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Are you missing the mountainside views of the Amalfi coast? Or a refreshing Aperol Spritz on a hot summer day? If you have been dreaming of Italy, we have the perfect day planned for you. Furthermore, this staycation will show you new artists, experiences, and what Italian culture is all about. Also, our recipes and meal plan will give you a little taste of the Italian regions of Liguria, Lazio, Veneto, and Sicily.
Your Italian Inspired Staycation awaits…
First and foremost, Italy is known as a leading country of fashion, the industry is exciting and open to many styles and designs. In fact, mixed prints and unique styles are what make Italian fashion so great. With this in mind, grab your most courageous top and go bold today. While keeping in mind quality and balance. Most importantly, wear your most sensual undergarments, this is what makes an Italian so confident! Last but not least, remember that today is a day filled with love, bliss, and enjoying everything… in moderation of course.
Your breakfast, or la colazione, features a coffee and an Italian cookie or two! Typically, a morning coffee in Italy is a cappuccino, which is made with equal parts espresso and steamed milk, then topped with a thick layer of milk foam. As for the cookies, there are dozens of traditional Italian cookies for every cookie lover. Additionally, your local bakery should have you covered, so go grab a few sweet treats!
The Italian language is known to be one of the most beautiful sounding languages in the world. While it is not the most spoken language, it is still fun to learn, and will go a long way when you finally make it to Italy! It should be noted that that many Italians speak with their hands, so do not be afraid of hand gestures when practicing. In addition, do not forget to roll your r’s! That being said, below you will find a study guide for some basic words and phrases in Italian.
Good Morning
Hello / Hi / So long!
My Name Is…
What a beautiful day
How are you?
I am good
Thank you
You are welcome
See you soon
Have a good night
I love Italy
Buongiorno
Ciao!
Mi chiamo…
Che bella giornata
Come va?
Sono buono
Grazie
Prego
Arrivederci
Buona Notte
Io am l’Italia
Undoubtedly, many dream of driving the Amalfi Coast, or through the picture perfect landscapes of Tuscany. Just like riding a vespa through Rome, or enjoying a Venice canal cruise, these activities spark joy in Italy. Therefore, you should take this time to journey around town, whether that be in a car or on a bike. Even if your Italian Staycation does not include a Vespa, Maserati or Ferrari, it is okay! As along as you get outside and explore. Besides, when was the last time you drove around without a specific destination in mind? In short, be carefree and have fun, you may see things differently than before.
After your outdoor adventure, take a moment to relax with a good book. Additionally, see below for our top recommendations that will have you dreaming of Italy. Also, you can find the following books in the Libby App, where you can borrow thousands of books from your local library.
Helena Attlee – The Land Where Lemons Grow
Elena Ferrante – The Neapolitan Novels
If a book does not interest you, be sure to check out our modern Italian Playlist that you can enjoy today and any day you want to listen to fun Italian music!
Lunch, or pranzo, is between 12:30 and 3:00pm and this meal is the largest of the day. That being said, lunch consists of 5 courses with the addition of espresso. In following with the Italian meal structure, we have curated an authentic Italian pranzo.
1. Antipasto: Pistachios & Prosecco – A small appetizer, consisting of nuts, olives or cheeses.
2. Primo: Pesto Gnocchi – The heaviest course, and does not contain meat.
3. Secondo: Fish – Your meat dish. This could be any fish, or meats like lamb, turkey, chicken etc…
4. Contorni: Vegetables – Side dish; grill or bake seasonal vegetables. Or Salad.
5. Dolci: Tiramisu – Dessert dish
6. Caffè / Digestivo: Espresso – Or try an Italian digestivo, like Limoncello or Grappa!
See pesto recipe.
See gnocchi recipe.
Following your lunch, take some time to digest and take it easy. Moreover, make a much needed call to a friend or loved one. In particular, Italians are known to be very closely connected with people they know. Needless to say, it is always nice to catch up and let someone know that you are thinking of them. Also, you have an exciting day of Italian adventure worth talking about!
The current pandemic has had us missing out on some of the most iconic landmarks and sights around the world. But there is a solution to that now with the help of virtual experiences! Particularly, Google Arts & Culture has provided an incredible platform to not only learn, but see and visit famous attractions in destinations worldwide. Consequently, we have provided links of our favourite experiences to check out, including one from the Vatican Museum website …
Milan – Teatro Alla Scala
Venice – La Palazzo Fortuny
Brescia – Castle of Brescia
Campania – Positano
Vatican City – Sistine Chapel
Going to the cinema is a common activity for Italians, and there are many films out there that show you what Italy has to offer. Moreover, a perfect movie to watch during your Italian Staycation is Roman Holiday. To summarize, this 1953 classic starring Audrey Hepburn and Gregory Peck, is about a princess who desperately wants to escape the royal life for a day. This movie is the perfect example of a “Roman Holiday”.
Cena, or dinner, is served later in the evening, starting around 7:00-8:00pm. Hence why this meal is much lighter than pranzo. To start, choose an Italian deli meat or two, such as Capocollo, Salami Calabrese or Mortadella. First course, is a simple and authentic Bruschetta. To finish, a hearty soup, such as Minestrone. Of course, it is recommended to enjoy la cena with a glass of wine, the perfect pairing for this dinner is either a Barbera from Piedmont or a Sangiovese from Tuscany.
Saluti!
See bruschetta recipe.
Finito! Grazie e Buonanotte!
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