Experience Italy With Friends

Buying and renovating a historic home in Tuscany sounds pretty romantic. And parts of it absolutely have been. But behind the dream are contractors, permits, crooked walls, plumbing surprises, long lead times, countless decisions and a whole lot of patience. After months of planning and renovation, we’re finally living in our historic palazzo in Montepulciano, and in this episode, we’re taking you behind the scenes of the entire experience. We talk about how our idea of the perfect Tuscan home evolved, what we learned about buying and renovating in Italy, the realities of working with historic buildings and local trades, and how the palazzo itself influenced the final design. We also share the unexpected business idea that came out of the experience for Davide. Whether you’re dreaming of buying a home in Italy, contemplating a renovation of your own, or simply curious about what it really takes to turn the Tuscan dream into reality, this episode is an honest look at the adventure behind the romance. Because the dream may be romantic... but getting there is definitely a story.

In this episode, we're doing something a little different and sharing some practical Italian for travelers. You absolutely do not need to speak fluent Italian to have an amazing trip to Italy. But learning a few words and phrases can help you feel more confident, make everyday situations easier, and often lead to warmer and more meaningful interactions along the way. We talk through: Why learning a little Italian can enrich your trip Basic pronunciation tips to help you sound out words with confidence Essential phrases for cafés, restaurants, shopping, transportation, and pharmacies Helpful communication and emergency phrases And some of the cultural nuances that make knowing when to use a phrase just as important as knowing the words themselves But most importantly, we hope this episode shows that you don't need perfect Italian to connect with people and enjoy your time in Italy. A few words, a smile, and a willingness to make an effort can go a surprisingly long way. Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

Today’s episode is about a topic that may not sound quite as exciting as wandering through Rome or sipping wine in Tuscany… but it’s one that comes up constantly in my conversations with clients: travel insurance. Do you really need it? Is the coverage from your credit card enough? What about the insurance the airline offers when you book? And if you’re healthy and don’t travel with medical issues… is it worth the cost? So today, we’re having a practical, honest conversation about travel insurance — what it actually covers, what people often misunderstand, and how to think about risk realistically when planning a trip abroad. But more than anything, this episode is really about helping travelers make informed decisions so they can protect both their trip and their peace of mind. Resources: Travel Insured International | Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

In this episode, we’re finally diving into one of Italy’s most iconic cities - Florence. While it’s known as the birthplace of the Renaissance and home to some of the world’s most famous art and architecture, Florence is also something more - a city that can feel deeply personal depending on how you experience it. We talk through: What makes Florence feel different from other Italian cities How to choose the right neighborhood for your stay What to prioritize (and what you don’t need to do) How to use Florence as a base for exploring Tuscany And how to think about your time there, whether you have a day or a week But most importantly, we explore how to experience Florence beyond the checklist and how to find those “magic moments” that make the city so unforgettable. If you’re planning a trip, or dreaming about one, this episode will help you see Florence in a whole new way. Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

Planning a trip to Italy can feel exciting… but also overwhelming. With so much information out there, from social media to well-meaning advice from friends, it’s easy to fall into the trap of trying to plan the “perfect” trip based on what everyone else says you should do. Slow travel. Off the beaten path. Authentic experiences. But what do those really mean, and more importantly, are they right for you? In this episode, we take a step back from specific destinations and talk about how to think about your trip to Italy. From understanding your travel style and readiness, to breaking down popular travel trends, we share a simple framework to help you design a trip that truly fits you. Because there’s no one right way to experience Italy ….only the way that’s right for you! Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

In this episode, we’re heading south to a part of Italy that many travelers don’t get to right away, but once you do, it stays with you. Our journey through Matera and Puglia was full of surprises, from the ancient cave dwellings of Matera to the storybook trulli of Alberobello, and the dramatic cliffs of Polignano a Mare. It was a trip that felt different. More rugged, more authentic, and in many ways, more unexpected than we imagined. In this episode, we’re sharing our experience: what we loved, what surprised us, and how to think about including this region in your own itinerary. Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

Cycling is deeply woven into Italian culture, from legendary races like the Giro d’Italia to the quiet countryside roads that wind through vineyards, olive groves, and historic villages. After watching the iconic Strade Bianche race near Siena, Davide was inspired to explore how cycling became such an important part of life in Italy and why experiencing the country by bike can be so special. In this episode, we talk about the history of cycling in Italy, the legendary riders and races, the incredible landscapes that make Italy a cyclist’s dream, and how travelers can incorporate biking into their own Italian adventures. Whether it’s a leisurely e-bike ride through Tuscany or a multi-day cycling tour, exploring Italy on two wheels offers a unique way to see the country up close. Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

Today we’re diving into something found on every table, in every kitchen, and deeply woven into Italian culture. Italy’s liquid gold: olive oil. After touring a frantoio in the Chianti region and learning firsthand how olive oil is made, we discovered it’s far more complex, and far more similar to wine, than we ever imagined. In this episode, we’re joined by Katy Lapini from Frantoio Pruneti to explore the culture of olive oil in Italy: how it’s grown, harvested, produced, tasted, and why it means so much more here than most people realize. Resources: Pruneti Italy | Pruneti U.S. | Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Use promo code: AMICIVACATIONS when ordering on Pruneti. Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

We’re kicking off Season 3 with a destination that almost everyone dreams about but one that also raises a lot of questions: Venice. It’s a city built on water, filled with history, elegance, and mystery… and it’s also one of the most visited places in the world. So, is it worth it? And if you go, how do you experience the best of it? We recently returned from a winter weekend in Venice during the early days of Carnevale, and it felt like the perfect time to share a fresh, real-life perspective. In this episode, we talk about the magic of Venice, how to decide if it fits your itinerary, where to stay, what to see and do, and how to experience the city in a more meaningful and balanced way. Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

Today, as our season finale, we’re talking about our favorite topic, FOOD! But not just what’s on the plate. Italian cuisine is deeply tied to history, family, and daily life. It’s a way of connecting, expressing love, and passing traditions from one generation to the next. So much so that Italian cuisine was recently recognized by UNESCO as an Intangible Cultural Heritage. In this episode, we go inside Italian food culture: why it’s so different, why it tastes better, and why it matters so much here. We’re joined by American chef Matthew Cook, who moved to Italy over a decade ago and now teaches Italian cuisine and wine in Florence, while hosting hands-on cooking experiences in Lucca. He shares a thoughtful, grounded perspective on what truly makes Italian food Italian. If you love Italy, travel, and understanding a place through its food, this episode is for you. Resources: Chef Matthew Cook | Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

Today we’re diving into something exciting happening here in Italy — the 2026 Winter Olympics. And this is not your typical Olympics. Milano and Cortina are sharing hosting duties. The events will take place across the Alps and the Dolomites, and the Olympic torch will travel through all 20 Italian regions. It’s a huge moment for Italy! Resources: Olympic Torch Relay | Olympic Tickets | Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

Today, we’re excited to take you somewhere elegant, delicious, a little mysterious… a region that’s been part of our story since the very beginning of our relationship. We’re calling this episode ‘Rediscovering Piemonte’ because even though our recent trip to Torino inspired it, our history with this region goes way back. And every time we return, we find something new to fall in love with. From the grand boulevards of Torino to the foggy Barolo hills and the peaceful northern lakes, Piemonte is one of Italy’s most underrated gems and we’re excited to share why it deserves a spot on your itinerary. Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

Living abroad means constantly discovering things that make you pause, smile, and sometimes scratch your head — those little cultural quirks that make Italy so wonderfully different. In this episode, we’re talking about ‘Things That Make You Go Hmmm’ — the funny, surprising, and occasionally confusing things Americans notice in Italy. From bidets and emergency cords in showers to grocery etiquette, fashion rules, and everything in between, we’ll share what still catches us off guard, what we’ve learned to love, and a few that still make us go... really?! Whether you’ve visited Italy before or are planning your first trip, this is a fun look at everyday life; the charming, the curious, and the “only in Italy” moments that make living here unforgettable. Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

Today, we’re heading to one of the most iconic cities in the world, Rome - The Eternal City. It’s a must-see for most travelers to Italy, but it can also feel overwhelming if you don’t plan it right. So, in this episode, we’ll help you think through some of the big questions: Should you go? Where should you base yourself? How long should you stay? And we’ll talk about how to get beyond the crowds and clichés to experience the real city. Whether it’s your first visit or your fifth, Rome always has something new to discover. Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

Fall has officially arrived in Italy, and with it comes a whole new kind of magic. The crowds thin out, the air turns crisp, and the food… well, it somehow gets even better. In today’s episode, we’re diving into the many, many reasons that autumn is such an incredible time to visit Italy, from the harvest festivals and cozy comfort foods to the golden landscapes and peaceful piazzas. So, grab an espresso, or maybe a glass of vino. and join us as we celebrate la dolce vita in its most colorful season. Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

Today, we’re talking about something that’s at the heart of daily life here in Italy: the bar. And no, not the kind of bar you might be thinking of! In Italy, the bar is where life happens. It’s where you start your day with a quick espresso or cappuccino, and where you wind down with friends over a spritz before dinner. We’ll take you from the history of coffee in Venice to the invention of the aperitivo in Turin and Milan… and along the way, we’ll share how these rituals have become the heartbeat of daily life in Italy. It’s one of the many little things in Italy that create la dolce vita! Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

Today we’re taking you to one of our favorite corners of Italy: the Amalfi Coast along with the neighboring treasures of Naples, Sorrento, Capri and beyond. We’ve been visiting this stretch of Campania since 2009, and every visit deepens our love for its sun-drenched cliffs, pastel towns, and islands that have captivated emperors and movie stars alike. I just returned from yet another magical visit, and I’m re-energized to share my passion, insights, and tips for creating your own unforgettable journey. Stay tuned to hear all about it! Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

This episode is extra special because it marks one full year since we made the leap and moved to Italy in search of la dolce vita. But what does that really mean? And now, a year later, did we actually find it? Today, we’re reflecting on that journey, and we’re joined by a special guest who helped us turn our dream into a reality - Samantha Wilson from Smart Move Italy. Sam’s going to share her own story, and what she’s learned from helping so many others take the leap and move to Italy. Resources: Sign Up for the Smart Move Italy Bootcamp | A New Life in Italy Membership | Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

It’s Mid-August in Italy… the beaches are packed, the cities are quiet, and lunch might just last all afternoon. This week we’re diving into Ferragosto — where it comes from, how Italians celebrate, and why it’s the perfect excuse to slow down and savor summer. We’ll also share a few updates on the 2025 travel season, including how the Jubilee has unfolded so far and what to know if you’re planning a trip before the end of the year. Resources: Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.

In today’s episode, we’re heading north, way north, to the Alps for an epic adventure. And, joining us are two very special guests: our son, Luca Raso, and his girlfriend, Molly Ricker. They’ve just returned from completing the legendary Tour du Mont Blanc, a 170-kilometer trek that winds through France, Italy and Switzerland. They will share their highs and lows, relive the stunning views, and provide invaluable tips for anyone dreaming of tackling one of the Alp’s most iconic hikes. Resources: Tour du Mont Blanc Refuges Booking | Get Inspired | Discover our Trip Planning Services | Follow: Instagram • Facebook Join our FB Group “ Experience Italy with Friends ,” where you can ask questions and share experiences of your own! Subscribe, Review, and Partner: Be sure to subscribe so you don't miss an episode and please rate and leave a review to support our adventure! If you’re looking for expert advice or assistance in creating your own immersive and authentic experience in Italy, visit us at www.amicivacations.com or send us an email at info@amicivacations.com . If you're interested in sponsoring or advertising on this podcast, contact us at info@amicivacations.com . Published and produced by Avalanche Sound Productions.