Kimberly's Italy: Recent Episodes
Kimberly Holcombe
Welcome to Kimberly's Italy, a travel podcast focused on all things Italian. My love affair with Italy started with a move to Milan many years ago, and the enriching experience became part of my DNA. Our episodes highlight some of our own travels and the comical lessons we learned along the way. You can be the beneficiary of invaluable travel tips, and at the same time enjoy a few laughs. We share our passion of the Italian cuisine, history, art, architecture, and the welcoming nature of the Italian people, whom define this incredible country.
We spontaneously came up with this title while recording the episode on Padova, or Padua, as it's known in English. The amount of "firsts" and "oldests" that Padova can claim, is rather remarkable for such a small city.
It's often passed over due to it's proximity to Venezia, so only those in the know make a point to spend a few days in this history rich and record setting city. Padova has the oldest botanical garden in the world, the largest interior hall in all of Europe without (support) columns and the second oldest university in Italy, where Galileo was a beloved professor.
And for those in the medical profession, the University of Padua has the oldest surgical theatre in the world and the university has been acknowledged as the birthplace of modern science.
How's that for some street cred?
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
Lake Lugano, Lake Maggiore and Lake d'Orta are all geographically stunning and full of history, like the rest of Italy. We felt a bit remiss by always taking about Lake Como, so we decided to fill you in on what each of these three lakes offer as well.
A majority of Lake Lugano is in Switzerland and the top third of Lake Maggiore is as well, so that's gives you the opportunity to get a Swiss stamp in your passport! However, the language, cuisine and wine will all be Italian, so fear not!
Lago d'Orta is a very small but very special lake, rich in history and beauty. The sole island in the lake welcomes visitors, but in silence, since it's inhabitants are Benedictine Nuns. It's a one-of-a-kind experience to walk on the one stone path through this island, and definitely a visit you will not forget.
CNN Link: Click Here
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
Every few months we want to inform you of things we think you should know regarding Italian travel and new offerings that may make your vacation even sweeter. These updates might not be as enticing as an entire episode on Portofino or Venice, but we promise that you will thank us for it later!
2024 will require that you have an ETIAS Visa to enter the country. It's easy to get and we share with you exactly how to apply for it online, all for the price of a small beer! The new year will also offer a new mode of train travel in the country that is very appealing, affordable and good for the planet! All good news for any of you thinking to visiting Italy in 2024!
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
Portofino is truly a stunning little harbor, and once you are seated under the green and white striped awning of Taverna del Marinaio sipping a cocktail, you will understand why people have flocked here for generations. Beautiful places attract beautiful people, so you will have plenty of eye candy to look at.
However, there is rich history as well for such a teeny village. Ships sought refuge in the protected harbor since the first century, and one thousand or so years later, they built a duomo that appears simple from the exterior yet is surprisingly ornate once you enter. The castle with it's distinguished location on top of the rock promontory dates back to Middle Ages, which is nothing to sneeze at.
Put Portofino on your list of treats, just try to visit slightly off season and live La Dolce Vita as best you can!
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
This petite but intriguing city in the Veneto Region of Italy should be on your radar, yet luckily most tourists skip right over it because it's on their way to Venezia. What they don't realize they are missing is that Verona is a UNESCO World Heritage Site due to it's prodigious collection of beautifully preserved architectural gems throughout the centuries.
The long tail of Verona's operatic history, culminating in Luciano Pavarotti's concert in 1990 at Verona's open-air arena, is incomparable. The city is small enough to get to know, and large enough to suck you in to it's history and architectural lure of century after century of impressive design. You will not regret a visit to such a rare and captivating place.
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
Once you are in bel' Italia, you can live La Dolce Vita. However, occasionally you are one of the unlucky ones whose flight gets cancelled at the last minute, with no legit explanation. You planned everything for this trip, except that.
We offer some suggestions of how to reduce your risk and prepare for this annoying aspect of air travel, which is sadly becoming all too common.
A few friends and clients shared their FLIGHTMARE stories with us this past weekend, so we decided to dedicate an episode to it and try to soothe the potential pain with a few preemptive tactics.
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
We want to bring the flavors of the Amalfi Coast into your kitchen with this simple recipe, one that we made while enjoying a Hugo Spritz for the first time! It was also Tommaso's first time eating Pasta al Limone, and I can attest that he is now a fan!
So, if you are craving a virtual escape to the Amalfi Coast, this episode is a must-listen! Immerse yourself in all things lemon, scialatielle pasta and the happy reward from making this recipe. Trust us, your taste buds will not be disappointed.
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
Our previous episode on our friend Jane's first trip to bel'italia broke our download record, which shows us that people like to remember their own first trip, and the rest are anxiously looking forward to theirs!
In this short episode, we share another client's first trip from earlier this month. This family dove in head-first (rented a car), ate everything in sight, fell hard for the red wine, swam everywhere they could, climbed every church dome and hiked all of Cinque Terre in the heat. Will they return, si!
Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip!
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
Do you remember your first trip to Italy?
Our good friend Jane just came back from her very first trip to bel'italia and we couldn't wait to share her perceptions on all of it! We find it so interesting to hear what someone thinks of the differences in culture, mannerisms, cuisine and in Jane's case, the driving as well!
Experiencing the differences between countries is what traveling is all about. Italy just happens to have such an abundance of everything special, and that makes your first visit so intoxicating. After you listen to this episode, you will realize Jane is now a fan of all things Italian like the rest of you!
Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip!
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
In this episode, we want to share with you both the good, and the not so good aspects of traveling in Italy in the height of the summer season. Due to a few factors out of our control (climate change, revenge tourism, etc..) there is only so much you can do to combat the extremes of June, July and August in bel’italia.
However, we have some suggestions to make it as enjoyable as possible, and what to look out for when planning your own trip. There is a lot of misinformation online these days unfortunately, but we are your biggest advocates, and we offer some advice to avoid the pitfalls of social media influencers, and the general BS that is out there!
Link to The Tik Tok Idiot
https://www.independent.co.uk/life-style/amalfi-coast-tiktok-travel-influencer-b2374788.html
Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip!
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
In this episode, we explore the enchanting region of Tuscany. From the bustling tourist season to the importance of patience, Kimberly and Tommaso emphasize the need for understanding and kindness towards the hardworking Italians in the travel industry.
We also delve into the diverse landscapes of Tuscany, from the picturesque Chianti region to the stunning coastline and islands. With discussions on planning, personal relationships, and the delectable cuisine and wines of Tuscany, this episode offers a captivating glimpse into the beauty and charm of this beloved Italian region. Ciao!
Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip!
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
For those of you who can only visit Lago di Como at the height of the tourist season, which is basically all summer long, we will share tips with you of how to avoid the crowds.
There are several lesser-known villages that are worthy of a walk about and small enough that you can enjoy lunch with the locals. You can also hike from village to village on the medieval foot paths that line the lake, providing views that will stop you in your tracks.
Even choosing which ferry to take, can help you dodge the most crowded boats. The allure of the lake is best seen by boat, so knowing from where and when to take a boat, will make your stay in Lago di Como as special as you hoped for, even in late July.
[00:03:44] Avoiding crowds in Lake Como.
[00:06:33] Exploring Italy by foot.
[00:09:44] The mayhem at the dock.
[00:12:07] Slower ferries and sunset restrictions.
[00:15:14] Historic areas and hidden gems.
[00:22:26] Unbelievable cemetery sculptures.
[00:24:39] Complicated boat schedules
[00:29:19] Don't miss the last boat.
[00:31:39] Embracing sleepy villages in Lake Como
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
Straight from the source of several clients of mine in Italy, “insider intel” from all over the country. The summer season is in full swing, but they have all figured out how to avoid the mid-day crowds and have thoroughly enjoyed (understatement) the cuisine, the history and the hospitality of “every single Italian”!
It's been a joy to receive their texts and photos and very detailed emails which I genuinely appreciate. And while I may never meet my clients in person, we have developed a kinship while planning their trip, all due to the fact we share the common bond of a love for bel'italia!
Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip!
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
In this quick update from Kimberley's Italy, Tomasso talks about why he had to delay the mini-episode on Sunday. He says he spent a lot of time researching the cybersecurity risks of traveling and was shocked by the numbers of attempts to hack phones. Tomasso emphasizes that it's not a question of if but when someone will try to hack you while traveling and emphasizes the need to be prepared. He promises to provide a comprehensive episode on cybersecurity and connectivity while abroad, uploaded on Friday, giving listeners information on the risks involved and practical solutions.
To save money and keep your phone secure while traveling in Italy, Tommaso recommends preparing your phone before you leave. Tommaso outlines the importance of updating your operating system and apps, as well as turning off background processes to avoid overpaying for bandwidth.
Additionally, he advises getting your children's phones locked down to prevent potential security risks. The episode offers helpful tips for travelers looking to stay connected without breaking the bank.
Tomasso takes the reigns in this episode to introduce connecting and cyber hygiene while traveling in Italy.
In the next two episodes he will also provide helpful tips on how to avoid unexpected costs and issues, such as getting your phone ready for travel and deciding whether to use a SIM card or your mobile provider's travel data services.
By following Tommaso's best practices, travelers can minimize their risk of being hacked or encountering unpleasant surprises on their trip.
Ciao! Ciao!
It's June 14th, 2023 and Florence is very crowded today. It's actually quite crowded almost every day of the entire tourist season, yet people love this gorgeous city so much, they continue to flock to it regardless of what people like me say!
Therefore, we are sharing a few alternative ideas of how you can still become a Florentine groupie / lover / fanatic of this intoxicating Tuscan city.
First thing you can do is change your sleeping habits while on vacation! Get up really early, or stay up very late, and take Florence in with minimal people blocking your view of all the beauty this city has to offer. You will thank us for this suggestion after you have done just that!
Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip!
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
We are not sure that other podcasts celebrate their 100th episode, but we are! We are so grateful to all our listeners from 132 countries around the globe, that we decided to celebrate you!
We have compiled a few clips from our greatest hits that summarize the vibe of our friendly and funny vibe, which is both enlightening and helpful. And apparently, we have started a new trend of Wednesday Date Nights with Kimberly's Italy!
Essentially, we are delighted to carry on and share our love of all things Italian for another couple of hundred episodes!
Grazie mille amici! Kimberly and Tommaso
I am Kimberly Holcombe and I am a travel planner and lover of all things Italian. I lived in Italy for six years as a fashion photographer, and fell head over heels for the people and the culture. I plan private trips to anywhere in Italy for individuals, couples, families and small groups of friends.
Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip!
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
So what if Piemonte (Piedmont) isn't on the Greatest Hits list? That alone makes it worthy of being added to your itinerary! The average global tourist goes to Venice, Florence and Rome, and while they may love it, they have no idea that the capital city of Piemonte (Torino) can rival the competition with it's rich history, architecture and cuisine.
And we haven't even mentioned the vino! Piemonte is the wine lover's secret soft spot. The Nebbiolo grapes that give birth to Barolo, rivals the Brunellos and the Vino Nobiles, yet don't just take our word for it, go taste it on your own.
Piemonte is a diverse region that offers a northern cuisine, bold wines, a rich history, and once you throw in the beauty of the Alps, it's really hard to beat!
I am Kimberly Holcombe and I am a travel planner and lover of all things Italian. I lived in Italy for six years as a fashion photographer, and fell head over heels for the people and the culture. I plan private trips to anywhere in Italy for individuals, couples, families and small groups of friends.
Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip!
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com
The locals in Torino start their day with a medley of espresso, chocolate and whipped cream which is called Bicerin. Perhaps this why the Torinese are so happy! Or maybe it's because their region of Piemonte is home to the White Truffle, which allows them to end their day with truffles shaved over their hand made pasta called Tajarin. Who wouldn't want to live in Torino?
The Torinese have had a long history with chocolate (close to 500 years) and used to mix it into their meat dishes and even pasta (!). Their obsession with chocolate eventually led to the invention of Nutella, which became a staple for breakfast amongst children in Italy.
Tajarin is another regional favorite – a handmade and hand cut pasta made with an abundant amount of egg yolks. It looks slightly different, but it tastes divine when a butter and sage sauce is folded in and truffles are ever so delicately shaved on top. Again, who wouldn't want to live in Torino?
The capital city of the Piemonte region offers so much culturally, architecturally, and agriculturally (think wine and cuisine) and perhaps the best thing it offers, is definitely less crowds than Venice, Florence and Rome.
Torino benefited from a rich history of regal residents over the centuries that bestowed the city with a multitude of palaces, 14 of which are under Unesco status. Palazzo Reale and Venaria Reale are higlighted in this episode.
There is also the legendary story of Gianni Agnelli and the Fiat Automobile company whose Torino factory has produced these iconic cars since 1899.
Gianni Agnelli, the debonair and very well tanned grandson took over in the 1960's and brought yet more attention to his beloved birthplace of Torino.
Tourists from around the world do indeed visit Torino, but not to the extent the other “Greatest Hits” cities, and that alone should make you want to visit .
Venaria Reale Palace
https://lavenaria.it/en
Palazzo Reale Palace
https://museireali.beniculturali.it
Our intention is not to to alarm you, but instead to help you understand what is on the horizon with AI (aka, Artificial Intelligence) when it comes to dealing with your travel to bel'Italia. It's all happening quite fast in every realm of life, but large travel conglomerates like Expedia Group and Booking Holdings are incorporating AI to make your travel planning that much more difficult, frustrating, and most importantly, more expensive.
These two behemoth corporations, basically own almost every single online travel company, thereby eliminating competition. Do not believe their hype that AI will make their services more “personalized”.... and to you our friends, that is the sole purpose for this episode...
Link to the article in the Atlantic:
https://www.theatlantic.com/technology/archive/2023/05/hotel-booking-sites-junk-fees-travel/673898/
Imagine this...since 1659, ten horses and ten riders race bareback around the perimeter of the Piazza del Campo, three times at breakneck speed, on a narrow track packed with clay. The horses are blessed beforehand, and somehow 30,000 people fit into the piazza to cheer on their team representing their contrada (neighborhood).
This is Siena's most treasured event, so much so, that they do it twice each summer, on July 2nd and August 16th. Horse racing in Siena started in 1232, and clearly the popularity has not waned. It's a sight to see with the locals colorful costumes representing each contrada, and those fearless horses and riders – it all makes for a very memorable visit to Siena.
Museum Santa Maria Della Scalla
https://www.santamariadellascala.com
Link to watercolorist Geremia Cerri's Show in Siena
https://www.facebook.com/events/949146343169810/?ref=newsfeed
Ciao, Ciao!!
Most people love Siena for many reasons, but I fell in love, at first sight, with Piazza del Campo. I can still visualize every single detail that lured me in on my first visit many years ago. For any artist, or art history buff, just standing in the main piazza, being physically surrounded by the color siena, while in the city of Siena, is like a dream realized!
There is clearly more to Siena than it's main piazza, but I promise you, that colorful circle of stone and brick will not disappoint. The Basilica di Santa Maria Assunta, Siena's Duomo, is one of a kind. Tommaso is a fan, and he hasn't even seen it in person yet. The flooring which is comprised of mosaic panels has been called the most beautiful floor ever made. Most of it is covered to prevent further wear from the millions of feet that have traipsed over these teeny pieces of marble, yet they are uncovered twice a year, so a travel tip is to plan your visit around that!
Spring is a refreshing time of year basically everywhere, but there is something extra special about spring in Italy. It may be partly due to the abundance of wildflowers and wisteria, but also the vivid colors that come to life in the beautiful landscapes that cover the entire country.
Early spring usually has less tourists in the countryside, but the weather can be a bit cool and damp, or warm and dry! We can not rely on the old standard of when the rainy season is anymore, so just go with the flow and enjoy the spring no matter what it brings – you will still be in Italy after all!
Tommaso also shares some current travel news regarding what's being implemented this spring in some parts of Italy. It's always wise to know as much as you can before you arrive, hence Travel Tips are always a good thing!
2 years, 92 episodes, 3,036 minutes, 127 countries, and countless reasons why Kimberly's Italy Podcast will keep sharing our love of all things Italian! We have not suffered “Pod Fade” due to the enthusiastic feedback we get from our listeners around the globe.
We decided we should celebrate this 2 year milestone with ravioli which Tommaso made from scratch, and as importantly, we invited Kitten Club 2 members to join us. It was a culinary feast enjoyed by all, and what's better than talking about our awesome Italian vacation while dining on spinach and ricotta stuffed ravioli and drinking Aperol Spritzs???
Link to Page on our website:
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com/ricotta-and-spinach-ravioli/
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We share the story of our friend Edie's connection to the world famous Harry's Bar in Venice. We invited her to our recording studio and thought it only right to drink a Bellini while recording, since this refreshing drink was invented by Giuseppe Cipriani, the founder of Harry's Bar.
This understated, but world renowned bar, welcomes you as if you were part of it's rich history. It is truly one of a kind, and the Italian Ministry of Cultural Heritage feels the same since they declared it a National Landmark in 2001.
It's nice to have friends with such connections, but if you listen to the entire episode, you will hear how Kimberly and Edie are connected as well in America's history. Small world stories indeed!
From a morning ferry to the port of Napoli, then into taxi driven by a Napolitano with no regard for red stoplights or speed limits, into the chaos of the Central Train Station, dropping off our luggage hoping to see it again, and finally into the streets of old Napoli with the goal of feasting on pizza in it's birthplace, all of which we did on the last day of the festival Tutti Santi.
Did I mention there were about 9 million people on the streets with us? It was mayhem in all it's glory. It was Napoli at it's best!
We didn't have enough time to wait in line at Pizzeria Antica da Michele (the alleged birthplace of pizza), but we somehow managed to find a table for 7 outside in a perfectly Napolitano atmosphere. Yes, we ate pizza, drank Aperol Spritz and sat next to a Banksy. It was a perfect day!
This island deserved the honor of being named the Italian Capitol of Culture in 2022. They could have added Hospitality, Generosity, Kindness and Happiness to the title in my opinion!
We had the most perfect stay with the striking views from our terraces, the colorful palette of the island's architecture and the sound of fishing boats leaving the harbor at first light. The friendly locals and the seafood cuisine were yet even more perks to an island that I want to describe as, perfectly idyllic.
Even during a very busy travel season, you can still escape the crowds here if you know where to do just that. You can also walk the entire island, stopping at each little inlet for a swim in the Tyrrhenian Sea. Procida's big sister of Ischia is a short boat ride away, yet another bonus this teeny island has to offer.
Arriving to the village of Amalfi by boat, allows you to see the majestic beauty of the entire Amalfi Coastline. Once we arrived to our sweet accommodations, a glass of wine on the terrazza was just what we needed to confirm that this is indeed one of the most stunning landscapes on the planet. As one should do, we ate pizza under lemon trees, sipped on limoncello like you've never had before (unless you have already been to Amalfi) and swam in the sea, in late October no less. Then onto Pompeii with a uniquely charming and friendly driver, where we were completely absorbed in a 2 hour tour of Pompeii, by yet another friendly and insightful tour guide. The Amalfi Coast offers so much, you just need to know where, when and how to savor it.
The most intoxicating part about Capri for me, is the geography. The jagged coastline and grottos formed by the sea and time, make for a stunning landscape. Yet, in addition there is tropical flora, cactus, azure water and the bluest of skies, which all makes for a captivating visual treat. In this episode we talk about 2 of the 7 main hiking trails on the island, and why they are such a treasure, for both the history and a feast for the eyes. Capri has inspired poet, painters and writers for hundreds of years, so perhaps you should join crowd, but preferably not at the height of the season.
If you can only visit Capri during the high season, you can still find quiet places to stay and stroll the piazzetta at night, when the day trippers are long gone. However, if you can go the end of October, do so! We were the only tourists in the restaurants, shared the beach at Marina Piccola with five Italians, and had the Arco Naturale hiking path to ourselves. The tropical foliage and the island's dramatic cliffs combine to make it one of the most visually stunning places on earth. It was Capri at it's finest, and my favorite visit yet.
We have received multiple requests for another pasta recipe, which we promised to do over a year ago! To make it up to you, we are sharing Sugo di Roma, a very tasty tomato based sauce from a friend of a friend in Rome, via Milano. This happens to be (one of) Tommaso's favorite sauces, due to the distinct taste that results from the yummy combination of ingredients that simmer on the stove top for hours. It is a definite commitment to make according to our instructions, but you can make an afternoon out of it... listen to music, drink some wine and invite some friends over to share this labor of love. Buon Apetito!!!
Links:
New York Times
https://www.nytimes.com/2023/02/19/world/europe/milan-italy-duomo-cathedral.html
Sugo de Roma Recipe
https://www.kimberlysitaly.com/sugo-di-roma/
This episode details the last few days of our time in Milano during our three week trip to Copenhagen and Italy over the holidays. We were thrilled to see the exhibition in Milano that highlighted the history of the patronage of the arts in Italy, from the Renaissance to 20th century. We also went back to the “scene of the crime” where Tommaso ordered a second cappuccino at the most iconic of all coffee bars in the city, Camparino. Milano holds a special place in my heart and I was so very happy to be back there with my fellow art and history lover, Tommaso.
Who would have known that that one event in a grand hotel in Milan, changed the way the world listened to music, and remote recording in general. Tommaso and I were lucky enough to see the room where this took place in 1902, and then we recorded our own podcast episode in another room, in the same hotel in 2023! The first remote recording of music is just one of the many historic events that took place in The Grand Hotel et de Milan. Opera stars, divas, actors, writers (Ernest), and eccentric artists all had one thing in common, a love for the Grand Hotel et de Milan.
January 1st was filled with our favorite things... cappuccino, gawking at Italian architecture, a second cappuccino, multiple church visits for Kimberly, pizza and Peroni with the locals at a tiny, yet perfect place, fulfilling our bookstore obsession, a late afternoon gelato treat, etc... The unique and charming city of Lucca delivered for us on our short, but sweet visit. It's history is apparent in all the buildings and narrow streets that wind through this walled city. We feel very fortunate to have started the new year in this Tuscan gem.
We arrived in Lucca in time for the tastiest last lunch of the year! Being that it was Tommaso's first time in Lucca, we fit in a lot. We walked a little over a mile and a half of the wall after lunch, took in every inch of Piazza Napoleone, same goes for Piazza San Michele, and just about every little random street we came upon. Lucca is the perfect place to never worry about getting lost, since you will always hit the wall, and find your way back. A bottle of champagne to ring in the new year, gifted to us by our gracious hosts, and one last late night walk in this idyllic village, was the perfect end to 2022.
Can you ever tire of hearing about the Italian cuisine in Bologna? We share the tasty details of our last few meals in the birthplace of ragu, and the very interesting story of a certain Pope who invented the Gregorian calendar from his beautiful palazzo in Bologna. This small city begs you to stroll it's many little streets, and loose your way, which just leads to unexpected treats like the Pope's palazzo. On top of the addicting cuisine and the towering architecture (pun intended), the Bolognese people are as friendly and generous as they come. Go to Bologna and meet some of them, and have ragu wherever they suggest!
We just returned from several days in this intoxicating capitol of the Emilia-Romagna region. There is so much to keep you intrigued – between the university's stunning Library and Anatomical Theatre, the interior of Basilica San Petronio, the endless porticos, salumerias, etc... you have to force yourself to stop for lunch. And then you can't wait for dinner to compare the ragu from one family recipe to the next! Bologna is a visual and culinary treat, which should not be missed. Give yourselves several days here and ask Tommaso for ragu comparisons!
We share a bit more of our time on Lake Como in the festive time frame of post-Christmas and pre-New Years Eve. We took several boat rides up the lake in the warm and sunny weather, enjoyed a few Aperol Spritzs outside and eventually took a train to Bologna. This was Tommaso’s most anticipated visit since he was finally in the birthplace of Ragu!!! It did not disappoint! Bologna has more than just Ragu, and we will tell you all that we experienced over the next few episodes.
We spent 6 festive days in Copenhagen experiencing Danish Hyyge before heading to Italy. It was filled with Christmas traditions that the Danes have passed down over the years, and naturally a lot of bread, cheese and beer was consumed by all! We arrived in Lake Como the day after Buon Natale to find the village of Cernobbio in full holiday mode with the entire village covered in lights. Listen to the end of the episode where we recorded “Happy New Year” in the multiple languages that our friends speak.
We are off to Europe soon for the holidays, but we want to share a few interesting things currently happening in Italy and in the new year as well, which is reason alone to think about a trip to Italy in 2023! We will return with a new episode on December 28th that we will record from the idyllic village of Cernobbio on Lake Como, which is lit for Christmas like no other place on the lake!
Perhaps the 3 best hours in Rome ever! Take a ride on a vintage Vespa behind a local Roman and learn about the history of everything you drive by, drive on, stand on. Rome is full of history as you know, but what better way to learn more of it, than from a local, on the back of a cool scooter. “When in Rome” as they say... Hear more about our fabulous history filled excursion, that is definitely not your average group tour.
No matter how many times you visit Rome, you can always experience something new, even though it's very, very old! In this episode we describe why you should climb the 196 steps to the top of the Vittoriano building in Piazza Venezia, not solely for the view, but also to stand under the bronze sculpture of Vittorio Emmanule on horseback and think about what we told you fit in the belly of the horse. We also share why you might want to visit Villa Farnesina for a Raphael fix, and why everyone should walk on the bridge called Ponte Fabricio, while you think about the fact that it's been there for 2084 years!
A short compilation of recent news to inform you and make you smile about belle Italia!
Tales from another small group trip : 10 days, 7 women, 2 trains, 4 ferries, 2 islands, 36 Aperol Spritzs and loads of laughs. First up was 3 fabulous days in Rome and about 110 miles (collectively) of walking. We were very lucky to share the Pantheon with only a handful of other people, and had the same good fortune at the Baths of Caracalla – the first time to these stunning ruins for all of us. It was the last week of October, and Rome was hot, crowded and as usual, completely intoxicating!
The name for this episode stems from the replies of so many Italians I spoke with on my recent trip to Italy. I asked every single person I came across who works in the travel / hospitality industry what the 2022 Revenge Tourism Season was like, and their answer was rather clear....go in the off season if possible. And if you take into account the prolonged heat wave they had all summer long, November is looking like a great time to visit Italy. I was there for the last 10 days of October and it hovered around 80 degrees every day. That is not nearly as brutal as the temps of over 105 that they had for weeks on end during the summer, but 80 degrees Fahrenheit in late October is not normal either. It was still a lovely trip however, made all the more so by the generosity and friendly nature of the Italian people.
Venice has inspired painters for centuries. They experienced Venice and left us visual documentation of this magical city without the overwhelming crowds of the high season. If you have the flexibility to go...NOW is the time. Experience the mist and the magic on your terms. Enjoy a wonderful hot chocolate at Cafe Florian and even get a table at Harrys bar. Venice in the off season is simply not to be missed! https://www.kimberlysitaly.com/venice-artists/ (https://www.kimberlysitaly.com/venice-artists/)
Venice has inspired painters for centuries. They experienced Venice and left us visual documentation of this magical city without the overwhelming crowds of the high season. If you have the flexibility to go...NOW is the time. Experience the mist and the magic on your terms. Enjoy a wonderful hot chocolate at Cafe Florian and even get a table at Harrys bar. Venice in the off season is simply not to be missed! https://www.kimberlysitaly.com/venice-artists/ (https://www.kimberlysitaly.com/venice-artists/)
There are so many ways to see Italy and one of them is pure magic….. charter a sailing yacht. Spend the afternoon swimming off of the yachts swim platform while sipping your favorite drink, have shower and get dressed for dinner. The crew ferries you in on a rigid inflatable tender after the day trippers have gone, enjoy a little sight seeing and either: have dinner ashore or call and get picked up and have dinner aboard…. Maybe even a midnight swim. For the cost of a villa rental the Italian coast is your oyster. Yacht website: https://constanter.com
There are so many ways to see Italy and one of them is pure magic….. charter a sailing yacht. Spend the afternoon swimming off of the yachts swim platform while sipping your favorite drink, have shower and get dressed for dinner. The crew ferries you in on a rigid inflatable tender after the day trippers have gone, enjoy a little sight seeing and either: have dinner ashore or call and get picked up and have dinner aboard…. Maybe even a midnight swim. For the cost of a villa rental the Italian coast is your oyster. Yacht website: https://constanter.com
Most of us play the lottery from time to time, It is just to much fun to dream of what you would do with all that money $500,000,000 ! Do some good in the world …of course!!! Also treat yourself to a trip via private jet to Italy. No lines, no crowds, luxurious accommodations, fine wine and arrive refreshed. Our old friend Chris, whom Tommaso knows from sailing, is now a private jet pilot. He and Tomasso have raced sailboats in the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the east coast and raced to Bermuda. Chris is now a pilot flying one of the most advanced private jets in the world today, the Gulfstream 500. Join us and learn how to spend some of your winnings getting to Italy in the lap of luxury.
Most of us play the lottery from time to time, It is just to much fun to dream of what you would do with all that money $500,000,000 ! Do some good in the world …of course!!! Also treat yourself to a trip via private jet to Italy. No lines, no crowds, luxurious accommodations, fine wine and arrive refreshed. Our old friend Chris, whom Tommaso knows from sailing, is now a private jet pilot. He and Tomasso have raced sailboats in the Mediterranean, the Caribbean, the east coast and raced to Bermuda. Chris is now a pilot flying one of the most advanced private jets in the world today, the Gulfstream 500. Join us and learn how to spend some of your winnings getting to Italy in the lap of luxury.
Several of my clients have been sending me photos and updates from their October vacations in Italy, and we are only 11 days into the month! Rain or shine, they are all happy as can be with private drivers on the Amalfi Coast, bike tours from Lake Como into Switzerland, private boats, Vespa rides in Rome, and of course, the best table at my favorite restaurants. There are festivals all over Italy celebrating everything from mushrooms to wine to centuries old bird hunting. Yet, October is also the month of truffle season and vineyard harvests. It's the perfect month to be in Italy!
The small city of Ravenna on the east coast of Italy, is truly a jewel. Ravenna boasts 8 Unesco World Heritage Monuments, each of which display the Byzantine Era's most significant art form, mosaics. Not only did mosaic tiles beautify a building, they also instructed the illiterate with their depictions. A visit to Ravenna is a treat since it's somewhat off the tourist radar, therefore you can share one of these monuments with only a few other new converts of mosaic art.
To all of our devoted listeners around the world (we just hit 107 countries as a matter of fact!), we have decided to push back our episodes by one day. We will now have each new weekly episode available on Wednesday instead of Tuesday.
All the stars aligned to make Bologna “Italy's Most Delicious City”. Not only is it the birthplace of Ragu alla Bolognese, but tortellini is another source of pride for this culinary city. The near proximity of Modena and Parma, contribute Balsamic Vinegar (otherworldly) and Prosciutto (cult-like following) and to top it off, all three of these cities are in the region of Emilia-Romagna. And it is only in Emilia-Romagna, that you can find the legitimate Parmigiano Reggiano. Add all of these regional specialties together, put them in the kitchens of Bologna, and..... you may never leave.
All the stars aligned to make Bologna “Italy's Most Delicious City”. Not only is it the birthplace of Ragu alla Bolognese, but tortellini is another source of pride for this culinary city. The near proximity of Modena and Parma, contribute Balsamic Vinegar (otherworldly) and Prosciutto (cult-like following) and to top it off, all three of these cities are in the region of Emilia-Romagna. And it is only in Emilia-Romagna, that you can find the legitimate Parmigiano Reggiano. Add all of these regional specialties together, put them in the kitchens of Bologna, and..... you may never leave.
All the stars aligned to make Bologna “Italy's Most Delicious City”. Not only is it the birthplace of Ragu alla Bolognese, but tortellini is another source of pride for this culinary city. The near proximity of Modena and Parma, contribute Balsamic Vinegar (otherworldly) and Prosciutto (cult-like following) and to top it off, all three of these cities are in the region of Emilia-Romagna. And it is only in Emilia-Romagna, that you can find the legitimate Parmigiano Reggiano. Add all of these regional specialties together, put them in the kitchens of Bologna, and..... you may never leave.
This beautiful city offers more than just the best cuisine in all of Italy, and surprisingly most Italians admit to this claim! Bologna has 24 miles of porticos within it's city walls, and no other city can boast that. The world's oldest continual university, established in 1088, is yet another fact that make the Bolognese proud. It is also a bit under the tourist radar for some unexplained reason, but I can attest to the fact that after your first visit, you will always return.
The villages of Orvieto and Todi in southwest Umbria are quite simply, fantastic! Orvieto's crown jewel is the Duomo from 1290, yet two-thirds of it's exterior is so contemporary it's hard to believe it's 732 years old! This hilltop small city should be on your list to visit for the visuals alone, not to mention the underground city carved from the volcanic rock, the cuisine and of course the people. Teh village of Todi has the distinction of being called One of the Most Beautiful Villages in Italy, and rightfully so. It's a perfectly preserved teeny village that looks as if it stepped right out of the middle ages. It's a wonder to visit, but even more special extraordinary if you stay the night. You will be happy you did.
Two more completely intoxicating medieval villages in southern Umbria... Montefalco and Spoleto. The citizens and local governments are so proud of their history and heritage, that they make the utmost effort to keep their villages as well preserved, and intact as possible. And we are the lucky recipients of their efforts, since we can walk through these beautiful towns and feel as though we are in the 12th century, yet at the same time, enjoy the modern conveniences of ice cubes in your Aperol Spritz at your late lunch al fresco, in the piazza.... oh la dolce vita!
Two more completely intoxicating medieval villages in southern Umbria... Montefalco and Spoleto. The citizens and local governments are so proud of their history and heritage, that they make the utmost effort to keep their villages as well preserved, and intact as possible. And we are the lucky recipients of their efforts, since we can walk through these beautiful towns and feel as though we are in the 12th century, yet at the same time, enjoy the modern conveniences of ice cubes in your Aperol Spritz at your late lunch al fresco, in the piazza.... oh la dolce vita!
These three villages in southern Umbria are so stunning, and so well preserved, you feel like you are thrown back in time to the medieval ages. Yet, you can treat yourselves to the modern comforts of fantastic restaurants, unique accommodations, and shops where you can buy local handmade crafts. A delicious cuisine and rich bodied wine just add to your visit in this lovely region which they call The Green Heart of Italy / Cuore Verde d'italia.
These three villages in southern Umbria are so stunning, and so well preserved, you feel like you are thrown back in time to the medieval ages. Yet, you can treat yourselves to the modern comforts of fantastic restaurants, unique accommodations, and shops where you can buy local handmade crafts. A delicious cuisine and rich bodied wine just add to your visit in this lovely region which they call The Green Heart of Italy / Cuore Verde d'italia.
Summer of 2022 in Italy has been intense! The country was inundated with tourists from around the globe, and even though it was chaotic (and HOT), the Italians were grateful for the business after the long Covid lockdown. Everyone in the hospitality industry worked harder than they ever had, yet were still gracious, patient and welcoming. What a testament to the country's fortitude. With the fall season fast approaching, that means cooler temperatures, less tourists and enjoying a meal that you didn't have to reserve 2 months in advance. We are also including an interview with two women who joined us on a small group trip last fall. Listen to what they appreciated about enjoying a fantastic time where they didn't have to do a thing except show up! Andiamo a bel'italia!
Summer of 2022 in Italy has been intense! The country was inundated with tourists from around the globe, and even though it was chaotic (and HOT), the Italians were grateful for the business after the long Covid lockdown. Everyone in the hospitality industry worked harder than they ever had, yet were still gracious, patient and welcoming. What a testament to the country's fortitude. With the fall season fast approaching, that means cooler temperatures, less tourists and enjoying a meal that you didn't have to reserve 2 months in advance. We are also including an interview with two women who joined us on a small group trip last fall. Listen to what they appreciated about enjoying a fantastic time where they didn't have to do a thing except show up! Andiamo a bel'italia!
The diverse and amazing things you can do in Perugia.... walk the entirety of a Roman Aqueduct from the 13th century, eat the world famous Perugina Baci (kiss) chocolate, get lost in the maze of the underground “basement” of a Papal Palace from the 1500's and stand in awe in front of the Fontana Maggiore (main fountain) which depicts agricultural life in the medieval ages through sculpted marble panels. The capitol of Umbria does not disappoint! As old as this city is, it has a lively and hip vibe due to the university students from all over the world, who thrive in this bustling and beautiful city.
The diverse and amazing things you can do in Perugia.... walk the entirety of a Roman Aqueduct from the 13th century, eat the world famous Perugina Baci (kiss) chocolate, get lost in the maze of the underground “basement” of a Papal Palace from the 1500's and stand in awe in front of the Fontana Maggiore (main fountain) which depicts agricultural life in the medieval ages through sculpted marble panels. The capitol of Umbria does not disappoint! As old as this city is, it has a lively and hip vibe due to the university students from all over the world, who thrive in this bustling and beautiful city.
We start in the northern half of Umbria and share with you three villages to visit that should definitely be on your radar. Citta di Castello, Gubbio and the capitol city of Perugia are all so well preserved that you feel like you could be living in the medieval ages. Yet at the same time, you can shop and eat and enjoy an aperitivo hour as if you were in Roma or Milano, just with less tourists, and what's not to love about that?
The region of Umbria may be Italy's 5th smallest region, but it also has the country's 6th lowest population density! That alone should convince you to spend at least a week in it's vast green landscape which boasts olive orchards and vineyards. Pair the savory wine with the famous cured meats from the region, most notably, the prosciutto from the ancient village of Norcia. Umbria is also home to the acclaimed black truffle, and luckily these gems are harvested in both winter and summer. Umbria is a year-round destination for those who appreciate the rural road less traveled, yet one that satisfies your palate at the same time.
The southern half of Puglia entices you with whitewashed hill top villages, crystal clear water that just begs you to dive in, houses dramatically perched on the edge of limestone cliffs and the ever present sunshine and sea breeze. The capitol city of Lecce, is much more than you would expect, with some of the finest masterpieces of Baroque architecture in Italy. When the sun sets in southern Puglia, everything, including the sandstone walls of these Baroque jewels, glow in an ochre color like you have never seen. Throw all of this on top of a simple and seasonal (yet delicious) cuisine and the bountiful (and also delicious) wine, Puglia is a feast for the senses, all five of them.
If you think you like olive oil, just wait until you try it in Puglia. The olive orchards are the Puglians pride and joy, their heritage and their claim to fame. They locals allege it's the best in the world, and I tend to agree with them. The older villages along the coast and those inland as well, are mostly white-washed, due to the very warm summer weather. You feel as though you could be in Greece, Spain or Portugal, yet in Puglia, you are dining on Italian cuisine, and most of the time you eat outdoors. So while you are enjoying the pasta al mare with Puglian bread, you smell the salt air while sipping the divine Puglian wine. What's not to love about this combo?
Bread is Puglia's claim to fame, and rightfully so. Yet, when you also dip this bread into Puglian olive oil, while drinking a glass of Puglian red wine, you realize that life doesn't get much better than this! Puglia has the winning combination of endless sunshine and rich soil that produces vegetables bursting with flavor. And let's not forget the cheese! When you have your first bite burrata cheese, that's when you realize that moving to Puglia would be an excellent idea.
The people of Napoli know that their city is chaotic, and they have no intention of changing it. This is what endures most adventurous people to this colorful, loud and bustling city on the sea. The locals also know that pizza is their claim to fame, and therefore the tourists will always come. They are proud of their cuisine, their somewhat gritty nature and their southern heritage. Napoli feels like it hasn't changed in hundreds of years, and that alone is why it's worth a visit. That, and the pizza of course!
These two idyllic islands are just a short boat ride from Napoli, yet they seem worlds away from the mainland of the busy Amalfi Coast. Colorful fishing villages brighten your day, as does the abundant sunshine and crystal clear water. The joy of riding a scooter on these islands is hard to beat... you feel carefree and happy because you are soaking in the beauty, the tropical scents and the salty Mediterranean air. The seafood centric cuisine also seduces most visitors, especially when paired with local vino bianco. Everything about Ischia and Procida make for the ideal island-life vacation – a pure treat to your overworked soul!
Stunning, lovely, lavish, and dazzling are just a few adjectives to describe the island of Capri. Because of it's beauty and allure, it gets quite crowded, therefore we share where to go and what to do, so you can see for yourself why it's attracted people for hundreds of years. Cruising the coastline in a motor boat is the best way to soak in all it's beauty, but that also allows perhaps one of the most idyllic swims of your life. The island also has several walking paths that wind you through the remains of the Roman Emperor's villas from the year 25AD, with commanding views of the entire Amalfi Coast. And no visit is complete without enjoying at Caprese salad in it's birthplace, accompanied by an Aperol Spritz. Capri is La Dolce Vita!
Right below the villages of the Amalfi Coast, lies the small but vibrant city of Salerno. Due to the abundance of sunshine and warm weather, the people of Salerno love to be outdoors and share their social lifestyle in what they call Movida – a late night stroll through the main piazzas that can last well into the morning on summer weekends. Salerno is also a major transportation hub that allows for easy access to most points north and south via high speed trains. It's history is as rich and old as the rest of Italy, yet it also embraces modern architecture by commissioning Zaha Hadid to design their new ferry terminal which was completed in 2017. This year-round seaside city feels less like a tourist destination than a lot of her neighboring villages, therefore it's definitely worth a visit, especially for the Movida!
In this episode we share the colorful details of three villages on the southern end of the Amalfi Coast. Ravello, perched high above the sea, has been called Italy's most romantic town. It's allure includes two famous villas that boast gardens unlike any you have ever seen. The teeny fishing village of Cetara takes credit for creating a pasta sauce from the anchovies they catch off their shores. Vietri sul Mare is the southern most village of the Amalfi Coast and it's one you will not forget due to it's vibrant ceramics which are everywhere in this multicolored village.
As we travel south from Positano, we take you to the smaller and sweet villages of Praiano and Conca dei Marini which are both a bit more tranquil, for those who want to be off the beaten path. We also tell you all about the village of Amalfi and why it makes me so happy! Loads of history, the spectacular duomo, the street food of Cuoppo Fritto, the limoncello and of course the “one of a kind” wine. It's a beautiful and lively place filled with color, a salty sea breeze and the scent of lemons everywhere.
Positano is a colorful village with the scent of lemons and flowers that fill every little side street you walk, and you walk a lot in Positano. Up and down, and then back up again. The view of the village as you arrive to it by the sea, takes your breath away. Walking up to the top of the village to look down at the Tyrrhenian Sea, also takes your breath away, because of both the beauty and the altitude you just climbed. The cuisine is light and lemony, and the wine is rich from the volcanic soil. All of this combines to make a sensory experience that is hard to beat.
The quintessential and dramatic Mediterranean landscape of the Amalfi Coast is hard to surpass. We continue with our introduction of this remarkable coastline from our previous episode, describing the topography dotted with lemon orchards, vineyards and idyllic villages. Kimberly also shares her first trip to the Amalfi Coast many years ago for a fashion shoot she did with a cast of characters from all corners of the globe, and every single person was completely enamored by the beauty of this gorgeous place.
One of the most stunning coastlines in the world lies just south of Napoli, and arriving there via the infamous Amalfi Coast Drive, is one of the more exhilarating drives in the world. You can leave it to a professional however, or take a boat instead. Either way, your entrance to this magnificent coastline will not be forgotten. The dramatic mountains, lush with vineyards and lemon orchards, drop steeply down the intense blue of the Tyrrhenian Sea. Add to all this beauty, several idyllic villages dot the coast and make for perfect day trips via the local boats. Lunch in one village, and dinner in the next, with a lemon orchard visit / limoncello tasting in-between...what's not to love about this itinerary?
As Italians celebrate 77 years of Liberation in April, we celebrate our first year of this podcast. Thanks to listeners in over 70 countries, and all our new virtual friends, we feel compelled to give a shout out to everyone who shared their critiques, compliments and humor with us during our inaugural year. And by the way, what took place on April 25th, 1945 in a random little village on Lake Como, is quite the tale, so have a listen and then you can understand why the Italians revere this holiday as they do. About Me I am Kimberly Holcombe and I am a travel planner and lover of all things Italian. I lived in Italy for six years as a fashion photographer, and fell head over heels for the people and the culture. I plan private trips to anywhere in Italy for individuals, couples, families and small groups of friends. Connect with Me https://instagram.com/kimberlysitaly?utm_medium=copy_link (Instagram) https://www.kimberlysitaly.com (Website) https://www.facebook.com/ItalianTripsbyKimberly (Facebook )
The perfect last day, of the perfect Italian road trip. A full day in Rome that ticked off all that we wanted to see, do, taste, and smell (cheese and flower market). You could spend 2 weeks walking through Rome and still not see it all, but we did our best in just 4 days. Rome is filled with so much rich history and is so visually stimulating, that you just can't get enough! However, a lot of visitors leave the city feeling frustrated at the crowds or the tourist trap restaurants, so the more you know about where to stay and when to (and when not to) do and see certain places, the more you will love this crazy, beautiful and enchanting city. About Me I am Kimberly Holcombe and I am a travel planner and lover of all things Italian. I lived in Italy for six years as a fashion photographer, and fell head over heels for the people and the culture. I plan private trips to anywhere in Italy for individuals, couples, families and small groups of friends. Connect with me https://instagram.com/kimberlysitaly?utm_medium=copy_link (Instagram) https://www.kimberlysitaly.com (Website) https://www.facebook.com/ItalianTripsbyKimberly (Facebook )
Starting with Augustus's Mausoleum from 28 BC, to the Ponte Fabricio from 62 BC, to Teatro Marcello finished in 13 BC makes you think twice about all that has taken place since. Walking across the Tiber River in 2021, on a bridge that was built 2083 years beforehand is not something you get to do every day. Several buildings, theaters, porticos and even the bridge that crosses the Tiber, are from the 1st century BC. It's almost impossible to remember the dates and history of these sites as you are standing on them, or walking over them, but one thing is for sure, you will always remember that you did. Rome is a very special city for so many reasons, but in my opinion, the fact that all of these historical sites are still there, and so well maintained (considering the amount of people from around the world who descend upon Rome year after year) is a testament to the Italian people. They respect their history and their pride is clearly evident. I am Kimberly Holcombe and I am a travel planner and lover of all things Italian. I lived in Italy for six years as a fashion photographer, and fell head over heels for the people and the culture. I plan private trips to anywhere in Italy for individuals, couples, families and small groups of friends. https://instagram.com/kimberlysitaly?utm_medium=copy_link (Instagram) https://www.kimberlysitaly.com (Website) https://www.facebook.com/ItalianTripsbyKimberly (Facebook )
What are the chances you run into your friends on a Saturday afternoon at the Roman Colosseum? Well, it happened and luckily our Milanese friend suggested a visit to her favorite building in the city, three layers of history, and centuries, on top of each other. A somewhat under the radar archeological gem just a 10 minute walk from the Colosseum. Basilica San Clemente was built in the 12th century, however another basilica from the 4th century was discovered underneath it only 164 years ago. As you walk through this excavated structure one floor below, you can't help but think you are standing on the same stone floors that were put in place 17 centuries earlier. Yet, there is even one more floor below this second basilica. After descending steep and narrow stone stairs, we entered a nobleman's dwelling from the 2nd century. We were three full levels below what is current day Rome, and you have to believe there is yet even more beneath that! I am Kimberly Holcombe and I am a travel planner and lover of all things Italian. I lived in Italy for six years as a fashion photographer, and fell head over heels for the people and the culture. I plan private trips to anywhere in Italy for individuals, couples, families and small groups of friends. https://instagram.com/kimberlysitaly?utm_medium=copy_link (Instagram) https://www.kimberlysitaly.com (Website) https://www.facebook.com/ItalianTripsbyKimberly (Facebook )
The day after the savory dinner Paolo prepared for 12 of us (previous episode), we sat down in the recording studio and discussed his trajectory in life that let him to where he is today. What a travel-filled path it was, filled with cuisines from around the world that influenced his skills in the kitchen. Most Italians have it in their DNA to be able to whip up a tasty pasta with whatever is in the frigo, however Paolo chose to dive deeper into the culinary traditions that make the Italian cuisine a global favorite. He suffered through cheese tasting / cheese making courses and studied all phases of oenology / viniculture (vino!). To summarize Paolo's take on his profession... I first speak with people about a dinner or a food tour, and they become my client. I then give them a cooking class and prepare a meal, and they become my guest. After the meal and conversation, they become my friend, and this is La Dolce Vita. Kimberly and Paolo finally met in person last October in Val d'Orcia, Tuscany after a 4 year email friendship. To be able to spend a long and delicious weekend with Paolo on our home turf, and to record his story, was a special visit indeed. I am Kimberly Holcombe and I am a travel planner and lover of all things Italian. I lived in Italy for six years as a fashion photographer, and fell head over heels for the people and the culture. I plan private trips to anywhere in Italy for individuals, couples, families and small groups of friends. https://instagram.com/kimberlysitaly?utm_medium=copy_link (Instagram) https://www.kimberlysitaly.com (Website) https://www.facebook.com/ItalianTripsbyKimberly (Facebook )
Having a world class Tuscan chef come to your home for a long weekend is both wonderful and intimidating. Italians love their food and are very opinionated about it (rightly so!), and each of them has their little nuances about ingredients and preparation. My friend Paulo who is from Tuscany was in the New York and Chicago doing a series of private dinners for clients he had met over the years in Tuscany. A window of opportunity opened and we planned a Saturday dinner party for 12, prepared by Paulo here on the island of Jamestown in Rhode Island. Although the four course dinner for 12 was the main event, Tomasso and I had the distinct pleasure of having two additional pastas prepared for us over the course of twenty four hours. Bookending those twenty four hours were two dinners that we had to prepare…no stress there!! Great food leads to happy people, happy people lead to new friendships… and so was the outcome of this fantastic weekend. This type of thing doesn’t happen often, and when the opportunity arises we… you just have to take it and run with it! Buon Apetito Amici!!! Who is Kimberly? I am Kimberly Holcombe and I am a travel planner and lover of all things Italian. I lived in Italy for six years as a fashion photographer, and fell head over heels for the people and the culture. I plan private trips to anywhere in Italy for individuals, couples, families and small groups of friends. Connect with Kimberly https://instagram.com/kimberlysitaly?utm_medium=copy_link (Instagram) https://www.kimberlysitaly.com (Website) https://www.facebook.com/ItalianTripsbyKimberly (Facebook )
It's a priceless experience to witness someone's first time in Rome. And how lucky my travel companions were with their first day being sunny, warm and with few crowds. I happily repeated my steps from just 10 days earlier, to show Tomasso the most impressive monuments, fountains and architectural wonders that make this city the treasure that it is. Not even an hour into our Roman adventure that morning, Tomasso declared this is his new favorite city... sorry Paris!
Our commute from Matera to Rome was similar to the script of the comedy Planes, Trains and Automobiles. It was all due to a “sciopero” (strike) by the Airport Union Workers, but the long commute made for a very rewarding first evening in the Eternal City. We were treated like locals when we arrived at my go-to Roman ristorante where we feasted on endless courses of regional specialties. The first timers ordered Cacio e Pepe or Carbonara, while our Italian friends dove into the animal kingdom portion of the menu. We ended our evening with a walk up and down the deserted Spanish Steps, which doubled as a post dinner digestivo!
My second group of guests were also in complete awe of Matera, which is a testament to how bewitching this ancient city is. As you wander through Matera, you can not help but think of the millions of feet that have walked on those stone steps before you. All you need are sturdy sneakers to fully appreciate and relish this extraordinary place.
Driving on back roads in any country allows you to see more of the landscape, but this particular drive was the definition of off the beaten path! And the paths that we drove on led us from the olive orchards of Puglia to the most mountainous region in southern Italy, Basilicata, which is where the otherworldly city of Matera lies. There are not enough adjectives to describe Matera, but we try!
Befriending a local man at his shop in Monopoli, led to a private tour of his family's olive orchard and mill. If you like olive oil, you will love hearing about the experience we had. We have a new appreciation for this predominant staple in our kitchen, and to see it made in the traditional method used for thousands of years in Puglia, was a sweet and tasty treat!
“Each region in Italy is so diverse from the other, it's almost like being in a different country”. You may have heard this expression before, and it definitely rings true of Puglia. It's as if you drive over an invisible border, where all of a sudden the soil is a burnt orange color, thousand year old olive trees lean away from the sea breeze and the architecture of the villages perched on hilltops, make you wonder if you are in Greece instead of Italy.
Thanks to James Bond, you've probably all heard of Matera by now. However, it's more incredible in real life than the little movie snippet. It's quite extraordinary to stand in a cave dwelling carved into the rock over 7000 years ago. The people of Matera are proud of their heritage and are happy to share it with you.
A busy and awe inspiring few days in Rome consisted of miles and miles of walking each day, a 3 hour Vespa tour, repeat visits to an art filled caffe and late night strolls to Rome's most iconic cultural landmarks. It's such an phenomenal city that you feel the urge to see as much as you can each day, and night!
An entertaining drive from the quiet tranquility of Val d'Orcia into the booming mayhem of Rome during the busiest weekend of the last few years no doubt. It was memorable, as is everything in Rome is. I also share my first Travel Tip, which I learn from personal experiences. You will surely appreciate knowing what NOT to do!
An afternoon spent with my friend Paolo was beyond our wildest expectations: truffle hunting, visit and tasting at a family run cheese maker and yet another vineyard to top off what had already been an amazing morning in beautiful Tuscany. This region of Italy is famous for a reason because it's a feast for your eyes and your palate.
In April of this year we started this podcast to share our love of all things Italian. From our little island off the New England coast, our episodes have been downloaded in 61 countries. That proves the love for Italy runs deep around the world! We want to thank all of you in this Picolo Pezzo, for sharing Kimberly's Italy to your friends, families and colleagues. Grazie Millie amici!
A family run vineyard in Tuscany where there is as much art as great Brunello. The world just does not get much better than this. This road trip was so wonderful it is really hard to describe. Let us take you away, grab a glass of wine, sit down, close your eyes and let us take you to Toscana!
One of the highlights on the drive from Como to Tuscany included “the best paninno ever” from Italy's famed Auto Grills. A dream-like villa that we had all to ourselves (off season perk!) and a late night stroll through Montepulciano after a delightful dinner at the local osteria. Day one in Tuscany was as it should be – perfecto!
The first few days of my epic Italian road trip from north to south. 1970 kilometers, 26 hours total of driving, two different cars, several cappuccino stops and lots of laughs. Speeding tickets? Don't know yet! Part One is the first three days in Lago di Como with three women who had never been. Will they go back...Si!!!!!
Join us as we record harborside in Monopoli on the Adriatic Coast. We spent three days in Puglia based out of Monopoli staying in the historic district. The days and nights were filled with fabulous sights, great food, tasty wines and warm and friendly people!
I just escorted two groups to Italy over three and one half weeks. I was SO IMPRESSED how Italy was handling COVID! We have a lot to cover in the next couple months, lots of great stories about our trip to this wonderful country. Let's start!
Kimberly is in Italy on a three and a half week trip, From lake Como to Puglia. In this episode she interviews the owners of one of her favorite hotels in Lake Como, a renovated boat house.
FINALLY, I’m off to Italy!!! I will be gone for three and a half weeks with two seperate groups of guests. I am basically going from Lake Como to Puglia. I’ll tell you where I am going and whom I’ll be meeting. We are travelling Covid safe, staying at small intimate places. ANDIAMO!
Italians love to express themselves, and they love to "speak" with their hands. Kimberly explains her view of this wonderful habit and tells you where to watch on You Tube so you can become and expert! ( Hint: Marco in a Box)
Every nook and cranny of Venice holds a piece of history, and not just your average history of a 1200 year old city! Venice was built over water for one thing, and is also the lucky recipient of many cultural influences in architecture, art and cuisine. Walking around Venice at night is one of our favorite pastimes because you can absorb the history that much better in the quiet beauty of Venice while she sleeps.
And for our third Piccolo Pezzo (Short Episode) we want to share with your a pasta recipe, because who doesn't love a new recipe? This is one of our easy and quick to make weekday recipes that make a boring Tuesday all that much better. Life is better with pasta, si?
Enchanting, alluring, magnificent Venice should be visited by everyone at least once in their life. It is unlike any other city in the world, but to really see all her beauty, you need to go off season. My first suggestion is to turn off your phone and just get lost! The maze of canals and footpaths will always lead you to a trattoria, where after a lingering and delicious Venetian lunch, you may or may not ask for directions back to the Grand Canal.
We have a 10 minute interview with Luisa from Bergamo, Italy. She teaches Italian via Skype so you can watch her pronunciations on those very long words and see her hand gestures at the same time. They say Italian is 20% words and 80% hand gestures!
Our friend Conrado continues this second episode on his years in Lucca, and shares his favorite (meat laden) dishes, and where to find them. You will also hear about the month long music festival each July with an incredibly diverse range of musicians, performing outside in the Piazza de Napoleone no less.
We present Piccolo Pezzo, which are 5 to 10 minute “mini episodes”. We will upload these every other Tuesday, to fill in while you await our normal length episodes on the alternate Tuesday. Piccolo Pezzo (Small Pieces) will be random suggestions, travel tips, fun facts or just some Italian quirks that we want to share with you.
We interview our friend and former Lucca resident, Conrad Hunter. Lucca's medieval and Renaissance walls used to keep out invaders, now they keep out the sights and sounds of more modern day life. Walking through the car-free Lucca center is one of it's most cherished attributes. After a tasty Tuscan lunch you can walk or bike the entire perimeter of the city atop it's walls, and after dinner, walk the streets of this safe and quiet gem, and feel like a local.
For a perfect day trip from Firenze, we take you on back roads to the medieval village of San Gimignano. Besides the fourteen stone towers that frame the skyline of this teeny-car free village, there also happens to be perhaps the best gelateria in all of Italy! We also share where to find the 12th century castle that played a huge part in saving the heritage of Italy's Renaissance artwork.
The Tuscan sun may play a part in producing some of the best wine in the world . And with Florence being surrounded by these vineyards, you can only imagine the wine list at the local restaurants. Florentines take pride in their cuisine and respect the flavor of their regional produce. Hence, simple ingredients without too much fuss, make for a memorable meal. Every single day!
This incredibly beautiful city is one of the most visited in all of Europe, for good reason. Florentines take such pride in their city's role in history and the achievements of their fellow artists, philosophers, scholars and architects. The car free historic center allows you to roam the streets and feel as though you were sharing the sidewalk with Michelangelo...well, during the off season anyway!
The Emerald Coast in Sardinia is nature at it's best. Blue-green waters with white sandy beaches, a dramatic rocky coastline, an archipelago of 7 islands and rocks that date back millions of years! It also happens to be one of Europe's most expensive playgrounds, but that's more in terms of the very large yachts and villas owned by those that want to take advantage of this beautiful area. We share how to enjoy all of it within your budget.
We continue with our road trip to Cinque Terre from the Tuscan mountaintop village of Vezzanello. After the breathtaking hike above the five villages on the Ligurian coast, we return to the beautiful northwestern corner of Tuscany, which isn't quite as popular as other parts of the region. And that makes exploring the surrounding medieval villages all that much sweeter! Lets go!
We continue with our road trip to Cinque Terre from the Tuscan mountaintop village of Vezzanello.
After the breathtaking hike above the five villages on the Ligurian coast, we return to the beautiful northwestern corner of Tuscany, which isn't quite as popular as other parts of the region. And that makes exploring the surrounding medieval villages all that much sweeter! Lets go!
We take you on a little road trip from the teeny Tuscan village of Vezzanello to Cinque Terre on the Ligurian Coast. However, first we share with you why you need to go to local festivals that celebrate just about anything, from mushrooms to snake catchers. Vezzanello and it's neighboring villages are gems where you may be the only tourist. How sweet is that? Then onto stunning Cinque Terre, where we suggest what not to do!
Hear about the stunning mountains that surround Lake Como, and all they have to offer. You can choose from a variety of trails: easy walking paths through medieval villages slightly above the lake, or more athletic hikes up to idyllic mountain accommodations that serve regional cuisine and the best night sleep you might ever have! A bird's eye view of the lake, fresh mountain air and alpine cuisine make for a very memorable trip.
We share more of our favorite idyllic villages that you can reach by boat, and those to visit by car, if you can hold your own driving with Italians! From the grandeur of Villa d'Este in Cernobbio to the botanical gardens in Varenna, there is so much beauty to discover on Lago di Como. Incredibly friendly people, delicious cuisine and breathtaking beauty is what makes it such a special place.
Lago di Como – la mia favorita! It's renowned for it's beauty for good reason, but there's much more to it and that is exactly what we'll discuss. I'll share where to find the perfect lakeside trattoria for a well deserved meal after walking the historic foot paths through ancient villages. Then you can call my friend Giacomo who will pick you up in his classic boat. And that's just day one!
A bit more of the city that started my long love affair with bel'italia. I'll share with you a few tidbits of what not to order, why you should climb the 919 steps to the rooftop of the Duomo, how walking through the main cemetery is almost as good as a museum, and how to spot the red flags (that I missed) when befriending someone associated with the mafia... Life in Milano is anything but dull!
Milano is often overlooked compared to the more well known Italian cities, and that is fine with the locals! It's big and busy, but filled with beautiful architecture and very well dressed people thanks to the fashion industry that fuels the city. Try speaking the few words or phrases you know in Italian to a Milanese and the next thing you know, you are having a cappuccino with them and politely being corrected on your Italian.
Kimberly Holcombe will introduce you to her long standing love of Italy and the Italian people. She explains how she moved to Milan many years ago to further her fashion photography career, and how those years impacted her life to this day. A few hysterical stories of finding her way pre-internet, and the life changing cappuccino, only enriched her love affair the country and the people, who in her mind, truly know live la dolce vita.
Buongiorno! Please take a listen to this 3 minute trailer which explains what the Kimberly’s Italy Podcast will be all about. Grazie mille e ciao ciao!