Elizabeth Travis Ward

I lived in Florence, Italy, for five years in my early twenties. When I look back at that time, one of the things I remember with the most fondness is the food. I grew up in an Italian-American family, so I thought I knew traditional Italian food well. But, when I got there I realized that there was so much...

When I saw photos of this 4-star Italian hotel and restaurant, Grotta Palazzese, they were so beautiful I had to share this find with you. So if you're planning a spring break or summer trip to Italy this year, make sure to read this whole article so you can reserve a spot soon! Have you ever been inside a grotto (or cave) that opens...

Getting from Florence to Chianti isn't difficult -- and seeing the countryside there is “a must” when you’re visiting Italy. Even after I lived in Florence for five years I couldn’t get enough of it, it’s that beautiful and unique. And even if you think you've seen enough of it in movies, know that there's nothing like being there in person....

Italian movies, and any movies set in Italy, tend to be romantic, sexy, dramatic, political, and sometimes violent or nostalgic. Regardless of the topic, they offer a great way to see the Italian landscape and society up close. Having lived in Florence for five years, I love how the movies can transport me back there for a couple of hours! The first...