Kimberly and Tommaso talk about their visit to Passalacqua on Lake Como, which just last week was honored with the distinction of the Best Hotel in the World!  What an honor, and what a stunning villa!They praise the elegance and attention to detail of the renovation by the De Santis family, who have been involved in the hospitality industry for generations in Lago di Como.  What a treat it was to have a private visit during the off season and be able to meet some of the proud staff who help define this one-of-a kind property.Passalacqua is the perfect example of Italian craftsmanship and hospitality at it's finest.Link to the hotel:https://www.passalacqua.it/

Tommaso continues the discussion from a previous episode about preparing and connecting your phone while traveling in Italy. He focuses on iOS devices and provides instructions for updating the operating system and turning off automatic updates.Tommaso goes through the PDF guide that can be downloaded from their website, detailing how to turn off background app refresh, enable data roaming for eSIM or mobile provider usage, and manage cellular data usage for specific apps.He advises simplifying your digital life while travelling and highlights the convenience of using eSIM cards.https://www.kimberlysitaly.com/connectInstagramFacebook 

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.comInstagramFacebook 

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 Herehttps://www.kimberlysitaly.comInstagramFacebook

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.comInstagramFacebook 

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.comInstagramFacebook 

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.comInstagramFacebook 

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.comInstagramFacebook 

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.comInstagramFacebook 

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.comInstagramFacebook 

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.comInstagramFacebook 

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.htmlGet in touch, lets talk about a magical trip!https://www.kimberlysitaly.comInstagramFacebook 

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.comInstagramFacebook 

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 Comohttps://www.kimberlysitaly.comInstagramFacebook 

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.comInstagramFacebook 

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.comInstagramFacebook 

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 that summarizes 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! So make a pasta, have a glass of vino and enjoy a few of our "greatest hits". 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 TommasoI 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.comInstagramFacebook 

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.comInstagramFacebook

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?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.comInstagramFacebook

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 Palacehttps://lavenaria.it/enPalazzo Reale Palacehttps://museireali.beniculturali.itI 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.comInstagramFacebook

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 Scallahttps://www.santamariadellascala.comLink to watercolorist Geremia Cerri's Show in Sienahttps://www.facebook.com/events/949146343169810/?ref=newsfeedCiao, Ciao!!