Kimberly's Italy

Kimberly Holcombe
Kimberly's Italy 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

  1. 165. Italy's 20 Regions Explained #3

    15 HR. AGO

    165. Italy's 20 Regions Explained #3

    Show Notes for “Kimberley’s Italy” Podcast Episode Theme: Exploring Emilia Romagna, Liguria, and Tuscany Join me, Kimberly, and my co-host Tommaso as we embark on a journey through the rich tapestry of Italian history, culture, cuisine, and travel experiences. In this episode, we focus on three distinct regions—Emilia Romagna, Liguria, and Tuscany—sharing humorous anecdotes and valuable travel tips that will have you eagerly planning your next Italian adventure. Emilia Romagna: A Culinary and Automotive Gem Culinary Delights: Discover the famed Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and prosciutto di Parma that have made this region a gastronomic haven. Automotive Excellence: Explore the legendary brands like Ferrari, Maserati and Lamborghini that call Emilia Romagna home. Climate Impact: Address the severe floods caused by climate change, discussing the EU’s financial aid efforts to help the region recover. Liguria: Coastal Beauty and Culinary Treasures Scenic Destinations: Learn about the breathtaking beaches and popular spots such as Portofino and Cinque Terre. Travel Tips: We recommend visiting off season to avoid the crowds and highlight the scenic train rides to France. Culinary Highlights: Savor the local pesto and focaccia, with a special mention of Stanley Tucci’s exploration of Ligurian basil. Tuscany: Landscapes, History, and Gastronomy Historic Cities and Villages: Dive into the beauty of Siena and Florence, and anticipate our upcoming road trip through lesser-known Tuscan villages. Past Adventures: Reflecting on our pre-GPS travels in Chianti, we provide insights into notable sites like Pistoia and Isola de Elba. Culinary Traditions: Celebrate Tuscany’s agricultural pride and its renowned culinary traditions. Personal Reflection on Italian Cuisine We wrap up the episode with a recount of a dinner party featuring delicacies from Modena, Parma, and Tuscany. I share the joy our guests found in the authentic Italian flavors, particularly the Parmigiano cheese with balsamic vinegar, and reflect on the challenge of sourcing such high-quality ingredients in the U.S. Ending on a lighthearted note, Tommaso and I express our enduring passion for discussing and savoring the exquisite food from these regions. Tune in to “Kimberley’s Italy” for an engaging and informative exploration of Italy’s most captivating regions, brought to life by our narratives. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook

    32 min
  2. 164.  Christmas in Italy? Why Not!

    SEP 18

    164. Christmas in Italy? Why Not!

    Hey there, welcome to “Kimberly’s Italy”! Join hosts Kimberly and Tommaso as they take you through the beauty, culture, and pure joy of Italy. Episode Highlights: Christmas in Italy: Get into the festive spirit with us as we talk about the unique decorations and warm atmospheres that make Christmas in Italy so special. Spontaneous Adventures: Sometimes, the best trips are unplanned! Hear about how a canceled flight turned into a delightful impromptu adventure to Ischia for some of our clients. Joyful Client Updates: We love receiving photos from our clients’ Italian escapades. Their happy memories remind us of Italy’s endless charm. September Festivals: September is buzzing with food and wine festivals, including La Riano Bravo’s amazing porcini mushroom festival. Travel Tips: We’ve got you covered with tips on handling potential travel disruptions, like national transportation strikes. Rome’s 2025 Jubilee Preparations: Exciting news! Rome is ramping up taxi services to get ready for the 2025 Jubilee. Florence Art Insights: Learn about the Uffizi Gallery’s efforts to manage crowds and make your visit even better. Click here for the article in "The Art Newspaper" Italian Christmas Traditions: From Sicily to Taormina and Lago di Como, we reflect on how Italy’s Christmas celebrations compare to those in the U.S. Christmas Markets: Explore Italy’s charming Christmas markets, filled with artisan crafts, regional gifts, and delicious specialty foods. Upcoming Trip to the Dolomites: We’re gearing up for a trip to the Dolomites, looking forward to snow and holiday festivities in Santa Cristina and Castelrotto. Encouraging Holiday Travel: Thinking about a holiday trip? We highly recommend visiting Italy during the holiday season for an unforgettable experience. Thanks for tuning in. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook

    23 min
  3. 163. Italy's 20 Regions Explained  #2

    SEP 11

    163. Italy's 20 Regions Explained #2

    Exploring Lombardia, Piemonte, and Valdosta In this captivating episode of Kimberly’s Italy, hosts Kimberly Holcombe and Tommaso invite listeners on a journey through the enchanting regions of Lombardia, Piemonte, and Val d’Aosta. Their mission is to spotlight the unique characteristics of Italy’s 20 regions, with a particular focus on promoting lesser-known travel destinations. Lombardia: Diversity and Cultural Richness Kimberly and Tommaso begin by exploring Lombardia, a region renowned for its varied landscapes and significant economic contributions. Milan, the cultural and economic hub, takes center stage as Kimberly shares her personal experiences from living in this vibrant city. She candidly discusses the allure of Milan alongside the challenges posed by increased tourism. The hosts also highlight other noteworthy cities in Lombardy, such as Brescia, celebrated for its rich art and food culture, and Bergamo, known for its well-preserved medieval center. Their reminiscences of trips around the picturesque Lake Como and Lake Lugano, including an unforgettable encounter with Ferraris, add a personal touch to the episode. Piemonte: A Land of Culinary Delights and Natural Beauty The journey continues to Piemonte, a region distinguished by its geographical diversity. Kimberly and Tommaso delve into the world of Barolo wine and truffles, key highlights of Piemonte’s culinary scene. They discuss the vibrant city of Torino and the lesser-known gem of Vercelli, famous for its expansive rice fields that attract cyclists and offer exciting river sports. This segment is a treat for food and wine enthusiasts as well as nature lovers. Val d’Aosta: Italy’s Smallest Region with Grand Scenery Finally, the hosts turn their attention to Val d’Aosta, Italy’s smallest region, celebrated for its pristine air and natural beauty—a stark contrast to the urban hustle of Milan. Kimberly and Tomasso share exhilarating skiing experiences at the Matterhorn and Cervinia, and explore the region’s impressive wine production and breathtaking scenery, especially around Courmayeur. This segment promises to inspire outdoor adventurers and those seeking tranquility. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook  Looking Ahead Stay tuned as Kimberly and Tommaso continue their biweekly journey through Italy’s regions, providing invaluable insights and travel tips. Thank you for joining us on Kimberly’s Italy, where every episode brings you closer to the heart of this magnificent country. Happy travels!

    27 min
  4. 162. Summer Recap and News You Need to Know!

    SEP 4

    162. Summer Recap and News You Need to Know!

    Welcome to another episode of Kimberly’s Italy, hosted by Kimberly and Tommaso! In this episode, we dive into the art of exploring Italy beyond the typical tourist destinations, offering personalized recommendations and sharing captivating client travel stories. Here’s what you can expect: Client Travel Stories Listeners will be inspired by diverse travel experiences from Kimberly's clients: Family Adventure: A family chooses a tranquil village in Lake Como and enjoyed the convenience of a hired driver. Friends’ Extended Stay: Despite multiple train rides, two friends make the most of their month long Italian vacation. Couple’s Romantic Getaway: From moped tours in Rome to exquisite wine tastings, a couple savors various activities across Italy on their FIRST TRIP to Europe! Memorable Narratives Driving to La Spezia: One woman’s scenic driving trip that she LOVED! Milan, Parma, and Tuscany: A family indulges in private tours and immersive cooking classes. Amalfi Coast Escape: A mid-June trip to the Amalfi Coast becomes a family’s best vacation ever, thanks to their strategic decision to avoid crowded Positano. Kimberly and Tommaso also keep listeners informed about important travel updates: EU Travel Regulations: By November 2024, non-EU travelers will need to register biometric data, with the EES system coming in November 2024. Pantheon Entry Fee: Tommaso highlights the introduction of an entry fee for the Pantheon in Rome, which has significantly boosted revenue, benefiting cultural and religious institutions. Housing Market Impact: The hosts discuss the effects of short-term rentals on Italy’s housing market and new regulations for property owners. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook  Future Episodes Stay tuned as Kimberly and Tommaso continue their biweekly journey through Italy’s regions, providing invaluable insights and travel tips. Thank you for joining us on Kimberly’s Italy, where every episode brings you closer to the heart of this magnificent country. Happy travels!

    26 min
  5. 161. The 20 Regions of Italy Explained #1

    AUG 28

    161. The 20 Regions of Italy Explained #1

    Join us as we embark on a journey through Italy’s 20 regions, bringing the diverse culture, rich history, stunning art, delectable cuisine, and exquisite wine of this beautiful country to life. Whether you are a seasoned traveler or have yet to visit Italy, our episodes aim to provide a vivid introduction to what makes each region unique. Additionally, Kimberly organizes private trips to Italy, offering listeners a chance to experience these wonders firsthand. Episode Highlights: The Regions of Friuli Venezia Giulia, Veneto, and South Tyrol Friuli Venezia Giulia: Geographical Influence: This region is uniquely shaped by its proximity to Slovenia and Austria, influencing both its language and cuisine. Cultural and Historical Points: Trieste’s Habsburg architecture, its bustling port, and literary cafés frequented by James Joyce are key highlights. Wine and Landscapes: Known for its renowned white wine vineyards, colorful traditional costumes, and mountainous scenery, including the intriguing, submerged bell tower in Lago di Resia. Veneto: Adriatic Sea Border: Famous for its iconic cities such as Venice and Verona. Lesser-Known Gems: Discover Vicenza, Belluno, Padova, and Rovigo, each celebrated for their rich history and in Vicenza’s case, Palladian architecture at it’s best. Natural Beauty: Admire the splendor of Lago di Garda and explore the variety of outdoor activities available in the region. South Tyrol: Stunning Landscapes and Cultural Diversity: Enjoy 300 days of sunshine annually and marvel at the exceptional beauty of the Dolomites. Outdoor Activities: A paradise for skiing, hiking, and mountain biking enthusiasts. Charming Towns: Trento and Bolzano are highlighted for their diverse cuisines and distinctive architecture. Historical Significance: The region’s history as a corridor for conquerors and crusaders is verified by its numerous castles. Looking Ahead: Future episodes will cover more fascinating regions such as Lombardia, Piemonte, Aosta Valley, and Liguria. Our aim is to provide in-depth insights without overwhelming our listeners, ensuring each region receives the attention it deserves. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook  Join us on this exciting adventure through Italy’s 20 regions with Kimberly and Tommaso. Buon viaggio!

    25 min
  6. 160.  Pioneers of a Tuscan Fixer Upper!

    AUG 20

    160. Pioneers of a Tuscan Fixer Upper!

    In this humorous episode of “Kimberly’s Italy,” hosts Kimberly and Tommaso sit down with Janice to discuss her fascinating journey of purchasing and renovating a dilapidated house in Lunigiana, Tuscany, over two decades ago. The episode delves into the ups and downs of transforming a neglected property into a cherished home, set against the backdrop of one of Italy’s most picturesque regions. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook  Key Highlights: Meeting and Friendship: Kimberly recounts meeting Janice in Manhattan, where their shared passion for Italy laid the foundation for a lasting friendship. Choosing Lunigiana: Janice, originally from England, chose Lunigiana for its stunning landscapes and affordable real estate, marking the beginning of her Italian adventure. Renovation Challenges: Janice discusses the various hurdles she and Richard faced, such as language barriers and navigating local regulations. The importance of finding a geometra, a local expert in managing building tasks, is emphasized. Community Support: Janice shares stories of the welcoming locals, particularly neighbors Enzo and Rosetta, who provided invaluable support. The rural lifestyle, steeped in traditional farming practices, presented a stark contrast to their urban backgrounds. Cultural Enrichment: The expertise of the local villagers in gardening and cooking greatly enriched Janice and Richard’s experience, even though it sometimes made them feel out of their depth. The high quality of local produce and the dedication of residents to sourcing the best ingredients were highlights of their new life. Modernization and Social Media: Over the years, technological advancements have brought modern conveniences to the village while preserving its charm. Social media has played a role in strengthening community bonds and enhancing participation in local events. Affordable Real Estate and Community Life: The episode touches on the allure of affordable homes in other regions like Calabria or Sicily. Janice’s anecdotes illustrate the importance of community support, and the creativity needed to solve everyday problems. Celebrating Two Decades in Vezzanello: After more than 20 years in their renovated home, Janice reflects on the strong community ties and friendships formed with both locals and fellow expatriates and the blend of urban and rural lifestyles Join Kimberly for this engaging and informative conversation with Janice, as they celebrate the joys and challenges of making a home in beautiful Lunigiana, Tuscany. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook

    35 min
  7. 159. The Sopranos come to Portofino

    AUG 14

    159. The Sopranos come to Portofino

    Tommaso delves into the intriguing and somewhat clandestine world of air conditioning in the picturesque town of Portofino. Here are the key highlights: Strict Regulations in Portofino: Portofino’s stringent regulations aim to preserve the town’s aesthetic charm by heavily restricting air conditioning installations. Tommaso humorously compares the covert operations of installing air conditioners to scenes from “The Sopranos,” highlighting the lengths to which some residents go to stay cool. Extravagant Events vs. Small Population: The episode juxtaposes the lavish lifestyle in Portofino, such as a $139 million pre-wedding party, against the town’s small permanent population of just 379 residents. This contrast underscores the unique socio-economic dynamics within the town. Enforcement and Tensions: With temperatures soaring, locals have increasingly reported illegal air conditioning units, prompting police patrols and enforcement actions. From January to July, 33 cases were reported, amounting to roughly 10% of the population, with fines reaching up to €50,000 for offenders. Enhanced Surveillance and Privacy Concerns: The local police have considered using drones to monitor illegal installations, though privacy concerns have been raised by the town’s mayor. Heatwave and Rising Tensions: Amidst a record heatwave with temperatures exceeding 40 degrees Celsius, tensions among residents have heightened. The situation has fostered an atmosphere of neighborly vendetta, with individuals reporting each other over illegal air conditioning units. Join Tommaso as he explains this fascinating aspect of life in Portofino, blending humor with insightful commentary on the lengths people will go to maintain comfort and the impact of strict regulations on community dynamics. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook

    6 min
  8. 158. The Summer of Misconduct!

    AUG 7

    158. The Summer of Misconduct!

    Welcome to another episode of our travel series with your hosts Kimberly and Tommaso! In today’s discussion, we delve into the critical topic of being a considerate visitor in Italy. With the travel season in full swing, it’s more important than ever to respect local communities and employees. Main Theme: Respectful and Thoughtful Tourism Challenges Faced by Locals and Infrastructure: We explore the impact of tourism on local servers and infrastructure. The summer influx can strain resources, as seen with Capri’s water system failures and issues with inadequate air conditioning. Tips for tourists include greeting locals politely and exercising patience, which can go a long way in fostering positive interactions. Advantages of Off-Season Travel: Consider visiting during the off-season to avoid overcrowding and enjoy a more relaxed experience. This can also alleviate some of the stress on local resources. Mass Tourism and Its Effects: The episode sheds light on how mass tourism affects housing and living conditions, using Barcelona and Mallorca as examples. We discuss the rise in rents and the role of platforms like Airbnb in the housing crisis. Hear about the local protests and the growing call for regulations to manage these challenges effectively. Addressing Disruptive Behavior: Disruptive tourist actions, such as vandalism in Florence and unauthorized events in Sardinia, are significant issues. We talk about the importance of stricter regulations to preserve the integrity of these destinations. Our hosts emphasize the need for tourists to respect local customs and laws to ensure a harmonious travel experience. Practical Tips for Travelers: Simple actions like being patient, understanding local challenges, and planning visits during less busy times can significantly enhance your travel experience and support the local communities. Join Kimberly and Tommaso as they provide insights and practical advice on how to be a considerate and respectful visitor. Whether you’re planning a trip to Italy or any other popular destination, this episode is packed with valuable information to help you travel thoughtfully. Thank you for tuning in! Don’t forget to subscribe for more travel tips and stories, and share your experiences with us on our social media channels. Happy travels! Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook

    23 min
4.8
out of 5
154 Ratings

About

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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