Fav Reads On Italy This Week: Mar 14

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: View of Mt. Etna from Taormina

This week’s roundup includes discovering unspoiled gems, exploring its cities, a delicious sweet and savory treat from Sardinia, upcoming culinary tours in Italy and more.

Culture and Travel

Working up an appetite for adventure in Naples by Independent.ie – Naples unfortunately has a “bad boy” image and though it is chaotic and the streets far from being spotless clean, it has so much to offer. It’s incredibly fascinating and deserves a visit. Plus you’ve got to try the pizza – that alone is worth the trip.

Italy with a point and shot by Boston Globe – With so much beauty in Italy, you often see visitors carrying around serious professional gear to capture it all. However, this professional has an interesting take which might convince you to travel light.

Is this the last corner of unspoiled Italy? by The Globe and Mail – I’ve been to Puglia and fell in love with its rustic charms and architectural gems. With plans to be there next month, we might now include this in our itinerary.

Italy up in arms over Michelangelo’s David rifle advert by BBC – A controversial advertisement by a US weapons firm has caused an outrage and Italy’s culture minister stating that “the image was offensive and violated the law.”

Turin’s Egyptian Museum to focus on research by ANSAmed – If you have an interest for ancient Egypt, you’ll want to visit the Egyptian Museum.

A perfect weekend in Florence by Yahoo! Lifestyle – The beauty of Florence, with its stunning Duomo and Renaissance masterpieces, is a city that won’t disappoint you. While a weekend will feel like a rush, it gives you a taste that will definitely have you planning a next visit.

Sicily and the Single Girl by Arlene Gibbs on Fathom Way To Go – Arlene has told me about plans to Sicily and while she mentioned staying at Monaci delle Terre Nere, now seeing the photos, I have my eyes set on this place. Yes, and whether you love culture, art, history, beaches, wine or food,  you’ll love Sicily! Arlene shares more of her photos and experience in Sicily in this post on Salina in the Aeolian Islands.

Visit Assisi in One, Two, or Three Days: Itineraries and Tips by Brigolante – Planning a trip to Assisi? Then this post would be invaluable!

Fossano, Italy, is the perfect hub for exploring the lush Piedmont region by Washington Post – I love discovering places that are relatively unknown and as we are planning a trip to Piedmont this summer, I think I’ve found our base.

Food and Drinks

Sardinian Honey and Cheese Pastries by Huffington Post – This Sardinian dessert is divine! The combination is unique yet your taste buds would love it. Can’t make it to Sardinia to try this? The article shares a recipe you can easily make at home.

Join me in Abruzzo: Two Culinary Tours by Domenica Cooks – If you love cooking and discovering places that are hidden gems, this is for you. I love Abruzzo and I am sure that you will have an unforgettable experience of cooking and feasting. Here’s more on towns in Abruzzo.

Life in Italy

Venice Carnival Costumes by Food Lover’s Odyssey – While Kathy had fun making sweet treats in Venice, she also stepped out to enjoy the celebrations. Here are more photos of Carnival celebrations throughout Italy.

How to Find an Apartment to Rent in Italy by Italy Chronicles – If you’re moving to Italy, this is essential reading. Renting a place can be challenging and this article shares advice on what to be aware of.

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