Kimberly's Italy Kimberly Holcombe

Welcome to another episode of “Kimberly’s Italy,” where I, Kimberly and my co-host Tommaso, take you on a journey through the captivating regions of Italy. In this episode, I shift the spotlight to the stunning Lake Como and its charming surrounding villages. As Rome prepares for an influx of visitors for the Catholic Church Jubilee in 2025, we offer recommendations for alternative travel destinations, encouraging you to explore less touristy areas for a more authentic Italian experience.
Main Themes:


Alternative Travel Destinations: With Rome expected to be bustling with Jubilee visitors, I suggest considering Lake Como as a serene and picturesque alternative.


Personal Experiences: I share my personal visits to Lake Como during off-peak seasons, highlighting the benefits of avoiding large crowds and truly immersing in the local culture.


Diverse Attractions: From dining and shopping in Como to the tranquil charm of villages like Moltrasio, there’s something for every traveler. Noteworthy mentions include the elegant Passalacqua hotel and the beautiful gardens and artwork at Hotel Tremezzo and Villa Carlota in Tremezzo.


Limited Ferry Services: While ferry services may be limited in some areas, I assure you that villages such as Laglio and Argegno, offer exceptional dining, hiking, and breathtaking views of the Alps.


Historic Villas and Bustling Waterfronts: North of Argegno, explore Sala Comacina and Leno, known for their historic villas and vibrant waterfronts with public markets and eateries.


Ease of Mobility in Menaggio: Menaggio is highlighted for its easier mobility and less crowded atmosphere compared to Bellagio and Como.


Sailing and Kiting Adventures: For the adventurous, I discuss the thrilling sailing and kiting experiences available, particularly at the Bellano Sailing School near Varenna.

This episode emphasizes the joy of uncovering hidden gems and experiencing local life away from the usual tourist trails. Join me and my co-host Tommaso as we delve into the wonders of Lake Como, offering practical tips and heartfelt stories to inspire your next Italian adventure.
Follow us on Social Media

Instagram

Facebook 

Episode Highlights:
Join us ( Kimberly and Tommaso) as we shine a light on the lesser-known gems of Italy—Piacenza and Pistoia. This episode is packed with insightful tips to inspire your next Italian adventure beyond the usual tourist hotspots like Rome and Florence.
Introduction to Piacenza and Pistoia:
Discover the charm of these lesser-known cities that offer a rich blend of history, culture, and architectural beauty.
Learn why venturing beyond the typical destinations can provide a more fulfilling and less exhausting travel experience.
Trip Planning Tips:

We discuss the common challenges of trip planning in Italy and offer practical strategies for managing tourist crowds.

We highlight the benefits of exploring smaller cities to truly appreciate local culture without the overwhelm.

Spotlight on Pistoia:

Known as a quieter alternative to Florence, Pistoia boasts natural beauty, thermal baths, and unique architecture.

Suggestions for staying in Pistoia and taking day trips to Florence or Lucca for a balanced experience.

Highlights include the architectural wonders of Piazza del Duomo, the Bishop’s residence, the bell tower, and the baptistery.

A nod to Pistoia’s designation as the capital of culture in 2017, enhancing its appeal.

Exploring Piacenza:

Piacenza offers a peaceful atmosphere, contrasting with the bustling vibe of Milano.

Despite fewer hotel options, Piacenza provides lovely accommodations and a welcoming ambiance.

Key sites include Piazza San Antonio, Piazza Cavalli with its equestrian statues, and Palazzo Gotico.

Delve into the city’s rich history, including notable visits from Leonardo da Vinci.

Indulge in Piacenza’s local salumi for an authentic taste of Italian cuisine.


Follow us on Social Media

Instagram

Facebook 

Welcome to another episode of our podcast, where we delve into the multifaceted world of travel in Italy. In this episode, we share essential travel updates, and practical tips to enhance your Italian adventure.
Travel Updates: Current Events and Their Impact

Volcanic Activity: Mount Etna’s eruptions disrupt flights, emphasizing the need for flexible travel plans.

Rising Costs: Increased demand and prices for flights to islands like Sardinia, coupled with the Italian government’s failed price cap attempt due to airline pressure.

Wine Quality: Volcanic ash affects the quality of local wines, a point of interest for oenophiles.

Weather Challenges: Intense storms and unpredictable weather call for thorough preparation and local advice.

Practical Tips: Navigating Challenges and Enjoying Italy

Drought in Sicily: Severe drought leads to water restrictions, impacting tourism and agriculture. Visitors are advised to be mindful of water usage.

Heat Management: Summers in Italian cities can be brutal. Tips include:

Early sightseeing and visiting air-conditioned museums.

Carrying water bottles and utilizing public water fountains.

Opting for light meals and moderating alcohol intake.

Finding shady streets and planning evening activities for cooler experiences.

Special Advice for Visiting Venice

To beat the crowds and heat, consider rising early, taking siestas, and exploring the city at night.

Teaser: Stay tuned for the next episode where we will discuss two charming small Italian cities worth visiting.

Join us as we continue to explore the wonders of Italy, offering heartfelt stories, essential updates, and valuable tips to make your journey unforgettable.
Follow us on Social Media

Instagram

Facebook 

Join us as we embark on a picturesque journey to Riva del Garda, situated on the stunning Lake Garda. In this episode, we delve into the region’s rich sailing culture, its natural beauty, and the profound impact of travel planning.
Key Highlights:
Riva del Garda - A Sailor’s Paradise:

Discover why Lake Garda is a renowned hotspot for sailing activities such as windsurfing, wind foiling, and kite surfing.

Contrast between traditional windsurfing and modern sailing trends.

The unique winds generated by the Dolomites make Lake Garda an ideal location for sailing enthusiasts.

Importance of Meticulous Travel Planning:

Anecdote highlighting the value of detailed travel planning through a client’s praise for a well-organized trip to Italy.

Tips on how personalized travel advice can enhance the travel experience.

Social Media’s Impact on Tourist Destinations:

Example of Varenna on Lake Como becoming overcrowded due to its popularity on social media.

Discussion on how this trend affects the authenticity and enjoyment of travel spots.

Exploring Riva del Garda:

The charm of Riva del Garda’s Centro Storico with its preserved buildings, diverse architecture, and car-free streets.

Outdoor dining experiences and the local shopping scene.

Historical landmarks such as the old clock tower and sailing schools with skilled windsurfers.

Venturing Beyond Riva del Garda:

Visits to Malcesina, featuring a medieval castle and a cable car ride to Montebaldo.

Exploration of Bartolino, celebrated for its sailing clubs and water sports activities.

Scenic Walks and Architectural Contrasts:
A leisurely walk along Lungo Lago in Bardolino showcasing scenic views and architectural differences compared to Riva.
Culinary Delights at Desenzano:

A stop at the Eseilunga grocery store in Desenzano, highlighting the variety and quality of Italian products.

Purchase of ingredients for a late-night pasta meal, celebrating the rich flavors of Italian cuisine.

Reflecting on Lake Garda’s Allure:
Deep appreciation for the region’s beauty and the possibility of making Garda a future home.
Tune in to this episode to experience the magic of Lake Garda through vivid storytelling and insightful reflections. Whether you’re a seasoned traveler or planning your first trip, you’ll find plenty of inspiration and practical tips for your next adventure.
Follow us on Social Media

Instagram

Facebook 

Welcome back to our podcast, where Tommaso and I, Kimberly, celebrate Italy’s rich history, culture, cuisine, architecture, and art. In our latest episode, we took a deep dive into the enchanting region of South Tyrol. We were thrilled to share some of the glowing listener reviews that perfectly capture the simple pleasures of Italy. Our mission is to inspire and educate you on planning your next Italian adventure, fueled by our passion for this incredible country.
Recently, Tommaso and I embarked on a delightful journey to Trento, a charming city nestled in the Trentino Aldo Adige region. Our adventure began with a picturesque drive from Lago di Garda, and to our delight, we found free parking upon arrival. Trento’s unique blend of Venetian and Austro-Hungarian architectural influences left us in awe.
One of the highlights of our visit was the Piazza del Duomo, where we marveled at the impressive Romanesque and Gothic styles. We also loved the vibrant atmosphere of the student-filled piazza near where we enjoyed a delightful lunch at a local trattoria.
Our exploration didn’t stop there. We visited the historical Castello Buonconsiglio, a fortress with sections dating back to different periods. Strolling through Trento’s Centro Historico, we couldn’t help but appreciate the city’s clean, cohesive design and distinctive reddish stone tiles.
As our visit to Trento concluded, we made plans to see come back to Trento and strongly recommended that you explore lesser-known destinations like Trento instead of the usual tourist hotspots. Don’t forget to subscribe to our podcast for more travel tips and updates. We can’t wait to share our next Italian adventure with you!
Follow us on Social Media

Instagram

Facebook 

Episode Highlights:

Lago d’Iseo: Our journey to the lake, filled with challenging switchback roads, offering thrilling views and driving experiences.

Monte Isola: Europe’s largest inhabited lake island, rich in history and cultural significance.

Art and Culture:

Christo’s 2016 Art Installation: The floating dock covered in yellow fabric on Lago di Seo, a remarkable project that attracted global attention and left a lasting impact on the local community.

Exhibition of Christo’s Work: A dive into the artist’s creative world and legacy.

Local Experiences:

Ferry Ride: Embracing local customs and enjoying a search for delicious food.

Gastronomy: Savoring pizza and Aperol spritz while soaking in the tranquil Italian lifestyle.

Scenic Beauty and Historic Exploration:

Lake Imagery: Vivid descriptions of the stunning lakes and pristine villages.

Historic Towns: Cappuccinos and exploration of towns with rich architectural diversity and a church with Roman foundations.

Memorable Moments:

Unfinished Piazza: The charm of an incomplete piazza in a village, symbolizing Italy’s unique character.

Cautionary Tale: A story about a tourist fined for walking on a protected pink sand beach in Sardinia, emphasizing the importance of respecting local regulations.

Closing Thoughts:
Gratitude: I have to express my heartfelt thanks to you for all of the emails, texts and social media messages after the death of my mother