Stepping off the plane in Italy, I could barely contain my excitement. There I was, in the heartland of pasta, pizza, and fine wine, ready to dive headfirst into all the culinary wonders I’d dreamed about back home in Alabama.
My first day felt like walking through a postcard. Italy’s vibrant energy, the ancient streets bustling with life, and the aromatic wafts of espresso and fresh pastries right from the get-go—it was all so intoxicating. The reality of being here, far from everything familiar, hit me, but every sight, sound, and smell was a delightful overload of the senses.
Hands down, the food has stolen the show. I’ve had some incredible meals already, but the standout so far was the tortelloni with shaved black truffles we had after truffle hunting—just divine. And the vibe of Ravenna with its stunning mosaics and chilled-out atmosphere? It’s a place I could easily imagine coming back to. There’s a warmth here, not just from the sun but from the people.
We’ve been all over, from the quiet yet profound streets of Ravenna to the hustle and bustle of Bologna. Each place has its own heartbeat, its own flavor. Seeing the mosaics in Ravenna was like traveling back in time, and the sheer slope of the vineyards in Emilia Romgna—man, those views will stick with me forever.
I’ve met some incredible folks here. Marcello, who’s been our guide and part-time wise uncle, knows everything about everything Italian. And the local chefs? These guys are artists. Their dedication to their craft is inspiring, and their willingness to share their knowledge—just wow.
A day here is an assault on the senses in the best way possible. The sight of ancient stone against bright skies, the sound of lively markets, the touch of handmade pasta dough, the smell of fresh basil and garlic in the air, and, of course, the taste of a perfectly balanced wine—it’s all a bit magical.
