I ♥LOVE ♥Learning with Locals!

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Pursuing my passion for meeting and introducing you to locals is a priority for me. It has really always been one of the cornerstones of what I love about travel – both personally and designing/planning itineraries for you!

It happens to be a love and appreciation gifted to me by my mother (beautiful decor and all things handmade) and father (food and travel) for which I am extremely grateful. And I’m also very grateful for the generosity of locals: those who have introduced me to other locals, experts and to the artisans for their warm and generous hospitality.

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Not only does every region in Italy have its own unique crafts, customs, heritage, and traditions but this can be said of cities, towns and villages. Age old traditions that have been handed down, learned, shared and adapted through generations of family tradition, ancestral and regional roots, often from other cultures and countries…all of which gives us this rich and fascinating exploration that I call “learning with locals”…

From the practical and functional to the artistic and fun, the pride of workmanship is always compelling. Whether it be recipes for typical local dishes to wine, olive oil, and cheese making or crafts such as more personal items (fabrics, clothing, shoes, jewelry) to decorative arts (ceramics ,wood carving, mosaics, glass and, of course, paper), it is always an expression of the unique, diverse and rich story of this country.

Learning about local history and traditions with local artisans/experts whether it be art and architecture, or creating handmade and artisanal crafts -whether it be edible, fashionable, decorative, functional, collectible or just for fun…is supremely enriching both for the visitor and for the artisan!

It’s a story of passion, dedication, creativity and commitment…and it’s always a story that I find compelling and intriguing…a story I love to share!

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Grazie da cuore for sharing your talents and your knowledge, for welcoming me into your shops and studios, for introducing me to your neighbors and friends… and for taking the time to share your skills and stories… it’s truly is a privilege.

In my own small way I seek out, meet, learn, share, introduce, refer and (hopefully) support their dedication and talents. I hope you agree?!