September 2008
Even before setting foot in Italy we knew we were in for a whole new experience. We did not know exactly what our reaction was going to be, since our hearts still resided in Paris. It was obvious from our research that we were going to see a totally different style of architecture. No other city we had visited before dated back thousands of years.
One thing is for sure, wherever the Italians may be lacking they make up for by means of their undying passion. Their passion is so strong it therefore spills into all aspects of life. Most noticeably is how their passion has created an incredible frenzy for your taste buds. Oh the food! We quickly realized the expression; “No one does it like the Italians”, would repeatedly be brought to mind as we sampled each new dish. It seemed any little hole in the wall restaurant made wonderful pasta accompanied with a delightful red house wine. Sea food pasta is one of Sonia’s and my favorite meals, add any Chianti which will make an unforgettable combination. I have never eaten so much pizza; Italy obviously was the best place to do it. We will forever remember the many healthy varieties of toppings that grace their pizzas. Another one of Sonia’s favorites was Insalata Caprese. Italian coffees; going for a cappuccino or an espresso invariably turned into a daily ritual.
None of the aforementioned delicacies even compare to the countless flavors of Gelato. We glutted ourselves up to three times daily with two scoop portions of Gelato. One obligatory scoop of Fragola (strawberry) accompanied by a new flavor each time.
Italy was about living life to the fullest, great food, great wine, and truly ancient history. Our trip to Italy last September is well behind us, we sincerely miss the Italian way of life.
The urban Italian vignette is a picture filled with tall, dark, slender, attractive men and women, with great fashion sense. The men rush by on tiny scooters adorned in faintly shiny fitted suits, cell phone tucked in helmet. The women mimic the men on scooters all the while miraculously keeping their skirts from blowing in the wind.
Contrast that vignette with life in the countryside. People work in the soil and life slows to keep pace with the rate vegetation grows and ripens. They work in the earth, and have grown to recognize that the soil provides the flavors they so proudly produce and enjoy. It’s rare to find quality and freshness so accessible and so abundant!
Thanks to my wife being so diligent and unbelievably thorough, our entire three weeks unfolded without any major upsets.
We invite you to step into the beautiful country and follow our foot steps, as we toured many amazing locations throughout Italy. Enjoy!
Thanks for reading,
Stewy