Cantine Aperte 2015 May 30th-May 31st!

It's the most wonderful time of the year in Italy, Open Winery Weekend!

Dating back to 1993, this annual event filled with culture, art, food & wine was once called "Open Cellar Day." Now, it has been extended for two days in many areas of Italia!

What is it? This important event for Italian tourism was created to bring awareness and appreciation to their wine regions. Just like regional dishes, each areas wine is unique to them and they want to prove it!

 Exploring Italian's vineyards in not like in the USA. Most tastings are appointment only but this weekend guests have the ability to hop around from place to place, touring the cellars &  tasting amazing local wines from big names to boutique/family run homes.  In addition to wines, many will offer local cheeses, olive oils and other homemade specialities. 

The best part is that this event is run by the winemakers themselves, giving you the ultimate experience.

Working for a tour company and having amazing Tuscan friends gave me the upper hand in experiencing this special day in the best possible places (about 4 times)! 

This week on my newsletter I will be sharing two of my favorite locations in Tuscany as well as other regions to consider visiting, so be sure to sign up to find out more! 

Also, I have a question for you: Would you be interested in joining Travel Italian Style on a tour during this day? Comment below if so!

Andiamo a Mare!

Have you been wondering where the Italians of Florence escape the summer heat? Well then you should probably head the town of Castiglioncello or anywhere in the province of Livorno to find out!

 Don’t be fooled by the rocks, pebbles & green forest pine trees when approaching the area because eventually it opens up to a beautiful sandy beach with crystal clear waters. 

One area in particular, Castiglioncello, was actually a famous destination for celebrities in the 1960’s and upon arriving you will see why!

If you plan on visiting the beach rent one the of umbrella chairs for anywhere between €15-20, this also gives you access to changing rooms, showers, toilets and café’s!

If you prefer day clubs and a little bit of peace and quiet, head to one of the day resorts in the area where you also will have access to a pool (one even has an infinity pool). Plus, it is very rare you will find any tourists here—allowing you the true Italian authentic summer experience!

So now you know, spending the summer in Florence does not have to be in the hot city center, head to the mare!!

5 Authentic Experiences In Florence

I often find that when people speak of Florence, Italy they call it a "tourist city." While there may be a bit more Americans roaming the streets there are so still so many ways to find yourself immersed in Florentine culture and meet locals.

Here are my top 5 suggestions for experiencing the off-the-beaten path of this amazing ancient city.

1. Head over to the Scandicci area of the city. 

Just a short bus ride from the city center you will find yourself once again in an area mostly populated but non-english speaking residents. 

2. Visit Pasticceria Giorgio

While many tourist know it, my Italian friends still love it! Famous for it's schiacciata alla Fiorentina, check out this location for the beauty and taste of the real Italian sweet life. 

3. Shop at Il Mercato Sant' Ambrogio

You may have heard this before but I recommend it again! While I also enjoy Mercato Centrale, here at Sant' Ambrogio you will be forced to speak a bit more Italian and even get a better price on local specialities. 

4. Take a Walk PAST Piazza Michelangelo

That's right, start your morning right by passing by the famous piazza. Here you will get another beautiful view point, a quiet area to practice your Italian and a new way to explore the city lifestyle!

5. Visit the same coffee shop daily

Easiest way to make a friend? By grabbing your first cafe of the day at the same location daily  to make a connection. Guarantee the barista will remember and appreciate your dedication. By day three I bet you will be treated just like a local!