Join us as we embark on a journey through Italy’s 20 regions, bringing the diverse culture, rich history, stunning art, delectable cuisine, and exquisite wine of this beautiful country to life. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or have yet to visit Italy, our episodes aim to provide a vivid introduction to what makes each region unique. Additionally, Kimberly organizes private trips to Italy, offering listeners a chance to experience these wonders firsthand. Episode Highlights: The Regions of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Veneto, and South Tyrol Friuli Venezia Giulia: Geographical Influence: This region is uniquely shaped by its proximity to Slovenia and Austria, influencing both its language and cuisine. Cultural and Historical Points: Trieste’s Habsburg architecture, its bustling port, and literary cafés frequented by James Joyce are key highlights. Wine and Landscapes: Known for its renowned white wine vineyards, colorful traditional costumes, and mountainous scenery, including the intriguing, submerged bell tower in Lago di Resia. Veneto: Adriatic Sea Border: Famous for its iconic cities such as Venice and Verona. Lesser-Known Gems: Discover Vicenza, Belluno, Padova, and Rovigo, each celebrated for their rich history and in Vicenza’s case, Palladian architecture at it’s best. Natural Beauty: Admire the splendor of Lago di Garda and explore the variety of outdoor activities available in the region. South Tyrol: Stunning Landscapes and Cultural Diversity: Enjoy 300 days of sunshine annually and marvel at the exceptional beauty of the Dolomites. Outdoor Activities: A paradise for skiing, hiking, and mountain biking enthusiasts. Charming Towns: Trento and Bolzano are highlighted for their diverse cuisines and distinctive architecture. Historical Significance: The region’s history as a corridor for conquerors and crusaders is verified by its numerous castles. Looking Ahead: Future episodes will cover more fascinating regions such as Lombardia, Piemonte, Aosta Valley, and Liguria. Our aim is to provide in-depth insights without overwhelming our listeners, ensuring each region receives the attention it deserves. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook  Join us on this exciting adventure through Italy’s 20 regions with Kimberly and Tommaso. Buon viaggio!

In this humorous episode of “Kimberly’s Italy,” hosts Kimberly and Tommaso sit down with Janice to discuss her fascinating journey of purchasing and renovating a dilapidated house in Lunigiana, Tuscany, over two decades ago. The episode delves into the ups and downs of transforming a neglected property into a cherished home, set against the backdrop of one of Italy’s most picturesque regions. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook  Key Highlights: Meeting and Friendship: Kimberly recounts meeting Janice in Manhattan, where their shared passion for Italy laid the foundation for a lasting friendship. Choosing Lunigiana: Janice, originally from England, chose Lunigiana for its stunning landscapes and affordable real estate, marking the beginning of her Italian adventure. Renovation Challenges: Janice discusses the various hurdles she and Richard faced, such as language barriers and navigating local regulations. The importance of finding a geometra, a local expert in managing building tasks, is emphasized. Community Support: Janice shares stories of the welcoming locals, particularly neighbors Enzo and Rosetta, who provided invaluable support. The rural lifestyle, steeped in traditional farming practices, presented a stark contrast to their urban backgrounds. Cultural Enrichment: The expertise of the local villagers in gardening and cooking greatly enriched Janice and Richard’s experience, even though it sometimes made them feel out of their depth. The high quality of local produce and the dedication of residents to sourcing the best ingredients were highlights of their new life. Modernization and Social Media: Over the years, technological advancements have brought modern conveniences to the village while preserving its charm. Social media has played a role in strengthening community bonds and enhancing participation in local events. Affordable Real Estate and Community Life: The episode touches on the allure of affordable homes in other regions like Calabria or Sicily. Janice’s anecdotes illustrate the importance of community support, and the creativity needed to solve everyday problems. Celebrating Two Decades in Vezzanello: After more than 20 years in their renovated home, Janice reflects on the strong community ties and friendships formed with both locals and fellow expatriates and the blend of urban and rural lifestyles Join Kimberly for this engaging and informative conversation with Janice, as they celebrate the joys and challenges of making a home in beautiful Lunigiana, Tuscany. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook 

Episode Highlights: Lago d’Iseo: Our journey to the lake, filled with challenging switchback roads, offering thrilling views and driving experiences. Monte Isola: Europe’s largest inhabited lake island, rich in history and cultural significance. Art and Culture: Christo’s 2016 Art Installation: The floating dock covered in yellow fabric on Lago di Seo, a remarkable project that attracted global attention and left a lasting impact on the local community. Exhibition of Christo’s Work: A dive into the artist’s creative world and legacy. Local Experiences: Ferry Ride: Embracing local customs and enjoying a search for delicious food. Gastronomy: Savoring pizza and Aperol spritz while soaking in the tranquil Italian lifestyle. Scenic Beauty and Historic Exploration: Lake Imagery: Vivid descriptions of the stunning lakes and pristine villages. Historic Towns: Cappuccinos and exploration of towns with rich architectural diversity and a church with Roman foundations. Memorable Moments: Unfinished Piazza: The charm of an incomplete piazza in a village, symbolizing Italy’s unique character. Cautionary Tale: A story about a tourist fined for walking on a protected pink sand beach in Sardinia, emphasizing the importance of respecting local regulations. Closing Thoughts: Gratitude: I have to express my heartfelt thanks to you for all of the emails, texts and social media messages after the death of my mother

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!

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!

Just a quick update!

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.

In this heartfelt episode, Kimberly opens up about the recent delays in her podcast episodes, attributing them to the emotional aftermath of her mother’s passing and technical internet issues. She takes a moment to reflect on the unwavering support of her parents, particularly in her decision to move to Italy to pursue her photography career. This move not only enriched her appreciation for Italian culture but also inspired the creation of her podcast. Key Highlights: Personal Reflections: Kimberly shares a touching tribute to her parents and their support for her adventurous career shift to Italy. Insights into how her experiences in Italy have shaped her podcast’s content, focusing on travel, culture, and personal stories. Travel Insights: Historic “Motonave Milano” Steamship: The refurbishment of this iconic Art Nouveau steamship on Lake Como, despite facing recent extreme weather in Lombardia. The steamship’s rich history, architectural beauty, and the modern amenities it offers to travelers. Travel Tips for Northern Italy: Essential packing tips to prepare for Northern Italy’s unpredictable weather. Practical advice on using credit cards, recommending Visa or Mastercard over American Express. Tips for enjoying Venice at night, along with new regulations aimed at managing overtourism. Sustainable Tourism: Camino Reto Hiking Route: Introduction of the 170-kilometer hiking route in the Dolomites, promoting eco-friendly travel. Connection of remote villages through this scenic trail, offering diverse landscapes and historical sites. Future enhancements including a traveler’s passport, a diploma for completing the route, and plans for a twin cycling route by 2025 to improve accessibility for outdoor enthusiasts.

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.

Episode Highlights: Weather Breakthrough: The narrative begins with the joy of a sunny day at Lago di Garda after a series of rainy days, setting a picturesque backdrop for the episode. Critical Insight on AI in Travel: Kimberly and Tommaso delve into the pitfalls of AI-generated travel articles, sharing a critique of an inaccurate piece about Newport, Rhode Island. They emphasize the importance of verifying online travel information to avoid misinformation. Travel Planning Tips: With the high demand for travel to Italy, listeners are advised to plan their trips well in advance. Road Trip to Sirmione: Detailed recounting of our scenic journey, including a ferry ride from Desenzano to Sirmione. Highlights include visiting Castello Scaligero and celebrating Kimberly's birthday at a restaurant renowned for its gin and tonics made with Tassoni tonic water. Culinary Delights: A mouth-watering description of our lunch featuring burrata, tomato salad, and pizza, served by a charming waiter. Historical Exploration: A visit to Grotto di Catullo, the ruins of an ancient Roman villa, with detailed observations of its historical significance and stunning panoramic views. The site’s organization and informative signage enhanced their experience. Village Stroll and Discoveries: Anecdotes about navigating restrooms, walking through village streets, and discovering a villa that resembled a luxury hotel. Despite skipping the long lines to explore Castello Scaligero in-depth, we admired its architectural beauty and restoration efforts. Practical Travel Advice: Tips for visiting architectural sites early to avoid crowds, enjoying local cuisine, and strategically planning ferry rides. Perfect Birthday Celebration: The day culminates with a sense of satisfaction from exploring ruins, a castle, and savoring delicious food and drinks. The episode wraps up with excitement for our next road trip destination. Join Kimberly and Tommaso for an episode filled with travel tips, cultural insights, and personal anecdotes, ensuring you have the best experience in Italy while navigating the potential pitfalls of AI-generated travel information.

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. Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip! https://www.kimberlysitaly.com Connect with Me Instagram Facebook

One Year Anniversary Newsflash and Thank You All!!!

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. Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip! https://www.kimberlysitaly.com Connect with me Instagram 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. Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip! https://www.kimberlysitaly.com Instagram 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. Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip! https://www.kimberlysitaly.com Instagram 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. Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip! https://www.kimberlysitaly.com Instagram Facebook

Trailer to Episode 41

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. Get in touch, lets talk about a magical trip! https://www.kimberlysitaly.com Connect with Kimberly Instagram Facebook

Main Theme: Explore the enchanting region of Lake Garda through our immersive travel experiences, historical insights, appreciation of cultural richness, and our personal anecdotes. Episode Highlights: Road Trips Around Lake Garda: Activities include sailing, biking, hiking, and camping. Emphasis on discovering hidden gems and local adventures. Camping at Lake Garda: Thera are a multitude of local campsites. Architectural and Scenic Marvels: Visit to a Romanesque church offering breathtaking views of Lake Garda. In-depth look at the striking architectural features of the church. Journey to Limone Sul Garda: Challenges of finding parking in a popular tourist spot. Observations on the village’s lemon-themed branding and its charm. Admiration of the beautiful waterfront and a humorous encounter with a soccer field near an old convent. Listener Engagement: We encourage listener feedback and participation through reviews and social media interactions. We appreciate audience engagement, fostering a community of Italy enthusiasts. Future Explorations: Teasers about upcoming adventures around Lago di Garda, promising more hidden spots and unique experiences. Conclusion: Join us as we weave through Italy’s picturesque landscapes, sharing stories that capture the heart of Italian culture, history, and everyday wonders. Whether you’re planning your own trip or simply love the idea of Italy, this podcast promises to transport you to the enchanting shores of Lake Garda. Ciao! Ciao!

A trailer for our next episode.

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!

Welcome to another episode of “Kimberly’s Italy,” where your hosts, Kimberly and Tommaso, take you on a journey through the heart of Italy, exploring its art, culture, cuisine, and the unique challenges travelers face. This episode is packed with insights, stories, and recommendations for anyone looking to experience Italy beyond the surface. Main Themes: Transportation Challenges: Learn about the hurdles travelers encounter, from navigating Rome’s streets to dealing with taxi shortages at airports. Hear a firsthand account of a car accident in Rome and the struggle to find alternative transportation with the complexities of local services. Practical Travel Recommendations: Discover apps like IT Taxi and the benefits of hiring private drivers or using the Leonardo Express train for efficient airport-city commutes. Upcoming Events and Strikes: Get insights into how the planned nationwide taxi strike and the Vatican jubilee in 2025 could impact travel and transportation in Italy. Responsible Tourism: Reflect on the importance of traveling responsibly, considering the environmental and cultural impact of our visits. Learn about the fines for taking sand from Sardinia and the effects of overtourism in cherished locales. Enrolling in STEP: Understand the value of staying informed about potential risks while traveling abroad, especially amidst global unrest. Heartwarming Travel Stories: Be moved by a touching narrative of a client visiting her grandparents’ village in Puglia, showcasing the depth of personal connection that can be found in Italy. What You’ll Learn: How to navigate Italy’s transportation system, including alternatives to traditional taxis and strategies for dealing with strikes and shortages. The importance of responsible tourism and how to minimize your footprint while maximizing your experience. Safety and preparedness strategies for international travelers, ensuring a smooth and informed journey. Episode Highlights: Kimberly and Tommaso share their expertise and passion for Italy, offering listeners a comprehensive guide to making the most of their Italian adventure. Hear real-life stories from clients, including the challenges they faced and the unforgettable moments that made their trips special. Gain valuable insights into planning your trip, from choosing the right transportation to finding those hidden gems that offer a genuine Italian experience. Join us as we delve into the beauty and complexity of traveling in Italy, offering you the tools and knowledge to navigate your journey with confidence and joy. “Kimberly’s Italy” is your passport to a deeper understanding of this magnificent country and its many wonders. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast and leave us a review. Your feedback helps us make each episode even better. Safe travels, and until next time, Arrivederci!

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!