tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-40656072043346235042024-03-05T15:53:07.906-08:00Ionian Jewel Tours............... Calabria, ItalyCalabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.comBlogger24125tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-80971406631519976432014-11-10T08:40:00.000-08:002014-11-10T08:58:17.353-08:00BECOME ITALY! As most you know by now, my journey to Italy begins every year in May and ends in October. In May, there are many flowers that are beautifully manicured throughout Italy, from the coastal areas with the vibrant Bougainvillea, to the yellow Ginestra. Bougainvillea, climbing plants that vary in color, tend to grow on the side of buildings and walls in the region. The Ginesta is a countryside bush, yellow in color, that lines the mountain side and can also be found along the side of volcanos. The word Ginestra is translated Broom. Not even close to looking like a broom!<br />
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June in Italy is defined by it's long warm days, and buzzing nights. Along the coasts, lidos will begin to open so that any of the locals, or plethora of visitors, can rent an umbrella. You can hear the sounds of the children playing in the streets during the day, and at night you can listen to the chattering of the people as they are sitting outside at the local cafe. The shops are opened much later in the evening, giving tourists and locals alike, a chance to get more enjoyment during this wonderful month.<br />
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The month of July brings many tourist to my beloved Calabria. Here lies crystal blue waters of the Ionian and Terranean Seas. This area is mostly populated by Australians, some Americans, and many Northern Italians. They come here for peace and relaxation and for the wonderful hospitality of the locals. The pace may be a little slow here, but this is how it should be when you are on vacation right?<br />
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August, when I am not in Calabria you can find me touring in Rome and all the major cities in Italy. I choose this month because being so hot and knowing many of the locals are on vacation the crowds are not as large. This makes it easier to visit the museums and walk the busy streets of the cities.<br />
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September and October! If you love harvest these are the months for you. Wine, chestnuts, mushrooms, just to name a few, this is what you will find all over Italy. You may want to stay on a vineyard (with Ionian Jewel Tours) or a local town and adventure out and take part in the everyday harvesting. Which ever month you choose to be in Italy,you will become Italy.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Smell of the Sea and Flowers on the Ionian Coast of Calabria </td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Harvest time at the Cantina Chiorri Vineyards in Umbria .</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Wild flowers and olive tress lining the roads of the mountain side.</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Taking an Historical Tour of my home town with the Local Students.<br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Beautiful Lake Como with my group on our way to Bellaggio</td></tr>
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Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-27534620990372118062014-10-10T16:33:00.001-07:002014-11-12T10:44:00.191-08:00Wine, Food, Music Is there anything better than that?I am so excited to be adding all new vineyards this year with my tours of Central and Southeren Italy. I will be traveling with a wine importer and talented musicians. Did I mention I love my job. This year I will be featuring Italian and American musicians on our tours. This idea came to me when I was traveling in an area of Italy called Le Marche. My husband and I were on our 30th wedding anniversary . Since touring Italy for the past 20 years, I thought it would be wonderful to experience somewhere we both had not been. Le Marche does not disappoint. The vineyard was more that I expected. The swimming pool is in the shape of a wine bottle. The structures on the grounds were replicas of Renaissance Architecture. It was simply beautiful!<br />
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There are many music festivals in Italy during the summer. They all seem to be in the town piazza's or in a theater. I found that being on a vineyard and tasting the wines with wonderful meals the only thing missing was music.Since music is a universal language everyone would understand it. I am planning to start this in March of 2015. I am not sure how it will turn out. Ionian Jewel Tours loves to have theme tours. That is what makes your tours fun!. This is not just limited to one vineyard. I also intend to bring my tours to Umbira to Cantina Chiorri where family, hospitality and of course Vino meraviglioso!!! Here is a preview of the tour. Eat, Drink, and be Felice!!!!!!<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Umbria</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Le Marche</td></tr>
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<br />Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-80503492396368274052014-09-02T13:09:00.001-07:002014-09-02T15:53:23.736-07:00PassionI have been so many places in Italy since I lasted posted that I felt it was the time to share it with all of you. I want to let everyone know how blessed I feel that my parents gave me the passion I feel for Italy today. If not for them taking us over to visit our little town in Calabria I would not be able to feel that passion not just for my region but for all of Italy.<br />
You must be wondering what makes my tours different. For one thing, did I say PASSION!?<br />
Anyone can visit Italy but in order to really appreciate the country, you must except all the obstacles that you come across. I take you deep into the heart and soul of the country, offering such excursions as genealogy tours, family tours, yoga tours, Ladies tours and couples tours.<br />
I started this 20 years ago and I am as passionate about it today as I was then. When I say you must deal with obstacles that may come your way I mean such as getting lost on our way to a location because there are no signs or to many signs or maybe the driver does not trust the GPS! Hey that's Italy!. I have been so lucky to be with such wonderful people who are hungry for the culture of the country. Of course, we visit the museums and churches and ruins but we make our stays in local towns where we are free to wonder around and mingle with the townspeople. That is Italy to me.<br />
My trips take you from The Dolomites to The Aeolian Islands in Sicily.<br />
I have to say that all of Italy is beautiful. If you really want to live your dream of Italy consider, please Ionian Jewel Tours .<br />
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Places to visit in 2015<br />
North, Venice, Bologna, Umbria, Rome, Amalfi Coast, Puglia, Basilicata, Calabria, Sicily<br />
<br />Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-17561552870329010902014-09-02T13:03:00.002-07:002014-09-02T14:50:34.516-07:00Up coming ToursIt has been a long time since I have been on my blog. I usually write about my tours, the places we have seen, things we have done and people I have met along the way.<br />
Now I want to really explain what it means to me when I spend time with the people who come on my tours.<br />
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It's not simply about wanting to show them around, I want people to feel, taste, drown in the culture of Italy. I am very passionate about my life as a travel consultant, specifically, to visit Italy ! I thrive on the idea that you should really know how the Italian people live day to day, not just how they live when the tourist are in town!<br />
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I have been so fortunate to have had parents that gave me the passion I feel today. I love sharing it with everyone. I started my tours about 20 years ago but only going to Calabria and of course a day trip to Taormina Sicily. These were wonderful tours especially since we would really get to know the people in the small town of Soverato. We would swim in the beautiful Ionian Sea and go into different villages at night. Then I expanded to the Amalfi Coast, beautiful right? But as beautiful as it is, I felt that is was too touristy. How would I change that? I did not seek the most beautiful hotels on the coast but instead I sought out a family hotel. One where you know you are treated like family. Now, I happily take tours to Sorrento and feel at home there just like I do in my home town of Calabria.<br />
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Ten years ago, I expanded my tours other regions of Italy. I met locals who were hungry to share their culture with my clients. From the North to the South of Italy, I will introduce you to what real hospitality feels like. My guides are locals who will have you living the Italian life, not just seeing it.<br />
Tours this year will start in May from Sicily to Venice. All you have to do is send me an email at ionianjewel@gmail.com and let me know what you are interested in.<br />
<br />Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-61753264852690847132014-09-02T13:01:00.002-07:002014-09-07T06:53:25.571-07:00My friend Mimmo,<br />
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In the summer of 2011 my friend Luciano owner of Hotel San Domenico in Soverato introduced me to one of the most fascinating men in the Calabria. I was greeted by a small elderly man who was full of energy and danced he greeted me at the gate. As we walked through the property we saw miles of pepperoncino plants. I did not know at the time that this was where everyone came to get their pepperoncino. We were taken through miles of pepperoncino fields. He proudly showed us around his property . After many hours of drinking home made wine, eating everything that was grown on the property, and homemade olives (the best you have ever tasted) we were finally told the story of his life and what brought him to this magical place.<br />
I must give you some back ground on Mimmo. He was born into a family of farmers. He had 5 sisters and he is the youngest in the family. In the era that he was growing up in the children did not go to school for long, instead they help the parents continuing the work of the family. It was decided that they youngest child being a boy was going to leave his home and go to College.<br />
Leaving his beautiful Calabria was devastating for him.. He went to Milan , married and became the head or Department of Commerce for the beautiful town of Monza. He lives there with his wife Anna. As we were sitting at dinner with Mimmo he explained to us that he was so fortunate to have had a great life in Milan that he decided to go back to Calabria and pay it forward. He purchased the land and started to grow his own pepperoncino along with olive trees and tomatoes and of course lemons and grapes. So it goes with out saying the best Lemoncello and Wine you have ever tasted is made by Mimmo! The pepperoncino club of Soverato is an organization that Mimmo started. My friends and I are lucky enough to be members. So what does Mimmo do with the pepperoncino? What ever donation he receives from his pepperoncino he gives to the children that are illiterate and needy. One condition is that the families will not know who he is.<br />
It is no wonder that when I am in Calabria I bring my clients to meet Mimmo and most become members of the Pepperoncino club of Soverato.Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-43183187584677717982014-09-02T12:41:00.000-07:002014-09-02T12:41:00.760-07:00finding famiglia<br />
Genealogy tours has to be one of the most rewarding jobs I have ever had. Walking up to the town halls in the small little towns from Northern Italy to Southern Italy is amazing. The expression on the peoples faces as they bring out the registers from the 1800's is amazing. Looking down at the signatures of families who registered the dates they were married, birth of their children, and deaths of the loved ones is truly a moving. Once we locate family we stroll through the towns sometimes we find the address of where the house once stood, other times we find just the street. and in some instances we find living relatives. The emotions take over the people and tears of joy stream down there faces. Here they learn about there families and their crafts. From stone cutters , tailors, to pottery makers and farmers it is amazing how much you learn from our trips to the MUNICIPIO!<br />
<br />Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-70989573470603747492012-11-01T05:08:00.000-07:002013-01-20T11:00:00.954-08:00Italy 2012<div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><b><span style="font-size: large;">IONIAN JEWEL TOURS </span></b></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Family and Friends in Montepaone</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A view from my house in Montepaone</td></tr>
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Camania, Calabria<br />
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So here I am again back on my blog to talk about my new adventures while back in my home town of Montepaone. Before going back this year, I signed up my son, his girlfriend Christa, and I for a nature walking through the old water mills and along the streams of the town. Let me just say it was the most wonderful experience and amazing time not just for me but for my son who never really knew the town his mom was born in. All of my childhood memories came back to me as I was jumping on and hopping on one boulder to another. It was here in these places we would go for picnics or my mother and her family would bring us to play while they washed clothes.It was here that we would pick fruit, and nuts off the trees while playing and jumping on the rocks and play near the olive trees that surround the land . At the end of our nature walk we climbed up a hillside and on to the street where an open back truck was waiting to take us into the country side for the best surprise ever.
Women preparing the food while the men brought out the wine, bread, and muraneri (wine biscotts they only make in my town). We sat and ate and drank in the open air and of course we had a musically treat, what else but the mandolin and my son and Christa played and sang for the happy crowd. <br />
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Jordan and friends making music.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">NATURE WALK</td></tr>
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This is how my journey began . It was wonderful.
As you all know I am a tour facillitator for Italy, so it just so happens that I have a house there now and I no longer have to travel back and forth to the USA. to meet my groups.<br />
This year my tours started out in the beautiful Hotel San Domenico in Soverato Calabria,
From here we traveled to Puglia, such towns as Ostuni, Alberobello, Cesternino, over to Baslicata to Matera, and to Rome . This was in July . (I will write about each town )
Once we arrived in Rome my daughter and her friend Anna meet us and spent the night in Ostia Antica. The next morning my group departed for the States and Anna, my daughter Gabriella and I departed for BELLA CALABRIA.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Gabriella and Anna in Calabria</td></tr>
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We had a amazing time swimming in the crystal blue waters of the Ionian Sea. Relaxing was our plan and that is just what we did for the next 10 days. My daughter and Anna departed vowing they would return here every year. Now it just so happens my husband was to arrive in 4 days with my friends the Corazzini's. My job now was to tour Calabria with this couple then move on to Popolli Abruzzo. You see I also do genealogy tours. Upon arriving in Popoli we went over to the townhall and gave the young lady at the desk our information. BINGO!!!!!just like that she found the family. Fred being happy with just that was ready to leave the next morning. Still not convinced I had done enough I made it a point to take Fred and Edna back to the piazza my husband and I went to the night before. Popoli is a very pretty town and worth a visit. I asked Fred and Edna ,No I told them that I was going to try and find family. It just so happens there was an elderly gentelman sitting on a bench so I went up to him and asked "do you know any Corazzini's?"He pointed up with his cane and told me to go to the bar. Thinking he had no idea what I asked we proceeded with our walk. Then Edna looked at me and said "Nancy the man you just asked about the Corazzini's is looking at you and pointing his cane. I walked over and he said. "That man over there he is a Corazzini." Progress.
We found family after all. I was so happy for Fred,the next 2 hours we all spent in the bar were marvelous . You can not imagine the joy they felt finding family.Next we traveled to Cento in search of his mothers side of the family. This area was hit with earthquakes in May of this year. As we walked through the town we knew just by looking at town hall where the records were kept we would not be getting the information we needed. My friend Cinzia who lives in Cento brought us to the cemetery where we searched and searched but no luck. That night we went our for a wonderful meal. Everything we ordered was food that Fred's grandfather made. Fred became emotional and felt the connection inspite of not finding family.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">CENTO</td></tr>
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In August I had an other genealogy tour and this was in Sicily. This family did make progress as far as finding out information about there parents and grandparents. No matter where you are from in Italy if you want to find your roots. I can take you there.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"> Muraneri</td></tr>
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JULY<br />
Ionian Jewel Tours and her group toured beautiful Calabria, we visited the towns of Gerace, Stillo, Scilla, . When we are in Calabria we stay at the Hotel San Domenico in beautiful Soverato.<br />
This hotel is located on the beach and has a beautiful walk way leading you into the pretty town.<br />
After a few days we departed for the area of Puglia and Baslicata. Along the way we stopped in the town of Specchiolla where my friend Phyllis once lived with her husband and children while he was<br />
<a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFT3izBytMkFdcgnWAjbS_UYMKGcbjC4-qYIiX6fuRnwoVz2o2136xidvrZJQx4Hxc_qx1BT16U8ECVlEH6mFaZWEWbbf_E4siqimMt4-kMQXU7ITJ41hSPCp1dhyzzeJSgjThQUPWEI5E/s1600/trullis.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFT3izBytMkFdcgnWAjbS_UYMKGcbjC4-qYIiX6fuRnwoVz2o2136xidvrZJQx4Hxc_qx1BT16U8ECVlEH6mFaZWEWbbf_E4siqimMt4-kMQXU7ITJ41hSPCp1dhyzzeJSgjThQUPWEI5E/s320/trullis.jpg" width="320" /></a>Fred finding family in Popoli in the military. It changed a lot in 30 years. <br />
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THE TRULLIS IN PUGLIA<img border="0" height="240" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiIhoDFL4kmQ_IQyIX-wHFPB7rAUUodAkQQPoHdzyb2JlC8iFejrTPuALRczqOhxzTUDn3SjaOnYCav53T9ZHrQF41puXkYPQQQQ1jFDnQGY8RtBJyEW2hNa12md53V1wvkLLAzuWTLjGKd/s320/Basillll.jpg" width="320" />MATERA<br />
From there we settled into our Turlli in the province of Brindisi. Here we visited the towns of Cesternino, Oustuni, Alberobello, and in Baslicata we visited the town of Matera, We had a wonderful time each night dining at Tonia's local trattoria . This region is know for it's wonderful cuisine of legumes , oreccheto pasta and good wine! From here we departed for one night in Rome before returning to the states. We had a wonderful dinner in Ostia Antica and of course some good wine. I said good bye to my friends and departed for Calabria. They left for the States.<br />
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AUGUST<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">The friend that helped find Family</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fred - Home</td></tr>
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Ionian Jewel Tours committed herself to a genealogy tour. My friends Edan and Fred along with my husband came to Calabria in August. We stayed 7 days at the San Domenico Hotel. Every day we would make our way to the market for our lunch that we would prepare in Montepaone. It his here the Fred fell in love with Italy , <a href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OvbWLYUf6qY/UJPNXM6RE8I/AAAAAAAAAC0/a16nvFpxkBg/s1600/%252311.jpg" style="clear: right; float: right; margin-bottom: 1em; margin-left: 1em;"><img border="0" height="240" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-OvbWLYUf6qY/UJPNXM6RE8I/AAAAAAAAAC0/a16nvFpxkBg/s320/%252311.jpg" width="320" /></a>we would walk down to my land and pick the fresh figs right off the tree and ate them as we walked. We had fun reminiscing about our childhood and how our families enjoyed the simple life. This is what Montepaone is to me. Simplicity is what Montepaone is to me.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">PICKING FIGS ON MY LAND.</td></tr>
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When we would leave Montepaone we would go back to the hotel and just relax on the beautiful Ionian Coast. One of the days we went to a wine tasting in Riace which is where you will only find organic wines. <br />
After 7 days we depart for Abruzzo and you all ready know how that ended.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">EDNA "Ciao"</td></tr>
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Fred picking grapes</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"></td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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We made our way to the Cantina Chiorri where we were able to observe the harvest. It was a wonderful 4 days.<br />
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<tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">AMERICAN MEMORIAL, NETTUNO</td><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;"><br /></td></tr>
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One of the most moving places was Nettuno (Anzio) the American Cemetery dedicated to our brave hero's . Visiting this beautiful memorial , one can not help but feel proud and humble. It is a must see when you are in the Rome area. <br />
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September<br />
Geneaology tour Sicily.<br />
<b><img border="0" height="214" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiNahaFiW-wieak7bFAYoiShkyxcHpu-xWDe2Gnx9TQNAqd-k8m86PerKWKU4H26Pg6HWWOSIqcRqV-yuJ8BpUo7wVoor0eUMhI8SqttS7VRB2TI3RN0XYrVvi0zW3K9ivv2aEqIxNWguak/s320/Modica+2.jpg" width="320" /></b>MODICA <img border="0" height="214" src="http://1.bp.blogspot.com/-O9N5o-fwznE/UJPNqRw8L7I/AAAAAAAAAFY/eEC5ZgC1oOU/s320/Statue+w:+temple.jpg" width="320" /> <b> </b>VALLEY OF THE TEMPLES, AGRIGENTO<br />
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We drove to the Province of Agrigento in search of family in Aragona. We did not find living relatives but did manage to get some family records. We stayed in a lovely B&B where Carmelina prepared the best breakfast and dinners. From here we visited the towns of Sciacca, Agrigento, Piazza Amerina. There is so much history that one can spend a life time and keep discovering new places.<br />
From here we travel to Syracusa. Our hotel was a 15th century villa .We visited towns such as Ortigia, Modica, Taormina, and fell in love with it all.<br />
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I had a very busy summer . Going back to my house in Montepaone is the most relaxing part of my summer. I do love all of Italy and will continue to take my clients where ever they may want to go .<br />
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<br />Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-56919909851149236302012-10-04T13:17:00.000-07:002012-10-04T18:38:07.630-07:00June to SeptemberOnce again my family and I will be off to Calabria this year. It is the most exciting time because my sister and I inherited our mom's home in Calabria. We will start the renovations for our home away from home. I know will be able to fell everyday what my clients feel every time they come to Calabria with me. The peaceful felling is so beautiful. The simplicity of the life in this town where this tiny little house is with the most overwhelmingly beautiful views lies! This is where after my tours I will return ! Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-74185070387736543052012-01-31T06:28:00.000-08:002012-02-06T19:07:44.866-08:00Not just Calabria any moreI am so proud to be a Calabrese! It is from this part of Italy that I learned so much about the Italians and their way of life. I say this because traveling through out Italy I have meet so many people from this region. When I was in Cinque Terra and told people I was Calabrese they were so happy to hear that. They would say proudly " I am Calabrese" and we spend our summers in the beautiful coastal towns there." I say I have learned much from being from the south of Italy because it is from here that I was able to launch my travel career . I and along with my beloved best friend Antonio decided it would be great to show people this untouched part of Italy. It would be a untour for tourist seeking to find the true nature of what it means to live like our great grandparents did before some ,not all moved out of the region or country such as my grandparents did and my their way to Boston. My first tours were only Calabria , and excursions over to Lipari. I made so many friends along the way. From Nazereno who owns the best restaurant on the island of Lipari , La Cambusa to the best hotel in Soverato , Calabria Hotel San Domenico owner and friend Luciano.<br />Yes with Antonio we took our groups from Calabria, to Abruzzo, to the Amalfi Coast. and to Sicily! Calabria was so impressive to my clients that when they did return on the tours they wanted only Calabria and the San Domenico Hotel . Now if you are wondering why I do not only do Calabria anymore . It is not that I do not love it. However the area of Puglia, and Basilicata and Sicily are so close that it adds a little bit more to the tours and keeps with the traditions of old world charm. From the Trulli's to the Sassi in Matera, to the volcanic islands here you can live like the locals even if just for a 12 day stay. <br />Antonio passed away this year and I miss him terribly. The knowledge he gave me of southern Italy is something I will cherish for ever as I continue to tour around Sothern Italy.Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-90514415851034474622011-09-14T03:10:00.000-07:002011-09-14T05:23:30.759-07:004 months in ItalyIt has been a long time since I've blogged about my trips to Italy. This year I decided to spend 4 months in there. I am blessed with a family who understands my love of travel and even more so, my love of Italy. I want you all to know that I think all of Italy is beautiful. My favorite parts are Lake Como, Puglia, The Amalfi Coast, The Aeolian Islands, and of course my bella Calabria. It has been a year since my aunt Teresa passed away and this year after traveling with Ionian Jewel Tours for 4 months, I was able to spend time in the house my mother and my aunt were born in and also I have been fortunate enough to inherit this house in the town I was born in. This house was left to my family and I do not know where to begin to describe the beautiful views of the Ionian Sea and the glorious mountains that are just outside the windows upon awakening every morning. Waking up every day and listening to the sound of the vendors yelling through a megaphone about what kind of fruits and vegetables they are selling and stepping out of my house to purchase them off the small trucks brings me back to my childhood. Fish, Cheese, and even house hold items are sold this way; I love it.<br /><br />I love when the older women sit on my foot steps in the afternoon and in the evening. They continue to do this even after my aunt passed away. Yes, I am blessed now that I have this house which allows me to conduct my tour business while I am in Italy. No more traveling back and forth. I just simply meet and greet my clients in Italy and when my tours are done I return to my new home and await the next group traveling to Italy for an experience like the one I lived the past four months.<br /><br />Montepaone is the name of the place in Calabria where I spent my summer. It is a place for those looking for relaxation and for those who have a great appreciation for a small town still keeping traditions of many years ago.<br /><br />THERE IS NO PLACE LIKE HOME.Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-27014149329705102622010-10-08T02:22:00.000-07:002010-10-08T02:50:31.142-07:00saying good bye to Auntie TeresaOn September 9th my aunt Teresa passed away. The memories of the times spent in Italy in that little house overlooking the crystal clear waters of the Ionian Sea from one balcony and the mystical mountains from the other balcony will never be just a memory. We had some wonderful times with my aunt when we would go to Montepaone for the summers. She would always make it special for us since she had no children of her own. My uncle and my aunt were a great couple. After he husband passed away she lost interest in many of her daily routines. The house she once loved she just abandoned . She would just sit on her steps outside waiting for all the other widows to sit and talk for hours about anything and everything. This became her life. It made her happy just hang with the women on the ruga(the little street ).<br />When I would go visit her the last couple of years . I would find her wondering the little streets or just sitting in the little chair made out of wood and stray looking as if she was lost. Then she would notice me and she would laugh and with in a split second she would cry. When I last saw her in June I knew I would not see her on that little chair again with her friends.<br />After her funeral I returned to the house which was left to my family and started to clear all the years of clutter she had left behind. <br />Now I have started to sit with the ladies in the ruga who tell stories of my aunt in her last years, and stories of my mom and dad and of all the Monteponese that are departed. <br />While in that house and town I noticed how happy I was . It is the simplicity of life that these wonderful people have showed me and I miss that now that I am home in the States. Auntie Teresa lived that simple life . I know today that is why she never wanted to leave that little house in that special little town in Calabria.<br />My brother and sisters and I will be traveling to Italy more often and never take for granted what was left to us. <br />Our family home passed down from our parents who also owned the house with auntie Teresa. <br /><br />Calabria is always been the most special place on earth for us.Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com2tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-9593184782811773612010-07-14T11:46:00.000-07:002010-07-14T12:06:03.284-07:00Friends in CalabriaFour years ago I meet David of Steiman and Gentile a Bus touring company in Calabria. I knew after hiring this family business that I would not use anyone else. They are wonderful, caring people. No matter who the driver is they are always careful while driving. (You all know what driving is like in Italy. They drive like crazy people!!!!)<br />Every tour group I have taken to Italy, always comments on the drivers. <br />This year David invited my family and my friends to his house in Staletti. This beautiful town is 20 minutes from the beautiful grounds of Cassiodoro where we were staying. David, his mother, and his girlfriend Anna had a wonderful pizza night for us. It was a perfect night . The stars lit up the sky as we ate outside in the fresh mountain air , while the moon reflected on the beautiful sea beneath us.We enjoyed the local wines and cheese of the are along with wonderful conversation.<br />I am glad my sister and my friends were able to enjoy themselves with the many friends I have made in BELLA CALABRIA!!!!!!!Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-49870795341964624572010-07-07T04:58:00.000-07:002010-07-07T05:32:14.163-07:00Calabria, Sicily, and auntie TeresaWe just got back from another trip to bella Calabria. This time we stayed at a palace called Cassiodoro in Staletti province of Catazaro. There were 10 of us in all. We each rented flats on this beautiful manicured grounds. It is located about 2 miles from the sea. Our room had the most amazing views of the coast. This location is very family friendly and was very relaxing. We would spend the day at the beach and with the temperatures in the high 80's is was very refreshening to come back to the beautiful breeze this location offered all day. The owners were right you do not need air conditioning at the place.
<br />
<br /> My stay in Calabria is always bitter sweet. I go visit my aunt who health is in decline. She hardly knows who were are . It is sad to find her roaming the streets of Montepaone looking for someone to keep her company. If she could only remember she has company all the time. This time I took my sister with me who had not been in Italy for 10 years, and only now could she understand what was happening to her aunt Teresa. We would go visit her 2 more times after that and said our goodbyes . Who knows if we will ever see her again in her little home and town of Montepaone.
<br />
<br />Since I was traveling with another family I decided it was time to take them to may friends place is Lipari. La Villetta. We all loved it here. The people , the beaches and ofcourse the food.</div><div>I went back to Stromboli with them. This time instead of the volcano spitting out lava, we were finishing up our drinks at the bar when we hear a load explosion ! People were running out of stores, bars, homes looking scared and confused. I was just trying to pay the bill, when I asked what happened? The young girl at the cashiers desk had tears in her eyes and said she though that the volcano had finally exploded. Lucky for us it did not. Well we did not get to see to much lava that night as our boat docked on the waters in front to the volcano. Like my friends said "We got to experience the real deal "
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<br />Lipari was great. It was very hot and we were ready to go back to Calabria to our breezy apartments. On the day before we departed, we walked to the town of Staletti. If you are looking for granita look no further than Bar Jolli. They travel form all over for this granita.It is the best.
<br />Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-63778529761169709882009-07-16T18:27:00.000-07:002009-07-17T06:52:12.350-07:00cooking with MariannaWhen I discovered <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">InItalyTours</span> offered a cooking class in the mountains in a little country home I could not resist the offer from Tania the founder of the company. Since I also have a company that runs tours to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Calabria</span> .I wanted to sample this cooking class for myself. Marianna lead me to her herbal ,vegetable and fruit garden in the field where they are grown . My husband and I were also shown how to make home made <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">fisilli</span> (pasta). Our meal was accompanied by some wonderful <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Calabrese</span> wines .It was like a journey through time.. What made this night so special was sitting down with Tania , Mariana and her husband Franco surrounded by the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">rustic beauty</span> in the hills of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Tropea</span> . As we sat in the middle of the field under a beautiful white canopy with candles burning and the brilliant stars above I knew we were about to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">indugle</span> ourselves in a great <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Calabrese</span> feast.<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Buona</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">Petito!!!!!!!1</span>Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-29947411256255271152009-06-09T14:49:00.000-07:002009-06-11T08:51:31.348-07:00After Calabria comes Lipari<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UG8D66Ukvkc/SjEn7Vp3xKI/AAAAAAAAABU/x1lZLspHqzQ/s1600-h/P5230248.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UG8D66Ukvkc/SjEn7Vp3xKI/AAAAAAAAABU/x1lZLspHqzQ/s320/P5230248.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346098133044020386" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UG8D66Ukvkc/SjEn7HBgpVI/AAAAAAAAABM/NL3A-L1lGQo/s1600-h/P5250290.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://4.bp.blogspot.com/_UG8D66Ukvkc/SjEn7HBgpVI/AAAAAAAAABM/NL3A-L1lGQo/s320/P5250290.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346098129116636498" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxZuC2PEWyvqwNnl3XhAQFFrL8gxwhlh8D4t7PPI-hOaYw6L-rMpfI6uibFPdCDcSsgd6UvLT-N67n-kJx5CS4EGWo8VAKj6bFx1lcljR_UIBUk28KpWQFn47MAbx11wCq7W7zJsb8XGgg/s1600-h/P5270318.JPG"><img style="float:right; margin:0 0 10px 10px;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgxZuC2PEWyvqwNnl3XhAQFFrL8gxwhlh8D4t7PPI-hOaYw6L-rMpfI6uibFPdCDcSsgd6UvLT-N67n-kJx5CS4EGWo8VAKj6bFx1lcljR_UIBUk28KpWQFn47MAbx11wCq7W7zJsb8XGgg/s320/P5270318.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346096939972528354" /></a><br />After nine days of taking care of my aunt our 25t<span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">h.</span> wedding anniversary celebration began.<div>We chose the island of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Lipari</span> because we both love it there. Lipari in May is just perfect, not overwhelming with tourist yet just enough to make this place exciting. We had a wonderful time. Our days were so <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">peaceful.</span> We would take long walks to the markets, along the sea shore and enjoy the cafes and beaches.</div><div>Our favorite place to eat is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">La Cambussa</span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Nazareno</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Franca</span> are wonderful, warm people. <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">Franca</span> is the chef and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Nazareno</span> her <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">husband</span> is the waiter. By far best food and wine on the island. </div><div>One afternoon we took a boat over to the islands of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10">Panarea</span> and Stromboli. So romantic!! <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">Panarea</span> is the island of the <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">VIPS</span>. Stromboli is beautiful at sunset. The boat sails out and anchors in view of the active volcano. The stillness of the water, the red lava and listening to the rocks tumble down to the water is a spectacular event to witness. You must <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">experience</span> it. I highly recommend it.</div><div>We will be going to back to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">Lipari</span> soon and visit LA <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">CAMBUSSA</span> and all the friends from our anniversary celebration. Our next trip will include the islands of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_16">Alicudi</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_17">Filicudi. Both islands are on my list of must see locations. W</span>e will not wait 25 years to enjoy the wonders of Lipari.</div>Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-68077774135982731572009-06-09T14:48:00.001-07:002009-06-09T14:48:43.264-07:00Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com0tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-83832406579227136042009-06-09T14:14:00.002-07:002009-06-11T09:03:46.779-07:00Memories of Aunt Teresa and Montepaone<a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiThtqUc4V-iSon1vJjFLqcWROcBttsq6yDZZ3diPcAFheYSxV7I_Notk32P7Rgx7hph3PrjB2bDBSbGlrDf8Em57WmagQ6YATp7jlLN3Uog_HJfA8wSAx02Kal2-FwjapEYxuDQ6cDnPoM/s1600-h/P5120020.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiThtqUc4V-iSon1vJjFLqcWROcBttsq6yDZZ3diPcAFheYSxV7I_Notk32P7Rgx7hph3PrjB2bDBSbGlrDf8Em57WmagQ6YATp7jlLN3Uog_HJfA8wSAx02Kal2-FwjapEYxuDQ6cDnPoM/s320/P5120020.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346100655319281762" /></a><br /><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UG8D66Ukvkc/SjEpubVhkXI/AAAAAAAAABk/_bFJem-MZ1M/s1600-h/P5170074.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="http://2.bp.blogspot.com/_UG8D66Ukvkc/SjEpubVhkXI/AAAAAAAAABk/_bFJem-MZ1M/s320/P5170074.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346100110254248306" /></a><br /><a onblur="try {parent.deselectBloggerImageGracefully();} catch(e) {}" href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTvQZ8hISXchPxEGZT2OKcgvR3n2-ooA2VIxS2GtHrwHo7L7hGV8plelrJS6nmxj9GgnREuUQi0IsZi63K_vKQLHwAo0ZduhwUJIL0FZSrfcw0oIP384eXcOdyKbrBmHljyLzN6VCaJ4M/s1600-h/P5170069.JPG"><img style="display:block; margin:0px auto 10px; text-align:center;cursor:pointer; cursor:hand;width: 320px; height: 240px;" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcTvQZ8hISXchPxEGZT2OKcgvR3n2-ooA2VIxS2GtHrwHo7L7hGV8plelrJS6nmxj9GgnREuUQi0IsZi63K_vKQLHwAo0ZduhwUJIL0FZSrfcw0oIP384eXcOdyKbrBmHljyLzN6VCaJ4M/s320/P5170069.JPG" border="0" alt="" id="BLOGGER_PHOTO_ID_5346100103195106242" /></a><br /> On May 12<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">th</span></span> my husband and I arrived in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Calabria</span></span>. The name of my hometown is <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Montepaone</span></span>. <div>We decided to spend our 25<span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">th</span></span> wedding anniversary in Italy this year. This was to be a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">bitter sweet</span> trip for us. I knew as we left I was going to take care of my <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">aunt</span> Teresa who has been sick for a couple of years now. I never expected to fine her in the condition she was in. </div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>My aunt who always had beautiful hair , beautiful clothes and a little on the heavy side look so different. I watched her come down the stairs to greet my husband and I all I could think is who is taking care of her. She suffers from dementia and has mini strokes during the day. I was wondering how can anyone leave her in this condition. This is where our journey begins.</div><div><span class="Apple-tab-span" style="white-space:pre"> </span>My aunt is and was always a <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">stubborn</span> women. She will not let anyone take care of her. She refuses help and can get very nasty at times. The nine days my husband and I spent in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8"><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Montepaone</span></span> were <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_9">challenging</span> . I would follow her in the morning and watch her make her coffee with <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_10"><span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">anisette</span></span>. <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_11">According</span> to my aunt her <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_12">doctor</span> order that, of course that was not true. </div><div>I cleaned her house as she yelled at me for <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_13">throwing</span> all her very old rags and old opened food away. The <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_14">highlight</span> of the day would be when my husband would sit outside with the old widow neighbors eating <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_15">ice cream</span> while I would cook and clean. During the night, my aunt had ritual that she performed before going to bed. The first night my husband and I were lying in bed and we heard screaming and banging on the windows. It was my aunt, she said "I am getting the demons out of my house"..... AH OK!!!! So after that we knew that she would do it each night. </div><div>As the days went on it became clear to me that she really need 24 hours care.</div><div>I really did not want to leave her but it is her life and her little town with her close friends. She plans on coming to the USA with her nephew soon. I hope she is able to make the the trip.</div><div>As I said goodbye to my aunt and Montepaone I looked around at the houses and the little alleys I would play in when I was a little girl and was sad. </div><div>I knew as my husband and I drove away that the next time I arrive in <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Montepaone</span> my aunt will not be coming out to greet us instead the house will be empty waiting for the next generation to move in.</div>Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-82041099228284601262009-04-25T20:54:00.000-07:002009-06-11T08:10:56.770-07:00May in CalabriaOn May 11th my husband and I will be on a plane headed for Calabria again. This time it will be just the two of us.<br />For the past 10 years I have been a tour guide for the Calabria area of Italy that I know and love so much. It will seem strange at first, for everyday I would plan which beautiful little town we would go visit next. But this time it will be very relaxing and my husband and I will be able to see what we want at the pace we chose.<br />I am excited to be spending a week in the town of Montepaone. That is where I was born. The memories of my wonderful childhood will be so comforting and welcoming. I can not wait to show my husband all the friends that made me feel special whenever we would visit when I was young. Those months we would spend there would just fly by. Just like the 25 years of marriage we will be celebrating. We chose to go to Calabria and Sicily because they are the locations we enjoy so much.<br />For those who have not been . You must go !! I would recommend you go in the months of June ,July, and August.<br />Calabria is definitely a summer destination for those who love the sea. For those like me who have family. Calabria is a great family friendly place to visit.<br />I can not wait to tell you all about it when I get back<br />Viva la Calabria!!!!!!!Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-81106339611825121082008-10-05T04:17:00.000-07:002008-10-05T09:17:20.852-07:00Ricardi train stationAs we were waiting in the train station I could not help but notice how much graffiti one could see and how run down this station was. Like most stations now in Calabria with the exceptions of the major ones these small town stations all look like this.<div> Yet standing there I could not help but remember how these train stations were the connection to the world of the Americans, Australians, French ,and the Milanese and more. People would be waiting in anticipation for their families to arrive for their summer vacations. Grandparents ,aunts, uncles, cousins would be jumping up and down as the trains would pull up to the stations. <div>I remember looking around and seeing beautiful birdbaths and amazing little gardens with vibrant colored flowers and benches everywhere at these stations. For you see train stations back then were a place where seniors like my grandparents would go to sit and relax on the bench reading the newspaper while listening to the sounds of the little birds . You could hear faint echos of conversations people were having as they were waiting for their trains to pull up to the station. How can I forget the train masters wife who would be hanging out clothes from her window while saying hello to all in the station she knew every ones name and would strike up conversations with them . People would just stroll up and down admiring the little gardens that they could take there passegiata . </div><div>While we were waiting for the train to take us from Ricardi to Scilla . I noticed a women walking my way and she stop and sat next to me on the bench. She started a conversation with me about this particular train station. "Up until 2 years ago this train station was the most beautiful one in Calabria." She told me that she and her husband would come her and just walk through the little garden filled with the most beautiful flowers one could imagine. The structure of the building resembled a magnificent villa . She told me that the government can not afford to keep this small stations going anymore and that were left abandoned .In fact not to many trains stop in the small towns anymore. </div><div>Yet like all Italians it has not stop them for going back to the place with emotional ties and looking ahead hoping that one day these little stations will make a come back and be what they once were. </div></div>Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-77207558936796656852008-08-26T08:34:00.000-07:002008-08-26T08:42:36.468-07:00missing the connectionWell it has been a while since I have written in my blog. I have to say that not a minute goes by that I do not think about how beautiful Calabria is. I miss not being able to talk to the warm Calabrese people I meet all the time. The smell of every ones kitchen as I pass there houses along my way to the store every morning. The voices of the kids getting ready to head down to the beautiful blue sea. Yes I miss all that. It is no wonder I go back every year.<div><br /></div>Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com4tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-87837247619993520632008-07-27T16:26:00.000-07:002008-07-27T17:38:49.120-07:00reunion for all CalabreseHello all you Calabrese.<br />If any of you are interested in a trip to Calabria in 2010 LETS ALL MEET IN CALABRIA!!!!<br />If you have never been and want to find your roots this is perfect for you.If you have been and want to go back and be with all your Calabresi piasani from Massachusetts or anywhere in the USA I am willing to put together a trip for all.<br />I think it would be great to share stories and to meet. We can invite others and show off our beautiful land. Travel through all the different regions. Can you imagine ?<br />When I was a little girl and would tell people that I was born in Calabria Italy they would say WHERE IS THAT?<br />Today however it is a different story. Now I take friends and family with me and they all say WE WANT TO GO BACK THERE.<br />I do have a website. www.ionianjewel.com . I must admit I do take my clients all over Italy.<br /><br />I will reserve 2010 for Calabria only.<br />VIVA LA CALABRIA!!!!!!Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com3tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-91020122901014696062008-07-22T02:42:00.000-07:002008-07-22T03:00:22.581-07:00Calabrese people I meetI have been home one week now. I miss Calabria. I miss the walks I would take with members of my husbands family in the mornings and stopping at the end of the road to chat with an elderly man . He told us his name was Silvester. He was the only one in town with that name. He was a very young 87 years. Everyday we would learn more about him as would would speak to him through the mesh fence surrounding his garden. He spoke to us of his capture during the war in Tunisia by the Americans and sent to Kansas to work on the corn fields. He said it was difficult but never uttered a bad word about America or the Americans.
<br />There is the little market we would go to in the mornings. The woman who got to know me so well that she wrote down a wonderful recipe for me on making eggplant balls in stead of meat balls. Her conversations everyday telling me how she admired the fact I loved Calabria so much that I returned every year and this time with my husbands family. It made her orgogliosa!!! Which means proud. This trip was not just about the beauty of the sea and the little towns . This was also the beauty of the Calabrese people.</div>Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-52605512008268899292008-07-19T12:01:00.000-07:002008-07-19T12:51:40.193-07:00Capo Vaticano CalabriaAfter all the trips I have made to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_0">Calabria</span>, taking one day excursions to <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_1">Tropea</span> and <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_2">Pizzo</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_3">Calabro</span> I finally made this area my destination point for a vacation and was not disappointed. The beauty of this area has to be seen by ones owns eyes. It was better than I imagined. The sunsets over the island of <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_4">Strombli</span> with it's beautiful pink sky every night was just the invitation we need to visit the Aeolian Islands . <div>The cooking school with Marianna and Franco and our host Tania was a setting I can not forget. The rustic setting is what this area is all about. The wonderful dinner prepared for us by Rosanna at her and Roberto's resort was also amazing. The wines of this area are a compliment to the <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_5">Calabrese</span> <span class="blsp-spelling-corrected" id="SPELLING_ERROR_6">cuisine</span> </div><div> Scylla a picturesque fishing village where today some still fish for swordfish the old fashion way. The boats are called passerelle. This town is also the home of the Odyssey.</div><div><span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_7">Calabria</span> is a hidden gem. It must be toured with people who know here well.</div><div>The say Rome is the soul of Italy. I say <span class="blsp-spelling-error" id="SPELLING_ERROR_8">Calabria</span> is the heart.</div><div>I will post pictures soon.</div>Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com1tag:blogger.com,1999:blog-4065607204334623504.post-4054309264165036152008-06-17T07:37:00.001-07:002008-06-19T10:14:35.985-07:00Soon to discover Capo Vaticano CalabriaHello fellow traverlers<br /><br />I have decided to start this blog on Calabria because I feel that such a rustic part of Italy does not get a fair share of reviews such as other parts of the country.<br />I was born in Montepaone which is the province of Catanzaro and for many years now I have been a personal tour guide for this area of Italy. I have been doing many genealogy tours and continue to do so today.<br />There is so much to discover in this part of Italy. I know have decided to go back to Calabria not as a tour guide but as a tourist myself. It will be interesting since this time I will be staying in Ricadi the province of Vibo Valentia.<br />I will keep you all posted and bring back lot's of foto's . In the mean time I do have a web site<br />www.ionianjewel.com. I encourage anyone who is looking for an adventure to go to the site.<br />I will be leaving on the 26th of June . I will get back to my blog then.Calabriahttp://www.blogger.com/profile/17352564113135108065noreply@blogger.com6