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.
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 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
Getting to know Calabria, Italy
Sardinia, an island in the Mediterranean Sea, is renowned not only for its stunning landscapes and rich history but also for its status as one of the world’s five Blue Zones. These regions are distinguished by their unusually high concentrations of centenarians and remarkable longevity. In Sardinia, particularly in the mountainous region of Ogliastra, residents enjoy an exceptional quality of life that has captured the interest of researchers and health enthusiasts worldwide. The island's unique combination of genetics, lifestyle, and environmental factors contributes to its residents' impressive lifespan.
What experience was the most memorable?
Getting to know Lazio, Italy
It's been almost twenty years since I've been to Italy. We keep talking about going back but there are so many other places we want to see. However, we recently got a little taste of the old country when we visited New York City with our three youngest grandkids. In addition to the 911 Memorial, the Tenement Museum, Central Park, Times Square, Coney Island, the Statue of Liberty at night seen from the Staten Island Ferry, and more, we visited Little Italy. Tough keeping up with those three, but Mimi and Papa did it!
Getting to know Lombardia, Italy