Fav Reads On Italy This Week: Dec 13

Favorite Reads on Italy (FRI) is a weekly roundup published on Fridays featuring interesting articles, fascinating experiences, and handy resources that I’ve come across that week.

Postcard from Italy: Via del Corso in Rome lit up for the holidays

This week’s roundup includes events kicking off the ski season, a hilarious parody of Jean-Claude Van Damme’s famous ‘epic split’ ad, a twist to a traditional Christmas sweet, gift ideas and more.

Culture and Travel

A winter’s tale: How we went to Venice in December, and had its beauty to ourselves by Mail Online – I would certainly agree that the best time to visit Venice, or Italy in general, is in winter. Crowds have thinned out and you are able to enjoy most attractions without having to elbow your way through the pack.

All the events to start the ski season off right, from Piedmont to Alto Adige by Italia.it – Can’t wait to hit the ski slopes? Here are some events to check out. And for those who are budget-conscious, here is a post on Italy and Austria ‘best for budget skiing’ by the Telegraph that you might want to consider.

Why People Don’t Ski in Italy by Italy Chronicles – Still on the topic of skiing, this article summarizes the replies that were received on Twitter when this question was posed – “Why don’t more people chose Italy as a ski destination?”. There were some interesting feedback.

Naples’ musical tradition makes it a rival of Paris and Vienna by Independent.ie – Naples is full of surprises. A fascinating read that gives you insights into the origin of the word “conservatory” and the long history of music tradition in Naples.

Quadraro ner Core, street art in Rome by Erica Firpo – This is a different type of art scene in Rome. Taking to the streets of Rome that are off-the-tourist trail, Erica, together with Jessica Stewart who “has been documenting Rome’s street art for years”, explores another kind of “open-air museum”.

Walking up an appetite by Brisbane Times – Abruzzo is often skipped by most visitors but read this post and you’ll understand that it’s a hidden gem that shouldn’t be missed.

La Dolce Everything: Rome on Two Wheels – I know Annie, and yes, she goes everywhere with her stars-and-stripes helmet! I have recommended her Vespa tours to friends and if you are looking for an exhilarating ride, she’s the one you’ll look for. Read the article to discover how she met Mr. G, her partner on two wheels.

Food and Drinks

Panforte bites, a perfect complement to an espresso by Jul’s Kitchen – ‘Tis the season and I love this creative twist to the classic panforte from Siena. Not only is it relatively simple to make but it would make for a great gift for friends and family.

Porchetta Diana by Elizabeth Minchilli – This porchetta literally has my name on it! The next time I am in Ariccia, one of the towns in the Castelli Romani which are located south-east of Rome, this is where I’m headed to get my porchetta. And for visitors to Rome, you can’t leave without having tried this succulent treat!

Gift Guide for Coffee Lovers by Ms. Adventures in Italy – Looking for holiday gift ideas? I know there are plenty of coffee lovers out there who would love some of these gifts. Also check out the post by Erica Firpo mentioned above and there’s a nifty little coffee gift for those on the go.

Life in Italy

Rome ‘grocer’ parodies Van Damme Volvo ad by The Local Italy – I’m not going to spoil it for you but this is hilarious! You’ve got to watch this.

5 Christmas Mass options in Rome by Context Travel – Spending Christmas in Rome and would like to attend a mass? This is a handy list.

Have you come across any great reads or resources on Italy this week? Share them with us in the comments below.