Kimberly's Italy
Welcome to Kimberly's Italy, a travel podcast focused on all things Italian. My love affair with Italy started with a move to Milan many years ago, and the enriching experience became part of my DNA. Our episodes highlight some of our own travels and the comical lessons we learned along the way. You can be the beneficiary of invaluable travel tips, and at the same time enjoy a few laughs. We share our passion of the Italian cuisine, history, art, architecture, and the welcoming nature of the Italian people, whom define this incredible country. You can reach me at: Kimberlysitaly...
223. Bologna, A City Full of Surprises
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso head to the historic city of Bologna for a three-day trip filled with incredible food, unexpected sights, and plenty of local character.
Key Points:
Arrival and Accommodations:
They share thoughts on rolling luggage in the Centro Storico and why local discussions about potential bans are happening.Kimberly describes their exceptional loft-style rental in Piazza Santo Stefano, complete with high ceilings, art books, and thoughtful amenities.Exploring the City:
Kimberly visits the Basilica di San...222. Navigating the Dolomites: Tips and Advice
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In this episode of our podcast, Kimberly and Tommaso continue their discussion on the Dolomites, focusing on the second half of their recent trip to Alta Badia, local conservation efforts, historical insights, and practical travel tips for visiting the region.
Key Points:
UNESCO Protection in the Dolomites:
Kimberly highlights how the UNESCO World Heritage status protects the natural landscape through zero-emission public buses, recycling stations, and sustainable travel initiatives.Mountain hut managers work together to protect the environment and share conservation ideas.<...
221. Yet Another Gift from Italy: The Dolomiti!
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In this episode of Kimberly’s Italy, the hosts discuss their recent trip to the Dolomiti to celebrate their 30th anniversary, while also addressing concerns regarding AI content scraping.
Addressing the AI Landscape:
Tommaso shares concerns about bulk downloads and AI scraping of their podcast content over the past five and a half years.The hosts discuss the challenges independent creators face when content is repurposed without permission.A strategy for 2027 and beyond is currently in development.Episode Highlight: Driving and Exploring the Do...
220. Stop Rushing Your Trip to Italy....Itineraries That Let You Linger
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso discuss the benefits of adopting a slow and sustainable approach to travel. They explore how breaking away from rigid, high-speed itineraries allows for more meaningful connections with local culture and communities.
Key Points:
The Pitfalls of Rigid Itineraries:
Kimberly and Tommaso observe that jam-packed schedules can lead to exhaustion and a lack of genuine connection to a destination.They share a personal anecdote about a family at a local market to highlight how travel can sometimes become...219. A Road Trip from an Italian Lake to a Swiss one!
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Key Points:
The Road Trip Experience:
Kimberly and Tommaso drive from Italy to Zurich, exploring both the west and east routes.They discuss the “vignette” sticker requirement for Swiss highways and offer a heads-up on potential scams when purchasing one.Navigating Borders and Logistics:
The hosts provide an honest look at border crossings, including their experience at the Swiss-Italian border.Driving through the San Gottardo tunnel and the San Bernardino Pass offers a mix of scenic beauty and technical driving challenges.They touc...218. (Re-Mixed) Tommaso's Spaghetti Western & Community Dining for All
THIS Episode was remixed to comply with Spotify's Request
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their latest experiences settling into life in Italy, including a humorous misunderstanding that spiraled into a “spaghetti western” drama and four fantastic community dinners!
Key Points:
The Spaghetti Western Incident:
Tommaso attempts to help a neighbor with parking, only to have the gesture misinterpreted as a confrontation.The situation leads to an “international incident” involving high-drama phone calls and neighborhood tension.Kimberly plays the role of diplo...217. The Ultimate Guide to Italy’s 20 Regional Pizzas
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In this episode of “Kimberly’s Italy,” Tommaso and Kimberly embark on a culinary journey across Italy, exploring how pizza transforms across the country’s 20 distinct regions.
Key Points:
Regional Pizza Variations:
Italy’s diverse geography and history are reflected in its pizza, with each region offering unique toppings, dough preparation, and baking methods.From the hearty mountain-style pies in Val d’Aosta topped with fontina and prosciutto to the Roman “pizza al taglio” sold by weight, the concept of a “national” pizza is more of a local m...216. Holy Pizza!!
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In this episode of Kimberly’s Italy, Kimberly and Tommaso take a deep dive into the history, myths, and personal stories surrounding Italy’s most beloved dish: pizza.
Key Points:
The Universal Appeal of Pizza:
Pizza is a global phenomenon, with 3 billion pizzas sold annually in the United States and a similar production rate in Italy, despite the massive difference in size between the two countries. From ancient flatbreads like the Roman “penne focaccias” to the Greek “plakos,” the concept of topped dough is a u...215. Italy's Markets Something Fun and Different to Do!
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their experiences at Italy's lively street markets, called mercati. They describe the sights, sounds, and unique items available. They also share a brief history of these markets and highlight some famous ones across Italy.In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their experiences at Italy's lively street markets, called mercati. They describe the sights, sounds, and unique items available. They also share a brief history of these markets and highlight some famous ones across Italy.
Key Points:
Italian street ma...214. A Surprisingly Slow Start to Summer
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso explain that they sold their house in the US so they are now finally living full time in bel’italia. They also share that the Italian summer season is off to a slow-ish start and offer travel insights and essential tips for anyone planning a summer trip to Italy.
Key Points:
A New Chapter in Italy:
Kimberly and Tommaso reflect on their move to Italy, which began in late January. They describe the process of selling their home in...213. Our move to Italy... How we got here!
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This episode is an overall view of the process.... the paperwork, the hurdles, the big day when we got our Visa and the hustle when we arrived in Italy!
212. Transatlantic Chaos!
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In this episode, Tommaso and Kimberly state that they are back in the US preparing for the sale of their house yet will return to bel’Italia mid-June. They also share some travel tips for your next trip to Italy.
Key Points:
The prep involved to move from America to Italy:
Kimberly explains why they potentially sound tired on this episode recording due to all they have done in the two weeks they have been in the US. She also compliments Tommaso on the...211. Tuscan Spring Roadtrip: Beyond Expectations
In this episode, Tommaso and Kimberly share their road trip from Rome to Lago di Garda. They talk about unexpected turns, unique culinary experiences, and the unparalleled beauty of Tuscany in spring.
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Key Points:
Driving in Italy:
Kimberly explains why they chose to pick up their rental car at Termini train station in Rome. They discuss the benefits of driving on secondary and tertiary roads, including Google Maps’ “punto panoramico” feature. Tommaso and Kimberly advise listeners to build in extra time...210. 48 Hours in Rome
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso celebrate five years and 210 episodes of their podcast. They reflect on their journey and share a two-day adventure in Rome, exploring hidden gems and unique experiences off the usual tourist path.
Key Points:
Five Years of Kimberly’s Italy:
Kimberly and Tommaso mark the fifth anniversary of their first episode, launched on April 13, 2021. They recall starting the podcast during COVID, with Tommaso convincing Kimberly to overcome her initial hesitations about her voice. The most r...209. 36 Hours in Venice!!
In this episode, Tommaso and Kimberly share their recent 36-hour trip to Venice. They talk about what to do in Venice when you have no agenda and want to see the real Venice. Tommaso and Kimberly also discuss their amazing meal and their visit to the Leonardo da Vinci Museum.
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Key Points:
Getting Lost in Venice:
Tommaso shares that getting lost in Venice is not an accident. The city is designed to disorient you. When you get lost in Venice, you start...208. Surprising Differences of Daily Life in Italy
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso mention they started this podcast almost 5 years ago. They share stories from their two months since their move to Italy, highlighting the unique aspects of Italian culture, which are noticeable and well received.
Key Points:
Celebrating Five Years:
Kimberly and Tommaso mark nearly five years of their podcast, which started on April 13, 2021. They plan a special 210th episode to celebrate this milestone, possibly a “Greatest Hits” edition.Living in Italy:
Listeners...207. Spring Travel Update
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their recent experiences moving to Italy, including challenging administrative tasks and funny observations. They also provide insights into upcoming travel changes in Italy, highlight various festivals, and discuss the growing issue of AI-generated travel content.
Key Points:
Navigating Italian Bureaucracy:
Kimberly and Tommaso discuss the difficulties of setting up utilities and managing documents in Italy. Kimberly shares a humorous anecdote about forgetting her passport for a critical appointment, despite having submitted many copies previously. Tommaso jokes about the prevalence of hex screws in Italian furniture assembly, suggesting archaeologists would b...One month into our new life in Italy!
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their experiences after living in Italy for almost a month. They discuss the daily adjustments, from understanding local customs to enjoying Italian cuisine.
Key Points:
The Italian Tabacchi: More Than Meets the Eye:
Kimberly and Tommaso explain how a “tabacchi” in Italy serves multiple purposes beyond selling cigarettes. It is a place to purchase a “Marco da Bolo,” a stamp needed for immigration applications. This discovery highlights the unique role of local establishments in daily Italian life.The Rhythm of Reposo:
Kimberly and Tommaso describe the challenge of adapting...205. Immigrating to Italy: Our First 2 Weeks!
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso talk about their first two weeks in their new home in Italy. They share the joys and challenges of moving to a new country with a new language and new rules.
Key Points:
Setting Up a New Life in Italy:
Kimberly and Tommaso record their first podcast from their new, unfurnished apartment in Italy. They describe the initial setup, including one bed, one table, two chairs, a kitchen, and many empty boxes. They express admiration for those who immigrate to new countries, especially with language barriers.204. Tips for your first trip to Italy and/or a refresh!
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share essential tips for a smooth first trip to Italy. They offer advice on everything from arrival to transportation and local etiquette. This episode helps travelers avoid common mistakes and enjoy their Italian experience.
Key Points for First-Timers:
Arrival and Taxis:
When you arrive at the airport, look for official white taxis with city emblems or company names. Do not accept rides from unauthorized individuals offering cheaper fares.Have your hotel address ready and practice the correct pronunciation beforehand to tell it to the driver. Using translation apps can help.
203. New Italian Adventures to Try In 2026
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Links for the Show:
Fondazione FS Italiane
National Railway Museum
Strada dell’Olio DOP Umbria
Via di Linari
In this episode, Kimberly Holcombe and Tommaso share insights from their friends who recently traveled to Italy during the Christmas holiday. They discuss historical train routes, exciting activities like driving a Ferrari through Tuscany, and adventurous hiking and biking options. Join us in this episode for unique ways to experience Italy beyond the typical tourist paths.
Key Points:
Christmas in Italy:
Venice was less crowded t...202. Why Italian Christmas is Unlike Any Other
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso wish everyone a Buon Natale and a Happy New Year. They share their past Christmas experiences in Italy, highlighting the unique ways Italians celebrate the holiday season. The episode reflects on how these traditions bring people together and how a few of their friends are currently experiencing Italy for Christmas.
Key Points:
Tomaso’s Holiday Message and Shout-Out:
Tomaso extends sympathy to Australian listeners for a recent tragedy. Tomaso also gives a shout-out to participants of the Sydney to Hobart sailing race on Boxing Day.Christmas Eve T...
201. Italian Destinations AI Won’t Tell You About
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso talk about travel to Italy during the high season. They suggest places to visit and compare their personal recommendations to those generated by AI models like Google Gemini and ChatGPT.
Key Points:
High Season in Italy:
The discussion focuses on how crowds impact the travel experience during this period.
Navigating Travel Information:
200. TWO HUNDRED Episodes !!! & Don’t Miss Italy’s Unforgettable Holiday Feasts
Please Follow us on: Instagram or Facebook ! In this special 200th episode, Kimberly and Tommaso celebrate a milestone while discussing their upcoming move to Italy. They share insights into Italian holiday traditions and meals, offering a look at how these differ from American celebrations.
Key Points:
The Podcast’s Journey:
Kimberly and Tommaso il Favoloso reflect on 200 episodes of their podcast which they started during COVID.. Their podcast’s goal has always been to share their love of Italy and offer travel insights. Future plans include returning to a weekly episode schedule after their move to Italy.Thanksgiving in America vs. Holidays in Italy:<...
199. Surprising News and Travel Updates
198. Reliving Italy’s Best Meals: Pure Joy!
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso apologize for the delay in their latest release. They then dive into a discussion about their favorite meals in Italy, looking back at 28 years of travel.
Key Points:
Kimberly and Tommaso offer a sincere apology for the delayed episode. They recap their previous discussion on favorite cities and regions. The main topic is their favorite meals in Italy, spanning 28 years of travel experiences.Episode Highlight: First Italian Meals in Cervinia
Kimberly and Tommaso recount a ski trip from Zermatt, Switzerland, down to Cervinia, Italy. Kimberly describ...197. Favorite City? Venice, Favorite regions.. the Dolomites, Val d'Orcia in Tuscany, and Puglia
Please Follow us on: Instagram or Facebook ! In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso continue their discussion of favorite places in Italy. They add a beloved city to their list and share favorite countryside regions
Favorite Cities: Adding Venezia
Beyond the Crowds: Kimberly and Tommaso admit Venice can be crowded. They share how to see it in a less crowded way, even during high season. Knowing where to stay and when to visit certain spots helps. A Unique City: Venice is unlike any other city. It feels enchanting, otherworldly. Walking narrow alleyways (calli) transports visitors back centuries. Engineering Marvel: The city’s ingenious foundation syste...196. Our All-Time Favorite Places in Italy
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Kimberly and Tommaso discuss their all-time favorite places in Italy. They reminisce about past travels and discuss their favorite islands, lakes, and cities.
Key Points:
Favorite Islands:
Kimberly loves Capri of the raw beautKimberly’s favorite is Lake Como due to her long-standing history with it and it’s idyllic old villas against the backdrop of the mountains.Tommaso’s first visit to Sardinia was for a sailing regatta and he’s been hooked ever since. Sailing between the northern tip the island and the southern tip of Corsica is the most beautiful geograp...
September Update
Apologies !
195. Skeptical of AI while Planning your Trip? We are too!
Please Follow us on: Instagram or Facebook ! In this episode of Kimberly’s Italy, Kimberly and Tommaso discuss topics from tourism’s impact on the Dolomite mountains to online travel scams and cybersecurity issues.
Key Points:
Summer in Italy:
Italians love the summer season for the outdoor activities like festivals, concerts, and dining. Many Italians consider summer their favorite season since they love the sun, the beach and swimming.Over-Tourism in the Dolomites:
Mass tourism is impacting the Dolomite Mountains. Overcrowding is causing damage to private lands, leading to disputes between landowners and tourism groups. Farmers star...194. Italian Food Rules: The Pizza & Pasta Police Are Real
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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso discuss the significance of preserving Italian recipes and the consequences of not adhering to culinary traditions.
Pizza Napolitana and the AVPN:
The hosts introduce the Associazione Verace Pizza Napolitana (AVPN), an organization dedicated to preserving the authentic technique of pizza making in Naples. They discuss the specific requirements for cooking certified pizzas, including dough preparation, cooking time, and ingredients. The AVPN employs “pizza agents” to ensure compliance with standards, risking delisting for non-compliant pizzerias.Cacio e Pepe Controversy:
A British website, UK Good Food, publ...193. Capri Without the Chaos: Your Peaceful Italian Escape
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In this episode of our podcast, Kimberly and Tommaso share tips on visiting the island of Capri, including accommodations, activities, and dining experiences. They highlight how to make the most of a trip to Capri.
Key Points:
Planning Your Trip to Capri:
Begin looking for accommodations in the summer before your trip, especially if traveling in the summer months. Consider staying slightly away from the main piazza to avoid crowds. Use Kimberly’s tip for navigating crowded areas: designate a meeting spot.The Two Villages on...
192. Ischia, Italy: Survive the Drive, Discover Paradise
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InstagramKimberly and Tommaso share their adventures on the island of Ischia, from a comical car rental experience to a serene beach day. They address weather concerns for travelers and offer tips for visiting historical sites.
Weather Concerns and Travel Advice:
Kimberly and Tommaso respond to a review criticizing their warnings about extreme weather in Europe. They cite publications like Euro News, The Guardian, and the BBC who also address the issue and give advice as well. They stress the importance of sharing this information since it is affecti...
191. Ischia, Italy: Discovering This Island Paradise!
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InstagramKimberly and Tommaso share their experiences on the island of Ischia, near Napoli, Italy. They discuss Ischia’s geography, history, cuisine, beaches and the island’s appeal.
Key Points:
Initial Impressions of Ischia:
Kimberly revisits Ischia after 30 years since her last visit, noting its idyllic scenery and vibrant colors. Tommaso recalls having the best pizza of his life upon arrival. Ischia is relatively small, about 46 square kilometers, yet offers diverse landscapes.Geography and Driving Challenges:
The island has one main ring road, making trav...190. June 2025 Italian Travel Updates
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InstagramCore Points of this episode:
Be sure to thoroughly research online travel information; verify details before making plans, as social media posts and other sources can be misleading.Be aware of potential tourist scams, like fake petitions, and exercise caution when approached by strangers requesting signatures or donations. Respect art and cultural sites by refraining from disruptive behavior such as taking selfies or not paying attention to what is part of a museum exhibit. Prepare for extreme weather, including heat waves and intense storms, by staying updated on fore...
189. Treviso's underrated charm a stones throw from Venice
In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their experiences in Treviso, Italy, offering travel tips and historical insights. They explore Treviso’s charm, cuisine, and proximity to other Italian destinations.
Key Points:
Treviso: An Unheralded Italian Gem:
Treviso is near Venice, offering similar canals and architecture but with fewer tourists. Despite attracting hundreds of thousands of visitors, it remains less crowded than Venice. Treviso’s blend of canals, medieval palaces and colorful facades create a visually appealing experience.Travel Tip: Photograph Everything:
Document rental car damage with photos of t...188. Napoli at its CRAZIEST
In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share travel tips and tales from Naples / Napoli and its surrounding islands. They recount Tommaso’s first chaotic yet enlightening experiences in Napoli.
Key Points:
• Train Travel Tips: Finding your train number on digital displays on the train doors.
• Business Class: A worthwhile upgrade for comfortable travel from Verona to Naples.
• Taxi Travel: Use the designated taxi stand to avoid scams.
Naples Experiences:
• Chaotic Driving: First impressions of Napoli’s’ traffic mayhem. Lane markers and traffic signals? Just suggestions.
• Sensory Overload: A city full of graffiti, scooters...
187. Exciting day in the Dolomites and travel tips
In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share stories from their trip to the Dolomites, including a visit to Sterzing’s Christmas market, a somewhat harrowing yet comical drive, and a hotel that doubled as a hair salon.
Key Points:
Road trip: The hosts recount driving to the village of Sterzing near the Austrian border.Architectural and Cultural Highlights:
Sterzing’s Charm: Noting the shift in architecture with a Germanic, Austrian feel. Christmas Market: Highlighting the non-commercial, authentic feel of the market.Culinary Experiences:
Aromatic Market: The scents of onions and “worst” (German ver...186. The village of Castelrotto in the Dolomite mountains
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Instagram FacebookIn this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso recount their visit to the Italian Dolomites, specifically the village of Castelrotto, during the quiet period before Christmas. They detail the unique architecture, culinary experiences, and a memorable hike to Chiesa San Valentino.
Key Points:
Introduction to Castelrotto: A picturesque mountain village with colorful buildings and unique architecture reflecting Austro-Hungarian influences. Travel Timing: The benefits of visiting in mid-December, before the Christmas rush.Architectural and Cultural Highlights:
Unique Architecture: Discussion of onion-shaped d...185. Italy Travel Tips: Cyber Security & Staying Safe
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Instagram FacebookIn this episode, Tommaso discusses how to manage cyber and personal security risks while traveling, particularly in tourist hotspots. He shares practical tips to protect against scams and pickpockets, ensuring a safer travel experience.
Key Points:
Cybersecurity Risks:
