215. Italy's Markets Something Fun and Different to Do!

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.

Please follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! If you enjoy our podcast, please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Grazie Mille! This episode is an overall view of the process.... the paperwork, the hurdles, the big day when we got our Visa and the hustle when we arrived in 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, Tommaso and Kimberly state that they are back in the US preparing for the sale of their house yet will return to bel’Italia mid-June. They also share some travel tips for your next trip to Italy. Key Points: The prep involved to move from America to Italy: Kimberly explains why they potentially sound tired on this episode recording due to all they have done in the two weeks they have been in the US. She also compliments Tommaso on the consistent sound quality of their recent episodes considering they have recorded them without the normal equipment they had in their podcast studio in Rhode Island. Entry Exit System Update: Kimberly and Tommaso share the last-minute notice they got from their airline for their departure from Venice to the USA. This included leaving one day earlier than expected, booking a hotel in Venice and changing their train tickets. This let to their suggestion to always purchase train tickets than can be modified, cancelled or upgraded. More Travel Tips: Regarding any kind of medical emergency in Italy, big or small, they recommend purchasing travel insurance. However, if you do not have insurance coverage, they list various options of how to get treatment and important phone numbers to keep with you throughout your trip. Kimberly and Tommaso also stress the importance of how to not fall prey to pick pocketers. Pickpocketing is a profession in some countries, but you can follow the right steps to prevent it from happening to you. Tommaso also explains the more recent tactic of credit card skimmers and RFID scanners. He shares what you can do to prevent your banking information from being stolen. Episode 214 update: Kimberly and Tommaso admit that they will not be able to record the future episode #214 due to the timing and logistics of their move from America. So that one will be later than scheduled, but they WILL produce the next episode which will be #213.

In this episode, Tommaso and Kimberly share their road trip from Rome to Lago di Garda. They talk about unexpected turns, unique culinary experiences, and the unparalleled beauty of Tuscany in spring. Please follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! If you enjoy our podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, Grazie Mille! Key Points: Driving in Italy: Kimberly explains why they chose to pick up their rental car at Termini train station in Rome. They discuss the benefits of driving on secondary and tertiary roads, including Google Maps’ “punto panoramico” feature. Tommaso and Kimberly advise listeners to build in extra time for auto grills during holidays. Culinary Adventures: Kimberly shares details of a lunch with their friend Paolo, a private chef, including a twist on cannoli. They explain how to enjoy the aperitivo lifestyle in Italy, from simple snacks to elaborate preparations. Discovering Hidden Gems: They visit Montefollonico, a tiny hilltop village Tommaso describes as “almost too perfect.” Kimberly highlights the remarkable façade of the Duomo in Montefollonico They explore Castiglione del Lago in Umbria, a village they had never visited before. Reflections: Tommaso and Kimberly emphasize the unique beauty of Tuscany in spring, noting the vibrant green landscapes. They encourage listeners to consider early spring for travel to Tuscany to avoid crowds. They discuss how road tripping allows for spontaneous stops and discoveries.

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 celebrate five years and 210 episodes of their podcast. They reflect on their journey and share a two-day adventure in Rome, exploring hidden gems and unique experiences off the usual tourist path. Key Points: Five Years of Kimberly’s Italy: Kimberly and Tommaso mark the fifth anniversary of their first episode, launched on April 13, 2021. They recall starting the podcast during COVID, with Tommaso convincing Kimberly to overcome her initial hesitations about her voice. The most rewarding aspect has been connecting with listeners globally, who share their appreciation for the episodes. Important Travel Updates: The EES Situation Kimberly shares recent experiences with the EU’s Entry-Exit System (EES), noting it is slow and chaotic at most airports. She advises adding 45 minutes to an hour to estimated arrival times and avoiding connections in Schengen countries less than two hours apart. Tommaso recounts an incident at Linate Airport where 100 passengers missed their flight due to EES delays. Navigating Rome Off the Map: Kimberly and Tommaso spend 48 hours exploring Rome beyond major landmarks like the Colosseum, Vatican, and Trevi Fountain. They emphasize discovering the city’s authentic character by exploring smaller, less-traveled streets. Monti: A Local Roman Neighborhood: They stay in Monti, a less-touristy neighborhood northeast of the Colosseum, describing it as steep, narrow, and lived-in. Kimberly considers Monti more authentic than Trastevere, which has become overly crowded. Hidden Artistic and Historical Treasures: Kimberly visits the Basilica di San Pietro in Vincoli, home to Michelangelo’s Moses sculpture, noting its magnificence and free entry. They stumble upon a workshop where a craftsman restores antique frames, engaging in a dying art form. They discover a building covered in sgraffito, a Renaissance wall decoration technique. A Birthday in Rome: For Kimberly’s birthday, the itinerary includes exploring churches and meandering through the city. They encounter large crowds near the Pantheon due to Easter week, reminding listeners to consider the Easter holiday when planning spring trips. They visit San Louis des Français, admiring its intricate gold leaf and design. The “Flowers” Exhibit at Chiostro del Bramante: Kimberly and Tommaso visit an exhibition spanning centuries of art, from Renaissance to AI, all centered around flowers and the role they play in ecology. The exhibit includes immersive installations, film, painting, sculpture, and photography, with a notable display of bees building honeycomb on a mold of Emperor Hadrian’s face. The Apple Store at Palazzo Marignoli: They visit the Apple Store in Palazzo Marignoli, a beautifully renovated 1870s palace. The store features restored 1900s ceiling paintings and an original ballroom used for concerts, blending history with modern design. An interior courtyard with camphor trees pays tribute to a historic monastery, making the store a highlight of their trip. A Memorable Birthday Dinner: Based on a recommendation from their hotel bartender, they dine at a local osteria. Tommaso mentions Kimberly’s birthday to the owner, leading to an abundance of extra dishes. The evening concludes with a surprise birthday dessert and the entire restaurant singing “Happy Birthday.” Join Kimberly and Tommaso in this episode as they share realistic travel advice and authentic experiences from their Roman adventure, celebrating five years of podcasting, and making new memories.

In this episode, Tommaso and Kimberly share their recent 36-hour trip to Venice. They talk about what to do in Venice when you have no agenda and want to see the real Venice. Tommaso and Kimberly also discuss their amazing meal and their visit to the Leonardo da Vinci Museum. Please follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! If you enjoy our podcast please leave a review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify, Grazie Mille!   Key Points: Getting Lost in Venice: Tommaso shares that getting lost in Venice is not an accident. The city is designed to disorient you. When you get lost in Venice, you start to feel the history in your bones. Head to the smaller neighborhoods to avoid crowds. The smaller the alley, the better. Amazing Food: Tommaso and Kimberly had an amazing lunch in Venice at a place that only has one seating from noon to 2 PM. Tommaso said he had the best mussels of his life. Kimberly enjoyed a spicy red tomato sauce with shrimp pasta and dark bread. They found a bar on a quiet canal to enjoy a scotch ( OBAN!) . Leonardo da Vinci Interactive Museum: This museum is not a dusty art museum. Everything is interactive. The museum shows how one man’s mind worked. Leonardo designed flying machines, hydraulic systems, military inventions, surgical tools, and astronomical instruments. Tommaso discusses Leonardo’s 33-barreled organ gun, which solved the problem of slow reloading 15th-century weapons. Kimberly points out that Leonardo invented surgical tools. Piazza San Marco: Tommaso and Kimberly visited Cafe Florian in Piazza San Marco, where they danced alone 30 years ago. There was a four-piece band playing in the Piazza, and everyone applauded after each song. Tommaso encourages parents to take away their children’s phones so they can experience the magic of Piazza San Marco. Unexpected Encounters: Tommaso visited a bookstore called Mare di Catta, which is both a bookstore and a publisher. He met the owner, Christina, who is a native Venetian and is fluent in several languages. Christina knows Andrea Valicelli, a naval architect who designed yachts, and Tommaso hopes to interview her about Venice’s maritime history. Join Tommaso and Kimberly as they share their unique experiences in Venice, offering a different perspective on how to explore this historic city.

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 mention they started this podcast almost 5 years ago. They share stories from their two months since their move to Italy, highlighting the unique aspects of Italian culture, which are noticeable and well received. Key Points: Celebrating Five Years: Kimberly and Tommaso mark nearly five years of their podcast, which started on April 13, 2021. They plan a special 210th episode to celebrate this milestone, possibly a “Greatest Hits” edition. Living in Italy: Listeners have shown interest in their move to Italy, with many expressing that they are “living vicariously” through the hosts. Kimberly and Tommaso focus on sharing experiences that highlight Italian characteristics and culture. Daily Interactions: They have genuine conversations daily with locals in bakeries, pharmacies, and grocery stores. These interactions make them feel connected and help them make new friends. Locals often greet them by name, adding to their sense of belonging. Italian Hospitality: Kimberly and Tommaso recount being invited to a four-course dinner by a couple they met for only 15 minutes. Bar Culture: Italian bars serve multiple functions throughout the day, from coffee to aperitivo. Bars are lively, with baristas chatting to regulars who often read multiple newspapers over a single espresso. Italian Style: Italians, even in a small village, are well-dressed. The prevalence of tailor and shoe repair shops reflect the importance of Italian fashion. An Italian fashion designer explains that dressing well is a reflection of Italy’s culture of beauty. Simple Pleasures: Kimberly enjoys the abundant high-quality and reasonably priced Parmigiano cheese daily. Tommaso appreciates the respect shown to the elderly and the intergenerational communication he observes. Different Perspectives on Life: Younger Italians aspire to move to America for better economic opportunities. Older Italians express satisfaction with their lives in Italy, knowing they live well and in a beautiful country. Despite admitting to national problems, Italians generally view Italy as a good place to live. Travel Advisory: Kimberly mentions a Level 2 travel advisory for Europe due to the Middle East conflict. Travelers should be aware of “war exclusion clauses” in travel insurance policies, which can void coverage if traveling to warned areas. Kimberly recommends signing up for government alert systems like America’s Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP). Closing Thoughts: Kimberly and Tommaso thank listeners for their congratulatory messages and notes of “jealousy.” They give a shout-out to old neighbors, Tom and Nicole, who miss their laughter. The episode ends with a reminder that “laughter is the best medicine,” especially during challenging times. Ciao!!

Please follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their recent experiences moving to Italy, including challenging administrative tasks and funny observations. They also provide insights into upcoming travel changes in Italy, highlight various festivals, and discuss the growing issue of AI-generated travel content. Key Points: Navigating Italian Bureaucracy: Kimberly and Tommaso discuss the difficulties of setting up utilities and managing documents in Italy. Kimberly shares a humorous anecdote about forgetting her passport for a critical appointment, despite having submitted many copies previously. Tommaso jokes about the prevalence of hex screws in Italian furniture assembly, suggesting archaeologists would be confused by their abundance. Upcoming Travel Changes and Festivals: Kimberly mentions the ongoing, lengthy immigration process, which will take over a year and a half to complete. They praise the Arena di Verona, the venue for the recent Olympics closing ceremony, for its preservation and beauty. Kimberly and Tommaso talk about upcoming Italian festivals, including the Olive Oil Festival in Monopoli and the San Nicola celebration in Bari. Other events mentioned include the Valle d’Itria opera festival in Martina Franca and the Loco Rotondo Grape Festival in Puglia. They also highlight unique festivals in Tuscany, like the Palio di Somari (donkey race) in Torrita di Siena, and Pisa’s Luminaria di San Ranieri, a candlelit celebration along the Arno River. Annoying Travel Updates: Rome has started charging a two-euro fee to see the Trevi Fountain, following a successful experiment with an elevated walkway to control tourist flow. Kimberly and Tommaso discuss the delayed rollout of the EES (Entry-Exit System) and the Aetius Visa, noting long lines and potential four-hour delays at major European airports. They advise travelers to consider flying into smaller EU airports to avoid potential bottlenecks. The DHS’s shutdown of Global Pass in the US is also noted as a potential issue for American travelers returning from Italy. Rome recently removed 12 iconic umbrella-shaped pine trees from the Via dei Fori Imperiali due to age and safety concerns after several fell and injured pedestrians. Agriturismo Experiences: Agriturismos (renovated farmhouses offering accommodations) are growing in popularity across Italy. These establishments provide organic, farm-to-table food, often with their own vineyards, and many activities like cooking classes, olive oil tastings, and yoga. Kimberly highlights the historical context of agriturismos, which emerged after WWII to revive rural farm life and encourage tourism. She describes waking up to the sounds of cowbells, enjoying fresh farm eggs, homemade bread, and goat cheese, all with modern amenities. Beware of AI Slop: Tommaso expresses frustration with “AI slop,” online articles generated by artificial intelligence that provide unauthentic or inaccurate travel information. He cites examples of articles recommending crowded tourist spots like Siena and Lucca as places “where tourists won’t go.” Kimberly adds that these websites often automatically launch booking platforms and feature fake family photos. They encourage listeners to seek out authentic travel information from real people with local experience, differentiating between genuine content creators and purely digital, ad-driven sites.

Please follow us on: ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Instagram⁠⁠⁠⁠ ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠ or ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠Facebook ⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠⁠! In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their experiences after living in Italy for almost a month. They discuss the daily adjustments, from understanding local customs to enjoying Italian cuisine. Key Points: The Italian Tabacchi: More Than Meets the Eye: Kimberly and Tommaso explain how a “tabacchi” in Italy serves multiple purposes beyond selling cigarettes. It is a place to purchase a “Marco da Bolo,” a stamp needed for immigration applications. This discovery highlights the unique role of local establishments in daily Italian life. The Rhythm of Reposo: Kimberly and Tommaso describe the challenge of adapting to store closing times for “riposo” or “pausa,” the Italian equivalent of a siesta. Store hours vary, making it tricky to plan errands. They joke about needing a spreadsheet or an “Airtable database” to keep track of business hours. These closures offer a peaceful atmosphere, especially during midday, creating a quiet charm in the streets. Grocery Shopping Adventures: A humorous incident occurs when Kimberly attempts to bring a two-wheel shopping cart into a grocery store. She learns that these carts are not allowed inside due to unspoken rules. Kimberly ‘s New York City instincts made her hesitant to leave her cart unattended. The grocery manager’s reaction to her concern about theft provides a moment of cultural contrast. A Culinary Awakening: Kimberly and express their delight in the quality and accessibility of Italian food. Small “alimentaries” (local markets) specialize in different products, from prosciutto to Parmigiano. Even simple roasted vegetables become a culinary revelation due to the fresh ingredients and olive oil. They highlight the artistic display of food in shops, which makes shopping a visually appealing experience. The Echoes of History: Living in a village with roots dating back to the Bronze Age give Kimberly and Tommaso a deeper appreciation for history. The Venetian architecture in their village adds to its charm. Tommaso Il Favoloso reflects on his lifelong dream of living in Europe and the magical feeling of making Italy his home. Ciao!