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Bella Italy

Arts & Culture Podcasts

Hey folks, welcome to the show! I’m Brian, the host of this Bella Italy podcast. And I’m Anthony, owner of the Italy With Bella travel company. Together, we’re taking you on a tour of Italy: introducing you to our favorite places, people, AND ... of course our favorite foods, wines, and spirits for you to enjoy! So, if you’re planning to travel to Italy, do yourself a favour and check with us first because // when you travel to Italy With Bella you feel like you’re at home //. Check us out online anytime at www.italywithbella.com and sign up for your FREE Italy travel consultation!

Location:

United States

Description:

Hey folks, welcome to the show! I’m Brian, the host of this Bella Italy podcast. And I’m Anthony, owner of the Italy With Bella travel company. Together, we’re taking you on a tour of Italy: introducing you to our favorite places, people, AND ... of course our favorite foods, wines, and spirits for you to enjoy! So, if you’re planning to travel to Italy, do yourself a favour and check with us first because // when you travel to Italy With Bella you feel like you’re at home //. Check us out online anytime at www.italywithbella.com and sign up for your FREE Italy travel consultation!

Language:

English


Episodes
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Avoiding Amalfi? Not necessarily, but beware!

3/27/2024
The Amalfi Coast, located on the southern shores of the Sorrentine Peninsula, is a wildly popular and highly sought after tourist destination. Amalfi's sister towns of Praiano and Positano are equally impressive... but are they worth all the hype, time, and expense it takes to get there? While there are good reasons they've achieved world renown, these small idyllic towns can get overrun in the heavier tourist seasons. Positano alone can see up to 3,000 tourists per day, which is almost the size of the town's population. So, what should you do? On today's show, we're going to tell you what to do and not to do, how to avoid the seasonal traps, and get the most out of your next visit. Don't miss this episode! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:36:57

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Bella Napoli: The Fast and Furious Edition!

3/13/2024
Experience the vibrant pulse of Naples! This episode is definitively NOT your Top Ten, Best of, Buffet-style, "follow the fluorescent umbrella" tour guide approach to this fast and furious city. Instead it's for those who want to understand what Naples is about, how it contrasts with other bucket list "First" cities in Italy, and how to get the most out of their visit. On this no frills episodes, we're taking the gloves off to give you an honest look at Italy's jewel of the south. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:46:37

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The Lakeside Serenity of Lake Como and Beyond!

2/13/2024
Escape to the tranquil beauty of Lake Como in this captivating episode! Join us as we embark on a picturesque journey to the enchanting shores of Lake Como, uncovering the secrets of seamless transportation along the way. Delve into the allure of lakeside towns, opulent villas, and lush gardens that adorn this Italian paradise. Discover the art of relaxation by the glistening waters with boat trips, leisurely lakeside strolls, and delightful cafes offering a taste of local charm. Immerse yourself in the serene ambiance and rich cultural tapestry of this idyllic destination. Plus, stay tuned as we unveil other hidden gems among the lakes of northern Italy waiting to be explored. Tune in and let the allure of Lake Como whisk you away on a journey of unforgettable experiences! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:37:59

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Lovely Venice - From Canals to Culture

1/30/2024
Venice is a hallmark in most people's travelogues. In this episode, we'll explore iconic Venice, from canals to quarters, to culture... and few things in between. Joined once again by Anthony's better half, Denise, we have some lively discussions around do's, don'ts and well "maybes" for your next trip to Italy's lagoon paradise. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:01:00:20

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Coastal Escape! Cinque Terre vs. Santa Margherita

1/16/2024
Today we're travelling to the region of Liguria and assessing the difference between two villages: the famous Cinque Terre and the lesser known Santa Margherita. We'll also disclose where to base out of, what to do, and where to go on your coastal adventure. --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:45:55

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A Canvas of Charm: Florence's Art and Architecture

1/3/2024
This episode is a harmonious blend of information and inspiration, transporting you into a vivid tapestry of Florence's artistic allure. We're joined by another special guest this week, who helps us to unravel the art, history, and intrigue of Florence. From arrival to departure, the enduring appeal (even for veteran travellers), to the must-sees and the many alternative options, no stone is left unturned, no matter how ancient. Florence is the ultimate masterpiece – where every stroke of history and art intertwines to create a canvas of charm that will linger in your heart long after the episode concludes. Join us as we debate this city's "one size fits all" appeal and what may be in it for you on your next trip to Italy! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:47:37

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Tuscan and Umbrian Countryside Retreats

12/26/2023
This time around we'll discuss options heading north from Rome through Umbria and into Tuscany. We'll explore their scenic countryside, vineyards, and charming villages. What's there to do in the scenic landscapes of Italy's interior for: We'll also take a bit of a refreshing approach to what makes Italy's more bustling cities more enjoyable. Want a hint? It's similar to how the "slow-food" movement makes your meals taste better. Join us as we slow-down, relax, and take it all in... oh, and did we mention that we have a special guest on today's episode?! Enoy! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:49:29

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The Allure of Rome and Its Hidden Gems

12/12/2023
You arrive in Rome for a 10+ day adventure. But, what to do? Where to go? Let's explore the charm of starting an Italian journey in Rome. On this episode, we'll highlight a few landmarks, neighbourhoods, and local experiences. We'll also explore Rome's Hidden Gems. We'll suggest some lesser-known spots to explore in Rome, and talk about getting in and out of this bustling, world-class city. Most importantly, we discuss how to balance must-see attractions with off-the-beaten-path discoveries. Don't miss this episode! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:53:27

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The Perfect 10-Day Italian Adventure

11/28/2023
Embark on an Italian Adventure with our Season 3 Premiere! Join us as we kick off a brand-new season of The Bella Italy podcast, where we invite you to immerse yourself in a captivating 10-day (minimum) exploration of Italy. Get ready to set the tone for an unforgettable adventure as we unveil the concept of our carefully curated 10-day itinerary. Why 10 days, you ask? The perfect duration (for most people). We're here to unveil the secrets behind the perfect duration for an Italian escapade, ideal for those with limited time. Discover the unique benefits of a 10-day itinerary and gain insights on how to maximize your experiences within this perfectly crafted trip. Don't miss out on the chance to make every moment count on this incredible journey through Italy. Tune in to our first episode and let the adventure begin! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:40:55

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Hidden Gems P4: Tours & Experiences

8/29/2023
What does it to go on really great tours and have great experiences in Italy? It's just looking at Google reviews for the best reviews, price, and time of day, right? Well, that doesn't actually guarantee a great experience. Here's what we believe. Whether it's your first time in Italy, or you've been coming here for years, the better your "understand" your vacation context, the more you can enjoy it. After all, that's why so many people come to the Bel Paese... the art, history, and archaeology. The better your experience, the better your memories! And, it takes the right kind of local, qualified, and passionate guide to show you around, help you see what the others don't, getting the inside lane. This will help you acclimate faster, understand more, and get everything out of it that you can. So, you should choose tour guides, tours, and experiences catered to your exact specifications. We're talking about your interests, preferences, hobbies, size of your group etc. So, what are the insider tips and tricks when it comes to tours and experiences? That's today's episode. Enjoy! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:01:06:27

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Hidden Gems P3: Transportation

7/22/2023
What does it to have really great transportation experiences in Italy? It's just going from Point A to Point B, right? How hard could that be?! Ha. Well, you'd be surprised. In fact, hiccups with your movement around Italy, not to mention getting in and getting out, are a huge source of frustration for most international travellers. Especially for those unaccustomed to Italy's frequent strikes, bus and train delays, as well as car service price gouging. Whether you're in Rome, Rimini, or Ragusa, it can be quite a challenge to get around the country stress free, or let's say it like this, making things a little easier on yourself and those whom you might be travelling with. So, what are the insider tips and tricks when it comes to transportation? That's today's episode. Enjoy! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:01:00:40

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Hidden Gems P2: Accommodations

7/7/2023
What does it take to find a really great hotel, B&B or boutique accommodation in Italy? Whether you're in Rome, Rimini, or Ragusa, it can be a challenge to have a truly great stay From service to quality, costs to consistency, there are tons of variables that can affect the outcome. So, how do you avoid that tourist trap and find a Hidden Gem? That's today's episode. Enjoy! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:48:58

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The Cost of Finding Hidden Gems

6/13/2023
What does it take to find a really great restaurant in Italy? Whether you're in Rome, Rimini, or Ragusa, it can be a challenge to have a truly great dining experience. From service, to quality, to costs and consistency, there are tons of variables that can affect the outcome. So, how do you avoid the tourist traps and find a Hidden Gem? That's today's episode. Enjoy! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:41:42

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Sicily Takeaways and Season 2 Finale!

5/16/2023
Anthony and Brian continue their journey through the Deep South of Italy. Part of a mini-series taking an in-depth look at Puglia, Basilicata (especially Matera), and Brian's favorite... La Sicilia! Don't miss these special episodes! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:53:34

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Sicily, Act 3

4/18/2023
Anthony and Brian continue their journey through the Deep South of Italy. Part of a mini-series taking an in-depth look at Puglia, Basilicata (especially Matera), and Brian's favorite... La Sicilia! Don't miss these special episodes! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:57:06

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Sicily, Act 2

4/4/2023
Anthony and Brian continue their journey through the Deep South of Italy. Part of a mini-series taking an in-depth look at Puglia, Basilicata (especially Matera), and Brian's favorite... La Sicilia! Don't miss these special episodes! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:43:02

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Sicily, Act 1

3/14/2023
Anthony and Brian continue their journey through the Deep South of Italy. Part of a mini-series taking an in-depth look at Puglia, Basilicata (especially Matera), and Brian's favorite... La Sicilia! Don't miss these special episodes! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:57:29

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Mystical Matera

2/28/2023
Anthony and Brian continue their journey through the Deep South of Italy. Part of a mini-series taking an in-depth look at Puglia, Basilicata (especially Matera), and Brian's favorite... La Sicilia! Don't miss these special episodes! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:01:04:46

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Puglia, Part 2

2/14/2023
Anthony and Brian continue their journey through the Deep South of Italy. Part of a mini-series taking an in-depth look at Puglia, Basilicata, and Brian's favorite... La Sicilia! Don't miss these episodes! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:55:28

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Puglia, Part 1

1/31/2023
Anthony and Brian continue their journey through the Deep South of Italy. Part of a mini-series taking an in-depth look at Puglia, Basilicata, and Brian's favorite... La Sicilia! Don't miss these episodes! --- Send in a voice message: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/bellaitaly/message

Duration:00:55:29