When you hear vendors hollering “bastardoni” in Sicily, it’s the season for the prickly pears known as “big bastards.” Legend has it that this traditional food found in markets in Italy is the result of a feud.
Continue Reading »Silvio Berlusconi resigned on Nov 12, 2011, and a government of technocrats is being headed by the newly appointed prime minister, Mario Monti. But Italy’s current situation is still shaky as Monti works to gain a confidence vote in parliament, and hopefully head off early elections.
Continue Reading »The trials and tribulations of making the perfect latte di mandorla, with this traditional almond milk recipe from Sicily.
Continue Reading »When the hot summer is in full swing, capers spring to life. Follow an Italian food tradtion and learn how to pick and preserve capers in salt.
Continue Reading »Art galleries, sculpture studios, and great restaurants make the Tuscan town of Pietrasanta a highlight of our Cinque Terre walking tour in Italy.
Continue Reading »Italy’s positive referendum vote overturns government stance on nuclear power, water as a private utility and legitimate impediment.
Continue Reading »Colomba pasquale, an Italian Easter cake usually shaped like a dove, is one of the foods traditionally served at an Easter meal in Italy…and leftovers are great with cappuccino the next morning. Read on to learn how to make this delicious cake with a home-tested recipe.
Continue Reading »Celebrate Italy’s artistic and cultural heritage with FAI, the National Trust of Italy, and unique attractions not normally open to the public the weekend of March 26 & 27, 2011.
Continue Reading »The Festa di San Giuseppe in Sicily is a feast day that honors St. Joseph, and it mainly centers around food. The tavolata – laden table – of sweets and festival breads, and a day-long food auction are part of the celebrations. Of course, I was there to bid.
Continue Reading »In honor of the 150th Anniversary of Italy on March 17, 2011, celebrate with free entrance to state museums and archeological sites
Continue Reading »Carnevale is celebrated all over Italy, and one of its traditions is eating fried sweets, like chiacchiere.
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