entire time that will really help, talk about the history, and, you know, what's going on with the people itself, but then just pointing out great restaurants and other little experiences you can doStephanie Hansen:during the free And that's I love that because when we go to some of these places, like, I think I told you my husband is, he's kind of an you know, he's in venture. He always wants to do his own thing. So if we land in a place, he's like, okay. We're gonna take off. We're gonna go do this. We're gonna do that. And, you know, we try to balance, like, doing the group things with also him having his best life and doing some unique, food experiences just on our own. So every everybody gets a little bit of everything.It's a real delightful mix. You've been to Sicily. Now I think this will be, you said, your third time, fourth time?Michael Kenney:Fourth time.Stephanie Hansen:I'm so impressed that you're coming.Michael Kenney:Yeah. I'd well, I can't miss with your groups too. I can't go on all our trips, but this is definitely one I I, notched away because I think, part of me still is in Sicily. There's there's just something about it, and you can't you know, I've been to other parts of Italy plenty of times, and I feel like I'm an Italian, but, there's just something with Sicily. Maybe I meant I meant the grit. I've talked about that. It feels like a real city, real sites, real food, just from the the different markets, the fish markets is just everything seems really authentic.Stephanie Hansen:I love it.Michael Kenney:That's what I really, really love, and I think the guests do too. I'm I'm just envisioning myself walking and through Palermo with my last group, and there was, like, there was music being played in the streets, and people are sitting down and having glasses of wine. There was no festival going on. It was just this this zest for life thatStephanie Hansen:Yeah. The Italians just in general, they stay up late. They eat late. So they have, like, a happy hour kind of at, like, six to seven, and then they go home and get ready to go out for the dinner time in a lot of cases. So they spend a lot of time outdoors, and they like to do it when it's not in the blazing hot sun. So things really there's a great nightlife. People are, out and about into all hours of the evening, which is fun. So I'm just super excited.So if people wanna join us, you said I mean, I know we've got some rooms booked already. Yeah. So are there some rooms left if people wanna book, and what is the timeline that they should be doing that, and how do they do it?Michael Kenney:Yeah. That's a great question. So I said we have about we can handle maximum of 30 people. So we have about seven rooms up, so about 14 people. So if someone calls and say, well, will this be booked up by next week? It probably won't be, but I always tell people, go ahead, put your deposit down, hold the seat on the trip itself. And you just have to go to definedestinations.com. You can book everything right then then and there. It's super simple process.You just put your your information in. You don't need a valid passport right now to to enter that in. But you just go ahead and you fill that out, put your deposit down, at least then you'll you'll have a, a seat held for you. Then you can work on if you wanna get your own air fryer or if you wanna stay earlier, you know, stay after later on the trip itself. You you can do that all right there as well. So it's pretty simple.Stephanie Hansen:And then once you're booked and we know who's coming, we usually try to have a call to kinda give everybody the particulars of that trip. Sometimes depending on our time frame, we try to get together in person. I wasn't able for the last one because I had so many things coming, and I'm not sure what'll happen with this one because I've got the cookbook coming out, in September. But one way or another, we will see each other's faces, and we will get on that plane, and we will arrive together and have a blast. So I'm looking forward to it, and we've got other trips planned. I know we're trying to book another Croatia trip possibly for the following year for the fall and something in the spring. So if you guys have any destinations you wanna check out with me, let me know. I'm always looking for new places to go. You just went to the Galapagos. It sounded like it was amazing.Michael Kenney:Yeah. It that that was, fabulous. I was just doing a site inspection because we're looking about having groups go to the Galapagos and the Amazon, and it it was it was unreal. I loved it. Completely different experience from going to, to going to Sicily. Well, that's great. There's so many experiences to have on our on the world, and we only have so much time to be able to do those. So you gotta kinda hit that hierarchy of, you know, what's what's important.For anybody that's just thinking about it or if this is the first time you've ever even heard of Sicily, please take a look at this because it is really a magical trip, and we have so many fun inclusions. Our hotel locations are in the city center. I wanted to mention that, not, just because we're on tiny little streets. So you mentioned, like, the the nightlife. It's we're not on a bustling street where all the cars are going by. It's like you feel like you're a local. You'll go out the door, and there's mama Rosita across the street, you know, cutting herStephanie Hansen:Yeah. Sitting outside. Yes.Michael Kenney:That's the experience we want, not just on this trip, all of our trips. We want you to feel like you're kind of a, a local for even three nights when we're there, so you'll know where the the nearest bakery is and, the restaurants. And I think you'll have that on this trip. I it's it's reallyStephanie Hansen:I love it.Michael Kenney:Something else with all our hotels. You'll absolutely love that. We know exactly where to stay, and sometimes that's overwhelming when you're looking at doing a trip in your own, like, where should I go? What should I where should I stay? Like, it's overwhelming. We want this to be just book the trip. We're gonna be taking care of all the highlights for you.Stephanie Hansen:Pack your bags and come along. Yes.Michael Kenney:Exactly. So that's that's what's really important to us. And IStephanie Hansen:think I'm looking forward to it. It's gonna be awesome. I'm gonna release this podcast, not this Friday, but next Friday. So k. Between now and then, you guys, I hope you get your seats booked, and I hope to see you on this amazing trip. Thanks, Michael.Michael Kenney:Wonderful. Thanks, Michael.Stephanie Hansen:It was awesome. It's defined destinations. You can find them at defineddestinations.com. Taste of Italy is right on the front page. Click that, and you can see all the itinerary of the whole trip. And we're gonna have a great time.Michael Kenney:Taste of Sicily.Stephanie Hansen:Yes. The tasteMichael Kenney:of Sicily.Stephanie Hansen:Oh, what did I call it? What did I say? Taste ofMichael Kenney:Italy. We have one of those too. Oh, okay. The Sicily one.Stephanie Hansen:Taste of Sicily specifically. Yes. And then if you like Italy, you can go back because there are a lot of places to go back to. Amalfi Coast is great, but it's different. And, like, I there I've been to a lot of different places in Italy, and they're all a little bit different. And I like them all for different reasons. So I'm really excited to explore Sicily.Michael Kenney:Yep. It's gonna be great. Well, thanks so much for the time.Stephanie Hansen:Yeah. We'll talk soon.Michael Kenney:Yep.Stephanie Hansen:Bye. Bye bye.Stephanie's Dish Newsletter is a reader-supported publication. To receive new posts and support my work, consider becoming a free or paid subscriber. This is a public episode. If you'd like to discuss this with other subscribers or get access to bonus episodes, visit stephaniehansen.substack.com/subscribe

On todyas show James Matty and Dwayne talk about Glenn's surgery, Italy trip, Pompeii, Amalfi Coast, wine tour, high-speed train, Trump's executive order, ticket pricing, tariffs, election integrity, judicial system, Prince Andrew, Epstein trial, data shredding, Supreme Court. Don't miss it!

Send us a textSarah Thompson, the founder of Luxama Travel, shares her personal experiences and expert knowledge as we traverse the legendary 'Strata Statale 163 Amalfitana' on Italy's Amalfi Coast, a cliff side route famed for breathtaking views and exhilarating challenges. Discover the charm of this coastal paradise, where the art of "dolce far niente," or the sweetness of doing nothing, is celebrated in every sun-drenched alley and lemon-scented breeze along the Amalfi Coast drive. From Sorrento's picturesque paths to the serene natural beauty of the Jerontal reserve, Sarah invites us to experience the magic of this iconic location.We also uncover the hidden treasures of the Amalfi Coast's charming towns, from the delectable anchovies of Chitara to Vietre Sul Mare's vibrant ceramics. Our journey culminates in Salerno, the bustling city that blends history with modern allure. As Sarah recounts cherished memories of scooter rides and floating in the Mediterranean, she inspires us to pause, disconnect, and embrace the beauty. Whether you're planning a visit or simply dreaming of Italian landscapes, this episode transports you to one of the world's most enchanting destinations._____Sarah Thompson, is the founder of Luxama Travel. She lives in Southern Italy._____Podcast host Lea Lane has traveled to over 100 countries, and  has written nine books, including the award-winning Places I Remember  (Kirkus Reviews star rating, and  'one of the top 100 Indie books of  the year'). She has contributed to many guidebooks and has written thousands of travel articles. _____Our award-winning travel podcast, Places I Remember with Lea Lane, has dropped over 115 travel episodes! New episodes drop on the first Tuesday of the month, on Apple, Spotify, and wherever you listen. _____Travel vlogs of our featured  podcasts-- with video and graphics -- now drop on YouTube . Please subscribe, like, and comment. ****************************************Website: https://placesirememberlealane.com Travel Blog: forbes.comBlueSky: lealane.bsky.socialX (Twitter):@lealane Instagram: PlacesIRememberLeaLane Facebook: Places I Remember with Lea LaneYouTube Channel: Places I Remember: Travel Talk with Lea Lane

In this heartfelt episode, Kelsey sits down with Giovanna Silvestre, author of Confused Girl and @confusedgirlla on Instagram, to talk about her unforgettable month living on the Amalfi Coast. From mid-October to mid-November 2023, Giovanna stayed in an AirBNB with panoramic views of the Mediterranean Sea, immersing herself in the beauty and rhythm of local life. She opens up about how this magical stretch of Italian coastline became a place of healing as she grieved the loss of her father and finished writing her book. From charming seaside towns to moments of deep personal transformation, this episode is a reminder of the power of travel to restore and inspire. Giovanna also shares the best time to travel to Amalfi coast, great restaurants and hotel recommendations.Mentioned in this episode:- The villages along the Amalfi Coast: Amalfi, Praiano, Positano, Ravello, Atrani, Maiori, Minori- Fly into the Naples airport- Villa Cimbrone and Villa Rufolo in Ravello- Restaurant in Atrani: Le Arcate- Puglia, Italy for beaches- Hotel Margherita in Praiano- Giovanna's Book Launch Giveaway (Win 2 nights in Maui!) SUPPORT: Buy me a coffee to show your support for the Trip Tales podcast! https://www.buymeacoffee.com/kelseygravesFOLLOW: Kelsey on Instagram & TikTokSHOP: Kelsey's Travel Favorites from her Amazon storefront.SHARE: About your trip on the Trip Tales podcast: triptalespodcast@gmail.comPARTNER DISCOUNT CODESBling2o - 10% OFF Bling2o kids ski goggles with code: KELSEYSPANX.COM - Use code KGRAVESXSPANX for 15% OFF full-price items and FREE SHIPPING. My current fav travel outfit is the Air Essentials Jumpsuit. CHASE SAPPHIRE CREDIT CARD - My preferred points earning credit card and a great card for newbies entering the points & miles space to get started. Open a Chase Sapphire Preferred with my link and earn 60,000 BONUS POINTS.

Have you ever opened Instagram to see a bunch of people posting from the same place — Lisbon? The Amalfi Coast? Charleston? Japan? It's no coincidence that every year, it feels like everyone is going on the exact same trips. In this episode, we're going to pull back the curtain on the travel media industry and show you how a place becomes a viral destination.        Learn about your ad choices: dovetail.prx.org/ad-choices

Looking for a solution to insomnia? Join Geoffrey by the fireside for a relaxing story, following two friends on their sunny, relaxing trip down the Amalfi coast, where lemons grow on the trees, and the sea shines a pure, azure blue. Love Night Falls?

The Amalfi Coast is a dream place, and when I saw it for the first time, something shifted in me.  I knew I had to live there.   -Lauren Birmingham Born into an Italian-American family of great chefs, Lauren Birmingham has an innate love of food and family.   As a child growing up in Cranston, Rhode Island, she spent hours swinging in a hammock under a cherry tree,  reading the classics.  This fascination with reading, combined with her passion for travel, inspired Lauren to explore Europe as an adult.  On a trip to Italy's Amalfi Coast, she came around a corner in her Fiat 500 and couldn't believe her eyes.   “Thecolor of the houses built into the mountains was like confetti.  They were the prettiest pink, blue, and yellow, and the color of the Tyrrhenian Sea was an unmatchable shade of blue. It's a magical place, unlike any I'd ever seen in my life.”  From that moment, Lauren came back to Positano as often as she could,  running her PR business from a rented studio while developing her Cooking Vacations Italy culinary tour company.   cooking-vacations.com.  Along the way, she met and married an Italian race car driver named Rino Piscitelli.  At the top of her career,  she decided to write a cookbook that would include the recipes of 5-star Michelin Chef Andrea Migliaccio and become a 360-page labor of love.  Says Lauren:  “ It took years to travel around the Amalfi Coast and Capri, interviewing in Italian and then translating into English, plus the recipes had to be translated from metric to imperial.”  Aptly named It's A Dream Place: Stories & Recipes of Food, Love & the Amalfi Coast, this interview with Lauren will set your compass toward the next flight to Italy!   #amalficoast #italy #food #michelinchef 

Text the Wedding Planning HotlineThere's something magical about saying “I do” in a breathtaking destination—whether it's a romantic villa on the Amalfi Coast, a sun-soaked beach in the Caribbean, or a charming château in the French countryside. After all, a destination wedding is more than just a celebration; it's an opportunity to bring your closest friends and family together for an unforgettable experience.And while planning a destination wedding is an exciting way to combine your love story with travel and celebration, it's not without its complexities.  From navigating travel logistics to ensuring your guests are comfortable, and even handling legal requirements, a destination wedding requires careful planning and expert coordination. Don't worry, we're going to cover all of that today!Links Mentioned in the EpisodeFind the Full Shownotes HereGrab Our Day of Master OrganizerGrab Our Wedding Budget BundleGrab our Ultimate Wedding Planning Checklist Book a 90-minute Clarity Call to get wedding planning help specific to your unique situationVisit the ASK THE PLANNER Wedding Planning Templates Shop Connect with the show!

Looking to avoid the crowds and make the most of summer travel in 2025? On this episode of Unpacked, Afar contributor Mark Ellwood—a seasoned traveler who has spent most of his life living out of a suitcase—shares the off-the-beaten path summer adventures you can enjoy, again and again. Looking for the Best Places to Travel in Summer? On this episode you'll discover:   How to find the best summer travel deals and get the most out of a summer trip.  Hidden gems in the U.S., Europe and beyond, that locals love.  Ideas to weather-proof your summer and find alternative escapes you won't forget.  The Midwest Isn't the Only Place With a Well-Kept Secret Don't miss these moments:  [07:54] The Midwest's best-kept summer travel secret.  [12:53] Surf in the part of Scotland most people forget is there.  [14:30] How to vacation like an Italian and avoid tourist traps.  [20:30] Affordable flights and volcanic adventures: Why the Caribbean is a hiker's paradise.    Do You Need an Amalfi Intervention? While many travelers flock to hotspots like the Amalfi Coast or Rocky Mountains, Mark Ellwood reveals off-the-radar destinations, seasoned travel hacks and ways to enjoy popular locations without the crowds.  Resources:  Read the transcript of the episode. Visit Mark's website or follow him on Instagram.  Want to discover more off-the-beaten path destinations? Explore this section of afar.com.  Be sure to subscribe to the show and to sign up for our podcast newsletter, Behind the Mic, where we share upcoming news and behind-the-scenes details of each episode. And explore our second podcast, Travel Tales, which celebrates first-person narratives about the way travel changes us. ** New Opportunity: What's one tricky travel topic you want us to unpack? Send us a voice message here, for a chance to weigh in and be featured in an upcoming episode. **

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviews Taia Rashid, and Daphne Carter. The company proudly boasts the distinction of being the "first Black women-owned citrus-based liqueur in the United States." They created a vodka-based drink that is infused with the finest natural ingredients. The two women came up with an idea to start a business while vacationing on the shores of the Amalfi Coast in the summer of 2022, and now the two beverages born from that idea-inspiring trip are the award-winning Daphane Limoncello and Daphane Raspberry Berrycello. Cashid Beverage LTD Co has created a one-of-a-kind "original beverage" that is vodka-based and infused with the finest natural ingredients. The libations can be chilled as a shot, sipped alone over ice, or mixed with other fine spirits, juices, and seltzers to create fantastic palette-pleasing experiences! #BEST #STRAWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Two-time Emmy and Three-time NAACP Image Award-winning television Executive Producer Rushion McDonald interviews Taia Rashid, and Daphne Carter. The company proudly boasts the distinction of being the "first Black women-owned citrus-based liqueur in the United States." They created a vodka-based drink that is infused with the finest natural ingredients. The two women came up with an idea to start a business while vacationing on the shores of the Amalfi Coast in the summer of 2022, and now the two beverages born from that idea-inspiring trip are the award-winning Daphane Limoncello and Daphane Raspberry Berrycello. Cashid Beverage LTD Co has created a one-of-a-kind "original beverage" that is vodka-based and infused with the finest natural ingredients. The libations can be chilled as a shot, sipped alone over ice, or mixed with other fine spirits, juices, and seltzers to create fantastic palette-pleasing experiences! #BEST #STRAWSee omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.

Join Me Jenny D. and my guests Jason Capps, and Kelly Rodavich from Jason's Journey's as they take you on a captivating journey through the Amalfi Coast like never before. Explore the hidden gems and breathtaking vistas of this iconic region, uncovering the lesser-known towns of Maiori and Sorrento, and diving into local culture with intimate experiences. From homemade pasta in family kitchens to unforgettable boat excursions, immerse yourself in the magic of the coast. Whether you're savoring seafood fresh from local waters or enjoying a night of music and dancing, this trip promises a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Discover why every day feels like the best day, with curated itineraries, exceptional food, and company to match. Don't wait for the perfect moment; seize the opportunity now and create memories that will last a lifetime. Sign up today on the link below. Don't forget to subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from your tour guides. https://jasonsjourneys.com/ Check out our other short podcasts reviews of the other tours available in 2025. https://www.spillwithme.com/episodes Also available is our Youtube video so you can see the beautiful photos from the previous tours in 2024. Please Subscribe and follow. www.youtube.com/@Spillwithmejennyd

Join Me Jenny D. and my guests Jason Capps, and Kelly Rodavich from Jason's Journey's as they take you on a captivating journey through the Amalfi Coast like never before. Explore the hidden gems and breathtaking vistas of this iconic region, uncovering the lesser-known towns of Maiori and Sorrento, and diving into local culture with intimate experiences. From homemade pasta in family kitchens to unforgettable boat excursions, immerse yourself in the magic of the coast. Whether you're savoring seafood fresh from local waters or enjoying a night of music and dancing, this trip promises a perfect blend of adventure and relaxation. Discover why every day feels like the best day, with curated itineraries, exceptional food, and company to match. Don't wait for the perfect moment; seize the opportunity now and create memories that will last a lifetime. Sign up today on the link below. Don't forget to subscribe to the newsletter for the latest updates from your tour guides. https://jasonsjourneys.com/ Check out our other short podcasts reviews of the other tours available in 2025. https://www.spillwithme.com/episodes Also available is our Youtube video so you can see the beautiful photos from the previous tours in 2024. Please Subscribe and follow. www.youtube.com/@Spillwithmejennyd  

Few people in the cocktail world are as well known as Salvatore; you don't even have to say his surname before people begin talking about his many achievements in bartending, dating back forty years to his youth on the sun-kissed shores of the Amalfi Coast. He really is the  Maestro, and it's been a privilege to call him a friend for several decades now. From inventing the Direct Martini (while at Dukes Hotel, for guest Stanton Delaplane, a Pulitzer-prize winning journalist who himself invented/popularised the Irish Coffee, depending on who you ask), to running celebrated bar programs at The Lanesborough Hotel, Salvatore at Fifty, the Playboy Club and (currently) The Donovan Bar at Browns Hotel, Velvet by Salvatore at The Corinthia London, and several projects in his native Italy. He created modern classic cocktails including The Breakfast Martini and Spicy 50, has written many cocktail books (including one that sold a million copies), an award-winning book on cognac, and is a former President of the UK Bartending Guild. And he's a lot of fun. We sat down over coffee to talk about his career, what's changed, how he used to sell five-pound Mai Tais containing 17-year-old Wray & Nephew rum, his womanising bar mentor, advice he'd give a young bartender, the art of hosting and a whole lot more. Enjoy!Salvatore's website: https://salvatore-calabrese.co.uk/Salvatore on IG: https://www.instagram.com/cocktailmaestro/The Donovan Bar on IG: https://www.instagram.com/thedonovanbar/?hl=enVelvet Bar on IG: https://www.instagram.com/velvetbysalvatorecalabrese/?hl=enSalvatore's books: https://www.amazon.com/s?k=salvatore+calabrese&crid=2L1S4BQCUS0IP&sprefix=salvatore+calabrese%2Caps%2C82&ref=nb_sb_noss_1 Get in touch with Duff!Podcast business enquiries: consulting@liquidsolutions.org (PR friends: we're only interested in having your client on if they can talk for a couple of hours about OTHER things than their prepared speaking points or their new thing, whatever that is, for a few hours. They need to be able to hang. Oh, plus we don't edit, and we won't supply prepared or sample questions, or listener or “reach” stats, either.) Retain Philip's consulting firm, Liquid Solutions, specialised in on-trade engagement & education, liquor brand creation and repositioning: philip@liquidsolutions.orgPhilip on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/philipsduff/ Philip on Facebook: Philip Duff Philip on X/Twitter: Philip Duff (@philipduff) / Twitter Philip on LinkedIn: linkedin.com Old Duff Genever on Instagram: Old Duff Genever (@oldduffgenever) • Instagram photos and videos Old Duff Genever on Facebook: facebook.com Old Duff Genever on X/Twitter: ...

Fluent Fiction - Hungarian: Savoring Surprises: A Flavor Adventure on the Amalfi Coast Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/hu/episode/2025-02-22-23-34-02-hu Story Transcript:Hu: A tenger békésen hullámzott a sziklás part közelében.En: The sea was peacefully waving near the rocky shore.Hu: A fenyőfák susogtak a szélben.En: The pine trees rustled in the wind.Hu: Amalfi partján egy kis kávézó állt, melyet színes karneváli díszek öleltek körül.En: On the coast of Amalfi, there stood a small café surrounded by colorful carnival decorations.Hu: Az emberek hangos nevetése és a távolból hallatszó zene hangja töltötte meg a levegőt.En: The air was filled with the loud laughter of people and the sound of music heard from afar.Hu: A kávézó teraszán három barát ült: Zoltán, Lilla és Áron.En: On the café terrace sat three friends: Zoltán, Lilla, and Áron.Hu: Zoltán, a kalandvágyó utazó, izgatottan forgatta a kávézó menüjét.En: Zoltán, the adventurous traveler, eagerly flipped through the café menu.Hu: Mindig is szeretett új ízeket kipróbálni, és most célja az volt, hogy valami igazán különlegeset találjon, amiről otthon mesélhet.En: He always loved trying new flavors, and his goal now was to find something truly special that he could talk about back home.Hu: Szeme megakadt egy furcsa nevű fagylalton.En: His eyes caught on an ice cream with a strange name.Hu: Mosolyogva bökött rá az étlapon, amikor a pincér közelebb lépett.En: Smiling, he pointed at it on the menu when the waiter stepped closer.Hu: "Én ezt kérem," mondta lelkesen, bár sejtelme sem volt, hogy pontosan mit rendelt.En: "I'd like this," he said enthusiastically, although he had no idea what exactly he had ordered.Hu: A menü olasz nyelven volt.En: The menu was in Italian.Hu: Lilla és Áron kíváncsian figyelték barátjukat.En: Lilla and Áron watched their friend curiously.Hu: "Biztos vagy benne, Zoli?En: "Are you sure, Zoli?"Hu: " kérdezte Lilla.En: asked Lilla.Hu: "Nem tudod, mi ez.En: "You don't know what it is."Hu: ""Ne aggódjatok, srácok.En: "Don't worry, guys.Hu: Biztos valami helyi különlegesség," válaszolta Zoltán magabiztosan, bár kissé bizonytalan volt.En: I'm sure it's some local specialty," Zoltán replied confidently, although he felt a bit uncertain.Hu: Nem akarta, hogy barátai azt higgyék, fél a kihívásoktól.En: He didn't want his friends to think that he was afraid of challenges.Hu: A pincér visszatért, és letette Zoltán elé a különös fagylaltot.En: The waiter returned and placed the peculiar ice cream in front of Zoltán.Hu: Egy hal formájú fagylalt volt - vastag halszeletekből készítve.En: It was a fish-shaped ice cream - made from thick slices of fish.Hu: Lilla és Áron nevetésben törtek ki, amikor megértették, mit látott Zoltán különlegesség helyett az étlapon.En: Lilla and Áron burst into laughter when they understood what Zoltán saw on the menu instead of a specialty.Hu: Zoltán lesütötte a szemét egy pillanatra, de aztán felnézett, és bátran mondta: "Miért is ne?En: Zoltán lowered his eyes for a moment, but then he looked up and bravely said, "Why not?Hu: Egyszer élünk.En: We only live once."Hu: " Majd vett egy bátor falatot a furcsa édességből.En: Then he took a brave bite of the strange dessert.Hu: Érzett benne valami különleges ízt, ami tényleg finom volt.En: He felt something special in the taste, which was indeed delicious.Hu: Meglepődött, de élvezte.En: He was surprised but enjoyed it.Hu: "Igaza lehetett Zolinak!En: "Zoli might have been right!"Hu: " kiáltott fel Áron.En: exclaimed Áron.Hu: "Kíváncsi vagyok rá én is.En: "I'm curious about it too."Hu: "Ezután Lilla és Áron is megszeretett volna próbálni egy-egy harapást a különös fagylaltból.En: After that, Lilla and Áron also wanted to try a bite of the strange ice cream.Hu: Végül mindhárman nevettek, és élvezték a különleges élményt.En: Eventually, all three laughed and enjoyed the unique experience.Hu: Zoltán megtanulta, hogy az ismeretlen ízek új kalandot jelentenek, és a kísérletezésre érdemes.En: Zoltán learned that unfamiliar flavors mean a new adventure, and experimenting is worthwhile.Hu: A nap végén, ahogy a nap lenyugodott a gyönyörű tenger felett, a barátok visszatekintettek a napra.En: At the end of the day, as the sun set over the beautiful sea, the friends reflected on the day.Hu: Zoltán büszkén érezte, hogy az ismeretlen elfogadása egy új világot nyitott meg előtte.En: Zoltán felt proud that accepting the unknown had opened up a new world for him.Hu: Most már mindig kész volt új dolgokat kipróbálni, még akkor is, ha elsőre furcsának tűntek.En: He was now always ready to try new things, even if they seemed strange at first.Hu: A kávézó ragyogó színei és a karnevál hangulata jókedvűen kísérte haza a barátokat éjszakára.En: The café's radiant colors and carnival atmosphere cheerfully accompanied the friends home for the night. Vocabulary Words:peacefully: békésenrocky: sziklásshore: partpine trees: fenyőfákrustled: susogtakcarnival: karneválidecorations: díszeklaughter: nevetéseterrace: teraszánadventurous: kalandvágyóflipped through: forgattamenu: menüjétgoal: céljaspecialty: különlegességpeculiar: különösfish-shaped: hal formájúcelebrated: ünnepeltchallenge: kihívásokconfidently: magabiztosanuncertain: bizonytalanburst into laughter: nevetésben törtek kiradiant: ragyogóatmosphere: hangulataexperimenting: kísérletezésreaccompanied: kísértereflected: visszatekintetteklowered: lesütöttebravely: bátrancuriously: kíváncsianworthwhile: érdemes

Fluent Fiction - Italian: Carnival of Hope: Love and Courage on the Amalfi Coast Find the full episode transcript, vocabulary words, and more:fluentfiction.com/it/episode/2025-02-20-23-34-02-it Story Transcript:It: In una fredda mattina d'inverno, il sole si alzava lentamente sul magnifico panorama della Costiera Amalfitana.En: On a cold winter morning, the sun rose slowly over the magnificent panorama of the Costiera Amalfitana.It: Alessandro e Giulia si svegliavano nella loro piccola stanza con vista sul mare.En: Alessandro and Giulia woke up in their small room with a view of the sea.It: Le strade strette e colorate di Amalfi erano piene di vita e suoni di feste, mentre il Carnevale portava una gioia contagiosa nell'aria.En: The narrow, colorful streets of Amalfi were full of life and sounds of festivities, as the Carnival brought contagious joy to the air.It: Alessandro aveva pianificato questo viaggio da mesi.En: Alessandro had planned this trip for months.It: Voleva che fosse perfetto, un ricordo splendido per lui e Giulia.En: He wanted it to be perfect, a splendid memory for him and Giulia.It: Lei, con il suo spirito avventuroso, amava esplorare i luoghi nascosti e le bellezze naturali.En: She, with her adventurous spirit, loved exploring hidden places and natural beauties.It: Tuttavia, Giulia aveva un segreto: una condizione di salute che lei stessa spesso sottostimava.En: However, Giulia had a secret: a health condition that she herself often underestimated.It: Mentre camminavano lungo il sentiero verso Ravello, una sensazione strana iniziò a crescere in Giulia.En: As they walked along the path towards Ravello, a strange sensation began to grow in Giulia.It: All'inizio, lo ignorò, ma presto si rese conto che il disagio era impossibile da sopportare.En: At first, she ignored it, but soon realized that the discomfort was impossible to bear.It: Si fermò, afferrandosi al braccio di Alessandro.En: She stopped, clutching Alessandro's arm.It: "Mi sento strana", sussurrò, cercando di non allarmarlo.En: "I feel strange," she whispered, trying not to alarm him.It: Alessandro la guardò con preoccupazione.En: Alessandro looked at her with concern.It: Il suo cuore batteva forte.En: His heart was pounding.It: Fu allora che la paura più grande di Alessandro iniziò a materializzarsi.En: It was then that Alessandro's greatest fear began to materialize.It: "Devi sederti", disse, cercando di mantenere la calma.En: "You need to sit down," he said, trying to stay calm.It: Mentre il caos del Carnevale riempiva le strade, Alessandro sapeva di dover agire in fretta.En: While the chaos of the Carnival filled the streets, Alessandro knew he had to act quickly.It: Non poteva aspettare l'ambulanza turistica.En: He couldn't wait for the tourist ambulance.It: Doveva trovare aiuto subito.En: He had to find help immediately.It: Ricordò di aver visto un piccolo studio medico non lontano da lì.En: He remembered seeing a small medical office not far from there.It: Sapeva che Marco, il dottore locale, era ben preparato per gestire situazioni d'emergenza.En: He knew that Marco, the local doctor, was well-prepared to handle emergency situations.It: Alessandro corse tra la folla, spinse tra maschere e coriandoli, fino ad incontrare Marco nel cuore della sfilata.En: Alessandro ran through the crowd, pushing through masks and confetti, until he found Marco in the heart of the parade.It: "Dottor Marco, per favore, Giulia ha bisogno di aiuto," implorò, senza badare agli sguardi curiosi che li circondavano.En: "Dr. Marco, please, Giulia needs help," he pleaded, disregarding the curious looks surrounding them.It: Marco non esitò un attimo.En: Marco did not hesitate for a moment.It: Con un rapido cenno della mano, seguì Alessandro fino a Giulia.En: With a quick wave of his hand, he followed Alessandro to Giulia.It: Con esperienza e calma, fece una rapida diagnosi.En: With experience and calm, he made a rapid diagnosis.It: Pochi minuti dopo, la situazione sembrava sotto controllo.En: A few minutes later, the situation seemed under control.It: "È stato solo un piccolo malore", rassicurò Marco, "ma è meglio essere cauti."En: "It was just a small fainting spell," Marco reassured, "but it's better to be cautious."It: Con Giulia finalmente al sicuro, Alessandro si rese conto di quanto fossero preziosi quei momenti.En: With Giulia finally safe, Alessandro realized how precious those moments were.It: Seduti sulla terrazza dell'hotel, mentre le luci del Carnevale illuminavano la sera, si sentivano più uniti che mai.En: Sitting on the hotel terrace, as the lights of the Carnival illuminated the evening, they felt more united than ever.It: "Grazie," disse Giulia, prendendo la mano di Alessandro.En: "Thank you," Giulia said, taking Alessandro's hand.It: "Grazie per aver chiesto aiuto."En: "Thank you for asking for help."It: Alessandro sorrise, mentre la paura di perderla svaniva lentamente.En: Alessandro smiled as the fear of losing her slowly faded away.It: Aveva imparato una lezione importante: permettere agli altri di aiutare a volte è l'azione più forte.En: He had learned an important lesson: allowing others to help is sometimes the strongest action.It: E così, in mezzo ai colori e alla musica del Carnevale, la loro storia d'amore continuava, più forte di prima.En: And so, amidst the colors and music of the Carnival, their love story continued, stronger than before. Vocabulary Words:magnificent: magnificopanorama: il panoramaadventurous: avventurosospirit: lo spiritohidden: nascostisecret: il segretohealth condition: la condizione di saluteto underestimate: sottostimarepath: il sentierosensation: la sensazionediscomfort: il disagioto clutch: afferrareconcern: la preoccupazionefear: la paurato materialize: materializzarsichaos: il caosto act: agireambulance: l'ambulanzaimmediately: subitomedical office: lo studio medicoemergency: l'emergenzacrowd: la follaconfetti: i coriandoliparade: la sfilatato plead: implorareto hesitate: esitarediagnosis: la diagnosifainting spell: il malorecautious: cautito illuminate: illuminare

“Love has nothing to do with what you are expecting to get — only with what you are expecting to give — which is everything.” ~ Katharine Hepburn Guest Introduction:  Welcome to Exploring the Seasons of Life: Travel Edition! I'm Cindy MacMillan, your host and founder of Pangea World Travel Agency. If you're a midlife professional, an empty nester, or a woman with a heart for adventure, you're in the right place. This isn't just another travel podcast—it's an invitation to explore how travel shapes our lives, helping us grow, see the world in new ways, and rediscover ourselves along the way. And today, we're embracing love and travel in the spirit of Valentine's Day! Whether you're dreaming of a honeymoon-worthy escape or an unexpected romantic adventure, this episode is all about creating magical moments with the one you love. So, grab your coffee—or maybe a mocktail or even a glass of champagne for the occasion—get cozy, and let's set off on this journey together. To help me unpack these Romantic Getaways I've invited three incredible travel advisors who know romance when they see it. 1.     Josh Scheer is the founder of White Lotus Travel Design, a travel agency he established in 2023 after a diverse career journey. With a background in musical theater as an actor and a second career as a Solution Architect in sales, Josh brings a unique perspective to the world of travel. Based in New York City, Josh specializes in crafting bespoke multi-city European vacations tailored specifically for culinary travelers—those eager to explore the tastes, flavors, and culinary cultures of Europe in a truly immersive way. 2.     Ashley Stevens is the owner of Trellis Travel, a boutique travel agency specializing in bespoke European and Caribbean experiences, with a focus on luxury small-ship and river cruises. She creates experiences that offer authenticity and connection for discerning travelers who lead with their hearts when they travel.  3.     Angie Brandt believes a single moment can shape our story and leave a lasting legacy. Through Both Worlds Travel, she curates journeys for those who seek deeper connections—whether through culture, adventure, or quiet luxury. To Angie, true romance isn't just candlelit dinners or breathtaking views; it's the unforgettable moments that touch your heart and stay with you forever. She infuses this philosophy into every trip she designs, ensuring each journey is rich with meaning, connection, and lasting memories.   Here's a glimpse of our conversation:  Welcome, everyone! I'm so excited to have this conversation today and wish you all a Happy Valentine's Day! 6:23 (Josh) The most romantic trip I've ever taken was my engagement trip. My husband and I got engaged and spent two weeks in Italy, visiting only four places. So often, people feel the need to rush from one spot to the next, snapping selfies and checking off landmarks. But slowing down made our trip even more special. 7:50 (Cindy) I'll jump right in and share a place I found incredibly romantic. When I think of romantic trips, I've been on many, but a recent one that stood out was an Alaskan cruise last year. Many people don't typically consider an Alaskan cruise romantic, but it truly was. 9:23 (Ashley) The first place that came to mind was St. Lucia in the Caribbean—one of the most naturally beautiful and diverse places I've ever seen. We stayed at Cap Maison, a five-star resort on the island's north shore. 10:54 (Angie) I'd have to say Croatia. I know we talked about this in my last podcast, but there's something incredibly raw and real about it. For example, one night in Korčula, a charming little village, I was struck by its beauty. During the day, its cobblestone streets and stone buildings create a stunning, timeless atmosphere. 13:26 (Josh) Our job is to seek out those unique experiences in each destination. Most of the calls I receive are about travel to Europe, particularly Western Europe, along the Mediterranean. In addition to Italy, that includes France and Croatia as well. 16:55 (Angie) Building on what Josh and Ashley said, our job isn't to tell clients what to do—it's to truly understand them. That means listening carefully, asking thoughtful questions, and getting to know them on a deeper level. Ultimately, we're here to advise, which is why we're called travel advisors. But travel is full of nuance, and that's where our expertise comes in. 22:51 (Ashley) I find the South of France to be a perfect fit for many occasions, especially romantic trips. There's so much to do—you could plan an entire trip around UNESCO sites, explore medieval 12th-century villages for days, or relax in beautiful beach destinations. 25:03 (Cindy) Of course, the best destination depends on what our clients are looking for, but one place that stands out to me—and that I personally want to experience—is an African safari. I've been to South Africa, but I'd love to explore more, combining Cape Town with private guided tours, helicopter flights along the coastline, and a luxury safari experience. 32:01 (Josh) When we talk about Italy, there are some incredibly popular destinations like the Amalfi Coast, Lake Como, and Taormina—cities that get a lot of attention. But just nearby, there are amazing alternatives. For example, right next to Lake Como in Piemonte, you'll find Lake Maggiore and Lake Orta. Piemonte is also one of Italy's best wine regions. You could stay in a charming town like Stresa, right on Lake Maggiore, and experience the beauty and tranquility it offers. 37:44 (Ashley) This may not be considered a hidden gem, but it can lead to discovering hidden gems. One thing I've learned, and what I specialize in, is river cruises. In Europe, a river cruise offers the opportunity to unpack once while visiting multiple destinations. 44:11 I'd like to ask everyone: What are one or two words that travel means to you? Josh: Exploration and freedom. Angie: Life and connection. Ashley: Perspective and connection. Cindy: Awareness and freedom. Thank you so much for joining us on Exploring the Seasons of Life: Travel Edition. I'm Cindy MacMillan, and you can find me at PangeaWorldTravelAgency.com. If you enjoyed this episode—and I truly hope you did—be sure to hit that subscribe button so you never miss a show. If you could leave a review, it would mean the world to me. Your support helps us reach more amazing listeners like you. And remember, if you're dreaming of your next cruise or adventure, I'm here to help make it happen. Head over to my website to get in touch, and let's start planning your journey. Until next time, keep exploring, stay curious, and take care.

SummaryIn this episode of the Bella Italy podcast, hosts Brian and Anthony explore the nuances of traveling in Italy, emphasizing the importance of authentic experiences over typical tourist attractions.They discuss the challenges of convincing travelers to venture off the beaten path and the significance of understanding personal travel expectations. The conversation highlights the diversity of Italian travel, focusing on culinary adventures in Bologna and the cultural richness of the regions.The hosts share insights on creating memorable experiences that resonate with travelers, ultimately enhancing their connection to Italy. In this conversation, the speakers delve into the rich culinary traditions of Italy, exploring the significance of regional specialties, the influence of renowned chefs, and the importance of savoring the experience of Italian food.They discuss the allure of Cinque Terre and the Amalfi Coast, comparing the two destinations while emphasizing the need to slow down and truly enjoy the Italian way of life. The conversation highlights the transformative power of food and travel, encouraging listeners to appreciate the nuances of Italian cuisine and culture.TakeawaysThe podcast emphasizes the importance of authentic Italian experiences.Travelers often have preconceived notions about must-see attractions.Understanding personal travel expectations is crucial for a fulfilling trip.Diversity in travel experiences enriches the overall journey.Culinary adventures are a significant aspect of Italian culture.Experiencing local traditions enhances the travel experience.Guided tours can provide valuable insights into local culture.Traveling off the beaten path can lead to unexpected discoveries.Creating memorable experiences is key to enjoying Italy.The art of Italian cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition. The essence of Italian cuisine is deeply rooted in tradition.Experiencing food in Italy goes beyond just tasting; it's about understanding.Regional specialties like balsamic vinegar and prosciutto are integral to Italian culture.Traveling in Italy often leads to a newfound appreciation for food.Cinque Terre is a popular destination, but it offers more than just picturesque views.Slowing down during travel enhances the overall experience.Understanding the origins of food can elevate the dining experience.Renowned chefs play a significant role in shaping culinary experiences.The Amalfi Coast offers diverse experiences compared to Cinque Terre.Engaging with locals enriches the travel experience.Chapters00:00 Welcome to Bella Italy Podcast03:09 Exploring the Authentic Italian Experience05:58 Understanding Travel Expectations09:04 Diversity in Italian Travel12:04 Culinary Adventures in Bologna15:12 Experiencing Italian Culture18:00 The Art of Italian Cuisine23:26 The Essence of Italian Culinary Traditions26:08 Experiencing Authentic Italian Food27:40 Regional Specialties: A Taste of Mantova28:55 The Influence of Renowned Chefs30:51 Exploring Cinque Terre: A Tourist's Paradise33:47 The Importance of Slowing Down in Italy35:18 Understanding Cinque Terre: The Five Lands38:13 Cinque Terre vs. Amalfi Coast: A Comparative Analysis

A few weeks ago I did an episode about how wedding business owners are being sold a single version of luxury and told it's the only version available. It struck a chord with many of my clients and others who reached out, because I busted this myth that if you want to find success you have to do it a certain way - usually represented the way the people on top have done it themselves.  I think that road to success is well-paved and well-travelled by people who want the same kind of success. Million-dollar budgets, Lake Como and the Amalfi Coast every weekend, clients who all look like models.  But I've talked with thousands of wedding professionals who have a different version of what success can look like, of what it means to build a business they're proud of, one that gets them what they want in life. And their ideal clients look different too. Just like there's more than one version of success, and more than one version of luxury, there's also more than one version of an ideal client. Sure, we all want couples who pay higher prices - but what else should we look for? And how do we speak to them in our marketing and in our sales process? Today I bring in Katy, my wife and business partner - and ideal client expert - to talk shop about ICAs.