The Stunning Gem Between Rome and Tuscany Featuring Local Virginia DiGaetano

During the finale of Season 1 of the Rediscover Italy Podcast, hosts Cassandra and Laura discuss how the show inspired their 2021 travels in Italy. From northern cities such as Udine to the southern Ravello Music Festival, they share the wonderful memories created in the past weeks that may also inspire your next trip to Italy. The hosts also discuss what's to come in Season 2 and their hopes for the future of Italy and travel for Italophiles around the world. Join us on this short but sweet season finale by listening below. And then head to the Rediscover Italy Blog for time stamps, photos and links to food, sites and locations discussed during the show: https://rediscoveritalypodcast.com/episode-10/.

SHOW RECAP: In this episode, we’re taking you to one of Italy’s lesser-known regions, the southern region of Basilicata. And to help us do that is local, Valerie Fortney an American who has family roots in Basilicata and has lived in the region for 10 years. With more than 20 years of experience in the travel and tourism industry and along with her husband, Bryan Schneider, they’ve channeled this experience and passion for Basilicata into their company My Bella Basilicata. A company that specializes in genealogy research and heritage tours of the region. Valerie is also a freelance travel writer and author of “52 Things to See and Do in Basilicata.” WHAT TO EXPECT: Expect to learn that Basilicata is known for having one of the oldest continually inhabited settlements in the world (the town of Matera). But also expect to be surprised about how much more this untouched region has to offer. From the picturesque town of Castelmezzano to the beautiful seaside coastline of Maratea and a glimpse into why this area is one of the most mountainous in all of Italy (there is even a "Dolomites of the south"). We are sure that Valerie will leave you inspired to not only start packing your bags to travel back to Italy soon but also consider seeing Basilicata from the country to the coast. See Our Show Notes For More Tips: https://rediscoveritalypodcast.com/episode-9/

In this episode, hosts Cassandra and Laura share insider information about experiencing beaches in Italy. Listen in for logistical tips for navigating the beaches (think paid beaches vs. free beaches or sand vs. pebbly beaches), how or where you can wine and dine or even how to dress to and at the beach. And, of course, the hosts share their favorite local beaches throughout all of the country. Expect to start packing that beach bag for your next visit to Italy. Also, you will learn about the local food, the types of beaches found throughout the country and where you should plan your next summer trip to Italy. You can also expect to hear Cassandra and Laura's local stories of their own personal beach experiences in Italy (which can sometimes be an adventure). https://rediscoveritalypodcast.com/episode-8/

Kiara Di Paola is an Italian originally from the region of Le Marche living in New York City. She is a content creator, VLogger, Licensed Tour Guide, Media and Press of NY and if that was not enough she is also the owner and operator of NYC-based travel company New York City 4 All! Kiara is known to not only bring her clients off the beaten path of New York but also keep social media followers up to date with the newest exhibits, sites, and happenings throughout the city. Expect to be inspired to follow your dreams just as Kiara followed hers to live in New York City. Also get ready to plan your next trip to the underrated and less-visited reason of Le Marche, Italy. As a native Kiara shares her favorite “to-dos” while visiting the area. From wine to medieval villages to beautiful beaches and agriturismi. She shares just why Le Marche may not be a hidden gem much longer! Read More About Kiara and the Show: https://rediscoveritalypodcast.com/episode-7/.

Travel is opening up to Italy again and this offers new opportunities to discover - and rediscover - the Italy we love. In this episode, Cassandra and Laura share what they're looking forward to seeing and doing this year as Italy finds a new normal in travel and tourism. From Friuli-Venezia Giulia in the north to island hopping with Cassandra in Sicily and Laura's plans for relaxation on the Cilento coast and Ischia, enjoy these travel tips that will be inspiring for your next holiday in Italy - whether that’s this year or in the years to come. For show notes and to learn more about sites mentioned, head to the Rediscover Italy Podcast blog: