Looking for something unique to do on your travels to Italy, totally tourist free? One thing I'm asked all the time is: "what can I do while I'm in Italy that's unique and tourist free?" I always suggest getting involved in an initiative that will benefit the Italian community and get you immersed in an activity with Italians. Most everyone is familiar with the Komen Race for the Cure, an initiative to raise breast cancer awareness, and offer breast cancer education and health tips for the community. Rome's Komen Race for the Cure is just around the corner, scheduled for Sunday, May 12. It's ..read more

Mastering the Art of Packing Light: Essential Tips for Stress-Free International Travel In the fast-paced world of international travel, the ability to pack efficiently and travel light is a skill that can make or break your journey. In my latest Flavor of Italy podcast episode, seasoned traveler Sarah Murdoch shared her packing tips for international travel including the art of packing light, drawing from her extensive experience exploring the globe. Here are some key takeaways from our conversation that offer our very best practical tips to streamline your packing process and enhance your t ..read more

In the heart of Brooklyn, amidst the bustling streets and diverse communities, lies a treasure trove of culinary heritage. It's here that Daniel Paterna, a proud Italian-American with deep roots in his ancestral homeland, has crafted a masterpiece that transcends mere recipes - it's a celebration of family, tradition, and Daniel's rich Italian-American culture. In "Feast of the Seven Fishes," Daniel shares not just recipes, but stories that resonate with authenticity and love for his Italian heritage. Embracing Italian Heritage As Daniel Paterna shares his journey, it's clear that his Italian ..read more

While I usually indulge in all things Italian on the Flavor of Italy podcast, today, we take a flavorful detour to Portugal and Broa de Avintes Portuguese bread. I stumbled upon an intriguing article in a supplement to our favorite Italian newspaper, the Corriere della Sera, highlighting Porto, Portugal as the top travel destination of 2024. This piqued my interest, especially since I had a conference scheduled in Porto. Initially skeptical about the wine scene—Port wine isn't my usual preference—I was pleasantly surprised to discover a vibrant rosé wine from the Portugal Boutique Winery that ..read more

A Journey with Dena Fenza & her Tuscan Home Makeover In this week's episode of my Flavor of Italy podcast, I chatted with Dena Fenza, a prominent figure on Instagram known for her recipes, style tips, and lifestyle content. With nearly 150,000 followers, Dena has captivated audiences with her unique blend of Italian-American heritage and New York living. During the interview, she shared her fascinating journey, from her roots in Brooklyn to her decision to build a life in Italy. Dena's search for homes for sale in Tuscany Italy was methodical and effective and lead to her purchase of a Tus ..read more

Exploring the Organic Marvels of Tenuta San Carlo: A Journey into Sustainable Rice Farming In the heart of Southern Tuscany lies a haven of organic agriculture, where the marshlands of Maremma have been transformed into a thriving rice farm. This is the story of Tenuta San Carlo, a testament to the dedication of four generations and a commitment to regenerative farming practices. A Legacy of Innovation Founded in 1936 by Achille Gaggia, Tenuta San Carlo began as a vision to harness the untapped potential of the Maremma region. Over the years, the land transitioned through the hands of Achille ..read more

Unlocking the Charms of Molise: Italy's Best-Kept Wine Secret Italy, renowned for its illustrious wine heritage, harbors hidden gems beyond the well-trodden paths of Tuscany and Piedmont. Among these treasures lies Molise, Italy's second smallest wine region, nestled between the Adriatic coast and the Apennine Mountains. Despite its diminutive size, Molise boasts a rich viticultural history dating back to ancient civilizations and a burgeoning wine scene characterized by indigenous grape varieties and diverse terroirs. Unveiling Molise's Vinous Legacy Molise's winemaking journey traces back t ..read more

The Historical Narrative of Horse Meat Recipes & Cuisine in Italy When it comes to culinary customs, the journey across different cultures often presents moments of profound divergence. These encounters with unfamiliar foods can evoke a sense of cultural shock, prompting reflections on the intricate relationship between food and society. Food blogger and recipe creator, Michele Di Pietro, and I discussed horse meat recipes and the Italian culinary culture of horse meat in Italy. Horse meat holds a unique place in the culinary landscape of Italy, where it is revered as a wholesome and nour ..read more

Few dishes capture the essence of simplicity and flavor quite like Spaghetti Aglio Olio e Peperoncino. This iconic pasta recipe, hailing from Naples, holds a storied past deeply embedded in the culinary traditions of Southern Italy. Spaghetti Aglio Olio e Peperoncino finds its roots in the rustic kitchens of Naples, where frugal cooks ingeniously crafted flavorful dishes from humble pantry staples. The recipe's inception can be attributed to the culinary traditions of Southern Italy, where resourcefulness and ingenuity were paramount in creating satisfying meals. The dish's popularity soared ..read more

Embracing Culinary Diversity: Navigating Food Shaming and Unusual Italian Food in Italy Italy, renowned for its exquisite cuisine and culinary traditions, is a paradise for food lovers. However, beneath the surface of delectable pasta dishes and aromatic pizzas lies a complex culinary landscape that can sometimes challenge travelers' expectations and lead to food shaming. Understanding Food Shaming Food shaming, the act of criticizing or judging someone's food choices, can manifest in various ways during travel experiences in Italy. While Italians are generally passionate about their cuisine ..read more