DAS | Dante Alighieri Society Blog

Travel Reflections: Florence, Italy

What experience was the most memorable?:

I have been to Italy numerous times - North and south - My love affair started in graduate school, through a first marriage, a second marriage and kids to now just taking friends, children and loved ones to experience the best of what I know. All I try to do now is create memories for those that I love. Navigating Italy at times is no easy task but the more I experience it and speaking Italian helps ( thank you Dante for helping me stay current in my knowledge ) the deeper I have taken all of Italy to heart. Seems that no matter where I go I find unique experiences and have developed a couple of deep friendships in the process. From a couple that own and agritourismo in Panzano in Chianti to a couple in Urbino - both of whom I now visit annually things have become more 'real' each time I go. I truly believe that one trip alone does the country a disservice. One has to go multiple times to various parts to come to understand how rich this place truly is - its history, people, food, mode of living etc.

My one ambition left if I have one in Italy is to truly understand and KNOW what 'far di niente' really means. My friends in Panzano - Italians to the hilt - tell me that being an American I will never truly know the meaning of living far di niente. They explained to me from an American perspective it is the feeling of not being obligated to do anything. In Italian it means the making of nothing. We Americans - at least me - always seem to have a wheel in the back of our mind that tells me / us we have to be doing something even when relaxing. Italians not so much. They have an ability to unplug from everything in a way I truly cannot understand. Bless them - I hope I can achieve that one day.

What experience was the most fun?:

Hiking the stairs up to the top of Santa Maria Del Fiore in Florence - the views are spectacular.

What provided the most cultural experience?:

In a word Matera.

What was your most unique food experience?:

The roasted hickory in Lecce - fabulous.

Anything else you would like to share?:

Just go and experience. It is a very diverse place geographically, culturally, demographically. And it is beautiful.

Also - there is an organization in Italy called FAI - Fondo per L'ambiente Italiano - it is essentially the National Trust for Historic Preservation in Italy - the properties that I have visited have not disappointed - and many in America do not know about these - look it up on the web - well worth a visit to the ones I have been to.

This blog was written by Rae J. and reflects Rae's unique experience while in Florence, Italy.

TIPS ON ITALY by Tonya Clement

How Italians Really Eat Pizza
(Hint: It’s Not By the Slice)

When you imagine grabbing a slice of pizza, you might think of New York-style folds or takeaway boxes. But in Italy — the birthplace of pizza — things are very different. Pizza here is not just food; it’s a ritual.

And spoiler alert: Italians don't casually eat slices on the go. Let’s dive into how Italians really enjoy their pizza, and how you can do it like a local!

Pizza Is a Sit-Down Experience

In Italy, pizza is something you sit down to savor, not something you eat walking down the street. When Italians go out for pizza (often with family or friends), they go to a pizzeria, sit at a table, and order their own whole pizza — yes, a full, personal-sized pizza. There’s no sharing a pie unless you're specifically splitting, and no ordering by the slice (except at some pizza al taglio shops — but more on that later).

Getting to know Basilicata, Italy

A Region of Mystery, Heritage, and Natural Wonder

Basilicata, tucked between the better-known regions of Puglia, Campania, and Calabria, is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. Located in the southern part of the country, this rugged and enchanting region is known for its ancient towns, dramatic landscapes, and rich traditions. With its deep-rooted history, stunning natural parks, and unique culinary flavors, Basilicata invites travelers to explore a side of Italy that remains authentically untouched.

Italy #1 - UNESCO World Heritage Sites

UNESCO World Heritage Sites are places of outstanding cultural, historical, scientific, or natural significance that are recognized and protected by the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization. These sites are considered to be of value to all humanity, and their preservation ensures that future generations can experience and learn from them. The World Heritage designation not only brings international recognition, but also helps safeguard these treasures through global cooperation, funding, and education.

Getting to know Puglia, Italy

A Region of Tradition, Beauty, and Flavor

Puglia, the sun-kissed region located in the heel of Italy's boot, is an enchanting destination known for its rich cultural heritage, stunning landscapes, and unique culinary delights. With its mix of ancient traditions, pristine coastline, and charming towns, Puglia has something for every type of traveler.

Getting to know Liguria, Italy

A Hidden Gem on the Italian Riviera

Liguria, a captivating coastal region in the northwestern part of Italy, is often overshadowed by its more famous neighbors like Tuscany and the Amalfi Coast. However, Liguria offers its own unique charm with its dramatic cliffs, colorful seaside villages, rich history, and culinary delights. From the stunning Cinque Terre to the elegant city of Genoa, Liguria presents a blend of natural beauty and cultural heritage.

I love all things Italian so I am always on the lookout for any stories on what’s going on in Italy.
By Veronica Goodrich

Recently thanks to a cousin, I’ve been introduced to two very interesting publications. The first is Unexpected Italy published in Bari, Italy and the second, L’Italo Americano, published in Los Angeles.

Unexpected Italy is both a newsletter and a travel app. The owners, Elisabetta and Savio, say they are promoting tourism that respects the environment and the local communities, that travels in small groups (no more than 4-6 people), and that doesn’t overwhelm the cities. They plan trips to showcase a different Italy, focusing on people and their stories.

JocelynB This past summer spent in Florence, Italy, was eye-opening and inspiring. I am grateful for your support and the scholarship as it allowed me to visit Italy and have a once-in-a-lifetime experience. With Lorenzo de' Medici, I was able to take an Italy language course and take field trips around the city to get to know Florence better. Through these field trips and walks around the city, I was able to admire the architecture and appreciate the history of Florence and Italy. It was inspiring how history is treasured and how in Florence you get to see a perfect blend of historical and modern aspects that make Florence a uniquely beautiful place.

Cremona: the Torrazzo, nougat and Stradivari.
By John Giardino

po river mouth Cremona may not be a big city, but it's a great one. It's known for its culture, music and of course the city's pride and joy: its violins. Not forgetting the local specialities, starting with mustard. The identity of Cremona is enriched by the rich and diverse architecture and historical heritage. Around every corner you can see traces of the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, both sacred and profane, rural traditions and tempting treats like the famous Cremonese nougat.

Getting to know Toscana, Italy

Tuscany, or Toscana in Italian, is one of Italy’s most iconic and beloved regions. Located in the heart of the country, it is a place where breathtaking landscapes, centuries of art and culture, and some of the world's finest wines come together. From rolling hills covered in vineyards to medieval towns steeped in history, Tuscany offers a rich and immersive experience for any traveler.