Kimberly's Italy

Kimberly Holcombe
Kimberly's Italy

Welcome to Kimberly's Italy, a travel podcast focused on all things Italian. My love affair with Italy started with a move to Milan many years ago, and the enriching experience became part of my DNA. Our episodes highlight some of our own travels and the comical lessons we learned along the way. You can be the beneficiary of invaluable travel tips, and at the same time enjoy a few laughs. We share our passion of the Italian cuisine, history, art, architecture, and the welcoming nature of the Italian people, whom define this incredible country. You can reach me at: Kimberlysitaly.com

  1. Christmas 2024 Road Trip Part 2

    5 ΗΜ. ΠΡΙΝ

    Christmas 2024 Road Trip Part 2

    In this episode, join hosts Kimberly and Tommaso as they recount their captivating journey through Italy, highlighting both cultural encounters and humorous adventures. Bergamo’s Città Alta: The episode begins with a vivid recollection of a memorable experience in Bergamo’s historic upper city. While Kimberly explored the local churches, Tommaso recorded a violinist performing Vivaldi outside the Duomo, which left a lasting impression.  Starting in Rome: The hosts embarked on their month-long trip in Rome, where they met with Italian colleagues and visited hotels for client recommendations. They humorously compared their travels to a Rolling Stones tour. Tuscan Adventures: The journey took them to Cortona, a picturesque village in Tuscany, where they navigated its steep and narrow streets, luckily without incident. They attended a magical Christmas festival featuring children singing at Palazzo del Capitano. A lively dinner with two other American couples resulted in a humorous exchange about driving in Italy. Continuing to Montepulciano and Beyond: Kimberly and Tommaso recorded a podcast in Montepulciano and connected with friends, including new acquaintances from England. Their travels also included visits to Arezzo and Modena, with a stop at the Museo Ferrari. Cultural Insights and Future Plans: Currently in Bergamo, they enjoyed dinner with a local friend and discussed the complexities of Italian dialects. Despite travel fatigue, the hosts are excited about their upcoming visit to the Dolomites where they will finally stay out for 5 days.  The episode wraps up with well wishes for a Buon Natale Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook

    11 λεπτά
  2. Christmas 2024 Road Trip Part 1

    10 ΔΕΚ

    Christmas 2024 Road Trip Part 1

    In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their recent adventures across Italy, detailing a captivating journey from the bustling streets of Rome to the serene landscapes of Tuscany. Their four-day Roman escapade was filled with the vibrant life of local cafes, a private tour of the Colosseum, and a culinary exploration of diverse restaurants. They also discovered a newfound appreciation for the Negroni cocktail, trying different versions at Roman cocktail bars. The second stop on their road trip included a stay in a historic palazzo, where they relished in having it to themselves. As part of Kimberly’s goal to provide clients with unique and reliable recommendations, they stay at these accommodations for confirmation. Their road trip will continue north with a longer stay in the Dolomites. Travel insights from the hosts emphasize the convenience of direct flights to major Italian cities like Rome, Milan, or Napoli. They praised the renovated Delta Lounge at Boston Logan Airport for its improvements. In Rome, they noted the ongoing restoration of many sculptures and buildings in preparation for the upcoming Jubilee, and observed the lively yet unfinished setup of Christmas markets in Piazza Navona, accompanied by festive music in shops. A noteworthy update includes the Pantheon’s new entrance fee, which has improved visitor flow, while construction around the Trevi Fountain with it’s new elevated walkway is yet to be finished. A Vespa ride through Roman traffic added an exciting twist to their experience. Logistical reflections included the strategic decision to rent a car on the outskirts of Rome to avoid city traffic and potential fines proved to be a good move. Looking forward, Kimberly and Tommaso promise more updates from their continued travels on the road in bel’italia. Follow us on Social Media Instagram

    18 λεπτά
  3. 173. See Verona through a Local’s Eyes

    27 ΝΟΕ

    173. See Verona through a Local’s Eyes

    In this enriching episode of “Kimberly’s Italy,” hosts Kimberly Holcombe and Tommaso dive into the heart of Italian culture, focusing on the vibrant city of Verona. Joining them is special guest Valeria Biasi, a Verona native and co-founder of Verona Tours. Key Highlights: Personalized Tours in Verona: The episode emphasizes the benefits of small walking tours, which allow for meaningful interactions and a deep dive into local culture. Listeners are introduced to a variety of tours in Verona, including food tours, wine tastings, and historical explorations, all designed to offer enriching experiences. Wine Experiences: A spotlight is placed on wine tours in the regions of Soave and Valpolicella, known for their famous red and white grapes. These tours often include transportation and customized itineraries, featuring unique experiences such as winter picnics. The distinctive production process of Amarone wine is also highlighted. Responsible and Slow Travel: Inspired by an interview with a Slow Foods USA Board memeber, the conversation encourages responsible tourism. Valeria and her partner Lorella make the effort to show their clients the less crowded destinations, advocating for travel that supports local communities and authentic experiences. Authentic Local Discoveries: Personal anecdotes illustrate the joy of discovering hidden gems, such as a charming pasticceria and a lesser-known cloister of the Duomo. Valeria’s role in enhancing these experiences is praised, and she comes highly recommended by Kimberly and Tommaso since they thoroughly enjoyed their walking tour with her. Overall, the episode champions the values of personalized and responsible tourism, urging travelers to engage in genuine interactions and uncover the hidden treasures of Italy. Whether through a leisurely stroll in Verona or a tailored wine tour, the hosts encourage an exploration of Italy that is both enriching and sustainable. Link to:  Valeria Biasi Verona Tours Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook

    31 λεπτά
  4. 172. Italy's 20 Regions Explained #6

    20 ΝΟΕ

    172. Italy's 20 Regions Explained #6

    In this episode of “Kimberly’s Italy,” co-hosts Kimberly Holcombe and Tommaso Il Favoloso take listeners on a journey through the lesser-known yet captivating regions of Puglia, Basilicata, and Campania, uncovering their unique cultural and geographical features. Puglia: Geography and Features: Nestled between the Adriatic and Ionian seas, Puglia is known for its unique terra rosa soil, abundant olive trees, and renowned wines such as Primitivo and Negroamaro. Cuisine and Climate: The region boasts a vegetable-centric cuisine, diverse climate, and provides a refreshing alternative to the summer heat of Rome. Key Destinations: Highlights include the Gargano promontory, Bari, Ostuni, Lecce, and Santa Maria de Leuca. The iconic trulli houses are now popular accommodations. Basilicata: Historical Context and Terrain: Famous for its mountainous landscape, Basilicata has undergone several name changes, including Lucania under Mussolini. Cultural Highlights: Matera, recognized as a European Capital of Culture in 2019, is famed for its unique sassi cave dwellings. Visitor Tips: Despite lacking an airport, the region offers warm welcomes in its small villages. Potenza is noted for its narrow roads and parking challenges, while Maratea charms visitors with its scenic appeal. Local Wines and Cuisine: The region’s wines, Malantrina and Aglianco, pair excellently with local meats and bread. Campania: Cultural Hub: Known for its stunning coastline, Campania is also home to Napoli, the birthplace of pizza and a gateway to Capri, Ischia, Procida, and the Amalfi Coast. Attractions and Planning: Notable sites include the Reggia di Caserta, Pompeii, and Herculaneum. The Amalfi Coast, with its picturesque villages such as Positano and Amalfi, requires careful planning to navigate high prices and crowds. Climate and History: The region benefits from a sunny climate, and south of Salerno you can visit the ancient ruins in Paestum. Coastal Challenges: The islands are full of rocky shores which make for somewhat challenging entries for non-local swimmers! Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook  Join Kimberly and Tommaso as they delve into these regions, providing travel tips and cultural insights for an enriching Italian adventure.

    33 λεπτά
  5. 171. Slow Food Movement, Grazie Italia!

    13 ΝΟΕ

    171. Slow Food Movement, Grazie Italia!

    In this episode of “Kimberly’s Italy,” we delve into the global significance of the Slow Food Movement started in Italy decades ago. Joining Kimberly is Tiffany Nurrenbern, an advocate for sustainable food practices, she shares her expertise from her work with Slow Food USA and Zero Food Print. Key Topics Discussed:  Origins of the Slow Food Movement Founded in Rome in 1986 as a counter-movement to fast food culture. Emphasizes the importance of savoring food and respecting the growing process. Terramadre Salone del Gusto An event celebrating Italian culinary traditions and promoting good, clean, and fair food. Culinary Heritage and Local Sourcing Importance of “zero km” sourcing to enhance flavor and support local economies and farmers. Innovative Culinary Competitions Encourage creativity by utilizing discarded ingredients. Foster a spirit of innovation in culinary practices. Significance of the Slow Food Movement Promotes joy and justice in food consumption, focusing on biodiversity and influencing policy changes. Notable differences in food quality between Italy and the U.S., with Italian produce offering superior flavor. Collaborations and Sustainable Practices Collaborations with chefs and farmers through Slow Food and Zero Foodprint support regenerative food systems and aim to reduce carbon emissions. Contributions to sustainable practices and crowdfunding campaigns assist farmers and promote healthy soil development. Upcoming Events and Global Connections A new Terra Madre event will be launched in Sacramento in 2025, providing a platform for Slow Food enthusiasts in the U.S. Slow Food’s global network connects food lovers, enhancing travel experiences through local culinary recommendations. This episode underscores the commitment to changing the world through food, reflecting Italy’s rich culinary culture and the global impact of the Slow Food movement. Join us as we explore these fascinating topics and gain insights into how sustainable practices can shape our culinary future. Links:  Terra Madre Salone del Gusto is an international event dedicated to food politics, sustainable agriculture and the environment. Come to Parco Dora, Turin, from September 26-30, 2024 to shape the future of food with us! https://2024.terramadresalonedelgusto.com/en/ Zero Food Print Restoring Earth’s climate requires re-storing the emissions as healthy, carbon-rich soil. Discover how regenerative farming practices like composting, cover cropping, and managed grazing can restore soil's life and suck down carbon from the atmosphere to combat climate change. https://www.zerofoodprint.org/ Slow Food USA unites the joy of food with the pursuit of justice. We cultivate nationwide programs and a network of local chapters, host educational events and advocacy campaigns, and build solidarity through partnerships. https://slowfoodusa.org/ Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook

    37 λεπτά
  6. 170. Italy News You Need to Know!

    29 ΟΚΤ

    170. Italy News You Need to Know!

    Welcome to another insightful episode of Kimberly’s Italy, where we aim to enhance your travel experiences by alleviating trip planning anxiety and increasing your excitement for exploring Italy. I’m Kimberly, and alongside my co-host Tommaso, we share the latest updates and essential travel information to make your journey memorable. Listener Reviews and Engagement We’ve received wonderful feedback from listeners like Vicki and Ron, who appreciate the valuable insights we provide on both popular and lesser-known Italian regions. We encourage you to follow our podcast and connect with us on social media for the latest updates and travel tips. Travel Regulations and Advisories for 2025 Travelers to Italy in 2025 will need to comply with the Entry Exit System (EES) and the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). The EES is expected to be operational by mid-2025, while the ETIAS start date is yet to be announced. The U.S. Department of State has issued a Level 2 travel advisory for Italy due to potential terrorist threats. France has temporarily reintroduced Schengen border checks from November 1,2024 to April 1, 2025 over immigration and potential terrorism concerns. Tourism and Cultural Updates Italy has proposed to increase its tourist tax to €25 per night for luxury hotels, with the revenue aimed at supporting lesser-visited areas and addressing waste management issues. Rome’s Appian Way has been recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for its historical and engineering significance. We also touch on the historical context of slavery in Rome, noting that even educated individuals could be enslaved. The construction of an elevated glass walkway around the Trevi Fountain is underway to manage overcrowding, although it’s met with skepticism due to its narrow design. Local Concerns and Urban Developments A significant amount of Romans are calling for caps on short-term rental properties like Airbnb, which locals argue affect long-term housing availability. The government now requires identification codes for these rentals. In Naples, the new Centro Nazionale metro station is lauded for its unique design and technology, and encouraging exploration of Naples’ metro system. Travel Tips and Resources We discuss the necessity of an international driver’s license for car rentals in Italy, sharing client experiences from just this past month. U.S. citizens traveling to Italy are advised to enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for safety reasons. Looking Ahead We will not launch an episode next week due to the U.S. election, and some personal travel. However, Episode 171 will be live on Wednesday, November 13, 2024. Thank you for tuning in to Kimberly’s Italy. We hope our insights continue to enhance your travel experiences. Be sure to join us next time for more exciting updates and tips on exploring the beautiful regions of Italy. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook

    26 λεπτά
  7. 169. Italy's 20 Regions Explained #5

    22 ΟΚΤ

    169. Italy's 20 Regions Explained #5

    Italy’s rich cultural tapestry and varied landscapes, highlighting lesser-known regions that promise unique travel experiences. Key Highlights: Bel’Italia Train Journey: A travel adventure on the revived Italian trans-Siberian railway, taking it’s guests through enchanting villages and high-altitude landscapes far from the typical tourist routes. Abruzzo Exploration:  Discover the region’s diverse geography, from its mountainous terrain and national parks to sandy beaches along the Adriatic Sea. Highlights include hiking to Corno Grande, the highest peak in the Apennine Mountain Range. The capital city, L’Aquila, offers a historical retreat with medieval architecture. Lazio’s Hidden Treasures:  Explore the Etruscan heritage village of Tarquinia and beach destinations like Latina. The province offer unique sites, including Frosinone’s Roman amphitheater and Rieti, the “navel of Italy.” The province of Rome features notable attractions such as Tivoli and Civitavecchia. Molise’s Remote Charm: Italy’s second smallest region is celebrated for its quiet allure, so quiet in fact it has an appropriate nickname which is divulged in this episode. Molise is known for its agricultural lifestyle and limited tourism, offering unplugged vacations. Culinary Delights:  Molise’s cuisine features hearty dishes like lamb ragu over fusilli pasta, reflecting the region’s rich agricultural heritage and ancient viticulture dating back to 500 BC. Upcoming Episodes:  Anticipate future explorations of Puglia, Campania, and Basilicata. Note a brief content pause due to the US election and a family gathering, so there will not be an episode on November 6, 2024. Join Kimberly and Tommaso as they uncover Italy’s hidden gems, offering a fresh perspective on the country’s diverse regions and inviting listeners to embark on their own Italian adventures. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook

    24 λεπτά

Σχετικά με το podcast

Welcome to Kimberly's Italy, a travel podcast focused on all things Italian. My love affair with Italy started with a move to Milan many years ago, and the enriching experience became part of my DNA. Our episodes highlight some of our own travels and the comical lessons we learned along the way. You can be the beneficiary of invaluable travel tips, and at the same time enjoy a few laughs. We share our passion of the Italian cuisine, history, art, architecture, and the welcoming nature of the Italian people, whom define this incredible country. You can reach me at: Kimberlysitaly.com

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