In this episode of Total Tuscany, hosts Travis Justice and Pat Campagna embark on a culinary voyage to the heart of Florence, Italy, where they are warmly welcomed into the delightful FormaggioTecca Terroir. Owned and operated by the charismatic Rebecca Christophersen and her husband Pierre, this wine and cheese shop is a haven for anyone looking to immerse themselves in the rich tastes and aromas of Tuscany and France. Rebecca is not just a purveyor of fine wines and artisan cheeses; she's a visionary who has crafted an experience that bridges the gap between fine cheeses and those eager to explore the flavors. Through her venture, Grape Tours, Rebecca guides enthusiasts on a journey through the Tuscan vineyards, offering a deeper understanding of the wine-making process and the stories behind the bottles. But the couple's influence on promoting Tuscan culture doesn't end there. They are also at the heart of "Fixer to Fabulous Italiano," a captivating series that follows their adventures in transforming their Tuscan villa that is over 200-years old. The show, hosted by Dave and Jenny Marrs, dives in deep to the highs, lows, and challenges of renovating a historic property. During the interview, Rebecca shares insights into the challenges and triumphs of running FormaggioTecca Terroir. From selecting the perfect assortment of cheeses to pair with their carefully curated wines, to the joy of educating visitors about the origins and stories of each product, Rebecca's passion for her work is palpable. It's clear that for her, FormaggioTecca Terroir is more than a shop; it's a medium through which she can share her love for Tuscany with the world. The conversation also delves into the intricacies of wine touring with Grape Tours. Rebecca explains how each tour is designed to offer a unique, immersive experience that goes beyond the typical wine tasting. It's about connecting with the land, understanding the grape's journey from vine to bottle, and, of course, savoring the exquisite end result. So, pour yourself a glass of Chianti, slice up some pecorino, and let Travis, Pat, and Rebecca take you on a sensory exploration of Tuscany. This episode of Total Tuscany is more than an interview; it's an invitation to indulge in the flavors that define one of Italy's most beloved regions. For more about Rebecca Christophersen's endeavors, visit FormaggioTecca Terroir at formaggiotecaterroir.it, explore Tuscany's vineyards with Grape Tours at tuscan-wine-tours.com, and experience the transformational magic of "Fixer to Fabulous Italiano" at hgtv.com.

Welcome to an insightful exploration of Bruna Carvalho's remarkable journey from the hustle and bustle of city life to the serene embrace of nature in the picturesque hills of Tuscany. In this podcast episode, Bruna shares the profound experiences and pivotal moments that shaped her decision to leave behind the urban chaos and embark on a transformative path toward creating a haven of tranquility, La Gualda Vecchia. City Life vs. Nature's Calling: Growing up amidst the urban sprawl of São Paulo and Rome, Bruna and her husband yearned for a deeper connection with nature despite their city upbringing. Feeling the pull towards a slower pace of life and a closer bond with the natural world, they embarked on a quest to find a new home that would resonate with their newfound values. The Journey to Tuscany: After years of city living and international relocations, Bruna and her family stumbled upon an ancient farmhouse nestled in the hills of Tuscany. Despite initial uncertainties and challenges, they were drawn to the timeless beauty of the region. They took the leap of faith to start anew amidst the rolling vineyards and olive groves. Entrepreneurial Spirit and Hospitality: As a natural-born entrepreneur with a background in marketing, Bruna envisioned transforming their farmhouse into a sanctuary for guests seeking solace and rejuvenation. With meticulous attention to detail, they restored the centuries-old property into a haven of serenity, offering guests a retreat from the stresses of modern life.\ Crafting Authentic Experiences: From emotional gardens inspired by ancient philosophies to holistic wellness offerings like yoga retreats and spa treatments, Bruna's homestead is committed to authenticity and mindful living. Each element of the guest experience is thoughtfully curated to foster a deep connection with nature and inner peace. Challenges and Rewards of Entrepreneurship: While creating their dream retreat was challenging, Bruna and her husband approached each obstacle with resilience and determination. Through financial investments, creative problem-solving, and unwavering belief in their vision, they turned their dreams into reality. Guest Experience and Community Engagement: At the heart of Bruna's homestead lies a commitment to creating meaningful experiences for guests, whether it's savoring locally sourced cuisine, stargazing under the Tuscan sky, or simply immersing oneself in the tranquility of nature. Beyond hospitality, Bruna actively engages with the local community, sourcing materials and services locally to support sustainable practices. Looking to the Future: As Bruna reflects on her journey thus far, she remains committed to nurturing her homestead as a beacon of tranquility and mindfulness. With plans to expand offerings and engage with a global audience, she envisions her retreat as a sanctuary for those seeking a deeper connection with themselves and the natural world. Join us on this inspiring journey as we delve into the transformative power of embracing nature's tranquility with Bruna Carvalho. From city life to rural serenity, her story serves as a testament to the profound impact of following one's heart and finding solace amidst the beauty of the natural world.

Welcome to another exciting episode of Total Tuscany with Travis Justice and Pat Campagna. We bring you the stories of individuals who have embarked on unique journeys and found their passion in the heart of Italy. In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Sara Amrhein, an extraordinary artist known for her exquisite polymer clay handmade jewelry. Join us as we delve into Sara's creative process, her inspirations, and the fascinating tale of her relocation from the United States to the enchanting city of Florence, Italy. Episode Highlights: Journey To Florence Sara's journey is about her art and the life-changing decision to move from the United States to Florence, Italy. The podcast explores the reasons behind Sara's move, the cultural adjustments, and the impact it has had on her artistic expression. Discover the challenges and joys of immersing oneself in a new environment and finding inspiration in Tuscany's rich history and artistry. Crafting Beauty From Polymer Clay Sara is a master of her craft, creating one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces from polymer clay. Listeners will get an exclusive peek into Sara's workshop, learning about her intricate techniques to mold, shape, and color the clay into unique and stunning jewelry. From earrings to necklaces, each piece is a work of art that reflects Sara's creativity and passion. Cultural Influences on Art Florence is renowned for its artistic heritage, and Sara shares how living in this cultural hub has influenced her work. From the architecture to the local traditions, listeners will gain insights into the various elements of Tuscan culture that have left an indelible mark on Sara's jewelry designs. A Glimpse into Sara's Future Projects As the podcast unfolds, Sara offers a sneak peek into her upcoming projects and the direction she envisions for her art. Listeners can look forward to hearing about Sara's future endeavors and the exciting developments in her journey as a polymer clay jewelry artist based in Florence. Whether you're an art enthusiast, a jewelry lover, or someone curious about the intersection of art and life, this episode promises to be a delightful exploration of the world of Sara Amrhein. Tune in and immerse yourself in the beauty of polymer clay art and the charm of Tuscany.

Tuscany, with its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and, of course, delectable cuisine, has always been a source of fascination for many. In the heart of this Italian region, a culinary enthusiast and expert, Chicca Maione, takes center stage, sharing her passion for Tuscan cooking through her platform, cookingintuscany.cc. Recently, Chicca enjoyed joining Travis Justice and Pat Campagna on the Total Tuscany Podcast, where the trio delved into Tuscan cuisine, culture, and more. Chicca Maione: A Culinary Maven Chicca Maione, the creative force behind cookingintuscany.cc, is not just a cook but a true culinary artist. Her journey into the world of cooking began with a deep-rooted love for traditional Tuscan recipes. Chicca has a unique understanding of the region's culinary heritage and a flair for blending tradition with innovation. Cooking in Tuscany: A Gastronomic Journey Cookingintuscany.cc serves as Chicca's canvas, where she paints a vivid picture of Tuscan cuisine. From mouth-watering pasta dishes to succulent meats, each recipe is a testament to her commitment to preserving and sharing the authentic flavors of Tuscany. Through her website and online cooking classes, Chicca invites you into her kitchen, providing step-by-step guides and personal anecdotes that make the cooking experience not just about food but a journey through the heart of Tuscany. Culinary Education with Chicca: Online Cooking Classes and Cooking Club Beyond her delectable recipes and engaging blog content, Chicca Maione extends her passion for Tuscan cuisine to a broader audience through her online cooking classes and exclusive Cooking Club. These initiatives serve as a virtual gateway for enthusiasts worldwide to experience Tuscan cooking in the comfort of their own kitchens. Online Cooking Classes: A Hands-On Experience Chicca's online cooking classes are a unique opportunity for individuals to learn directly from the expert herself. Through live and recorded sessions, participants are guided through the intricacies of preparing authentic Tuscan dishes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, Chicca's classes are designed to be accessible, informative, and, most importantly, hands-on. Participants acquire valuable cooking skills and gain insights into each dish's cultural and historical significance. The classes foster a sense of community as participants share their culinary creations, creating a global kitchen where food lovers from different corners of the world unite through their shared love for Tuscan cuisine. Cooking Club: A Culinary Community Chicca's Cooking Club furthers the culinary experience by providing members with an immersive and interactive community. Club members enjoy exclusive benefits such as access to premium recipes, behind-the-scenes content, and priority registration for online classes. This culinary club is not just about recipes; it's about forging connections, sharing experiences, and celebrating the joy of cooking together. Club members receive regular updates on new recipes, cooking tips, and invitations to virtual events to engage with Chicca and fellow members. The Cooking Club transforms the solitary act of cooking into a collaborative and enriching experience, fostering a sense of camaraderie among individuals who share a common passion for Tuscan gastronomy. Bridging Gaps and Fostering Connection Chicca Maione's commitment to providing online cooking classes and creating a vibrant Cooking Club is not just about sharing recipes but bridging geographical gaps and fostering connections. In a world where physical distances often separate us, these virtual platforms unite people, creating a global community that transcends borders. Whether you're a participant in one of Chicca's online cooking classes or a member of the Cooking Club, the experience goes beyond the culinary realm. It's an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share stories, and create lasting memories around the shared love for Tuscan cuisine. Total Tuscany Podcast: A Meeting of Minds The Total Tuscany Podcast, hosted by Travis Justice and Pat Campagna, celebrates all things Tuscan. When Chicca Maione joined the podcast as a guest, it was a meeting of minds that promised to unravel the secrets behind Tuscany's culinary excellence. The episode showcased Chicca's expertise and provided listeners with a taste of the vibrant and diverse world of Tuscan gastronomy. A Feast for the Senses In Tuscan culinary exploration, Chicca Maione's cookingintuscany.cc stands as a beacon for food enthusiasts and those eager to embark on a gastronomic journey through one of Italy's most iconic regions. The Total Tuscany Podcast episode featuring Chicca was not just an interview but a sensory feast for the listeners, offering a taste of Tuscany's flavors, traditions, and the warmth that defines its culinary heritage. As Chicca Maione continues to inspire and share the magic of Tuscan cooking, her collaboration with Total Tuscany Podcast is a testament to the vibrant and ever-evolving world of culinary arts in this enchanting region. So, join the trio on this podcast journey. Let the aroma of Tuscany's finest dishes transport you to a world where every meal celebrates life, love, and the simple joy of savoring exquisite flavors. A Culinary Adventure Awaits As Chicca Maione continues to leave an indelible mark on Tuscan cooking, her online cooking classes and Cooking Club serve as beacons guiding enthusiasts through a delightful culinary adventure. By embracing these initiatives, individuals not only savor the flavors of Tuscany but also become part of a global community united by a passion for good food, cultural exploration, and the joy of cooking together. Join Chicca on this virtual gastronomic journey. Let the aroma of Tuscan dishes fill your kitchen with the warmth and vibrancy of Italy's culinary heritage.

On the last episode of the Total Tuscany Podcast, we visited with Claudia Callegari and introduced you to her wine club. She provides a unique service and offers quarterly selections of Tuscan wine from boutique wineries and selections you may need help finding in the United States. Since that recording, we have traveled to Tuscany and met personally with Claudia. Her passion for Tuscan wine is more evident in person than on the podcast. She took us to two different vineyards, each with a different personality, mission, and history. This podcast aims to inspire everyone to visit Tuscany and experience the wine, food, history, culture, and landscapes. But we also realize that it's not always possible. But what if Tuscany would come to you? It just so happened that when we returned from Tuscany, Claudia was right behind us. It just so happened she was coming to the United States to do a wine tasting for a non-profit organization in our city. The event was successful, and many people who had never been to Italy got to experience Tuscan wine in a way they never have before, with a true expert who knows more about the vintages than any local distributor. With Claudia being so close, bringing her into the studio for another podcast was only natural. We usually have different guests in back-to-back episodes, but her wine-tasting got us thinking. Instead of you going to Tuscany, what if Tuscany came to you? We've had our out wine-tasting and dinner, which was very successful. Is there an opportunity for people like Claudia to come to the United States and sell wine directly? We think so. In fact, the experience may be the nudge you need to start traveling more. When you can put a face with a name, it takes a lot of the worry and unknown of traveling out of the equation and supports wineries that may never have the reach to such a broad audience.

On this episode of the Total Tuscany Podcast, we have the pleasure of introducing a true connoisseur of Tuscan wines, Claudia Callegari, who will take us on a journey through the sun-soaked hillside vineyards and coastal plains that have made Tuscany world-renowned for its winemaking prowess. With her extensive experience and intimate knowledge of this acclaimed wine region, Claudia has an uncanny ability to unearth the hidden gems that are virtually impossible to find outside of Tuscany. As the custodian of a carefully curated portfolio of top-tier niche wines and new appellations, she offers a superior expression of the local terroir and outstanding cellaring potential. With tireless dedication, Claudia ensures that her selection is always up to date so you, our esteemed listeners, can always access the best and latest Tuscan wines. Tuscany, boasting a rich diversity of world-class wines found across its numerous appellations, stands tall as one of the most prestigious wine regions in the world. From the classic Sangiovese wines originating from the hilltop town of Montalcino to the captivating red blends hailing from the shores of Bolgheri, and even the exciting discoveries emerging from rising names like Montecucco and Suvereto, the Callegari range embraces a broad spectrum of approaches and styles. But the Callegari experience goes beyond a mere collection of exceptional wines. Claudia and her sister Silvia offer a gateway to the secrets held within each unique terroir of Tuscany. With their profound knowledge of the region, they can guide you through unforgettable wine and culinary experiences. From bespoke winery tours and exclusive wine tastings to private cooking classes and more, the Callegari sisters create fully customized private experiences that immerse you in the passion and essence of Italy. There's a deep-rooted story behind Callegari—a story fueled by the passion for the quintessential taste of Italy. Raised in Tuscany, Claudia and Silvia Callegari have been intimately involved in the premium wine and culinary scene for as long as they can remember. Together, they form the perfect team, complementing each other's strengths and expertise. With a combined 25 years of experience, Claudia and Silvia are thrilled to share their profound knowledge of exclusive Tuscan wines, accompanied by their dedication, joy, and, of course, a unique lady's touch. So, please sit back, relax, and prepare to be transported to the enchanting world of Tuscan wines as we embark on this extraordinary conversation with Claudia Callegari. Cheers!

So for this episode of the Total Tuscany Podcast, we are changing the name to the Total Sicily Podcast. Our fascination with Sicily started several episodes ago when Pat began the process of getting his Italian citizenship. After that, Omaha, Nebraska, Mayor Jean Stothert joined us to discuss her trip to Tuscany, which also included a stop in Carlentinni, Sicily, as part of a Sister City program. Pat has developed a friendship with a professional guide, Eleonora Formica. Eleonora has become a trusted advisor for families in America to reconnect with their heritage. She's also an expert tour guide of Sicily and a sommelier and can recommend the finest Sicilian wine for any pallet. Eleonaor joins us on this episode to help us expand our horizons on the Total Tuscany and Total Sicily podcast.

When Americans travel to Italy, they often need clarification about the practice of tipping. In the States, it's common to tip anywhere between 15 and 30% when at a restaurant, bar, or cafe. The standard is 20%. Total Tuscany Podcast hosts Travis Justice and Pat Campagna have been to Italy several times, even they are somewhat confused about when and when not to tip in Italy after all this time. It's hard to believe we have been doing this podcast for almost nine years now, and we are getting closer to our 100th episode and have never spent a serious amount of time talking about the subject of gratuity. When discussing such an important issue, we bring in the experts. Linda Sorgiovanni from Italy Customized joins us again on the podcast. Operating a boutique travel company, Linda is asked by clients to factor in a tip to the cost of services. That's more challenging than it sounds, as it is not customary to tip for some services, but it is for others. After listening to this podcast, you will be able to travel to Italy with full confidence on when to tip or not to tip!

Omaha, Nebraska, Mayor Jean Stothert had never been in Tuscany. Recently the three-term Mayor found an opportunity to visit Sicily and Tuscany. Mayor Stothert and 80 other Omahans visited Carlentini, Sicily. The two cities share a friendship agreement that will eventually become a Sister City agreement. The bond between Omaha and Carlentini goes back to the early days of mass immigration to the United States. Sicilian families, many from Carlentini, found employment working for the railroad in Omaha. When the constituents returned to Omaha, Mayor Stothert planned some personal time with her new husband, Dr. J. Kevin O'Rourke. Why not escape to Tuscany? That's exactly what the Mayor and her husband did. However, they needed some help and planning, in steps Total Tuscany. If you are a regular listener to this podcast, you know we share our personal experiences regularly and help travelers plan and create their own experiences. The process started with a consultation. Normally this takes place through a questionnaire or Zoom call. Since we are from Omaha, we were able to meet in person. It's important to understand precisely what you want to ensure you have a trip of a lifetime. After the consultation, we get to work with our partners in Tuscany. In this case, Linda Sorgiovanni at Italy Customized. The Mayor enjoyed eight days and seven nights, staying in Florence, but taking the time to travel outside the city. The highlights of our stay are: Highlights of Florence with Aperitivo Uffizi and Academia Gallery Dario Cecchini's Siena and San Gimignano Duomo Complex Tour Cinque Terre with Private Boat Pienza and Montepulciano Enjoy the episode as Mayor Stothert shares the stories of her first time in Tuscany!

Our good friend Helen Farrell is back on the Total Tuscany Podcast. Helen will join us monthly to talk about the latest edition of the Florentine Magazine. It's an English publication dedicated to all things Florence and Tuscany. There is a work of art that is pushing boundaries in Florence. A modern sculpture and contemporary art piece by Emanuele Giannelli is called "Mr. Arbitrium." The daily crowds marvel at its size and ponder its meaning which is up for interpretation like all great works of art should be. Helen gives us her thoughts on the sculpture and other good nuggets of information from this month's magazine. About The Florentine The Florentine is published 11 times a year. There are over a thousand subscribers worldwide and a circulation of 10 thousand copies per month. You can find the magazine for free at over 150 locations in Florence. CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE

What a summer in Florence! Ungodly heat, a government in shambles, and the tourists have returned in the full flock! The streets of Florence are jammed packed, and business seems to be booming again for those who suffered so much during the COVID-19 pandemic. While flipping through Instagram a couple of weeks ago, we came upon a post from the Florentine that floated the idea of a tourist tax in Florence based on a similar concept in Florence. Of course, the first thought out of our mouths was, what! You must be kidding. Our second thought was to reach out to our friend Helen Farrell, Editor-in-Chief of the Florentine. After all, it was the Florentine that floated the idea. Helen graciously agreed to join us for this episode, and we are so glad she did! We catch on to everything that is going on in Tuscany and look ahead to what is coming up in the coming months! About the Florentine: The Florentine is published 11 times a year. There are over a thousand subscribers worldwide and a circulation of 10 thousand copies per month. You can find the magazine for free at over 150 locations in Florence. CLICK HERE TO SUBSCRIBE

Andrew Cotto has worn many hats in his career. Teacher, novelist, freelance writer. He’s written about his love for Italian food and travel in magazines for years. You are never too old to reinvent yourself, right? Cotto is making his third appearance on the Total Tuscany Podcast. In previous episodes, he discussed his novels. Cucina Tipica, An Italian Adventure, and Pasta Mike. This time, he talks about his new job, Editor-in-Chief for Italian America Magazine. Don’t get us wrong, Andrew is not done writing. In fact, his byline is all over his first issue in his new role. But he has taken a magazine that has been around for years and gave it a more appealing look. Not so much a rebrand but a much-needed refresh. You could say the magazine has taken on some of…or a lot of Andrew’s personality. Italian America magazine is a full-color quarterly in English. It is the official publication of the Order Sons and Daughters of Italy in America®, the nation’s largest and oldest organization for men and women of Italian heritage in the United States. According to the Organization, the magazine is the most widely read quarterly for people of Italian heritage in the United States. Andrew is trying to grow the magazine outside just Italian heritage. You don’t have to be Italian to enjoy all things about Italy. It’s probably why you are listening to this podcast. The country and the culture are so appealing to many of us who don’t have family that comes from the old country. We can be Italian without actually being Italian. Traveling to Tuscany or other parts of Italy can be intimidating! Where to start? Who to trust? You deserve to travel stress-free! How do you do that? Start with us at Total Tuscany. We partner with some of the best travel planners based in Italy. We give you that peace of mind knowing you are covered and taken care of before you leave, once you arrive, and when you get back home. If you are interested in working with us, email total Tuscany at Gmail dot com. Make sure to follow The Total Tuscany Podcast on whatever platform you listen on. This way, you know right away when a new episode is out. If you have time, give us a five-star rating and write a review, we love to see your feedback. Follow Total Tuscany on Social Media. Just search Total Tuscany on: Facebook Instagram Twitter

You are never too old to go back to school. Now with online learning, it’s easier than ever. What if we could tell you can start your journey to becoming an Italian wine expert from the comfort of your own home? You can because the Commonwealth Wine School makes dreams come true. Located in the heart of Harvard Square in Cambridge, Massachusetts, Commonwealth Wine School is dedicated to providing you with the best in wine, spirits, and sake education. Whether you are a beginner, connoisseur, or industry professional, their dedicated and knowledgeable instructors share their expertise and passion for providing you with a fun and engaging experience. Classes are in-person and online. Jo-Ann Ross is the resident Italian wine expert for the Commonwealth Wine School. She’s our guest on this edition of the Total Tuscany Podcast. In addition to the courses she will teach, Jo-Ann tells us how her love affair with wine started and how it has taken her worldwide! Her credentials speak for themselves. Jo-Ann holds Certified Wine Specialist and Certified Spirits Specialist credentials from the Society of Wine Educators. Jo-Ann proudly brought Wine Scholar Guild’s Italian Wine Scholar™ and French Wine Scholar™ programs to Massachusetts. Various wine regions, such as Bordeaux, Napa Valley, Languedoc, and Rhone Valley, have partnered with Jo-Ann to provide educational programs for staff and customers of retail stores and restaurants. An avid traveler to wine destinations, Jo-Ann always brings this firsthand appreciation of a region’s wines to her multi-sensory presentations. With over 30 years of professional speaking experience, she delights wine industry professionals, as well as corporate and private audiences at numerous venues. One of her lifelong goals is to visit all 20 of Italy’s regions; she’s been to 15! We will be in the online classroom in October, we hope you will join us! REGISTER HERE Make sure to follow The Total Tuscany Podcast on whatever platform you listen on. This way, you know right away when a new episode is out. If you have time, give us a five-star rating and write a review, we love to see your feedback. Follow Total Tuscany on Social Media. Just search Total Tuscany on: Facebook Instagram Twitter Italy is open for business! Not only do we podcast about Tuscany, but we can also help you get there. We partner with some of the best travel planners based in the region. We give you that peace of mind knowing you have someone in the United States you can talk to before you leave to ensure you have boots on the ground when you arrive. If you are interested in working with us, email totaltuscany@gmal.com.

Italy attracts all kinds of travelers. Those who visit on a fixed budget. Those who vacation and spare no expense. And those who fall somewhere in the middle. Imagine if you will that you have unlimited funds and you could do and buy whatever you want in Tuscany. Sounds like a dream, right? As you are about to hear in this edition of the Total Tuscany Podcast, dreams do come true! The dream maker is Filippo Gargani, owner of Italy’s Finest and Tuscan Villas. Italy’s Finest is a 20 years old boutique DMC, event planner, and travel designer strategically based in Florence, Italy. From gender reveal celebrations to corporate retreats, Filippo and his team have planned some of the most extraordinary events. In addition to event and travel planning, Filippo also operates TuscanVillas.com. If you are a regular listener to the Total Tuscany Podcast, you know that we are proponents of renting a villa and enjoying all the Tuscan countryside has to offer. Villas are once again in high demand and if you want one you are going to have to wait. 2023 is the earliest you can grab one and those are filling up fast! Please give this podcast a “like” and share it on your social media channels. If you have time, please write a review. The more engagement we have the more people will hear the stories we are telling. If there is someone you would like us to interview or a place in Tuscany you want us to checkout, send us an email at, TotalTuscany@gmail.com. Please like our Facebook and Instagram pages and follow us on Twitter and Tik-tok.

As human beings, it’s only natural to be curious about where we came from. The United States is a nation of immigrants as people from different countries and cultures founded the nation. In fact, Between 1882 and 1954, an estimated 12-million immigrants went through the immigration portal at Ellis Island. According to the Library of Congress, more than four million Italians immigrated to the United States by the 1920s. Are you ready for this? That represented more than 10-percent of the foreign-born population in the United States at the time. Unfortunately, a lot of family connections were lost in the moving process over time. Names changed to sound more American. Families separated far and wide across the country to make a better life for themselves and live the American dream. As a result, a connection to family and culture was not as prevalent in the states as in the homeland. Thanks to DNA tests like 23 & Me and services like Ancestry.com, it’s easier to pinpoint our heritage and trace our family tree back hundreds of years. Nick Gibilisco wanted to take it a step further. Not only did he want to know more about his ancestors and where they come from (more so than stories passed down by his father and grandfather), he wants fully connect by becoming an Italian citizen. Not just for him, but his three children as well. The process was long, tedious, and sometimes frustrating. However, today Nick holds dual citizenship in the United States and Italy and has his Italian passport. What he learned along the way gives him a renewed sense of pride about his heritage and a closer connection to his family going back several generations in Carlentini, Sicily. As Nick was going through getting his Italian citizenship, he met others who wanted to do the same things. He helped them. And then he helped another, and another, and another. Nick didn’t take long to figure out he provides a unique service, so he started a company. In true Italian fashion, it’s called, I know A Guy: Citizenship and Geneology Research. After listening to this podcast episode, you too will know a guy who can help you down the path of dual citizenship or find out if you even qualify. NIck does not have a website, but he does have Facebook Page and Instagram Page, and you can email him directly to find out more about his services and the processes involved, iknowaguy@gibilisco.org. Please give this podcast a like on whatever service you are listening to and if you have time, write a review. Also, you can help us out by sharing this episode with a friend. The pandemic has given us a lot of time to think about our past and future. You might know someone ready to take a leap of faith and move back “home,” so to speak, to try a different life, much like our ancestors did over 100-years ago.

Italy can be therapeutic. People from all walks of life flock to Italy for all sorts of reasons. We've never met a person who left the country and didn't say to themselves, wow! That's the way life should be. Andrew Cotto recently returned from Italy, where he was on a three-week "work" trip drumming up stories. Andrew is a fantastic journalist; one of his stories from this trip will be coming out in Italy Magazine. He will be pitching several more articles to other travel sites and publications. In addition to his travel writing, Andrew has a new book out. Pasta Mike, a story of friendship and loss. Losing your best friend is not easy. In our conversation on this podcast, you can hear in Andrew's voice the pain he's still going through. Friendship never dies, and Pasta Mike is a reminder of how important it is to have people in your life who you love, trust, depend on, and yes, even say goodbye to even if you aren't ready to. Please take the time to give this podcast a "like," share it with friends, and follow us on your favorite podcast platform, so you know when new episodes are released. Click the social media icons below and or search Total Tuscany and join our community.

Italy is open for business. The Covid-19 pandemic of the last year and a half has crushed travel and tourism in Italy. We've shared the stories of hardship on previous podcasts. There is hope on the horizon. Slowly but surely, people are returning, including the co-publisher of Total Tuscany, Pat Campagna. Pat recently spent close to a week and a half exploring his family roots. The name Campagna is a dead giveaway that he's Italian. But not from the mainland. On this trip, Pat skips out on Tuscany and enjoys the island life of Sicily. In this episode of the Total Tuscany Podcast, Pat is the guest on his own show. We go in deep on what it's like to travel with current Covid restrictions and testing. What's the difference between Sicily and Tuscany? Where there are several, but there are also similarities. Can we ask a favor of you? Please like this podcast and give it a review? Your reviews help more people who want to travel to Tuscany and Italy find us. If you haven't done so already, follow Total Tuscany on social media. We are on Facebook, Instagram, Twitter, and even Tik-Tok. If you have travel questions or need assistance booking a tour or tour guides in Tuscany, email us, totaltuscany@gmail.com.

On this edition of the Total Tuscany podcast, we invite you to rediscover one of the most popular travel destinations in the region, San Gimignano. www.totaltuscany.com

If you believe all the news stories and headlines, buying a house for as low as 1-euro in Italy is simple. But is it? We have been doing this podcast for several years now. We travel to Italy (when there’s not a pandemic) yearly. I would say it’s our goal to have a home or an apartment in Tuscany someday. But where do you start? Who do you turn to? Well, our guest on this edition of the Total Tuscany Podcast knows a thing or two about purchases homes and real estate in Italy. Chris Sobolev operates the website Super Savvy Travelers with her husband, Chris. They fell in love with Italy a couple of years ago, started buying property, and now it’s their mission to people like you and me do the same. Property in Tuscany is SUPER expensive. That’s not a surprise as Tuscany is the most popular region in Italy. Chris and Pete and settled in by the sea in Calabria. It’s cheap, beautiful, and provides easy access to other parts of Europe, Africa, and the Middle East. You find or interview with Chris both enlightening and educational. After listening to it, you might be ready to start the process of making your dreams of an Italian home come true!

The two of the most popular things to do when you go to Tuscany are drink wine and take a cooking class. Well, since we can't travel right now, what if there was a way to put a sommelier and a Tuscan chef right in your kitchen? COVID-19 has reinforced our need for connection to people. Linda Sorgiovanni from Italy Customized wants to come into your home, virtually. Linda collaborates with her friend Claudio Bisanzio on a unique cooking class and wine tasting with you and your family and friends. The 2-hour experience includes wine, a food menu with step by step coaching during the cooking process, a recording of your cooking class, a recipe booklet, and memories that will inspire you to travel to Tuscany to experience the real thing. This virtual experience's price is very reasonable—$ 50 per person up to four people and $40 per person for larger groups. We recommend that groups are not larger than eight people. In this podcast, you will find that Linda and Claudio are the perfect guests to bring virtually into your home. You will laugh, drink great wine, create friendships, and be inspired to travel to Italy when we are again allowed to do so. This unique experience is a fantastic gift for the holidays. Imagine unwrapping a bottle of Chianti Classico Reserva or a Brunello with a card detailing a night of great Italian food that you will make right along with your new friend in Florence. Yes, there is a pretty big time difference between Florence and the United States. But don't fret; Linda and Claudio are night owls and will work directly with you to schedule a time that works for you and your guests. You can email Linda directly to set up your class. linda@italycustomized.it