Podcasts about Italian Riviera

  • 143PODCASTS
  • 170EPISODES
  • 38mAVG DURATION
  • 1MONTHLY NEW EPISODE
  • May 6, 2025LATEST
Italian Riviera

POPULARITY

20172018201920202021202220232024


Best podcasts about Italian Riviera

Latest podcast episodes about Italian Riviera

Who Wear There by the Travel Brats
The Ultimate Guide to the 20 Regions of Italy with Italian Experts, the Founders of Tourissimo (Continued)

Who Wear There by the Travel Brats

Play Episode Listen Later May 6, 2025 44:40


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! 

jesus christ founders history culture church art europe english france french germany nature food home italy gardens italian tour explore north america unity greek rome gods wine essential sea valley cultural exploring mt flight poetry switzerland traditional chocolate caves religious exist outdoors renaissance austria bc ferrari mafia swiss sanctuaries bike sorrow catholic church coast mediterranean your life venice visitors nero cambio champagne venture redeemer vatican chess statue national parks winter olympics pasta syracuse michelin jubilee pair unesco signature campo ultimate guide austrian foodies lago pepe cathedrals stretching bologna salsa naples alba spaghetti tour de france culinary napoli adventurers mare lamborghini sole ponte dine neptune gew slovenia alpine holy trinity sicily italiano wander michelangelo pisa crypt seafood turin scattered alps marche verona temples buon palermo santa maria regions sila fave castles tuscany original sin charming purification lazio maldives pompeii riviera parma indulge assisi pantheon sanremo stroll sicilian greco baroque prosecco monza rubicon shroud national gallery piazza sicilia grado speck capri colosseum mediterranean sea saint mary maserati slavic venetian bergamo basilica genoa ancient history cyclists piedmont calabria puglia fiorentina trieste lodi golfo emilia romagna catacombs sardinia brescia lakeside admire comune catania rimini mediterranean diet padua modena veneto two towers pesto cagliari castello neapolitan lombardia saint francis loreto perugia garda matterhorn slow food angeli piemonte gallipoli bratwurst sistine chapel mozzarella bosa vatican city noto grotto lecce risotto blue zone castel genovese italian food campania corleone spritz christmas markets bellagio galleria abruzzo matera liguria umbria dolomites carbonara vesuvius enfer unesco world heritage sites cannoli trentino milanese vicenza cremona duomo adriatic ancona barolo amalfi coast lake como bolzano amalfi varese primitivo stromboli mount vesuvius murano san giovanni alpe limoncello santa rita taormina salento spiaggia beppe venere friuli elementi santa cecilia grotte prosciutto ischia polenta leaning tower grappa caserta basilicata lombardy ragusa positano tempio mantova portofino cinque terre montepulciano pescara focaccia molise brunello lambrusco friuli venezia giulia monopoli montalcino urbino sardinian royal palace romanesque mantua picturesque goulash avellino tortellini cacio modica parmigiano reggiano chianti classico trastevere santo stefano otranto austro hungarian lecco agrigento italian riviera barbaresco orvieto trevi fountain vallo mount etna franciacorta bufala castellana maremma calabrian le marche procida ninfa vasto grotta cattedrale norcia san gennaro lake garda vermentino ravello mortadella stresa scilla casu frascati asiago gubbio cascia cilento san gimignano brodo gran sasso cascata sondrio fiano campobasso burano tufo holy house aglianico cefal roman forum south tyrol san luca tropea recco spanish steps ponte vecchio balsamic vinegar senigallia cesenatico tiber river asolo ostuni palazzo ducale unesco heritage pizza napoletana cervia piazza duomo zonethe paestum caltagirone polignano orecchiette alghero parco nazionale palazzo vecchio santa cristina alberobello best meals pollino montefalco ligurian signoria falanghina aquileia pasta carbonara apennines sagrantino bardolino ostia antica cannonau teatro regio saint remy sulmona torcello adriatic coast conero neive scicli museo archeologico nazionale piazzale michelangelo
Who Wear There by the Travel Brats
The Ultimate Guide to the 20 Regions of Italy with Italian Experts, the Founders of Tourissimo

Who Wear There by the Travel Brats

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 22, 2025 50:50


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! 

jesus christ founders history culture church art europe english france french germany nature food home italy gardens italian tour explore north america unity greek rome gods wine essential sea valley cultural exploring mt flight poetry switzerland traditional chocolate caves religious exist outdoors renaissance austria bc ferrari mafia swiss sanctuaries bike sorrow catholic church coast mediterranean your life venice visitors nero cambio champagne venture redeemer vatican chess statue national parks winter olympics pasta syracuse michelin jubilee pair unesco signature campo ultimate guide austrian foodies lago pepe cathedrals stretching bologna salsa naples alba spaghetti tour de france culinary napoli adventurers mare lamborghini sole ponte dine neptune gew slovenia alpine holy trinity sicily italiano wander michelangelo pisa crypt seafood turin scattered alps marche verona temples buon palermo santa maria regions sila fave castles tuscany original sin charming purification lazio maldives pompeii riviera parma indulge assisi pantheon sanremo stroll sicilian greco baroque prosecco monza rubicon shroud national gallery piazza sicilia grado speck capri colosseum mediterranean sea saint mary maserati slavic venetian bergamo basilica genoa ancient history cyclists piedmont calabria puglia fiorentina trieste lodi golfo emilia romagna catacombs sardinia brescia lakeside admire comune catania rimini mediterranean diet padua modena veneto two towers pesto cagliari castello neapolitan lombardia saint francis loreto perugia garda matterhorn slow food angeli piemonte gallipoli sistine chapel bratwurst mozzarella bosa vatican city noto grotto lecce risotto blue zone castel genovese italian food campania corleone spritz christmas markets bellagio galleria abruzzo matera liguria umbria dolomites carbonara vesuvius enfer unesco world heritage sites cannoli trentino milanese vicenza cremona duomo adriatic ancona barolo amalfi coast lake como bolzano amalfi varese primitivo stromboli mount vesuvius murano san giovanni alpe limoncello santa rita taormina salento spiaggia beppe venere friuli elementi santa cecilia grotte prosciutto ischia polenta leaning tower grappa caserta basilicata lombardy ragusa positano tempio mantova portofino cinque terre montepulciano pescara focaccia molise brunello lambrusco friuli venezia giulia monopoli montalcino urbino sardinian royal palace romanesque mantua picturesque goulash avellino tortellini cacio modica parmigiano reggiano chianti classico trastevere santo stefano otranto austro hungarian lecco agrigento italian riviera barbaresco orvieto trevi fountain vallo mount etna franciacorta bufala castellana maremma calabrian le marche procida ninfa vasto grotta cattedrale norcia san gennaro lake garda vermentino ravello mortadella stresa scilla casu frascati asiago gubbio cascia cilento san gimignano brodo gran sasso cascata sondrio fiano campobasso burano tufo holy house aglianico cefal roman forum south tyrol san luca tropea recco spanish steps ponte vecchio balsamic vinegar senigallia cesenatico tiber river asolo ostuni palazzo ducale unesco heritage pizza napoletana cervia piazza duomo zonethe paestum caltagirone polignano orecchiette alghero parco nazionale palazzo vecchio santa cristina alberobello best meals pollino montefalco ligurian signoria falanghina aquileia pasta carbonara apennines sagrantino bardolino ostia antica cannonau teatro regio saint remy sulmona torcello adriatic coast conero neive scicli museo archeologico nazionale piazzale michelangelo
The_Whiskey Shaman
114: Old Dominick With Clark Schifani

The_Whiskey Shaman

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 15, 2025 76:18


Let me take you on a trip to the old country, back to 1843. Thats where our story today starts. Nestled in the Tennessee landscape is Old Dominick. This was an excellent episode with Clark. Hope you find value in it. And we have a coupon code to use you wanna buy a bottle for yourselfhttps://bit.ly/od-whiskey-shaman code: whiskeyshaman25Olddominick.comTexaswhiskeyfestival.comBadmotivatorbarrels.com/shop/?aff=3https://www.instagram.com/zsmithwhiskeyandmixology?utm_source=ig_web_button_share_sheet&igsh=ZDNlZDc0MzIxNw==1843Domenico Canale is born in San Pietro di Rovereto on the Italian Riviera. A year after his birth, three of his mother's brothers leave for America, settling in Memphis, where they start a successful wholesale grocery business that includes liquor and wine.1859DOMENICO CANALE ARRIVES IN AMERICASixteen-year-old Domenico Canale sails for America, landing in New Orleans after a 65 day-long voyage. From there, he travels up the Mississippi to Memphis, Tennessee where he worked for his uncle, Abraham Vaccaro, running a modest fruit cart up and down the streets of Memphis.1866Canale formally establishes food wholesaler D. Canale & Co., and sets up operations in a warehouse at 8 Madison St. near Front. Among its offering is a whiskey, sold in ceramic jars and bottles, that Canale names Old Dominick.1880Canale develops the Dominick Toddy, a bourbon-based cordial with fruity overtones that must have spoken to the former fruit stand operator. It was described as the “one of which we are the proudest” and its label featured the now iconic Dominicker Rooster.1919Just three days before the ratification of the 18th Amendment to the United States Constitution, better known as Prohibition, Domenico Canale passes away at the age of 75 in his Midtown home.1921During Prohibition, Domenico's eldest son, John Dominick Canale, expanded D. Canale's food and product operations. With distribution up and down the Mississippi from Chicago to the Gulf of Mexico, as far east as Atlanta, and west into Indian Territory, it was one of the largest grocery distributors in the region.1933By the time Prohibition was repealed in 1933, D. Canale and Company was operating the largest refrigerated warehouses in Memphis, which caught the attention of Anheuser-Busch. Most beer at the time was unpasteurized and had to be refrigerated, as a result of their refrigeration and an established distribution footprint, D. Canale was awarded exclusive regional distribution rights for Anheuser-Busch beers.1965A young John D. Canale, Jr. becomes President of D. Canale following his father's untimely death. A graduate of Yale and a Lieutenant in the Navy, John D., known by many as “The Bear”, led D. Canale into some of its most prosperous years by diversifying into institutional food and banking. He conceived of the company bywords, “Quality Products, Quality Service, by Quality People,” which we remember to this day.1982John D. Canale Jr and his wife, Peggy, had two sons; John D. Canale III and Chris W. Canale. Planning for future generations, John D. Canale Jr. spun both the food business and the beer business out from under the parent company D. Canale and Company in 1982, thereby creating D. Canale Food Services, Inc., and D. Canale Beverages, Inc.1999After 125 years of continuous operation, D. Canale Food Services is sold. At the 125th Anniversary celebration, a grateful John D. Canale Jr. reminded his friends, family, customers, and the company's hundreds of employees that “Quality and Service are remembered long after the price is forgotten.” With the beverage industry trending towards craft beer, wine and spirits, the family sold D. Canale Beverages at its peak in 2010.

Books and Authors
A Good Read: Julia Bradbury and Ramita Navai

Books and Authors

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 24, 2025 28:03


How to Stop Time by Matt Haig, chosen by Julia Bradbury A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry, chosen by Ramita Navai An Enchanted April by Elizabeth von Arnim, chosen by presenter Harriett GilbertTV presenter, author and walking enthusiast Julia Bradbury recommends a fiction book by Matt Haig, How to Stop Time, which brings to life the idea of living forever.Award-winning British-Iranian investigative journalist, documentary maker and author Ramita Navai shares the epic novel A Fine Balance by Rohinton Mistry, his Dickensian masterpiece of modern India.And Harriett's choice is An Enchanted April by Elizabeth von Arnim, capturing four ladies' unforgettable holiday on the Italian Riviera.Produced by Beth O'Dea for BBC Audio Bristol Follow us on instagram: agoodreadbbc

Learn About World Cuisine
Italian Riviera/Pesto/Focaccia Bread Fun Facts

Learn About World Cuisine

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 20, 2025 31:41


Italian Riviera is discussed with fun facts and then I give information about pesto and focaccia bread over 200 more episodes giving fun mind-blowing facts about different locations around the World and their cuisine can be found on your favorite Podcast platform, including Spotify, IHeartRadio, Amazon Music and many more or you can simply click this link https://learn-about-world-cuisine.simplecast.com

Superhero Ethics
Rebroadcast • Raya, Luca, and the Wisdom of Kids Movies

Superhero Ethics

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 17, 2024 74:17


As part of our September hiatus, please enjoy this rebroadcast of a favorite episode. Are "kids' movies" really just for children? Host Matthew Fox and guest Paul Hoppe dive deep into two animated blockbusters - "Raya and the Last Dragon" and "Luca" - to uncover the profound themes and allegories hidden beneath their family-friendly veneer.How can animated films tackle complex social issues? We explore how Raya addresses themes of trust, prejudice, and unity in a fantastical Southeast Asian-inspired world. Meanwhile, Luca serves as a powerful allegory for coming out and accepting one's true self, all set against the sun-drenched backdrop of the Italian Riviera.What makes these films resonate with audiences of all ages? Our hosts discuss the delicate balance of humor and gravitas, the importance of representation, and how these movies challenge societal norms while remaining accessible to younger viewers.Other topics covered:The evolution of the Disney princess tropeQueer coding and representation in mainstream animationThe impact of diverse character representation on young audiencesHow animated films can normalize differences and foster acceptanceThe role of allegory in addressing complex themes for all agesWhether you're a film buff, animation enthusiast, or simply curious about the power of storytelling, this episode offers a fresh perspective on the depth and significance of modern animated features. Join us as we unpack the wisdom hidden in these "kids' movies" and discover why they deserve a place in adult conversations too. We've started the conversation. Now we want to hear from you!Want to continue the discussion with us? Agree or disagree with what we talked about, or add your own thoughts? We've got options for you!Email: ✉️ Matthew@TheEthicalPanda.com

Bible in One Year
Day 256: How to Stay on God's Paths

Bible in One Year

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2024 22:04


Psalm 107:1-9, Isaiah 29:1-30:18, 2 Corinthians 12:11-21. The signs on the Italian Riviera were erected to keep people safe The words of Jesus, the New Testament and the Bible as a whole, are designed to keep us on the path that leads to life

Youth BiOY
Day 256: How to Stay on God's Paths

Youth BiOY

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2024 14:42


Psalm 107:1-9, Isaiah 29:13-16, 30:1-18, 2 Corinthians 12:19-21. The signs on the Italian Riviera were erected to keep people safe The words of Jesus, the New Testament and the Bible as a whole, are designed to keep us on the path that leads to life

Bible In One Year Express
Day 256: How to Stay on God's Paths

Bible In One Year Express

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2024 13:36


Psalm 107:1-9, Isaiah 29:13-16, 30:1-18, 2 Corinthians 12:19-21. The signs on the Italian Riviera were erected to keep people safe The words of Jesus, the New Testament and the Bible as a whole, are designed to keep us on the path that leads to life

Unemployable
Friday Recap E19: How We Made $279K Profit, Invested $60K in SEO & Planned Our Business Strategy in One Day with AI

Unemployable

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 29, 2024 67:40


End-of-Year Financial Results for a Startup "Want to turn your side hustle into a profit machine? Find out how we took a small startup from zero to $279,000 in real profit in just a year! We're breaking down our end-of-year financial results and sharing the secrets behind a nearly 30% net margin. Strategic Business Planning "How do you decide what projects to tackle next in your startup? Learn the exact strategies we use to break down a year and prioritize business growth. From Adams toilet company to personal productivity hacks, we reveal the roadmap to successful planning and execution that any entrepreneur can apply."Experimenting with Google Gemini for AI-Enhanced Emails "Are you tired of spending hours writing emails? So are we! That's why we're testing Google's new AI tool, Gemini, to write and respond to emails for us. Get the inside scoop on how this tool is changing the game and saving us valuable time. Could this be the productivity hack of the future?" Improving Sleep Quality and Hacks "Struggling with sleep? We did too, but not anymore! Discover the 5 life-changing sleep hacks that took us from a mere 5 hours to a refreshing 7+ hours a night. From sugar management to mouth tape, these tips could revolutionise your rest and recovery!" Marketing Tactics: Retargeting on Facebook and SEO Investments "Is SEO dead? We're investing $60,000 this year to prove it's not! Find out why we're doubling down on search engine optimization and how retargeting on Facebook is bringing in consistent sales every week. Learn our top marketing strategies that could help you boost your business." Building a Lifestyle Business "Ever dreamed of running a business from anywhere in the world? We're living that dream! Hear how we're building a lifestyle business that lets us enjoy the Italian Riviera while managing everything remotely. Freedom in business is possible, and we're sharing how to achieve it!" Shifting to a 3PL Model for Efficiency "Could changing one thing in your business add $1 million to your net worth? We did it by moving to a 3PL model! Learn how this simple change cut our costs, increased efficiency, and transformed our bottom line overnight."

The Face Radio
¡Golazo! - Matt Pape // 22-08-24

The Face Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 22, 2024 119:45


After a three week European whirlwind, this is my last show coming to you from the south of France, for a bit. Next week I'm back at the Cafe Atlas Obscura. Hope these tunes take you away and make your end of summer a wonderful beat filled blast. The music is West Coast African Boogie, City Slick Marseille Early Hip Hop, Italian Riviera abstract Italo and loads more. For more info and tracklisting, visit: https://thefaceradio.com/category/golazo/Tune into new broadcasts of ¡Golazo! with Matt Pape LIVE, Thursdays from 12 - 2 PM  EST /  5-7 PM GMT.//Dig this show? Please consider supporting The Face Radio: http://support.thefaceradio.com Support The Face Radio with PatreonSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/thefaceradio. Join the family at https://plus.acast.com/s/thefaceradio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

The Face Radio
Worldy // 19-08-24

The Face Radio

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 19, 2024 119:45


This Worldy comes to you from the coast of the Mediterranean- where Costa Brava meets Côte D'Azur meets the Italian Riviera. It's an end of the summer sea and sand (and pebbles) show filled with old friends Matt's Paris roommate The Sloth joins the show and makes a few selections - It's PAX ACIDUS back together baby! Ciao Bella!For more info and tracklisting, visit: https://thefaceradio.com/worldy/Tune into new broadcasts of Worldy with Matt and Dom, LIVE, Mondays from 10 AM - 12 Noon EST / 3- 5 PM GMT.//Dig this show? Please consider supporting The Face Radio: http://support.thefaceradio.com Support The Face Radio with PatreonSupport this show http://supporter.acast.com/thefaceradio. Join the family at https://plus.acast.com/s/thefaceradio. Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

World War II Movie Night
92. "Stalingrad" (1993)

World War II Movie Night

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 5, 2024 49:47


Tonight World War II Movie Night returns to non-English WWII movies that punch ya' in the gut with 1993's "Stalingrad"! A platoon of German soldiers is plucked from the Italian Riviera for a new mission at the Eastern Front: Stalingrad. Despite thinking they'll make short work of the Russians, what the soldiers go through is akin to a horror movie, with not only death, injury and starvation, but death of idealism and identity... asides include Ice Cube's ruminations on 1993, and a Sopranos reference ("Pine Barrens"!).  Drop us a line at worldwartwomovienight@gmail.com Check out our X at http://twitter.com/WWIIMovieNight 

popular Wiki of the Day
Jannik Sinner

popular Wiki of the Day

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 4, 2024 3:09


pWotD Episode 2619: Jannik Sinner Welcome to Popular Wiki of the Day, spotlighting Wikipedia's most visited pages, giving you a peek into what the world is curious about today.With 165,276 views on Wednesday, 3 July 2024 our article of the day is Jannik Sinner.Jannik Sinner (born 16 August 2001) is an Italian professional tennis player. He is currently ranked as the world No. 1 in singles by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), making him the highest-ranked Italian singles player in history.Sinner has won 14 singles titles on the ATP Tour, including a Grand Slam title at the 2024 Australian Open and two Masters 1000 titles.At the end of the 2023 season, Sinner was runner-up at the ATP Finals and led Italy to the Davis Cup crown, their first since 1976. Sinner also has a career-high ranking of world No. 124 in doubles, achieved in September 2021, and has won one ATP Tour title in doubles.Sinner grew up in northern Italy in the predominantly German-speaking region of South Tyrol. After being a competitive skier between the ages of 8–12, Sinner switched to focus exclusively on tennis at age 13, and moved to Bordighera on the Italian Riviera to train with veteran coach Riccardo Piatti. Despite limited success as a junior, Sinner began playing in professional men's events aged 16, and became one of the few players to win multiple ATP Challenger Tour titles at age 17. In 2019, he broke into the top 100, winning the Next Generation ATP Finals and the ATP Newcomer of the Year award. In 2021, he became the youngest ATP 500 champion at the 2021 Citi Open, and became the first player born in the 2000s to enter the top 10 in rankings. Sinner won his first Masters 1000 title at the 2023 Canadian Open and finished the season by reaching the final of the ATP Finals and contributed to Italy lifting the Davis Cup. At the 2024 Australian Open, Sinner defeated world No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the semifinals to reach his first major final. He then defeated Daniil Medvedev in a five-set final, coming back from two sets down to win his first major title.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 01:38 UTC on Thursday, 4 July 2024.For the full current version of the article, see Jannik Sinner on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm standard Kendra.

Patrick Boyle On Finance
Millionaire Exodus?

Patrick Boyle On Finance

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 22, 2024 28:50 Transcription Available


Send us a Text Message.Millionaires are leaving the UK faster than any country in the world other than China, new data shows.According to the Henley Private Wealth Migration Report, 9,500 millionaires, defined in US dollar terms are leaving the UK this year. Only China - which has more than twice as many people with seven-figure net worths - saw more millionaires leave.This is a new record outflow for the UK, with London expected to be especially hard hit. The top destinations for millionaires leaving the UK include Paris, Dubai, Amsterdam, Monaco, Geneva, Sydney, and Singapore, as well as retirement hotspots such as Florida, the Algarve, Malta, and the Italian Riviera.”Patrick's Books:Statistics For The Trading Floor:  https://amzn.to/3eerLA0Derivatives For The Trading Floor:  https://amzn.to/3cjsyPFCorporate Finance:  https://amzn.to/3fn3rvCPatreon Page: https://www.patreon.com/PatrickBoyleOnFinanceBuy Me a Coffee: https://buymeacoffee.com/patrickboyleVisit our website: www.onfinance.orgFollow Patrick on Twitter Here: https://twitter.com/PatrickEBoylePatrick Boyle on YouTube Podcasting For Brands // bring your guest we do the restVideo episodes. Social clips. Live producer. Virtual studio. Coaching.Support the Show.

The BoldBrush Podcast
80 Vladislav Yeliseyev — Liberation and Striving for a Masterpiece

The BoldBrush Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2024 59:15 Transcription Available


Order your exclusive da Vinci BoldBrush paintbrush set!https://brushoffer.com/collections/boldbrushLearn the magic of marketing  with us here at BoldBrush!https://www.boldbrushshow.com/Get over 50% off your first year on your artist website with FASO:https://www.FASO.com/podcast/---On today's episode with sat down with Vladislav Yeliseyev, a watercolor and plein air artist who emphasizes the importance of capturing the natural beauty of a place and evoking a particular mood or emotion in the viewer. He tells us about his artistic journey including his education in fine arts and architecture at the Moscow Architectural Institute. He also explains the difference between craft and fine art, why travel can really broaden your horizons both literally and figuratively as an artist, and how experimentation can lead to a masterpiece thanks to the liberation of expression. He also reminds us that developing your style is like developing your own unique handwriting: it happens with time and repetition and isn't forced. Finally, he tells us about his awesome online courses and incredible upcoming painting cruise workshop through the Italian Riviera and France!Vlad's FASO Site:https://www.yeliseyevfineart.com/Vlad's upcoming Painting Cruise:https://www.yeliseyevfineart.com/workshop/36052/painting-cruise-italian-riviera-and-franceVlad's other upcoming workshops:https://www.yeliseyevfineart.com/workshopsVlad's Instagram:https://www.instagram.com/vladislavyeliseyev/Vlad's Vimeo:https://vimeo.com/yeliseyev

A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life
The Flavours of Liguria with Food Writer Enrica Monzani

A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and life

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 9, 2024 41:52


Join me for a conversation about the beauty of Ligurian cuisine and the unique terrain that is Liguria, Italy.  Enrica Monzani specialises in the rich and diverse cuisine of Liguria,  leading food tours, market and cooking classes in the city of Genova.  Enrica is a Food Writer and Author of Liguria in Cucina: The Flavours of Liguria, where she shares her passion for preserving the traditional recipes and the stories of her region.We go on a beautiful journey through the many layers of Liguria, with expert tips on mastering your pesto sauce and what to do and see in Genoa if on the Italian Riviera.  I adore this part of the world and hope you enjoy this conversation with Enrica Monzani.Visit Enrica at A Small Kitchen in GenoaEnrica's Beautiful Cookbook - Liguria in Cucina: The Flavours of Liguria, Ricotta della tradizione - traditional dishes….Follow Enrica on Instagram @asmallkitcheningenoaThe city of Genoa/Genova is not only a majestic port city on the Mediterranean Sea,  but the capital city of Liguria.  If you would like to listen to other Podcasts from the archive I have created on this journey of exploring Italian Culture and this fascinating city - you can find the links and resources here at michellejohnston.lifeFind all Show Notes and details mentioned at: michellejohnston.lifeYou can now Support the Podcast and send your encouragement.© 2024  A Writer In Italy - travel, books, art and lifeMusic Composed by Richard Johnston © 2024Support the show

Story x Story
Story x Story #170: A Lot of Mini Steaks (Luca)

Story x Story

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 8, 2024 120:47


This week, Nigel and Tazziii head to the Italian Riviera as we take a deep dive into the deep blue sea for Luca (starting at 27:44) with Cosplayer Coco. A pandemic-affected release didn't seem to impact the reception of this coming-of-age story, and we get into the reasons for its successful outing with audiences of all ages. We explore the themes of latent "otherness" beneath the surface and what they mean for the arcs of the characters as well as the real world around us. This week's storytelling tip is all about building allegory through dual narratives. Other stories we're enjoying include: Avatar the Last Airbender (Netflix), Good Doctor, Sweet Reincarnation, I've Been Killing Slimes for 300 Years and Maxed Out My Level, Reborn as a Vending Machine I Now Wander the Dungeon, Re:Zero - Starting Life in Another World, Black Clover, Call of Duty: Mobile, It's Always Sunny in Philadelphia, Ranking of Kings, Peaky Blinders, Mea Culpa.

popular Wiki of the Day
Jannik Sinner

popular Wiki of the Day

Play Episode Listen Later Jan 29, 2024 3:41


pWotD Episode 2462: Jannik Sinner Welcome to popular Wiki of the Day where we read the summary of a popular Wikipedia page every day.With 841,493 views on Sunday, 28 January 2024 our article of the day is Jannik Sinner.Jannik Sinner (born 16 August 2001) is an Italian professional tennis player. He has been ranked as high as world No. 4 by the Association of Tennis Professionals (ATP), achieved on 2 October 2023, making him the highest ranked Italian male player in history (tied with Adriano Panatta). Sinner is a Grand Slam champion, having won the 2024 Australian Open. He has won a further ten ATP Tour singles titles, including a Masters 1000 title at the 2023 Canadian Open. Sinner also has a career-high ranking of world No. 124 in doubles, achieved on 27 September 2021, and has won one ATP Tour title in doubles. Sinner grew up in northern Italy in the German-speaking region of South Tyrol. He was active in skiing, football, and tennis as a child. After winning a national championship in skiing at age eight, Sinner switched his focus to tennis at age 13 and moved to Bordighera on the Italian Riviera to train with veteran coach Riccardo Piatti. Despite limited success as a junior, Sinner began playing in professional events at age 16 and became one of the few players to win multiple ATP Challenger Tour titles at age 17. He won the ATP Newcomer of the Year award in 2019 after breaking into the top 100 and winning the Next Generation ATP Finals in Milan. Sinner continued his rise into the top 50 in 2020 with his first top 10 victory, a French Open quarterfinal, and his first ATP Tour title at the 2020 Sofia Open. In 2021, he became the youngest ATP 500 champion at the 2021 Citi Open, was a Masters runner-up at the Miami Open, and became the first player born in the 2000s to enter the top 10 in rankings. After reaching his first major semifinal at the 2023 Wimbledon Championships, Sinner won his first Masters 1000 title at the 2023 Canadian Open. He finished the season by reaching the final of the ATP Finals and leading Italy to win the 2023 Davis Cup title for the first time in 47 years. At the 2024 Australian Open, Sinner defeated world No. 1 Novak Djokovic in the semifinals to reach his first major final, ending Djokovic's undefeated 20–0 (in semifinals or later) Australian Open record. He then defeated Daniil Medvedev in a five-set final, coming back from two sets down to win his first major title.This recording reflects the Wikipedia text as of 01:41 UTC on Monday, 29 January 2024.For the full current version of the article, see Jannik Sinner on Wikipedia.This podcast uses content from Wikipedia under the Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License.Visit our archives at wikioftheday.com and subscribe to stay updated on new episodes.Follow us on Mastodon at @wikioftheday@masto.ai.Also check out Curmudgeon's Corner, a current events podcast.Until next time, I'm Kimberly Neural.

A Muse's Daydream
You are the Art

A Muse's Daydream

Play Episode Listen Later Dec 15, 2023 3:17


This episode is a momentary departure from the usual frivolity for reverie of the inspiration, relaxation, and the possibility of creativity.Script and Poster of the poem is available to purchase at this link."Don't let the future hold your happiness hostage."  ~Sam HarrisWorkshop: Blessing of the New YearJoin me in a complimentary workshop called Blessing of the New Year, on December 27th, 12pm pacific time/ 3pm eastern.  Welcome 2024 by creating a simple blessing with inspiration from poet, David Whyte and your own intuition. For writers and non-writers alike. Included in this workshop is a new year guided meditation to spark a creative relationship with yourself to last throughout the year. I'll also talk about one of my biggest concern and frequently seen challenges... not enjoying what you're doing or feeling enough. There's a lot of areas where I could use improve: organization, a balanced social life, politeness to name a few.   But the moment is mine to believe it's perfect as is AND I can make small improvements without needing to be perfect.  Despite irritability, bad hair, and a non-linear journey to get here, my current existence is crackerjack. I'll share the five practices to which I credit this most wonderful phenomenon.  Register hereOther:Let's Talk About CreativitySaturday, January 13 9:30 am pac,10:30mtn, 11:30 cen 12pm eastern  The Kaizen-Muse Creativity Coaching Training was recognized by Life Coaching Magazine as the best creativity coaching available. Now the tools and approaches that won it that honor are shared monthly, starting in January in a Zoom Session called Let's Talk About Creativity. We will talk about ways to get through procrastination and talk about what we love about what we do. Free to members of The Underground.  Wild Abandon Writing Workshop on Zoom4 weeks starting January 10 3-4:30 pacific timeYou know all those prompts in my books? We will be doing some of those and other wacky prompts. We start with raw materials in the form or words and phrases and collage them togetherWriting workshop info here Kaizen-Muse Creativity Coaching Training:17-week training on Zoom beginning Monday, January 21Whether you want to help others or understand the power of your own creativity when mindfulness, compassion, intuition, and small steps is in the mix, come find out why this training was recognized by Life Coaching Magazine as the best creativity coaching training. Filling fast. More info here.  Art and Creativity Walk in Italy - I'm so excited about this.. We will be using mindfulness and creativity through art, smart photography, and writing to add to the enchantment and appreciation of the Italian Riviera. October 2024Hope you can join me... it's half full .Support the show Upcoming art and creativity programs www.themuseisin.com

Sharing the Flavor
Liguria in Cucina with Enrica Monzani

Sharing the Flavor

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 30, 2023 71:09


This episode features a discussion with author and cook, Enrica Monzani. Enrica is the author of the blog, A Small Kitchen in Genoa. Enrica has a new book out called Liguria in Cucina. In the book she explores the culinary regions and foods of Genoa, the Italian Riviera and the vast Forest areas of Liguria. We go beyond Pesto and Focaccia to explore the diverse culinary regions and flavors of Liguria.Topics discussed:· The Regions within Liguria and the influence on cooking (The Sea, The Forest, the Mountains)· The pantry of Liguria · Olive Oil of Liguria· Pesto origins and Salsa di Noci· Chickpea flour (Panissa, Farinata)· The unique Pasta of Liguria (use of white wine)· The many forms of Focaccia (Focaccette al Formaggio, Sardenaira)· The savoury pies of Liguria (Torta Pasqualina )· Fish (Anchovies}, Mussels)· Ligurian DessertsEnrica also hosts cooking classes and food tours of Genoa.To learn more about Enrica and buy Liguria in Cucina today, head over to A Small Kitchen in GenoaEnjoy!

Maxwell's Kitchen
MK123 - Things to see in Finale Ligure, Italy - The Italian Riviera

Maxwell's Kitchen

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 6, 2023 6:05


A travel guide on transportation, lodging, and food in Finale Ligure - Finalmarina, Finalpia, and Finalborgo. Finale Ligure is a coastal community made up of three communes, and offers a more relaxing approach to the Italian Riviera. Previous episodes - MK122 - Monaco - https://youtu.be/JxhjHNlfnZ4MK121 - Nice, France - https://youtu.be/bVTU_XMjZ-gMK120 - How to backpack Europe - https://youtu.be/pFtwBOMdczYMK86 - Venice - https://youtu.be/sPGUJ7VHMCEMK85 - Vienna - https://youtu.be/DK6G7RB9g_kMK84 - Dubrovnik - https://youtu.be/FD_xIqmV4w4MK45 - Dublin - https://youtu.be/DYDSk7pBbNUMK44 - Marseille - https://youtu.be/TQrESbBJ7QYMK43 - Palma de Mallorca - https://youtu.be/YtOHgY67XoIMK42 - Amsterdam - https://youtu.be/CJxlYIoon00Opening song “Silver Lining” written by Jenny Lewis and performed by Rilo Kiley.All production by Cody Maxwell. Artwork by Cody Maxwell. Opening graphic assets by sonorafilms. sharkfyn.com maxwellskitchenpodcast.com

You're Welcome with Hilary Rushford
Ep 181: Second trimester update + magical finds in Tuscany (roadtrip chat with Jeremy)

You're Welcome with Hilary Rushford

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 4, 2023 68:18


Join us on the road from Tuscany to the Italian Riviera via Rome on: My 3 biggest takeaways from the 1st trimester of our pregnancy and surrogacy journey  Who we've shared the gender of the baby with and why/why not  The 2 extra special places we found on our first time in Tuscany (will share links on IG after our trip!) The Italian political perspective on surrogacy that I can't help but think about while here  We get lost, have to change audio sources halfway through, and I don't allow for silence so we don't have to make edits once we arrive in Positano so he doesn't have much time to chime in (ha.)  Would love to hear your thoughts after on Instagram @HilaryRushford. If you think this would help someone you know please share and tag me so I can see and chime in! And thank you in advance (wink) for leaving a review, they mean so much in helping more people!  

Bravo Bravo Effing Bravo
RHONY S14 E11, RHOSLC S4 E4 and Below Deck Med S8 E1

Bravo Bravo Effing Bravo

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 28, 2023 52:29


On this episode of Bravo Bravo Effing Bravo, we break down Episode 11 of The Real Housewives of New York City Season 14, 'The Case of the Missing Phone', Episode 4 of The Real Housewives of Salt Lake City Season 4, 'Don't Be a Drag' and Episode 1 of Below Deck Med Season 8, 'The Italian Job.'  Join Nathan and Mariana as they offer a blunt Aussie perspective of our favourite people in our favourite world of Bravoland. You can also follow us on Instagram and Twitter @effingbravo for podcast updates, tea, and Bravo news.  On this episode of RHONY: On the group's final day in Anguilla, a storm moves in over Erin and Ubah's friendship; the women go on a rum tour where Sai revives her bartending career; the ladies limbo with the locals, but Erin leaves early; Jessel's hit list is revealed. On this episode of RHOSLC: On the final day of their Palm Springs trip, Whitney takes over and calls Meredith on her behaviour; Monica and Lisa's tension reveals itself in head-to-toe drag; Angie and Meredith continue to throw insults at each other. Heather and Angie bond. On this episode of Below Deck Down Med: Capt. Sandy embarks on a new charter season on the beautiful waters of the Italian Riviera; two of her stews have unprecedented issues getting to the yacht; the deck team faces unforeseen obstacles; Capt. Sandy has to make a difficult decision. Follow Bravo Bravo Effing Bravo: @effingbravo on Instagram and Twitter Follow Nathan: @nathanbrown90 on Instagram and Twitter

Bible in One Year
Day 255: How to Stay on God's Paths

Bible in One Year

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2023 22:04


Psalm 107:1-9, Isaiah 29:1-30:18, 2 Corinthians 12:11-21. The signs on the Italian Riviera were erected to keep people safe The words of Jesus, the New Testament and the Bible as a whole, are designed to keep us on the path that leads to life

Youth BiOY
Day 255: How to Stay on God's Paths

Youth BiOY

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2023 14:42


Psalm 107:1-9, Isaiah 29:13-16, 30:1-18, 2 Corinthians 12:19-21. The signs on the Italian Riviera were erected to keep people safe The words of Jesus, the New Testament and the Bible as a whole, are designed to keep us on the path that leads to life

Bible In One Year Express
Day 255: How to Stay on God's Paths

Bible In One Year Express

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2023 13:36


Psalm 107:1-9, Isaiah 29:13-16, 30:1-18, 2 Corinthians 12:19-21. The signs on the Italian Riviera were erected to keep people safe The words of Jesus, the New Testament and the Bible as a whole, are designed to keep us on the path that leads to life

A Muse's Daydream
Perfectionism is Creativity's Evil Stepsister

A Muse's Daydream

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 1, 2023 7:24


Hi Listener,If you've been in earshot of me randomly bending a stranger's ear or at one of my workshops or trainings, you've probably heard the story I'm about to tell you.  I share so maybe a little light is shed on the poison of perfectionism as it relates to doing three of the most important parts of the creativity:1. enjoying the process2. enjoying what you've done.3. sharing it with the worldI'm holding a free call on Tuesday August 8, 11 am pacific/2 eastern called Is Perfectionism Ruining My Creative Mojo ? It will give you agives you an idea of some of the principles I teach in Kaizen-Muse Creativity Coaching and my workshops, and may lend a little freedom to the evil step-sister of creativity: perfectionism as well as how you can use compassion to move yourself out of both perfectionism and procrastination. Register here  Other Workshops and TrainingsKaizen-Muse Creativity Coaching Certification Training: ZoomAugust 21, 2023 — December 11, 2023 17-weeks of learning tools and approaches through a rich online community, two live-inactive Zoom classes a week, discussion, reading, and experiences based on science, mindfulness, intuition, and permission to be free from the fear, habits, pressures, and messages we get that stop our creative joy. KMCC hereThe Modern Day Muse Group Facilitation Training: ZoomSeptember 12 - December 5 (no class Thanksgiving week)Two Muses: Albert (Terry Way) and Bea Silly (Rozy Walker) will be teaching you how to run your own creativity groups based on the book The Nine Modern Day Muses (and a Bodyguard). Or take it to return to, unleash or deepen your own creativity.Save the date - registration will be coming up in upcoming newsletters.  Sign-up here Wild Abandon at Omega Institute of Holistic Sciences: New YorkOctober 1-6, 2023. A week of immersing ourselves in Wild Abandon writing, art, photography, and good times in a forest in the Hudson Valley.   Register here The Muse in Winter: Writing and Art Retreat in Taos New Mexico: Two spots open Feb 10-14, 2023This year the workshops, art, improv, even the entertainment will be all geared toward writing. We will explore and celebrate creative writing and make art for writers in enchanting Taos.  Payment plans available. Taos link is here.   Art Walk and Creativity on the Italian Riviera October 14-20, 2024 Plenty of time to save up for gelato! I'll be providing the creative part of a tour to the Italian Riviera. Here's the link to sign-up     For all levels from beginners to travel-hungry pros. The Underground Highway to Creative Results: Zoom and FBFor regular Fun Creative Prompts and a spectacular group of supportive creatives, join me in the Underground . Monthly Zoom Creativity Workshop and Wild Abandon art and writing prompts weekly  and a secret FB page (optional)  for only $23 ..  .  Check that here.    Support the show Upcoming art and creativity programs www.themuseisin.com

Republic of INSEAD
"When you're an entrepreneur, and you're not successful with your first shot, bouncing back from failure is probably the most difficult."

Republic of INSEAD

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 16, 2023 42:48


20 YEARS IN PERSPECTIVE:I told myself I'm going to be a hotelier. Okay so how do I become a hotelier? Well, no hotel owner in their right mind will ask me to run their hotel. So I guess I need to be a hotel owner myself.In my thirties I was kind of a Parisian nightlife kingpin and had a lot of fun, a lot of fun. I probably had a little bit of a delayed teenage crisis and threw my career out the window and decided to go into nightlife.Money came and then went even faster, but I definitely checked a lot of marks in the bucket list and so I enjoyed myself greatly. I decided maybe it was time to get a grip and do something more serious with my life.I'm the son of an architect, I love good design, I love hanging out with people, I love creating things that last;I am about to develop the most beautiful hotel of the Italian riviera, the Grand Miramare Castiglioncello.Seeing my kids grow and being able to impact them and the way they're going to impact the world is something that I derive a lot of happiness from.ON TOPIC: HOSPITALITY, HOTELS, LUXURY AND ENTREPRENEURSHIPMy project for the hotel is to make it the Italian Riviera's most beautiful hotel.The hotel industry: there's an underlying real estate element that makes it easier to financeA checklist for what an asset should look like - location, location, location, architecturally interesting, a straightforward storytelling, etc.Of course, you need to have a good bed, and it needs to be great design, etc., but very difficult to compete on that, because everybody knows how to buy a good bed and hire a good interior designer. It's not that complicated and you see there's a proliferation of luxury hotels.Exceptional service is difficult to achieve. I think it's about making people feel welcomed. You don't go to a luxury hotel to feel at home. You go for something exceptional, you want to feel exceptional. You want to feel like you've been expected to that place for all of your life and when you leave you can't wait to come back.70% repeat rate on clients - when you can achieve that, that I think is true luxury. That you can give people such an experience, that they feel amazing, that everything around makes them feel good and makes them feel exceptional. So much so, that they love to talk about it and word of mouth is the best.ON TOPIC: ENTREPRENEURSHIPReinventing yourself permanently is pretty difficult and it is challenging.You have to be a little bit full of yourself and believe that you're made for being a successful entrepreneur and that if you failed before it's not your fault and you've learned from that and that you have to try again.The reason why I love being an entrepreneur is being able to have an impact.it's the journey more than the goal that matters and then you just do it.I like to put problems in a box and open them when I have to.You can't be good at everything and you should keep a focus on what you are good at.You need to hire people who are smarter than you and better than you.ON GIVING BACKEducation is probably the best way to help the world become a more civilized place and to lift people from poverty.There's some material success of course, but the yield curve on material happiness flattens very quickly.References, mentions: modern luxury, magazine Monocle, How to spend it, Hotel Il Pelicano, Orient Express, Belmond group, humane management, Dead Poets Society, Dino Buzzati, Space invaders, Pirandello, Toscanini, Mastroiani, Visconti, Rossellini, Churchill, Tuscany, Corsica, Elba, Florence, Pisa, San Gimignano, Bolghera, Italian riviera, “wine concierge”, truffle hunting, Relais et Chateaux

Sharing the Flavor
Road Trip - Liguria - Italian Riviera

Sharing the Flavor

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 7, 2023 60:59


Italy Roadtrip - Liguria/Italian RivieraIn this episode we continue our trip to the north and visiting the coastal region of Liguria. Liguria is home to the city of Genoa as well as the Italian Riviera, which is famous and includes the Cinque Terre (five lands), Portofino as well as other coast cities. Check out this Eva Celine Youtube on the area.Liguria Cuisine is famous for Focaccia, Pesto and Seafood.We talk about how to make Focaccia at home and also commented on professional chefs making it from famous bakeries like Marinetta and Michelin star restaurant The Cook. Check out this video on Focaccia Genovese from Marinetta. Here is a video on how to make Focaccia di Recco.We highlight a dish made by Vanessa called Polpettone di fagiolini e patate from the website memoriediangelina.com. This is a fabulous "loaf" of potatoes, green beans and cheese.For Seafood we discuss Ciuppin (seafood soup) as well as Muscoli Ripieni (stuffed mussels). This recipe for mussels is from Grazia Andreotti of the restaurant Da Aristide.For dessert we discuss Sciacchetra wine and Canestrelli cookies.Lastly Vanessa introduces us to a hilarious book, A Certain Hunger for which she did a recent blog post. Be sure to check it out!I'm a Pixar fan and here is a story behind the movie Luca, which is based in Cinque Terre.Enjoy!The MenuFocaccia. I used this youtube from Preppy KitchenPasta alla...

Not My Fantasy
Luca (2021) ft. Derek Shea

Not My Fantasy

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 11, 2023 137:41


Luca (2021) (feat. Derek Shea)   Ciao! Piacere, amici! We're spending part of our Mer-May/Mer-Summer in the beautiful Italian Riviera with the 2021 Pixar animated film, Luca! First, we get a brief tasting of multiple sea creature mythologies from all over the world. Then, we dive into the queer-coded plot and character dynamics, cringe at the bottom-feeder villain, and celebrate the powerful friendships between Luca, Alberto and Guilia. Oh, and Hannah finally admits she was wrong in hate-turning off this movie when she first tried to watch it in 2021 because she thought the movie was going to be something else. Spoiler alert: It's her fantasy!   Big thanks to our special guest and friend-of-the-pod Derek for joining us in celebrating Pride Month. Give him a follow on Instagram @derek_shea.    P.S. - Please forgive our technical difficulties with Derek's video and audio freezing and getting robotic sometimes. Elsa, Queen Emeritus of Arendelle, cursed his internet modem.    Research for this episode: Mermaids and the African Diaspora - The Fairy Tellers Don't Call Me Ishmael - Fairy Tale Fix Wikipedia   ====================================   Watch Us on YouTube!    Follow Our Adventures on Social Media:   @notmyfantasypod Instagram TikTok   Research & Writing by Cullen Callaghan.  This episode was edited by Hannah Sylvester.   Cover Art by William Callaghan Intro Music: "The Quest" by Scott Little.

Wish Upon a Sparks

Happy Magical Monday! Join us this week as we deep dive into Luca. Not only do we talk about this cute Italian Riviera inspired film - we also deep dive into friendships, accepting people as they are and so so much more. Be sure to tune in again next week to talk about Bambi

Beach Travel Wine Podcast
54. Trieste, Italy. A very unique city on the Italian Riviera. Visit Trieste's fairytale castle and stunning architecture.

Beach Travel Wine Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later May 29, 2023 68:18


You are in for a real treat in this Episode.  We are still in northern Italy, but this episode we are taking you to a city that isn't as popular as some of the others -and I can't understand why, and you won't either after listening to this episode. Trieste is a gorgeous city on the Italian Riviera and it offers so much to visitors. This week we will tell you all about the unique history which is linked to Austria.  We take you up to the highest point of the city and then walk back down to the main plaza which is one of the biggest and impressive in Europe. We wander along the marina and find a very nice rooftop bar.  Then we take you to Trieste's jewel of the crown and national treasure the Miramare Castle. Listen as we were totally gobsmacked at the interior and then even more so with the gardens.  It was absolutely amazing. Listen to the end as we take you walking along the waterfront and find some cafes and bars on the Italian Riviera and also in this episode we share a lovely review we received from a listener who tells us how we helped him plan his holiday.  Oh, and I have a bit of a rant about a cancelled tour – which left me very disappointed. Trust me – this episode will have you wishing you were on the Italian Riviera in Trieste – and will definitely have you adding it to your bucket list. See all the show notes with links and pictures here www.beachtravelwine.com/podcast/54/trieste See all our Italian episodes here www.beachtravelwine.com/italy or visit our website here www.beachtravelwine.com --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/leanne-mccabe/message

The Princess and the B
(#180) Crown Yourself: Embodiment of the Queen Archetype

The Princess and the B

Play Episode Listen Later May 3, 2023 33:41


Fitting that while being in the business of transforming subconscious stories, Kimberly Spencer's Crown Yourself Podcast, formerly known as "The Princess and the B" Podcast would undergo its' own transformation. The first official episode of the newly titled Crown Yourself podcast, introduces the new name and concept of the podcast, based in the 7+ years of being a part of the CrownYourself.com brand. Kimberly emphasizes the importance of personal responsibility, owning one's power, and stepping into one's reign as a sovereign being. She shares her own experiences of facing challenges and growing into the "queen" she is today. The podcast will focus on manifesting and claiming power over one's subconscious mind and co-creating a reality by design. Kimberly encourages listeners to take ownership of their choices and make conscious decisions that align with their soul's purpose. She is excited to support and champion her listeners on their journey towards their purpose and power. TWEETABLES: "Your power is your untapped potential." - Kimberly Spencer "it is your choice which is where your power lies to choose whether to apply that to your life or to not that is where your autonomy is and your agency is". ~ Kimberly Spencer "The more responsibility you accept, the more power you obtain." ~ Kimberly Spencer "You are not a prisoner of your past nor a victim of your circumstances. You are the creator consciously with the universe to co-create a reality and you have that power within you right now." ~ Kimberly Spencer SHOWNOTES: Welcome to the Crown Yourself Podcast [00:00:07]Kimberly introduces the new name and concept of the podcast, explaining the reason behind the rebranding and the importance of personal responsibility. Initiation into the Queen [00:01:21]Kimberly talks about the challenges she faced in the past year and how they have helped her grow into the queen she is today. The Power of Personal Responsibility [00:09:08]Kimberly discusses the power of the subconscious mind to manifest what you desire and the importance of personal responsibility in owning one's power. Introduction of the Crown Yourself podcast [00:00:00]Kimberly explains the rebranding of her podcast and introduces the concept of personal responsibility, owning one's power, and stepping into one's reign as a sovereign being. The power of leaning into one's desires [00:12:14]Kimberly talks about the importance of leaning into one's desires and going forth to conquer them, regardless of circumstance. The ethos of Crown Yourself [00:19:08]Kimberly explains the ethos of Crown Yourself, which is about looking inside oneself for guidance and taking ownership of one's choices and personal responsibility. Personal Responsibility [00:21:12]Kimberly explains the importance of personal responsibility and how it leads to obtaining more power. She encourages listeners to accept responsibility for their experiences and choices, both positive and negative. Unapologetic Authenticity [00:23:14]Kimberly talks about the importance of owning one's authenticity, both positive and negative, and accepting where one is in life. She emphasizes the need to move forward and make informed decisions based on the information received. Crown Yourself [00:27:18]Kimberly introduces the new name and concept of the podcast, Crown Yourself, which is about stepping into one's reign as a sovereign being. She talks about the transformation from princess to queen, the importance of leadership, and the journey of personal growth. Introduction of the Crown Yourself Podcast [00:00:00]Kimberly explains the reason behind the rebranding and introduces the new name and concept of the podcast. Importance of personal responsibility and stepping into one's reign [00:31:39]Kimberly talks about the importance of personal responsibility, owning one's power, and stepping into one's reign as a sovereign being. Conclusion and call to action [00:33:16]Kimberly thanks the listeners for tuning in and encourages them to subscribe, share, and create a royal ripple to support more people in their sovereign. TRANSCRIPT: BOUNDARIES ARE EVERYTHING TO PROTECTING YOUR ENERGY, SO PLEASE NOTE SOME LEGAL BOUNDARIES BEFORE WE DIVE INTO THE : Crown Yourself LLC and Kimberly Spencer owns the copyright in and to all content in and transcripts of the Crown Yourself podcast, with all rights reserved, as well as ouright of publicity. WHAT YOU'RE WELCOME TO DO: You are welcome to share the below transcript (up to 500 words but not more) in media articles (e.g., Forbes, The New York Times, CNBC The Guardian), on your personal website, in a non-commercial article or blog post (e.g., Medium), and/or on a personal social media account for non-commercial purposes, provided that you include attribution to the “Crown Yourself Podcast” and link back to crownyoutself.com/podcast URL For the sake of clarity, media outlets with advertising models are permitted to use excerpts from the transcript per the above. WHAT IS NOT ALLOWED: No one is authorized to copy any portion of the podcast content or use to use Kimberly Spencer's name, image or likeness for any commercial purpose or use, including without limitation inclusion in any books, e-books, book summaries or synopses, or on a commercial website or social media site (e.g., Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, etc.) that offers or promotes your or another's products or services, except without explicit consent in writing, from Crown Yourself LLC. For the sake of clarity, media outlets are permitted to use photos of Kimberly Spencer from the Media Room at crownyourself.com/media or (obviously) licensed photos of Kimberly Spencer from Getty Images, etc. We good? Great. Let's get to the goods. ___________ Kimberly Spencer (00:00:07) - Welcome to the Crown Yourself Podcast. We're together, we build your empire and transform your subconscious stories about what's possible for your business, body, and life. I'm your host, Kimberly Spencer, founder of crown yourself.com, and I'm a master mindset coach, bestselling author, TEDx speaker, known to my clients as a game changer. Each week you get the conscious leadership strategies you need to help you reign with courage, clarity, and confidence so that you too can make the income and impact you deserve. Imagine this podcast as your royal invitation to step into your full potential and reign in your divine purpose. Your sovereign starts here and your rain is now. Hello. Hello my fellow sovereigns and welcome to the Crown Yourself Podcast, formerly known as the Princess and the Bee. But we went through a little rebrand and not a little. I mean, if you've had a podcast that's gone over 150 episodes and I think this is 180, you know that a rebrand means you're rebranding all 180 episodes. Kimberly Spencer (00:01:21) - So this isn't just, you know, a willy-nilly fly by night choice. This was a very calculated, strategically planned, thoughtful decision on my part as a business owner to change the name and the branding to align with the brand of Crown Yourself as it's always been. And I think there was a part of me, if I'm being truly honest, that was still in the space of growing into that queen. And now she's here, she's been inaugurated, she's gone through the gauntlet, she's been initiated. I mean if 2022 was not an initiation, I don't know what is between losing three family members in the span of one year moving countries, having a child between 2021 and 2022, that was an initiation of epic proportions coming back to this place where now we literally manifested our dream home. We trusted, we put all faith in, we went all in on our dream, and we are literally living in a space that feels so peaceful. Kimberly Spencer (00:02:46) - It feels like a sigh, it feels like a palace. And so I'd have to say that the queen has been initiated and whether these past few years have been an initiation of some sorts for you to prepare you to have the resilience and the grit and the fortitude to face what it is that you're going to face as you create what it is in this world that you're going to create. I am so glad you're here. I am so glad we're here together. Queens to queens, Queens to kings, sovereign to sovereign. And that was really the heart and soul behind this rebrand to where it's no longer a cute little title that I have other podcasters, you know, say, oh that's you know, cute and oh what's it about? And where it's for me crown yourself as embodying from a the intimacy level of a podcast. Kimberly Spencer (00:03:47) - It's embodying the full being of the sovereign that we each are individually as we rise into our reign, as we create what we are put on this planet to create as we fulfill that divinely inspired, divinely guided destiny purpose mission that we are here on this planet to do. And so that's the reason why a rebrand, that's the reason why this is now the Crown Yourself Podcast because there ain't no room for petty princess bullshit up in here. There's no spoiled princesses. There's no more entitlement if there ever is was any but there was any, there's no room for it anymore. There is only room for execution. And I don't mean like in the medieval sense of execution like we're everyone's heads are staying rightly on their bodies, but there is only room for the results that come from full embodied ownership and personal responsibility that comes with the great power that you have and that I have as leaders of our lives and our businesses and our destinies as we are choosing to lean in, step in and stru in babe strut in like work like Beyonce and Sasha Fierce walking into a room kind of strutting into our destinies because that's who we are. Kimberly Spencer (00:05:21) - Because we are unapologetic, because we are the queens, the kings cuz I know there's some man who listened to this podcast and I love you so much for doing that, my amazing conscious warriors. And that is the beauty of crown yourself is that it is all encompassing. It is embracing of all genders, it is embracing of that divine destiny that is you leaning into your purpose, the reason why you woke up another day on this planet breathing and I have such a fury and a fire coming through me to a instill that fire within you and pass that along and like light the wick in your inspirational candle with of course appropriate strategy and step-by-step systems and everything you need to keep that fire, a flame beyond this podcast so that you take what you learn here and move it into your day-to-day life. And that it's not just listening for consumption for consumption's sake because we have enough of that consumerism. Kimberly Spencer (00:06:31) - This is true, applicable embodiment of a challenge and a quantum shift in your energy and how you be and how you move through your day. It is shifting how you rise into your reign on a daily basis. How you take command of a room, how you choose to lean into that which is your destiny, your purpose, that thing that was placed on your heart that many people have probably said is crazy or obscene or unrealistic, my favorite word on the planet. And that is your choice to lean into that and you are consciously choosing as the queen or king that you are to reign and rule in that space and to lean into that desire no matter how many naysayers there are in the world. Because I promise you I will be here as your champion and your cheerleader as you move forward into that arena. Kimberly Spencer (00:07:27) - And if need be, I will get down in the dirt in that arena with you because this world needs more warriors for possibility because as I said in my Ted Talk, your life is a testimony for what is possible. And the more I see my kids growing up, the more I see this necessity for the world to have more sovereign beings, more queens, more kings, more sovereign, personally responsible, ownership infused individuals who understand that with great power comes great responsibility. That doesn't mean reactionary, it means you respond to what is called forth from you and for you and of you in the moment. And so it is with that that I bring you Crown yourself and the Crown Yourself podcast, which really is as it should have been all along. But as you know, I don't like shoulds, I don't like shoulding. And I think that this evolution was absolutely necessary not only for the podcast growth as its own entity, but for my own growth as its leader and for the growth of my company and for the growth of what we are creating and for the growth of the mission beyond the company and and the values that we want to instill of ownership, period, personal, personal responsibility, being able to understand that you know, that great idiom that with great power comes great responsibility and what is that power like what truly is that power? Kimberly Spencer(00:09:08) - And that is what we're gonna dive into on this podcast because your power is your untapped potential. Your power is the power of your subconscious mind to manifest that what you desire. And when you have that skillset to be able to manifest that what you desire and go through the gauntlet and prove yourself and in those initiations without the egoic and by prove yourself, I do not mean the egoic principle of you have to prove yourself to others for validation, but it's the proving yourself to yourself that you can and are the queen or king that is meant to rule your life. That is what I mean. And it is with this podcast that I am so excited to lean into a completely deeper realm of conversation with those who are manifesting and claiming their power over their subconscious mind, over their ability to co-create a reality that is by design. Kimberly Spencer(00:10:09) - Like I am so excited for the guests that we're gonna be bringing you for the amazing conversations that we're gonna have with some extraordinary humans. Because this world needs you to step into your extraordinary and your excellence and your cleanliness or your kindliness and and to really own your sovereign as an individual and thus as an individual you support the collective good to be able to support your fellow sisters and brothers who are rising into their reign to champion them and cheer them on. Because I do not meet you like a queen trying to tower over you or Lord over my opinions as I was telling a 19 year old client of mine. I will never tell you to do with your life. I'll give you guidance, I'll give you tools, I'll give you tips, I'll give you what worked for me, but I'm not gonna tell you exactly specifically what you should do. Kimberly Spencer (00:11:13) - I'll give you step by step systems and strategies that have worked for me or have worked for my clients. And it is your choice, which is where your power lies, to choose whether to apply that to your life or to not. That is where your autonomy is and your agency is. And I look forward to inspiring you to have the autonomy and the agency and the ownership of your choices on a daily basis, on a conscious level so that you are not reacting to the bullshit of life and how circumstances pulls you this way and that way. But you are choosing to consciously lean into that which is pulling you from within regardless of circumstance. Which is why I am here literally half naked out of a shower recording a podcast because I felt so compelled and pulled and could not leave this episode for another day. Kimberly Spencer (00:12:14) - Like literally could not leave it. It was stirring in my soul. I, if I had left it, I would've woken up at 2:00 AM 3:00 AM in the morning being with like the universe, being like, Hey, wake up sleepy head and cold record that dang episode. So that is the power of leaning into that which you are pulled to do that, that which is your divine birthright to lean into and go forth and conquer those desires that you have in your heart. And maybe you don't have the clarity on what those are yet. Maybe you just know you're meant to be here for some big purpose and you're just not clear with this amorphous purpose of belonging or desire is, and that's okay too. The choice is yours that you're choosing to lean in, leaning in to making an impact, to being congruent with how you show up in your day and to commanding your own presence in the room and owning your experience, your value, your worth, your enoughness for. Kimberly Spencer (00:13:21) - That is what it truly means to be queen, to be sovereign. It's not coming at it from a place of pride or ego because that's, that's all like insecure as I will say, as you'll hear me say very often, little e ego versus big E ego. And I can explain that difference on another podcast episode. But the little e ego is that insecure little voice that swings that pendulum from not enoughness worthless, et cetera, to I'm so amazing, I'm hot shit, look at me and yet feeling like I'm not enough, I'm worthless, et cetera. And so it's that constant pendulum swing and that is exhausting quite frankly. And as a sovereign being, we can be done with that bullshit. Can, can I get an amen on a Wednesday night ? At least that's what it is here for me as I'm here at the podcast Evolutions conference in Vegas recording this for you because I literally could not not record and I've had all the stirrings on my heart to change this brand to change and transform and rise because I feel, as I have felt from you, every single listener, every single audience member of Crown Yourself, every single person on my email list, I have seen you, I have seen how you have struggled and been challenged and sometimes quit gloriously that which was not aligned. Kimberly Spencer (00:14:54) - I have seen how you have chosen new paths, paths that were new and scary and different and completely crazy at times to the outside world. And yet to me I know that if you say that they are aligned with your soul and with what you believe you need to be doing in this world. I got your back babe. And that that is what this podcast is here for you to be that voice of guidance, ideally to be that voice of mentorship, of strategy, of step-by-step systems and to also bring you those voices who have achieved far more than I have and who are doing amazing things in their life, in their career to show you what's possible. Because what does it really mean to crown yourself? And that's, that's the big thing that I, I mean I looked it up on the internet and you know there's many things espousing because I came up with term crown yourself in 2014 while leaping off the couch in Airbnb in the northern Italian Riviera after way too many espressos on my honeymoon while I was brainstorming with my husband. Kimberly Spencer (00:16:12) - Like what do I do when I get back from my honeymoon? Because if you know my story, I had three weeks prior to getting married to my husband, I had signed a bio agreement with my e-commerce company and had lost this company that I had worked two years of my life for and at and with and in and didn't know what I was doing. And I compiled all of these pieces of like the things that I loved and I had been a beauty pageant queen and I'd been miscon congeniality and I'd written movies and I'd you know, won awards in different areas from health to screenwriting to um, you know, charity to nonprofit work to you know, done I'd healed My body image literally healed from a 10 year battle with bulimia with no psychological or medical intervention by the way. And I've healed from years of toxic relationships and relationships that were just not good for me and found the love of my life who is phenomenal and currently watching our two amazing boys and supporting my mother as well. Kimberly Spencer (00:17:26) - And I was there in Italy brainstorming with Spike and thinking of like how do I combine all these passions from health and fitness and relationships and the body and creative pursuits and entrepreneurship and all of that. And I leaped off the couch and I said, crown yourself. And my husband's like, what's that? And I was like, that's the name of my company, . And he was like, but what do you do? And so as you know, if you've heard my story, like I went on a year and a half sojourned to try to figure out what it was that Crown Yourself was doing, but it was less about what Crown yourself was doing and about what Crown yourself was doing for me. Because Crown yourself is beyond a business name. You can look on Instagram and there's other businesses called Crown yourself, but none are in the coaching space for one. Kimberly Spencer (00:18:18) - And Crown Yourself means many things to many different people. So let me clarify what it means for this business, for this space, for this podcast so that you know that you're in the right space, queen. Cuz I wanna make sure that like when you feel that you are here, you know that you're home, like you're in a kingdom that sees you queen to Queen k, queen to king, sovereign to sovereign and that we made each other as equals. Not as like I'm gonna Lord over you and dictate to you as to how you should live your life. I don't know how you should live your life. What an egoic statement that is. I just know what's worked for me. I know what's worked for others, I know some strategies and some things that have been of benefit and I know that, I mean if you wanna live your life miserable and sad and by your circumstances, then great, that's your choice. Kimberly Spencer (00:19:08) - Like that is fully a conscious choice. Just please, like by all means, please do it consciously and make that conscious choice. Don't be a victim of your circumstances and just be reactionary to it. And if you choose to be in this space, we take full ownership of our choices. And that is a huge piece. Like that was one of the biggest things that Crown Yourself actually had to mold within me was my own ownership and my own personal responsibility of my circumstances. And so what Crown yourself really is and the ethos of Crown Yourself, it comes from no longer choosing to look outside yourself for guidance. I will give you every tool, every tip, every strategy, every you know, thing that I use out of my arsenal so that you can look inside yourself and make the best, most aligned decision for you. Because the greatest detriment to most people's progress, especially leaders, is not, you know, not having enough information, it's not making decisions fast enough, it's not making decisions fully embodied in their choice to step into that which they choose. Kimberly Spencer (00:20:24) - Which is why, like I said, like eventually a decision will just kind of like, it'll tug at you so hard that it's gonna wake you up and it's gonna be like you gotta record, like you gotta do this. And that's what this podcast episode was for me. It was like, you gotta record, yeah, you're half naked and so what like go. So the beautiful thing is that a podcast you can don't necessarily require T-shirts and B, whatever that desire is for you, whether it is podcasting, maybe it is starting a business, which by the way, as long as you're not on a zoom, you could pretty much do some good things if you like, you know, living life and you feel very comfortable in your body as I do living life like a tree Sprite fairy just roaming about, I don't do this at home all the time. Kimberly Spencer (00:21:12) - So that's why it's quite liberating being in a hotel room by myself without any children to walk in on me. So the beautiful thing is though the crown yourself really it is an ethos of personal responsibility, which is not always the sexiest thing. Yes, I understand, but the more responsibility you accept, the more power you obtain. And I know many people in this audience are not seeking power, but sometimes our power can come in, the can come with the belief that we're gonna receive external validation. And I know many people in this audience who have been loyal listeners have wanted to have in some way their experience, their work, their purpose validated externally. And there's nothing wrong with that. It feels good to receive that acknowledgement and that validation and when your true power comes from inside you, when your true power comes from the fact that you know your worth, that yes people telling you is great, but it is only a reflection of what you already know within. Kimberly Spencer (00:22:19) - It's not you're need, you're not needing their validation or their acknowledgement to fill your cup. Your cup is already filled, you have the golet filled and is flowing and overflowing and just, it's just being noticed by others. It's not even, it's not from a place of lack or scarcity and what crown yourself really is about, it's standing in your ownership of where you are, of how you are. It's which ownership to me means full acceptance. Doesn't mean you have to stay there though. It doesn't mean you get to sit there and have like cry and have a pity party. You can totally cry like crying is fully welcome. Feel your feelings babe. The experience of like, let me just cry and sit and have a little pity party. Yeah, you own your experience but you also accept what got you there and the choices that got you to that point, positive and negative. Kimberly Spencer (00:23:14) - And from that space of ownership though comes the ability to actually move forward in the race of what it is that you actually want. And I say race because, well I'm currently training for the LA Marathon and that's been a sojourn in, in and of itself and I'm probably using Sojourn in the wrong way, but journey, that's been a journey in and of itself. And in the training process you really clearly learn that you just have to start like there's no sh there's accepting of where your body is and then you just do the dang thing. Like you just have to get in your miles, you just have to get in your reps and some of your runs are gonna suck and they're gonna hurt and you just have to get in your reps to prepare you to run 26.2 miles. It's a, it's a beast. Kimberly Spencer (00:24:04) - And so with that being said, knowing that that is the, the peace you have to accept where you are first you shoulding cutting wooding, that doesn't even put you in the race. You're not even at the starting line when you're shooting yourself. You are only at the starting line when you accept full responsibility for where you are, where your body is, where your business is, where your finances are at. And then you can move forward the past, the past happened, it's done and you can only move forward from here. The second piece of Crown yourself is just absolutely unapologetic authenticity and it's truly owning that which you are that which has made you that which has contributed to your success both positive and negative because we cannot go around blaming the negative for where we're at when, where we're at, we're still alive, we're still breathing. Kimberly Spencer (00:25:00) - No matter where you're at, at least you got that like you're still alive, you're still here. That's a huge feat for some people and I know that authenticity, it comes from both within and what's received cuz it's like an infinity symbol. So as you put things out into the world and you feel how they're received, yes you'll see and receive feedback, some positive, some negative, and you may choose to adapt how you show up in that space that's fully okay. For example, I chose because I felt from what was being reflected back to me in my own authenticity that the Princess and the Bee was no longer an appropriate title for this podcast. I was seeing so many amazing queens rise into their reign. Catherine, I see you Colla, I see you Meredith, I see you Joanne, I see you, my goodness the transformation. And just from that, like the amazing listeners Vicky, I see you and that's just a few, that's just a handful. Kimberly Spencer (00:26:15) - Francesca, I see you, you all are just dazzling me with your transformations. And because of that I was like, this is, this ain't a podcast about princess's seeking guidance. Like no, we're not, we're not there anymore. These are queens who are seeking ambassadors, mentors, guidance queens still seek guidance. I mean Queen Elizabeth, if you watch The Crown, obviously I'm basing it off of a fictional show, but I didn't know her personally, but sought guidance, you seek guidance from your prime minister, you seek information from other people who are in other positions to, to make informed best decisions to so that you can make the best decision. The president isn't making decisions just willy-nilly by himself, no leader of a country is they make informed decisions based off of the information that other guides and people in other positions are giving them based off of their knowledge, their inside, their experience. Kimberly Spencer (00:27:18) - And that space is, is crucial. It's, it's crucial for your growth between you know, the the princess phase and to the queen phase. But beyond that it's essential for you to be able to, to make those informed decisions at the speed that you need to make them. Because the greatest differentiator that I have seen in people's success is the speed of implementation in which they actually take the information, embody it, choose to digest it, and then make an informed decision where they cut off all other possibilities and say this is what we're going with, let's go and here we are. And so because of that, I could not leave this podcast to have princess in the title quite frankly it had to be Crown Yourself because I have seen so many women and men over the years, I have seen you crown yourselves, I have seen you step into greater positions of leadership. Kimberly Spencer (00:28:13) - I have seen you choose not always the easy path because it's a path that you have to look at. The unsexy mirror , it's not sexy to look at ownership, sometimes it hurts. You gotta look at your shadow and your inner child and those are all pieces that will dive into how to look at those pieces of you with love and compassion and acknowledgement and also to move through those. But to be able to choose to see those pieces and say, I am enough as I am, I'm gonna keep going. I have a mission on this planet. End of story. Like end of story. Like the story is not done until that mission is fulfilled. Let's go, let's keep going. We are in the business of transforming people's stories from victim to Victor, from challenged to champion. I never cared growing up about the stories of princesses who just had to lose a shoe or get kissed to become queen. Kimberly Spencer (00:29:18) - In fact, pretty much all of my stories growing up, quite frankly were stories of like the princess would have to be exiled cuz she did made a mistake. And then, you know, I was a little hard on myself as a kid, so she made a mistake. And so she would have to be exiled and then she would've to learn from her, her mistake, grow from her mistake. Typically she would meet a gathering of friends, compadres, mentors, guides along the journey who then would groom her, train her, prepare her to to take back the throne from the evil queen who had cast her out but cast her out for a righteous purpose. And maybe the evil queen wasn't fully evil, she just was not maybe the best leader. And the princess turning into a queen had to rise into her range. She had to become the embodied version of the queen archetype, the queen who is benevolent and yet a warrior for possibility and who will fight for that which which she believes in and for and will hold standards and boundaries and understands her values. Kimberly Spencer (00:30:32) - And all of these pieces we are gonna dive deeper into on this podcast. So I hope you're here for it. I'm so excited for this next evolution of Crown Yourself. I am so excited to support you in your journey to continue cheering and championing you on Beyond, beyond the podcast. And if in any way this podcast, whether it's you know, in its past iteration as the princess and the Bee are moving forward as, as Crown Yourself impacts you, challenges you, allows you to see things in a new perspective, changes your mind about a belief that maybe you had held fast to in the past that no longer is serving for where you wanna go. If you are able to change your perspective and see your power, your true power, not from a neg egoic place again, but like truly from that place of your own divine power and the birthright that is your purpose that you are here to claim, then I am all for it. Kimberly Spencer (00:31:39) - Queen, I am here for you. We are in this together and let's freaking go. And if you have been served by this podcast in the past and in the future, leave a review, share, spread the word because the beautiful thing is, is that by you sharing in your benevolence as the queen or king of your life, you are allowing another human, another individual to rise and to his or her reign. And that is one of the greatest gifts that you can give, is stripping someone of the plagiarized programming that they are not, that they're a vic, is stripping yourself of the plagiar, is help, is helping strip them of the plagiarized programming that they are a victim of their circumstances. You absolutely are not. You are not a prisoner of your past nor a victim of your circumstances. You are the creator consciously with the universe to co-create a reality. And you have that power within you right now, a fricking men. So by sharing this, you allow somebody to embody their own power. And what a gift, what a gift you are giving them. I am so honored to be here with you. I thank you, queen to queen, queen to king, sovereign to sovereign because on the Crown Yourself Podcast, your sovereign starts here. Your reign is now. Kimberly Spencer (00:33:16) - Thank you so much for tuning in today. If what you heard resonated with you, be sure to subscribe and start creating a bigger impact now by sharing this with a friend, just by doing that one simple act of kindness, you are creating a royal ripple to support more people in their sovereign. And if you're not already following on social media, connect with me everywhere @crownyourself.now for more inspiration. I am so excited to connect with you in the next episode. And in the meantime, go out there and create a body business and life that rules because today you crown yourself.

The Bittersweet Life
Episode 475: Traveling Italy from Top to Bottom (with Jess Walter)

The Bittersweet Life

Play Episode Listen Later Apr 10, 2023 31:21


Jess Walter is the author of ten books, including New York Times #1 bestseller Beautiful Ruins, which takes place on the Italian Riviera. The latest is a collection of short stories titled The Angel of Rome. He's spent the last five weeks seeing more of Italy than the average Italian. What are the lessons from the road, and how does exploring Italy from top to bottom alter your perception of time? He joins us this week to talk all about it. Find out more about Jess Walter at his website. ------------------------------------- ADVERTISE WITH US: Reach expats, future expats, and travelers all over the world. Send us an email to get the conversation started. BECOME A PATRON: Pledge your monthly support of The Bittersweet Life and receive awesome prizes in return for your generosity! Visit our Patreon site to find out more. TIP YOUR PODCASTER: Say thanks with a one-time donation to the podcast hosts you know and love. Click here to send financial support via PayPal. (You can also find a Donate button on the desktop version of our website.) The show needs your support to continue. START PODCASTING: If you are planning to start your own podcast, consider Libsyn for your hosting service! Use this affliliate link to get two months free, or use our promo code SWEET when you sign up. SUBSCRIBE: Subscribe to the podcast to make sure you never miss an episode. Click here to find us on a variety of podcast apps. WRITE A REVIEW: Leave us a rating and a written review on iTunes so more listeners can find us. JOIN THE CONVERSATION: If you have a question or a topic you want us to address, send us an email here. You can also connect to us through Twitter, Facebook, and Instagram. Tag #thebittersweetlife with your expat story for a chance to be featured! NEW TO THE SHOW? Don't be afraid to start with Episode 1: OUTSET BOOK: Want to read Tiffany's book, Midnight in the Piazza? Learn more here or order on Amazon. TOUR ROME: If you're traveling to Rome, don't miss the chance to tour the city with Tiffany as your guide!  

Desert Island Dishes
Jack Savoretti the singer, songwriter on Summers in the Italian Riviera, why he's grateful success didn't happen overnight and his surprising last dish

Desert Island Dishes

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 30, 2023 54:24


Singer and songwriter Jack Savoretti is described in pretty much every interview I came across as both extremely talented and also very charming perhaps it is this combination that has led to Jack's stellar career. He tells us of his idyllic childhood Summers spent in the Italian Riviera, why he's grateful that his success didn't happen overnight and reveals a surprising yet delicious final desert island dish. Jack's one of the most successful singer / songwriters in the UK and has collaborated with the likes of Kylie Minogue, Bob Dylan and Nile Rogers and performed to a sold out Wembley Arena. He had an international upbringing, with an Italian father and a German-Polish mother, moving from London to Switzerland, and spending idyllic childhood summers in Portofino, Italy, where his father's family come from. After falling in love with music at the age of 15 it was a somewhat slow-burning rise to fame for Jack as a musician. He toured the UK for several years, quietly growing his fanbase and it was his sixth album, Singing to Strangers, that finally hit the number one spot. His most recent record, the gorgeous sun-soaked, feel good and star-studded Europiana – inspired by his European upbringing and life –was also a chart-topper and arguably his best work to date. Thank you so much for listening.Thank you to our season sponsor Lloyds bank for supporting us and helping us bring the podcast to you each week. Follow Jack hereFollow @DesertIslandDishesThank you for all your lovely reviews. Do leave one on Spotify or Apple for a chance for yours to be read out next week. See you next time!Bye! Hosted on Acast. See acast.com/privacy for more information.

Travel FOMO
Cinque Terre, Italy: Our Epic Hike Across Five Italian Coastal Towns

Travel FOMO

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 28, 2023 59:22


Season 7 – Gap Year: Mediterranean Europe Episode 6 Cinque Terre is picture perfect, like something you'd see on a postcard or in a puzzle. In fact, we literally put together a puzzle of Cinque Terre as we dreamed up our gap year adventures in a tiny apartment in Dallas. And now, we're pinching ourselves. Come with us INSIDE the puzzle, as we visit the five tiny fishing villages of Cinque Terre, Italy – a region designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site and a national park. Known for its rugged coastline along the Italian Riviera, the small towns each sit on the sea, far from the modern conveniences of the rest of the world. Unlike many tourists today, we'll hike the entire length of the centuries old trail between Monterosso al Mare, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. It's a bucket list item – and a physical challenge that won't be forgotten. Are you planning a trip to Cinque Terre? Here's a link to the affordable AirBnB that Jamin and Hilarie called home in this episode (not sponsored): https://www.airbnb.com/rooms/48276001?guests=1&adults=1&s=67&unique_share_id=94ab0da9-c297-4a12-b6ff-94486d6354c4 This episode is available wherever you listen to podcasts. To see the Cinque Terre hike and its breathtaking views, watch their video from the trip: https://youtu.be/O11Q8KUak8k Send us your feedback and thoughts via email at travelfomopodcast@gmail.com. Have your own travel story? Attach a voice memo to your email, and you could hear your own voice in a future podcast episode. --- Travel FOMO is hosted by a husband and wife duo, Jamin and Hilarie Houghton. Learn more about them at www.travelfomopodcast.com. You can subscribe to Travel FOMO in two different ways: (1) See their adventures on YouTube and (2) follow audibly from wherever you listen to podcasts. Why? Because they're traveling to 18 different countries during their gap year, and you won't want to miss it. Follow us on social media: Instagram: www.instagram.com/travelfomopodcast Facebook: www.facebook.com/travelfomopodcast TikTok: www.tiktok.com/@travelfomopodcast

Limelight
Who Killed Aldrich Kemp? - Chapter One: Funeral in London

Limelight

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 24, 2023 28:49


Our heroine Clara Page (Phoebe Fox) returns. And this time the question's deadly serious - Who Killed Aldrich Kemp? Prepare for another rollercoaster ride from the pen of Julian Simpson, flying us from the Italian Riviera to the Malaysian jungle - via afternoon tea at Themis House. Chapter One - and there's trouble in London … Cast: Clara Page - Phoebe Fox Aldrich Kemp – Ferdinand Kingsley Mrs Boone – Nicola Walker Sebastian Harcourt – Kyle Soller Nakesha Kemp – Karla Crome Aunt Lily – Susan Jameson The Underwood Sisters – Jana Carpenter. Sabine Seah – Rebecca Boey Mrs Bartholomew – Kate Isitt Blue 2/Novak - Ben Crowe Winslow/Blue 1 - James Joyce. Created and written by Julian Simpson Recorded on location in Hove and at the Brighton Conference Centre. Music composed by Tim Elsenburg. Sound Design: David Thomas Director: Julian Simpson Producer: Sarah Tombling Executive Producer: Karen Rose A Sweet Talk production for BBC Radio 4

Limelight
Introducing Who Killed Aldrich Kemp?

Limelight

Play Episode Listen Later Mar 17, 2023 2:10


Our heroine Clara Page (Phoebe Fox) returns. And this time the question's deadly serious - Who Killed Aldrich Kemp? Prepare for another rollercoaster ride from the pen of Julian Simpson, flying us from the Italian Riviera to the Malaysian jungle - via afternoon tea at Themis House.

Aging With Energy: The Old Guys Travel Show

From Tuscany to Cinque Terre - from the Italian Riviera to Lake Como - a tour through Northern Italy is unforgettable. Aging With Energy is proudly brought to you by The Chambers Plan, The Retirement Sherpa Tim Niblett

B is for Bisexual
Wild Boar - Barbara's Bottega

B is for Bisexual

Play Episode Listen Later Feb 12, 2023 18:24


Left alone with his small petulant daughter, Stefano finds himself falling for Barbara, who owns the bottega next door to his farinata place on the Italian Riviera. But a visit to the mountains on his day off sets things right.Follow us at www.gattafilms.com.B is for Bisexual - short stories by Laura P. Valtorta

On the Same Page
Ep 54. ”The Enchanted April” by Elizabeth von Arnim

On the Same Page

Play Episode Listen Later Nov 9, 2022 57:25


Portofino is one of the most fashionable spots on the Italian Riviera, but many attribute the picturesque town's popularity to Elizabeth von Arnim, whose 1922 novel “The Enchanted April” saw four idiosyncratic women seeking a change of scenery find more change than they could've hoped for. After spotting a newspaper clipping advertising a small medieval castle to let furnished for the month of April, the four women leave dreary England behind and variously descend upon San Salvatore. It is a place, as the advertisement says, for “those who appreciate wisteria and sunshine.” And there, emboldened by the tumbling beauty and warmth of Italian spring, each character begins to experience a transformation of their own, an unexpected blossoming.  Some of the books and authors discussed in this episode include: "The Enchanted April" by Elizabeth von Arnim “Writers and Lovers” by Lily King “The Romantic” by William Boyd Additional segments throughout the podcast include: Et Inner Shelf Fact or fiction What are you reading? On that Quote Apple Podcast: https://lnkd.in/gF2zVhQT Spotify: https://lnkd.in/gTHtxVh5 Podbean: https://onthesamepagepodcast.podbean.com/ Twitter: https://twitter.com/thesamepagepod_ Email: seamusandblake@gmail.com  IG: https://www.instagram.com/on.the.same.page.podcast/  -------- #bookpodcast #podcast #book #novel #stories #shortstories #apassagenorth #anukaradpragasm #tolstoy #poetry #shortstoryskirmish #litfacts #paris #literature #books #novels #salmonrushdie #spotifypodcasts #applepodcasts #audible #samsungpodcasts #books #novels #audibleau #lit #onthesamepage #whatareyoureading #literaryfacts #podbean #whatareyoureading

Mr Spike's Bedtime Stories
Caterpillars, by E.F. Benson

Mr Spike's Bedtime Stories

Play Episode Listen Later Oct 2, 2022 22:30


A visitor to the Italian Riviera has a dark foreboding about the villa in which they are staying. Then, that night they experience a most unusual dream - or is it a dream? Opening music for Mr. Spike's Bedtime Stories "The Bag" by Private Hell Productions https://soundcloud.com/privatehellproductions If you are enjoying these tales, please consider leaving a review on the listening platform of your choice.

Strong Sense of Place
Italy: A Bottle of Red, the Tuscan Sun, and Il Dolce Far Niente

Strong Sense of Place

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 26, 2022 66:02


Do you ever feel like Italy is just showing off just a bit? It's literally got the best of both worlds, surrounded by the sea and graced with mountains (hello, Italian Alps, Dolomites, and Apennines), woodlands, and hills, including the famous seven of Rome. The climate is ideal for growing lovely things like figs, almonds, olives, grapes, and... romance. What's more romantic than sweethearts riding a Vespa under the moonlight? Or a spritz sipped under a beach umbrella on the Italian Riviera? A dip in the Adriatic, a stroll in the Tuscan sunshine, a run down a slope in the Italian Alps — these are the things of which dreams are made. Which leads us to this fact: Italy has the third highest life expectancy in Europe: 83.5 years of living la dolce vita, the sweet life. The food, the wine, the weather, the language, the history; it's an embarrassment of riches, and we're all the better for it. In this episode, we discuss everything that makes Italy one of the most enchanting places on Earth. We get curious about the world's largest rock band and a possibly cursed village, daydream about eating pasta carbonara in Rome, and cross the sea to Sicily. Then we recommend great books that took us there on the page: The Invitation by Lucy Foley - https://bit.ly/3QYEd9l Trieste and the Meaning of Nowhere by Jan Morris - https://bit.ly/3QZu7Fp Cinnamon and Salt: Ciccheti in Venice by Emiko Davies - https://bit.ly/3xFjJvI Galileo's Daughter: A Drama of Science, Faith and Love by Dava Sobel - https://bit.ly/3Lv5nDz Still Life by Sarah Winman - https://bit.ly/3Sf2jxG A Room with a View - https://bit.ly/3DOFhd5 For more on the books we recommend, plus the other cool stuff we talk about, visit show notes at http://strongsenseofplace.com/podcasts/2022-09-26-italy Do you enjoy our show? Do you want access to awesome bonus content? Please support our work on Patreon! Every little bit helps us keep the show going and makes us feel warm and fuzzy inside - https://www.patreon.com/strongsenseofplace As always, you can follow us at: Our web site at Strong Sense of Place Patreon Twitter  Instagram Facebook  

Falling With Style: An Ongoing Pixar Movie Marathon

Silenzio Bruno! It's time for Derek and Doug to enjoy a perfect summer in the Italian Riviera. That's right, we're talking about Luca, a truly lovely film about three kids who find friendship in a small coastal village and one that resonated instantly and powerfully with the queer community. What makes this relatively quiet and straight-forward Pixar outing such a powerhouse? Dive in deep with us as we get into all the details. Film Release: June 18, 2021 Discord Patreon E-mail us: pixarpodcast@gmail.com Doug on Twitter: @ickybooley Derek on Twitter: @DerekBGayle Theme song features: “Stasis” by Eagle-Eyed Tiger | Source Closing song: “Beyond the Solar System” by Dan Romer For more by Derek & Doug, check out Walloping Websnappers: A Spider-Man Podcast on the Four-Eyed Radio Network! --- Send in a voice message: https://anchor.fm/fallingwithstyle/message

dive pixar solar system stasis italian riviera silenzio bruno four eyed radio network
Bible in One Year
Day 255: How to Stay on God's Paths

Bible in One Year

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2022 22:05


Psalm 107:1-9, Isaiah 29:1-30:18, 2 Corinthians 12:11-21. The signs on the Italian Riviera were erected to keep people safe The words of Jesus, the New Testament and the Bible as a whole, are designed to keep us on the path that leads to life

Youth BiOY
Day 255: How to Stay on God's Paths

Youth BiOY

Play Episode Listen Later Sep 12, 2022 14:42


Psalm 107:1–9, Isaiah 29:13–16, 30:1-18, 2 Corinthians 12:19-21. The signs on the Italian Riviera were erected to keep people safe The words of Jesus, the New Testament and the Bible as a whole, are designed to keep us on the path that leads to life

AJC Passport
The Forgotten Exodus: Egypt

AJC Passport

Play Episode Listen Later Aug 17, 2022 34:17


One of the top Jewish podcasts in the U.S., American Jewish Committee's (AJC) The Forgotten Exodus, is the first-ever narrative podcast to focus exclusively on Mizrahi and Sephardic Jews. In this week's episode, we feature Jews from Egypt.   In the first half of the 20th century, Egypt went through profound social and political upheavals culminating in the rise of President Gamal Abdel Nasser and his campaign of Arabization, creating an oppressive atmosphere for the country's Jews, and leading almost all to flee or be kicked out of the country. Hear the personal story of award-winning author André Aciman as he recounts the heart-wrenching details of the pervasive antisemitism during his childhood in Alexandria and his family's expulsion in 1965, which he wrote about in his memoir Out of Egypt, and also inspired his novel Call Me by Your Name.  Joining Aciman is Deborah Starr, a professor of Near Eastern and Jewish Studies at Cornell University, who chronicles the history of Egypt's Jewish community that dates back millennia, and the events that led to their erasure from Egypt's collective memory. Aciman's modern-day Jewish exodus story is one that touches on identity, belonging, and nationality: Where is your home when you become a refugee at age 14? Be sure to follow The Forgotten Exodus before the next episode drops on August 22. ___ Show notes: Sign up to receive podcast updates here. Learn more about the series here. Song credits:  Rampi Rampi, Aksaray'in Taslari, Bir Demet Yasemen by Turku, Nomads of the Silk Road Pond5:  “Desert Caravans”: Publisher: Pond5 Publishing Beta (BMI), Composer: Tiemur Zarobov (BMI), IPI#1098108837 “Sentimental Oud Middle Eastern”: Publisher: Pond5 Publishing Beta (BMI), Composer: Sotirios Bakas (BMI), IPI#797324989. “Frontiers”: Publisher: Pond5 Publishing Beta (BMI); Composer: Pete Checkley (BMI), IPI#380407375 “Adventures in the East”: Publisher: Pond5 Publishing Beta (BMI) Composer: Petar Milinkovic (BMI), IPI#00738313833. “Middle Eastern Arabic Oud”: Publisher: Pond5 Publishing Beta (BMI); Composer: Sotirios Bakas (BMI), IPI#797324989 ___ Episode Transcript: ANDRÉ ACIMAN: I've lived in New York for 50 years. Is it my home? Not really. But Egypt was never going to be my home. It had become oppressive to be Jewish. MANYA BRACHEAR PASHMAN: The world has overlooked an important episode in modern history: the 800,000 Jews who left or were driven from their homes in Arab nations and Iran in the mid-20th century. This series, brought to you by American Jewish Committee, explores that pivotal moment in Jewish history and the rich Jewish heritage of Iran and Arab nations as some begin to build relations with Israel. I'm your host, Manya Brachear Pashman. Join us as we explore family histories and personal stories of courage, perseverance, and resilience.  This is The Forgotten Exodus. Today's episode: leaving Egypt. Author André Aciman can't stand Passover Seders. They are long and tedious. Everyone gets hungry long before it's time to eat. It's also an unwelcome reminder of when André was 14 and his family was forced to leave Egypt – the only home he had ever known. On their last night there, he recounts his family gathered for one last Seder in his birthplace. ANDRÉ: By the time I was saying goodbye, the country, Egypt, had essentially become sort of Judenrein.  MANYA:  Judenrein is the term of Nazi origin meaning “free of Jews”. Most, if not all of the Jews, had already left. ANDRÉ: By the time we were kicked out, we were kicked out literally from Egypt, my parents had already had a life in Egypt. My mother was born in Egypt, she had been wealthy. My father became wealthy. And of course, they had a way of living life that they knew they were abandoning. They had no idea what was awaiting them. They knew it was going to be different, but they had no sense. I, for one, being younger, I just couldn't wait to leave. Because it had become oppressive to be Jewish. As far as I was concerned, it was goodbye. Thank you very much. I'm going. MANYA: André Aciman is best known as the author whose novel inspired the Oscar-winning film Call Me By Your Name – which is as much a tale of coming to terms with being Jewish and a minority, as it is an exquisite coming of age love story set in a villa on the Italian Riviera.  What readers and moviegoers didn't know is that the Italian villa is just a stand-in. The story's setting– its distant surf, serpentine architecture, and lush gardens where Elio and Oliver's romance blooms and Elio's spiritual awakening unfolds – is an ode to André's lost home, the coastal Egyptian city of Alexandria.  There, three generations of his Sephardic family had rebuilt the lives they left behind elsewhere as the Ottoman Empire crumbled, two world wars unfolded, a Jewish homeland was born, and nationalistic fervor swept across the Arab world and North Africa. There, in Alexandria, his family had enjoyed a cosmopolitan city and vibrant Jewish home. Until they couldn't and had to leave.  ANDRÉ: I would be lying if I said that I didn't project many things lost into my novels. In other words, to be able to re-experience the beach, I created a beach house. And that beach house has become, as you know, quite famous around the world. But it was really a portrait of the beach house that we had lost in Egypt.  And many things like that, I pilfer from my imagined past and dump into my books. And people always tell me, ‘God, you captured Italy so well.' Actually, that was not Italy, I hate to tell you. It was my reimagined or reinvented Egypt transposed into Italy and made to come alive again. MANYA: Before he penned Call Me By Your Name, André wrote his first book, Out of Egypt, a touching memoir about his family's picturesque life in Alexandria, the underlying anxiety that it could always vanish and how, under the nationalization effort led by Egypt's President Gamel Abdel Nassar, it did vanish. The memoir ends with the events surrounding the family's last Passover Seder before they say farewell.   ANDRÉ: This was part of the program of President Nasser, which was to take, particularly Alexandria, and turn it into an Egyptian city, sort of, purified of all European influences. And it worked.  As, by the way, and this is the biggest tragedy that happens to, particularly to Jews, is when a culture decides to expunge its Jews or to remove them in one way or another, it succeeds. It does succeed. You have a sense that it is possible for a culture to remove an entire population. And this is part of the Jewish experience to accept that this happens. MANYA: Egypt did not just expunge its Jewish community. It managed to erase Jews from the nation's collective memory. Only recently have people begun to rediscover the centuries of rich Jewish history in Egypt, including native Egyptian Jews dating back millennia. In addition, Egypt became a destination for Jews expelled from Spain in the 15th Century. And after the Suez Canal opened in 1869, a wave of more Jews came from the Ottoman Empire, Italy, and Greece. And at the end of the 19th Century, Ashkenazi Jews arrived, fleeing from European pogroms. DEBORAH STARR: The Jewish community in Egypt was very diverse. The longest standing community in Egypt would have been Arabic speaking Jews, we would say now Mizrahi Jews. MANYA: That's Deborah Starr, Professor of Modern Arabic and Hebrew Literature and Film at Cornell University. Her studies of cosmopolitan Egypt through a lens of literature and cinema have given her a unique window into how Jews arrived and left Egypt and how that history has been portrayed. She says Jews had a long history in Egypt through the Islamic period and a small population remained in the 19th century. Then a wave of immigration came. DEBORAH: We have an economic boom in Egypt. Jews start coming from around the Ottoman Empire, from around the Mediterranean, emigrating to Egypt from across North Africa. And so, from around 5,000 Jews in the middle of the 19th century, by the middle of the 20th century, at its peak, the Egyptian Jews numbered somewhere between 75 and 80,000. So, it was a significant increase, and you know, much more so than just the birth rate would explain. MANYA: André's family was part of that wave, having endured a series of exiles from Spain, Italy, and Turkey, before reaching Egypt. DEBORAH: Egypt has its independence movement, the 1919 revolution, which is characterized by this discourse of coexistence, that ‘we're all in this together.' There are images of Muslims and Christians marching together.  Jews were also supportive of this movement. There's this real sense of a plurality, of a pluralist society in Egypt, that's really evident in the ways that this movement is characterized. The interwar period is really this very vibrant time in Egyptian culture, but also this time of significant transition in its relationship to the British in the various movements, political movements that emerge in this period, and movements that will have a huge impact on the fate of the Jews of Egypt in the coming decades. MANYA: One of those movements was Zionism, the movement to establish a Jewish state in the biblical homeland of the Jews. In 1917, during the First World War, the British government occupying Egypt at the time, issued a public statement of support for the establishment of a "national home for the Jewish people" in Palestine, still an Ottoman region with a small minority Jewish population. That statement became known as the Balfour Declaration. DEBORAH: There was certainly evidence of a certain excitement about the Balfour Declaration of 1917. A certain amount of general support for the idea that Jews are going to live there, but not a whole lot of movement themselves. But we also have these really interesting examples of people who were on the record as supporting, of seeing themselves as Egyptians, as part of the anti-colonial Egyptian nationalism, who also gave financial support to the Jewish project in Palestine. And so, so there wasn't this sense of—you can't be one or the other. There wasn't this radical split. MANYA: Another movement unfolding simultaneously was the impulse to reclaim Egypt's independence, not just in legal terms – Egypt had technically gained independence from the British in 1922 – but suddenly what it meant to be Egyptian was defined against this foreign colonial power that had imposed its will on Egypt for years and still maintained a significant presence. DEBORAH: We also see moves within Egypt, toward the ‘Egyptianization' of companies or laws that start saying, we want to, we want to give priority to our citizens, because the economy had been so dominated by either foreigners or people who were local but had foreign nationality. And this begins to disproportionately affect the Jews.  Because so many of the Jews, you know, had been immigrants a generation or two earlier, some of them had either achieved protected status or, you know, arrived with papers from, from one or another of these European powers. MANYA: In 1929, Egypt adopted its first law giving citizenship to its residents. But it was not universally applied. By this time, the conflict in Palestine and the rise of Zionism had shifted how the Egyptian establishment viewed Jews.   DEBORAH: Particularly the Jews who had lived there for a really long time, some of whom were among the lower classes, who didn't travel to Europe every summer and didn't need papers to prove their citizenship, by the time they started seeing that it was worthwhile for them to get citizenship, it was harder for Jews to be approved. So, by the end, we do have a pretty substantial number of Jews who end up stateless. MANYA: Stateless. But not for long. In 1948, the Jewish state declared independence. In response, King Farouk of Egypt joined four other Arab nations in declaring war on the newly formed nation. And they lost.  The Arab nations' stunning defeat in that first Arab-Israeli War sparked a clandestine movement to overthrow the Egyptian monarchy, which was still seen as being in the pocket of the British. One of the orchestrators of that plot, known as the Free Officers Movement, was Col. Gamel Abdel Nassar. In 1952, a coup sent King Farouk on his way to Italy and Nassar eventually emerged as president. The official position of the Nassar regime was one of tolerance for the Jews. But that didn't always seem to be the case. DEBORAH: Between 1948 and ‘52, you do have a notable number of Jews who leave Egypt at this point who see the writing on the wall. Maybe they don't have very deep roots in Egypt, they've only been there for one or two generations, they have another nationality, they have someplace to go. About a third of the Jews who leave Egypt in the middle of the 20th century go to Europe, France, particularly. To a certain extent Italy. About a third go to the Americas, and about a third go to Israel. And among those who go to Israel, it's largely those who end up stateless. They have no place else to go because of those nationality laws that I mentioned earlier, have no choice but to go to Israel. MANYA: Those who stayed became especially vulnerable to the Nassar regime's sequestration of businesses. Then in 1956, Egypt nationalized the Suez Canal, a 120-mile-long waterway that connected the Mediterranean Sea to the Indian Ocean by way of the Red Sea – that same waterway that created opportunities for migration in the region a century earlier. DEBORAH: The real watershed moment is the 1956 Suez conflict. Israel, in collaboration with France, and Great Britain attacks Egypt, the conflict breaks out, you know, the French and the British come into the war on the side of the Israelis. And each of the powers has their own reasons for wanting, I mean, Nasser's threatening Israeli shipping, and, threatening the security of Israel, the French and the British, again, have their own reasons for trying to either take back the canal, or, just at least bring Nassar down a peg. MANYA: At war with France and Britain, Egypt targeted and expelled anyone with French and British nationality, including many Jews, but not exclusively. DEBORAH: But this is also the moment where I think there's a big pivot in how Jews feel about being in Egypt. And so, we start seeing larger waves of emigration, after 1956. So, this is really sort of the peak of the wave of emigration.  MANYA: André's family stayed. They already had endured a series of exiles. His father, an aspiring writer who copied passages by Marcel Proust into his diary, had set that dream aside to open a textile factory, rebuild from nothing what the family had lost elsewhere, and prepare young André to eventually take over the family business. He wasn't about to walk away from the family fortune – again. DEBORAH: André Aciman's story is quite, as I said, the majority of the Jewish community leaves in the aftermath of 1956. And his family stays a lot longer. So, he has incredible insights into what happens over that period, where the community has already significantly diminished. MANYA: Indeed, over the next nine years, the situation worsened. The Egyptian government took his father's factory, monitored their every move, frequently called the house with harassing questions about their whereabouts, or knocked on the door to issue warrants for his father's arrest, only to bring him in for more interrogation. As much as André's father clung to life in Egypt, it was becoming a less viable option with each passing day. ANDRÉ: He knew that the way Egypt was going, there was no room for him, really. And I remember during the last two years, in our last two years in Egypt, there wAs constantly references to the fact that we were going to go, this was not lasting, you know, what are we going to do? Where do we think we should go? And so on and so forth. So, this was a constant sort of conversation we were having. MANYA: Meanwhile, young André encountered a level of antisemitism that scarred him deeply and shaped his perception of how the world perceives Jews. ANDRÉ: It was oppressive in good part because people started throwing stones in the streets. So, there was a sense of ‘Get out of here. We don't want you here.' MANYA: It was in the streets and in the schools, which were undergoing an Arabization after the end of British rule, making Arabic the new lingua franca and antisemitism the norm. ANDRÉ: There's no question that antisemitism was now rooted in place. In my school, where I went, I went to a British school, but it had become Egyptian, although they taught English, predominantly English, but we had to take Arabic classes, in sort of social sciences, in history, and in Arabic as well. And in the Arabic class, which I took for many years, I had to study poems that were fundamentally anti-Jewish. Not just anti-Israeli, which is a big distinction that people like to make, it doesn't stick. I was reading and reciting poems that were against me. And the typical cartoon for a Jew was a man with a beard, big tummy, hook nose, and I knew ‘This is really me, isn't it? OK.' And so you look at yourself with a saber, right, running through it with an Egyptian flag. And I'll never forget this. This was, basically I was told that this is something I had to learn and accept and side with – by the teachers, and by the books themselves.  And the irony of the whole thing is that one of the best tutors we had, was actually the headmaster of the Jewish school. He was Jewish in very sort of—very Orthodox himself. And he was teaching me how to recite those poems that were anti-Jewish. And of course, he had to do it with a straight face. MANYA: One by one, Jewish neighbors lost their livelihoods and unable to overcome the stigma, packed their bags and left. In his memoir, André recalls how prior to each family's departure, the smell of leather lingered in their homes from the dozens of suitcases they had begun to pack. By 1965, the smell of leather began to waft through André's home. ANDRÉ: Eventually, one morning, or one afternoon, I came back from school. And my father said to me, ‘You know, they don't want us here anymore.' Those were exactly the words he used. ‘They don't want us here.' I said, ‘What do you mean?' ‘Well, they've expelled us.'  And I was expelled with my mother and my brother, sooner than my father was. So, we had to leave the country. We realized we were being expelled, maybe in spring, and we left in May. And so, for about a month or so, the house was a mess because there were suitcases everywhere, and people. My mother was packing constantly, constantly. But we knew we were going to go to Italy, we knew we had an uncle in Italy who was going to host us, or at least make life livable for us when we arrived. We had obtained Italian papers, obtained through various means. I mean, whatever. They're not exactly legitimate ways of getting a citizenship, but it was given to my father, and he took it. And we changed our last name from Ajiman, which is how it was pronounced, to Aciman because the Italians saw the C and assumed it was that. My father had some money in Europe already. So that was going to help us survive. But we knew my mother and I and my brother, that we were now sort of functionally poor. MANYA: In hindsight, André now knows the family's expulsion at that time was the best thing that could have happened. Two years later, Israel trounced Egypt in the Six-Day War, nearly destroying the Egyptian Air Force, taking control of the Gaza Strip and the entire Sinai Peninsula, as well as territory from Egypt's allies in the conflict, Syria and Jordan. The few remaining Jews in Egypt were sent to internment camps, including the chief rabbis of Cairo and Alexandria and the family of one of André's schoolmates whose father was badly beaten. After three years in Italy, André's family joined his mother's sister in America, confirming once and for all that their life in Egypt was gone. ANDRÉ: I think there was a kind of declaration of their condition. In other words, they never overcame the fact that they had lost a way of life. And of course, the means to sustain that life was totally taken away, because they were nationalized, and had their property sequestered, everything was taken away from them. So, they were tossed into the wild sea. My mother basically knew how to shut the book on Egypt, she stopped thinking about Egypt, she was an American now. She was very happy to have become a citizen of the United States.  Whereas my father, who basically was the one who had lost more than she had, because he had built his own fortune himself, never overcame it. And so, he led a life of the exile who continues to go to places and to restaurants that are costly, but that he can still manage to afford if he watches himself. So, he never took cabs, he always took the bus. Then he lived a pauper's life, but with good clothing, because he still had all his clothing from his tailor in Egypt. But it was a bit of a production, a performance for him.  MANYA: André's father missed the life he had in Egypt. André longs for the life he could've had there. ANDRÉ: I was going to study in England, I was going to come back to Egypt, I was going to own the factory. This was kind of inscribed in my genes at that point. And of course, you give up that, as I like to say, and I've written about this many times, is that whatever you lose, or whatever never happened, continues to sort of sub-exist somewhere in your mind. In other words, it's something that has been taken away from you, even though it never existed.  MANYA: But like his mother, André moved on. In fact, he says moving on is part of the Jewish experience. Married with sons of his own, he now is a distinguished professor at the Graduate Center of City University of New York, teaching the history of literary theory. He is also one of the foremost experts on Marcel Proust, that French novelist whose passages his father once transcribed in his diaries. André's own novels and anthologies have won awards and inspired Academy Award-winning screenplays. Like Israel opened its doors and welcomed all of those stateless Egyptian Jews, America opened doors for André. Going to college in the Bronx after growing up in Egypt and Italy? That introduced him to being openly Jewish.  ANDRÉ: I went to Lehman College, as an undergraduate, I came to the States in September. I came too late to go to college, but I went to an event at that college in October or November, and already people were telling me they were Jewish.  You know, ‘I'm Jewish, and this and that,' and, and so I felt ‘Oh, God, it's like, you mean people can be natural about their Judaism? And so, I began saying to people, ‘I'm Jewish, too,' or I would no longer feel this sense of hiding my Jewishness, which came when I came to America. Not before. Not in Italy. Not in Egypt certainly. But the experience of being in a place that was fundamentally all Jewish, like being in the Bronx in 1968, was mind opening for me, it was: I can let everything down, I can be Jewish like everybody else. It's no longer a secret. I don't have to pretend that I was a Protestant when I didn't even know what kind of Protestant I was. As a person growing up in an antisemitic environment. You have many guards, guardrails in place, so you know how not to let it out this way, or that way or this other way. You don't speak about matzah. You don't speak about charoset. You don't speak about anything, so as to prevent yourself from giving out that you're Jewish. MANYA: Though the doors had been flung open and it felt much safer to be openly Jewish, André to this day cannot forget the antisemitism that poisoned his formative years. ANDRÉ: I assume that everybody's antisemitic at some point. It is very difficult to meet someone who is not Jewish, who, after they've had many drinks, will not turn out to be slightly more antisemitic than you expected. It is there. It's culturally dominant. And so, you have to live with this. As my grandmother used to say, I'm just giving this person time until I discover how antisemitic they are. It was always a question of time. MANYA: His family's various displacements and scattered roots in Spain, Turkey, Egypt, Italy, and now America, have led him to question his identity and what he calls home. ANDRÉ: I live with this sense of: I don't know where I belong. I don't know who I am. I don't know any of those things. What's my flag? I have no idea. Where's my home? I don't know. I live in New York. I've lived in New York for 50 years. Is it my home? Not really. But Egypt was never going to be my home. MANYA: André knew when he was leaving Egypt that he would one day write a book about the experience. He knew he should take notes, but never did. And like his father, he started a diary, but it was lost. He started another in 1969.  After completing his dissertation, he began to write book reviews for Commentary, a monthly American magazine on religion, Judaism and politics founded and published, at the time, by American Jewish Committee.  The editor suggested André write something personal, and that was the beginning of Out of Egypt. In fact, three chapters of his memoir, including The Last Seder, appeared in Commentary before it was published as a book in 1994.  André returned to Egypt shortly after its release. But he has not been back since, even though his sons want to accompany him on a trip. ANDRÉ: They want to go back, because they want to go back with me. Question is, I don't want to put them in danger. You never know. You never know how people will react to . . . I mean, I'll go back as a writer who wrote about Egypt and was Jewish. And who knows what awaits me? Whether it will be friendly, will it be icy and chilly. Or will it be hostile? I don't know. And I don't want to put myself there. In other words, the view of the Jews has changed. It went to friendly, to enemy, to friendly, enemy, enemy, friendly, and so on, so forth. In other words, it is a fundamentally unreliable situation.  MANYA: He also doesn't see the point. It's impossible to recapture the past. The pictures he sees don't look familiar and the people he used to know with affection have died. But he doesn't want the past to be forgotten. None of it. He wants the world to remember the vibrant Jewish life that existed in Cairo and Alexandria, as well as the vile hatred that drove all but a handful of Jews out of Egypt. Cornell Professor Deborah Starr says for the first time in many years, young Egyptians are asking tough questions about the Arabization of Egyptian society and how that affected Egyptian Jews. Perhaps, Israel and Zionism did not siphon Jewish communities from the Arab world as the story often goes. Perhaps instead, Israel offered a critical refuge for a persecuted community. DEBORAH: I think it's really important to tell the stories of Mizrahi Jews. I think that, particularly here we are speaking in English to an American audience, where the majority of Jews in North America are Ashkenazi, we have our own identity, we have our own stories. But there are also other stories that are really interesting to tell, and are part of the history of Jews in the 20th and 21st centuries. They're part of the Jewish experience. And so that's some of what has always motivated me in my research, and looking at the stories of coexistence among Jews and their neighbors in Egypt. MANYA: Professor Starr says the rise of Islamist forces like the Muslim Brotherhood has led Egyptians to harken back toward this period of tolerance and coexistence, evoking a sense of nostalgia. DEBORAH: The people are no longer living together. But it's worth remembering that past, it's worth reflecting on it in an honest way, and not, to look at the nostalgia and say: oh, look, these people are nostalgic about it, what is it that they're nostalgic for? What are some of the motivations for that nostalgia? How are they characterizing this experience? But also to look kind of critically on the past and understand, where things were working where things weren't and, and to tell the story in an honest way. MANYA: Though the communities are gone, there has been an effort to restore the evidence of Jewish life. Under Abdel Fattah Al-Sisi, Egypt's president since 2014, there have been initiatives to restore and protect synagogues and cemeteries, including Eliyahu Hanavi Synagogue in Alexandria, Maimonides' original yeshiva in old Cairo, and Cairo's vast Jewish cemetery at Bassatine. But André is unmoved by this gesture. ANDRÉ: In fact, I got a call from the Egyptian ambassador to my house here, saying, ‘We're fixing the temples and the synagogues, and we want you back.' ‘Oh, that's very nice. First of all,' I told him, ‘fixing the synagogues doesn't do anything for me because I'm not a religious Jew. And second of all, I would be more than willing to come back to Egypt, when you give me my money back.' He never called me again. MANYA: Anytime the conversation about reparations comes up, it is overshadowed by the demand for reparations for Palestinians displaced by the creation of Israel, even though their leaders have rejected all offers for a Palestinian state. André wishes the Arab countries that have attacked Israel time and again would invest that money in the welfare of Palestinian refugees, help them start new lives, and to thrive instead of using them as pawns in a futile battle.  He will always be grateful to HIAS, the Hebrew Immigrant Aid Society, for helping his family escape, resettle, and rebuild their lives. ANDRÉ: We've made new lives for ourselves. We've moved on, and I think this is what Jews do all the time, all the time. They arrive or they're displaced, kicked out, they refashion themselves. Anytime I can help a Jew I will. Because they've helped me, because it's the right thing to do for a Jew. If a Jew does not help another Jew, what kind of a Jew are you? I mean, you could be a nonreligious Jew as I am, but I am still Jewish.  And I realize that we are a people that has historically suffered a great deal, because we were oppressed forever, and we might be oppressed again. Who knows, ok? But we help each other, and I don't want to break that chain. MANYA: Egyptian Jews are just one of the many Jewish communities who in the last century left Arab countries to forge new lives for themselves and future generations. Join us next week as we share another untold story of The Forgotten Exodus. Many thanks to André for sharing his story. You can read more in his memoir Out of Egypt and eventually in the sequel which he's working on now about his family's life in Italy after they left Egypt and before they came to America.  Does your family have roots in North Africa or the Middle East? One of the goals of this series is to make sure we gather these stories before they are lost. Too many times during my reporting, I encountered children and grandchildren who didn't have the answers to my questions because they had never asked. That's why one of the goals of this project is to encourage you to find more of these stories.  Call The Forgotten Exodus hotline. Tell us where your family is from and something you'd like for our listeners to know such as how you've tried to keep the traditions alive and memories alive as well. Call 212.891-1336 and leave a message of 2 minutes or less. Be sure to leave your name and where you live now. You can also send an email to theforgottenexodus@ajc.org and we'll be in touch. Atara Lakritz is our producer, CucHuong Do is our production manager. T.K. Broderick is our sound engineer. Special thanks to Jon Schweitzer, Sean Savage, Ian Kaplan, and so many of our colleagues, too many to name really, for making this series possible. And extra special thanks to David Harris, who has been a constant champion for making sure these stories do not remain untold. You can follow The Forgotten Exodus on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, or wherever you listen to podcasts, and you can sign up to receive updates at AJC.org/forgottenexodussignup. The views and opinions of our guests don't necessarily reflect the positions of AJC.  You can reach us at theforgottenexodus@ajc.org. If you've enjoyed this episode, please be sure to spread the word, and hop onto Apple Podcasts to rate us and write a review to help more listeners find us.

The Bard of Hudson
Episode 209: Roots

The Bard of Hudson

Play Episode Listen Later Jul 3, 2022 13:16


I am back in the house that belonged to my grandfather where I used to visit every summer as a child. It is in a beautiful tiny town on the Italian Riviera. It is a place layered with memories from 50+ years, and yet, as it changes, it becomes vaguely unfamiliar in some ways too. It is an incredible gift to be able to revisit these places that we treasure in childhood memories. We can look at them through the lens of adulthood and bring a new significance to various events and people who populate those memories. I'll be interested to see what bubbles up beyond the Proustian associations of various foods. I'm told some inner child healing might be possible. Stay tuned... I have a Patreon page! Please check it out. If you make a small pledge you'll get to see photos and clips from my journals and hear a bit more about some of the stories. This is a fun way that I can share visuals with you. Check it out HERE. Or at patreon.com/dianathebard If you want to hear more on any particular subject, or if you want to ask a question or simply connect, you can find me on Instagram at https://www.instagram.com/dianathebard or email me at bardofhudson.com --- This episode is sponsored by · Anchor: The easiest way to make a podcast. https://anchor.fm/app

Major Spoilers Comic Book Podcast
Major Spoilers Podcast #931: This One Summer

Major Spoilers Comic Book Podcast

Play Episode Listen Later Jun 23, 2021 69:53


One time, at band camp, we sat down to read some comics, play some games, and talk about pop culture. This week, we take a look at This One Summer Show your thanks to Major Spoilers for this episode by becoming a Major Spoilers Patron at http://patreon.com/MajorSpoilers. It will help ensure the Major Spoilers Podcast continues far into the future! Join our Discord server and chat with fellow Spoilerites! (https://discord.gg/jWF9BbF) NEWS https://deadline.com/2021/06/tom-spezialy-overall-deal-amazon-studios-silk-marvel-series-showrunner-spinderman-spinoff-1234777807/ https://variety.com/2021/film/news/saban-films-archstone-the-hyperions-cary-elwes-1235001115/ https://bleedingcool.com/comics/coca-cola-to-sponsor-free-comic-book-day-for-2021/ https://variety.com/2021/film/news/transformers-rise-of-the-beasts-anthony-ramos-1235002707/ REVIEWS STEPHEN SPAWN'S UNIVERSE #1 Writer: Todd McFarlane Artist: Jim Cheung, Todd McFarlane, Stephen Segovia, Marcio Takara Publisher: Image Comics Cover Price: $5.99 Release Date: June 23, 2021 IT'S HERE: THE OFFICIAL INTRODUCTION TO THE LONG-AWAITED SPAWN'S UNIVERSE! A double-sized issue that begins a storyline so huge that three NEW SPAWN-related monthly titles will spill out from it, including... A new SPAWN title. GUNSLINGER SPAWN monthly. And a new TEAM book bringing a handful of these characters together in their own book. With this one-shot...the world of SPAWN changes forever! New heroes. New villains, and more importantly, new titles coming to a comic shop near you. Join this list of artists as we unveil a historic moment in the mythology of SPAWN'S UNIVERSE: [rating:3.5/5] MATTHEW INFINITE FRONTIER #1 Writer: Joshua Williamson Artist: Xermanico Publisher: DC Comics Cover Price: $4.99 Release Date: June 22, 2021 When our heroes saved the Multiverse from Perpetua in Dark Nights: Death Metal, everything was put back where it belonged...and we do mean everything. All the damage from all the Crises was undone, and heroes long thought gone returned from whatever exile they had been in. Most of them, at least. Alan Scott, the Green Lantern from the Justice Society of America, has noticed some of his allies are still missing in action and he's determined to find them. There are others, though, who would rather remain hidden than explain themselves, like Roy Harper, a.k.a. Arsenal, a man who should be dead but now is not. Plus, what does all this mean for the DCU's place in the Multiverse? On opposite sides of a dimensional divide, both Barry Allen and President Superman ponder this question. Not to mention the Darkseid of it all! Or a team of Multiversal heroes called Justice Incarnate! [rating:4.5/5] RODRIGO GUILTY GEAR -STRIVE- Designer: Daisuke Ishiwatari Publisher: Arc System Works, Bandai Namco, Entertainment Europe, Sega Cover Price: 59.99 (Deluxe edition available) Release Date: June 11, 2021 Guilty Gear Strive is a fighting video game developed and published by Arc System Works. It is the seventh mainline installment of the Guilty Gear series, and the 25th overall. The game was released worldwide on June 11, 2021 [rating: 4.5/5] ASHLEY LUCA Director: Enrico Casarosa Studio: Disney Pixar Platform: Disney+ Release Date: June 18, 2021 Set in a beautiful seaside town on the Italian Riviera, the original animated feature is a coming-of-age story about one young boy experiencing an unforgettable summer filled with gelato, pasta and endless scooter rides. Luca shares these adventures with his newfound best friend, but all the fun is threatened by a deeply-held secret: he is a sea monster from another world just below the water's surface. [rating: 3/5] DISCUSSION THIS ONE SUMMER Writer: Mariko Tamaki Artist: Jillian Tamaki Publisher: Groundwood Books Every summer, Rose goes with her mom and dad to a lake house in Awago Beach. It's their getaway, their refuge. Rosie's friend Windy is always there, too, like the little sister she never had. But this summer is different. Rose's mom and dad won't stop fighting, and when Rose and Windy seek a distraction from the drama, they find themselves with a whole new set of problems. One of the local teens - just a couple of years older than Rose and Windy - is caught up in something bad... Something life threatening. It's a summer of secrets, and sorrow, and growing up, and it's a good thing Rose and Windy have each other. CLOSE Contact us at podcast@majorspoilers.com Call the Major Spoilers Hotline at (785) 727-1939. A big Thank You goes out to everyone who downloads, subscribes, listens, and supports this show. We really appreciate you taking the time to listen to our ramblings each week. Tell your friends!