Picture this: You’ve got your hands full of your family’s laundry and you head down the steps into the laundry room of your agriturismo… only to be greeted by a washing machine (lavatrice) that looks nothing like yours at home. And, it doesn’t act like your washing machine at home either! But don’t fret. I’m […]
HOW TO USE AN ITALIAN WASHING MACHINE – By a Mom in Italy Read More »
If you’re planning on driving during your visit to Lake Garda, there are a few things you should know about, even if you’ve already driven in other parts of Italy. Lake Garda is gorgeous, and although you can visit without a car (use the trains, buses, and ferries!), you may want to have your own
MY LAKE GARDA DRIVING TIPS – For Stress-Free Time Behind the Wheel Read More »
Ciao! Are you trying to decide if you should bring your kids on the bike path between Merano and Bolzano? While it’s a lot of fun, it’s not a ‘yes’ for everyone, so let’s take a look at: I’m a mamma of three and I’ve been visiting the Dolomites with kids (as a guide with
Are you in Rome and you really want to see Pompeii, but you only have a day? Or, are you set on doing a Rome to Pompeii day trip but are undecided on how to do it? Either way – if you’re looking for the easiest way to make the Rome to Pompeii day trip,
ROME TO POMPEII & MT. VESUVIUS DAY TRIP – The Easy Way Read More »
You’ve booked your plane tickets to Italy. And now… where are you going to stay? Sure, you’ve got plenty of traditional hotel options throughout the country, but why not mix it up a little and stay in a rifugio or masseria? “Wait!” you say, “what are those?!” Don’t worry – I’ll walk you through your
ACCOMMODATION OPTIONS IN ITALY – From Agriturismos to Villas (and Everything Inbetween) Read More »
If you’ve decided to rent a car and drive in Sicily, you’ve made a great choice! In my experience (for both work and pleasure), it’s the best way to see and experience the island. Having your own car gives you flexibility, freedom, and access to so many places you can’t reach with public transport. Plus,
DRIVING IN SICILY – 16 Helpful Tips Read More »
Ciao! Are you searching for the most amazing gelato in Rome? I’m a mamma of three living in Italy and we spend a lot of time eating gelato in Florence and on all of our family travels around the country! Below you’ll find our top gelato shops (called gelaterie here in Italy) that you should
WHERE TO FIND THE BEST GELATO IN ROME – From a Gelato-Loving Mom in Italy Read More »
Updated January 27, 2026 You’ve booked your flight and are making plans for your Italian vacation. You’re asking yourself, “Should I be renting a car in Italy?” Read on to decide whether or not you should. If you do decide to rent a car, this article will give you all the details you need on
RENTING A CAR IN ITALY – My 2026 Complete Guide Read More »
You’ve got Florence on your list of places to visit in Italy and you’re ready to see Michelangelo’s David, eat gelato, and visit Tuscan vineyards. If so, you’ll want to read through this guide to renting a car in Florence. It includes the best places to rent for YOUR trip and helpful tips and tricks
RENTING A CAR IN FLORENCE (ITALY) – 2026 Advice from a Local Read More »
Originally written by Clair Rogers; Updates made by Candice Criscione to include details from family visits to Matera and our recommendations Is Matera worth visiting? Yes! This small city in the Basilicata region is in a part of Southern Italy that often gets overlooked. It’s one of Italy’s most unique destinations. Everyone talks about how
VISITING MATERA (ITALY) – Complete Guide + 13 Best Things To Do Read More »
