223. Bologna, A City Full of Surprises

Please follow us on: Instagram or Facebook. Grazie Mille!In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso head to the historic city of Bologna for a three-day trip filled with incredible food, unexpected sights, and plenty of local character.Key Points:Arrival and Accommodations:They share thoughts on rolling luggage in the Centro Storico and why local discussions about potential bans are happening.Kimberly describes their exceptional loft-style rental in Piazza Santo Stefano, complete with high ceilings, art books, and thoughtful amenities.Exploring the City:Kimberly visits the Basilica di San Petronio and the Archiginnasio courtyard, noting the mesmerizing heraldic crests.While enjoying a pink gin cocktail in Piazza Santo Stefano, Tommaso spots the hundreds of sculpted heads known as mascheroni underneath the roofline.The pair hits the greatest hits of Bologna, including Piazza Maggiore at dusk and the narrow Mercato alleyways.Culinary Adventures:Kimberly and Tommaso dine at a small trattoria featuring a massive historic chandelier and incredible local dishes.Tommaso samples the traditional ragù bolognese, sparking a multi-day comparison across the city’s restaurants.Kimberly enjoys butternut-filled tortelloni with taleggio cheese sauce and homemade tiramisu.Episode Highlight: Light Projections on San PetronioSitting at a historic cafe in front of the Basilica San Petronio, Kimberly and Tommaso watch a rehearsal of digitized historical blueprints and unrealized architectural designs projected onto the 13th-century façade.The Walk to San Luca:Kimberly and Tommaso for the first time took the two-and-a-half-mile walk up to the Santuario della Madonna di San Luca beneath the 666 covered arches.Kimberly describes the combination of heat and the very long incline and how it affects some people (namely herself).After reaching the top, a timely taxi ride brings them back down just as the rain starts.Reflections and Future Plans:The trip concludes with an early morning visit to the local market for salami and fresh tortellini before the crowds arrive.Kimberly and Tommaso reflect on their choice of a secondary road to drive home through Emilia-Romagna and plan a return trip to Bologna in the early spring.Join us in this episode as we explore the culinary heart of Italy, sharing practical travel tips, personal anecdotes for their most recent visit to Bologna.

Please follow us on: Instagram or Facebook. Grazie Mille!In this episode of our podcast, Kimberly and Tommaso continue their discussion on the Dolomites, focusing on the second half of their recent trip to Alta Badia, local conservation efforts, historical insights, and practical travel tips for visiting the region.Key Points:UNESCO Protection in the Dolomites:Kimberly highlights how the UNESCO World Heritage status protects the natural landscape through zero-emission public buses, recycling stations, and sustainable travel initiatives.Mountain hut managers work together to protect the environment and share conservation ideas.Zero-Emission Transit and Travel Tips:Tommaso shares details about the lime green buses running on hydrogen fuel cells and electric motors that recover energy on descents.Kimberly recommends purchasing gondola and chairlift tickets online via QR codes to avoid long lines during peak summer months.The History and Geography of Lagazuoi:Kimberly and Tommaso discuss the unique geological formation of Lagazuoi which originated from an ancient sea and features fossilized atoll reef walls.The area holds World War I history, where the Italian Alpini and Austro-Hungarian troops engaged in underground mine warfare using pickaxes and shovels.Navigating Crowds and Fall Weather:Kimberly and Tommaso experience heavy tourist crowds even in early September and discuss the seasonal closures of cable cars and rifugios heading into November.Kimberly provides tips on mountain driving, noting the intense switchbacks of road SS 243 and the importance of passenger assistance during rainy weather conditions.Looking Ahead:Kimberly and Tommaso preview the next episode, which covers their recent trip to Bologna and Tommaso's ongoing quest to master ragù bolognese.Join us in this episode as Kimberly and Tommaso share realistic insights and personal experiences on traveling through the stunning Italian mountains.

Please follow us on: Instagram or Facebook. Grazie Mille!In this episode of Kimberly’s Italy, the hosts discuss their recent trip to the Dolomiti to celebrate their 30th anniversary, while also addressing concerns regarding AI content scraping.Addressing the AI Landscape:Tommaso shares concerns about bulk downloads and AI scraping of their podcast content over the past five and a half years.The hosts discuss the challenges independent creators face when content is repurposed without permission.A strategy for 2027 and beyond is currently in development.Episode Highlight: Driving and Exploring the DolomitesKimberly and Tommaso explain why driving is essential to experience the Dolomites fully, noting the lack of extensive train lines.Along the winding mountain roads, they encounter steep vineyards, vibrant green bus fleets navigating tight switchbacks, and dramatic alpine scenery.They stop in Alta Badia and enjoy local culinary treats, elegant gin e tonica presentations, and traditional South Tyrolean hospitality.Hiking and Mountain RifugiosThe couple takes a gondola up the mountain before hiking well-maintained gravel paths ranging in difficulty levels.They share tips on starting hikes earlier or later to avoid midday crowds at the popular mountain rifugios.A chance encounter at a rifugio leads to a small world moment when they meet travelers with connections to their former home of Jamestown.The Descent and Local EncountersThe return hike involves a steep 30-degree descent through a mountain forest, complete with loose stones and unexpected logging trucks.The evening concludes with a celebratory dinner at a restaurant featuring a hidden Scotch and cognac room.Reflections and Future PlansThe hosts wrap up by promising upcoming episodes on popular rifugios, hiking routes, and the surprisingly reliable mountain bus system.Join Kimberly and Tommaso as they share real-life travel experiences and practical advice for exploring Italy.

Please follow us on: Instagram or Facebook. Grazie Mille!In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso discuss the benefits of adopting a slow and sustainable approach to travel. They explore how breaking away from rigid, high-speed itineraries allows for more meaningful connections with local culture and communities.Key Points:The Pitfalls of Rigid Itineraries:Kimberly and Tommaso observe that jam-packed schedules can lead to exhaustion and a lack of genuine connection to a destination.They share a personal anecdote about a family at a local market to highlight how travel can sometimes become a source of stress rather than enjoyment.The focus is on moving away from the urge to “see it all” in favor of lingering in places that allow for real experience.The Philosophy of Slow Travel:Rooted in the slow food movement, slow travel emphasizes staying longer in one location.By choosing smaller accommodations and avoiding the rush, travelers can engage with locals who offer insider tips on festivals, cuisine, and history.Tommaso suggests using alternatives like e-bikes to explore nearby villages without the pressure of a strict timeline.Sustainable Travel Practices:Kimberly and Tommaso highlight that sustainable travel is about conscious choices, such as using public transit and supporting local artisans.They discuss Italy’s robust recycling culture and how taking the time to dispose of waste properly contributes to the health of the local environment.Choosing small, family-owned hotels over global chains helps direct funds back into the local economy.Memorable Experiences:Tommaso recalls a trip to Puglia where a casual conversation led to an invitation to a family-run olive orchard, proving that spontaneity often leads to the best moments.Kimberly shares the joy of participating in local traditions like the “passeggiata,” a nightly stroll that connects visitors to the heartbeat of a town.Actionable Insights:Research your destination ahead of time but leave room for the unexpected.Prioritize local interactions by staying in small hotels and visiting community-focused shops.Embrace “unplanned travel” by picking a home base and taking day trips (perhaps on a whim) to surrounding areas via train or bike.Join Kimberly and Tommaso as they share how changing your mindset can lead to a more enriching, low-impact, and memorable travel experience.

Please follow us on: Instagram or Facebook. Grazie Mille!Key Points:The Road Trip Experience:Kimberly and Tommaso drive from Italy to Zurich, exploring both the west and east routes.They discuss the “vignette” sticker requirement for Swiss highways and offer a heads-up on potential scams when purchasing one.Navigating Borders and Logistics:The hosts provide an honest look at border crossings, including their experience at the Swiss-Italian border.Driving through the San Gottardo tunnel and the San Bernardino Pass offers a mix of scenic beauty and technical driving challenges.They touch on the cultural differences in driving styles between Italy, Switzerland, and Germany.Episode Highlight: Zurich’s Unique Design and CuisineThe pair highlights the visual and design-centric culture of Zurich, noting it as a destination for those who appreciate typography and architecture.Tommaso recounts the experience of ordering what was touted as the “best burger” in Zurich.The hosts reflect on the unique, hearty nature of alpine cuisine compared to their usual Italian fare.The Reality of AI and Podcasting:Kimberly and Tommaso express frustration regarding AI tools being used to scrape their content without permission.They share this update to keep their listeners informed and to emphasize the value of original, human-led storytelling.Join us in this episode as we share our latest travel adventures and offer a realistic look at life as podcast hosts.

THIS Episode was remixed to comply with Spotify's RequestPlease follow us on: Instagram or Facebook. Grazie Mille!In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their latest experiences settling into life in Italy, including a humorous misunderstanding that spiraled into a “spaghetti western” drama and four fantastic community dinners!Key Points:The Spaghetti Western Incident:Tommaso attempts to help a neighbor with parking, only to have the gesture misinterpreted as a confrontation.The situation leads to an “international incident” involving high-drama phone calls and neighborhood tension.Kimberly plays the role of diplomatic emissary, eventually cooling the situation by speaking with the neighbors at their home.The incident is resolved when the neighbors realize the space is indeed problematic, mirroring the original warning.Cena Insieme (Dining Together):We explore the local tradition of village-organized community dinners that happen all summer long.These events, ranging from rice festivals to Roman-themed nights, showcase incredible volunteer spirit and high-quality food.Kimberly Holcomb and Tommaso highlight the efficiency, environmental consciousness, and community pride involved in these gatherings.Episode Highlight: The Power of Community:During a church-sponsored fundraiser dinner, we observe local children volunteering to serve, highlighting the strong sense of family and social responsibility in the village.Notably, at a dinner with thousands of attendees, we notice a distinct lack of mobile phone use, focusing instead on shared conversation and community connection.Travel Updates and Heatwave Realities:We discuss the surge in Italian tourism this year and the shift toward popular regions like Calabria.Insights from local hospitality professionals suggest tourists are prioritizing base expenses, which affects secondary services like private tours.We share our experience with record-breaking temperatures in Italy and offer suggestions for planning future visits during the off-season.Reflections and Future Plans:Kimberly and Tommaso express their desire to continue exploring new corners of Italy while maintaining a realistic perspective on travel.We look forward to more community events and eventually participating as volunteers ourselves.Join us as we navigate the life of expats in Italy, sharing our stories of cultural adaptation, local connections, and the beautiful realities of daily life in a small village.

Please follow us on: Instagram or Facebook. Grazie Mille!In this episode of “Kimberly’s Italy,” Tommaso and Kimberly embark on a culinary journey across Italy, exploring how pizza transforms across the country’s 20 distinct regions.Key Points:Regional Pizza Variations:Italy’s diverse geography and history are reflected in its pizza, with each region offering unique toppings, dough preparation, and baking methods.From the hearty mountain-style pies in Val d’Aosta topped with fontina and prosciutto to the Roman “pizza al taglio” sold by weight, the concept of a “national” pizza is more of a local mosaic.Tommaso and Kimberly discuss regional specialties such as panzerotti in Lombardia, the “pizza gourmet” style of the Veneto, and the Mediterranean-Alpine fusion found in Friuli Venezia Giulia.Culinary Philosophy:The hosts highlight the “less is more” approach in Tuscany, where quality ingredients take center stage, contrasting with the more experimental or historic traditions found elsewhere.The conversation touches on the specific rules of the “pizza napolitana” protected by the Associazione Verace Pizza Napolitana, representing the gold standard of the craft.The hosts share personal anecdotes, including their experiences with local ingredients and their occasional confusion over unconventional toppings like potatoes or French fries.The “Pizza Tour”:The episode serves as a geographical tour starting from the Alps in the north and moving down to the islands of Sicily and Sardinia.Each region reveals how climate, history, and local agriculture—from Alpine cheeses to coastal seafood—shape the local menu.Reflections and Future Plans:Tommaso and Kimberly share excitement about their upcoming road trips to explore these regional flavors in person.Looking ahead, the hosts tease a future episode focused on Italy’s history of stone and marble, moving beyond food to the architectural foundations of the country.Join us in this episode as Tommaso and Kimberly provide an engaging, appetite-inducing look at the local identities behind Italy’s most popular dish.

Please follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! If you enjoy our podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Grazie Mille! In this episode of Kimberly’s Italy, Kimberly and Tommaso take a deep dive into the history, myths, and personal stories surrounding Italy’s most beloved dish: pizza. Key Points: The Universal Appeal of Pizza: Pizza is a global phenomenon, with 3 billion pizzas sold annually in the United States and a similar production rate in Italy, despite the massive difference in size between the two countries. From ancient flatbreads like the Roman “penne focaccias” to the Greek “plakos,” the concept of topped dough is a universal cooking instinct. The History of the Tomato and Neapolitan Origins:  We examine the arrival of the tomato in the 16th century and why it was initially viewed with suspicion by the locals. Napoli in the 1700s served as the true birthplace of pizza, where it emerged as a necessary, affordable street food for the impoverished “Lazzaroni” population. We look at the rise of the first sit-down pizzerias, including the historic Antica Pizzeria Port d’Alba, which is still in business today. Episode Highlight: Pizza Myths and Naming:  We share the popular legend of Raffaele Esposito creating the Margherita pizza for Queen Margherita of Savoy in 1889. Records suggest these flavor combinations existed decades earlier, proving that in Italy, every story has multiple versions. We clarify the origins of the “marinara” pizza, which, contrary to popular belief, is not named for seafood, but for the sailor’s wife who prepared it. Personal Reflections and Memories:  Kimberly and Tommaso share their formative experiences with pizza in Chicago and New England, from visits to the original Pizzeria Uno to local spots that were central to their youth. We discuss the transition from making homemade pizza in the U.S. to enjoying authentic Italian options in their new home. Looking Ahead:  We conclude this episode by noting that the conversation is far from finished. Join us in the next episode as we explore the savory evolution of pizza and examine the diverse regional styles you might encounter on your next trip to Italy.

Please follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! If you enjoy our podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Grazie Mille! In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their experiences at Italy's lively street markets, called mercati. They describe the sights, sounds, and unique items available. They also share a brief history of these markets and highlight some famous ones across Italy.In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their experiences at Italy's lively street markets, called mercati. They describe the sights, sounds, and unique items available. They also share a brief history of these markets and highlight some famous ones across Italy. Key Points: Italian street markets are a sensory experience. They are fun and entertaining, offering a look into daily Italian life. Markets offer a mix of products. You can find everything from food to clothing to household items. Musicians often play live music, adding to the atmosphere.Vendors sell unique items. These include handmade wood products, lemon-themed ceramics, and local honey. Food at the markets is fresh. Many vendors proudly advertise 0km products, meaning they are locally sourced. Episode Highlights: The diverse offerings at local markets. Tommaso notes how you can buy prosciutto, bikinis, linen suits, and fresh sandwiches all in one place. Tommaso shares how the local honey he purchases at the market has helped reduce his allergies since moving to Italy. Learning patience. Tommaso observes that Italians are very patient, especially when facing minor delays. Famous Markets Across Italy: Milan: Naviglio Grande Mercato is an antique market held on the last Sunday of each month. It is located by a canal with many bars and shops. Florence: Mercato Nuovo, which means new market, was established ten centuries ago. It is famous for leather goods and is open daily. Rome: Campo dei Fiori is a large, busy food market open every day except Sundays. Porta Portese is a famous flea market in Trastevere, open only on Sundays from early morning. Genova: Mercato Orientale is on the east side of Genova. It offers an authentic experience and is open daily except Sundays. Palermo: La Vucciaria is a chaotic market known for seafood and other goods. Ballaro has an Arabian feel with vendors singing to attract customers. Naples: Napolitano markets are known for being loud, chaotic, and intense, reflecting the cityÕs unique soul. Bologna: The markets in Bologna, especially in the Quadrilatero area, are located on narrow walkways. They offer a shopping experience with butchers, fishmongers, and bakers. The Mercato di Mezzo is an impressive three-story indoor market that stays open late on weekends. Join Kimberly and Tommaso as they explore the true spirit of Italian street markets, providing a realistic and engaging look at these cultural hubs.

Please follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! If you enjoy our podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Grazie Mille! In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso explain that they sold their house in the US so they are now finally living full time in bel’italia.  They also share that the Italian summer season is off to a slow-ish start and offer travel insights and essential tips for anyone planning a summer trip to Italy. Key Points: A New Chapter in Italy: Kimberly and Tommaso reflect on their move to Italy, which began in late January. They describe the process of selling their home in America and the effort of downsizing 19 years of possessions. The couple shares their experiences adjusting to Italian life, including the pleasure of a relaxed pace and the genuine friendliness of locals. Italian Hospitality and Culture: Kimberly and Tommaso highlight the authentic warmth of Italian people, especially in service settings. They note a cultural difference where Italian service workers, who do not rely on tips, show genuine friendliness. This genuine nature contributes to a pleasant atmosphere in cafes and restaurants. Summer Travel Trends in Italy (2026): There are fewer American and Canadian tourists in Italy this year. European travelers are exploring destinations within Europe, often by car or camper van. Smaller, less-known Italian destinations are gaining popularity over major cities like Rome and Venice. Tourism statistics in Europe offer clear insights into these trends, showing shifts in visitor numbers and travel patterns. August Train Travel Tips: August brings track maintenance and updates to Italy’s rail system, especially on high-speed lines (Frecciarossa). This means fewer fast train options and potential delays, with “No Travel Found” messages indicating unreleased timetables. Regional trains may be the only option. They can be slower and more crowded. Italian Work-Life Balance: August is a popular month for Italians to take vacations. Many hospitality workers take a break. Italy mandates a minimum of four weeks of paid leave for employees. This policy supports employee well-being and contributes to a happy workforce. Quirky Beach Rules in Sardinia: The village of Villasimius on Sardinia has implemented new rules for Punta Molentis beach due to overtourism and a recent wildfire. New regulations include an entrance fee, parking limits, and mandatory reservations. Umbrellas are banned for most visitors, with exceptions only for children under 10 and adults over 65. These rules aim to manage crowds and protect the ecosystem. Dress Codes and Civility: Strict dress codes are in place in historic centers. Fines apply for walking around in swimwear or shirtless. Proper attire is required when using public transportation or entering establishments like cafes and gelaterias. This reflects Italy’s emphasis on respectability and civility, even for a culture known for its style and allure. Summer Weather and Sightseeing: Europe is experiencing active warming, with Italy often having warm, dry summers from mid-June to September. Kimberly recommends an early start to explore cities, followed by a late, light lunch and a “bel riposo” (nap) during the hottest part of the day. Evening strolls offer cooler temperatures and fewer crowds, providing a pleasant way to experience Italian cities. Join Kimberly and Tommaso as they navigate their new life in Italy, sharing practical advice and engaging stories to make your Italian travels memorable.