This Editor’s Note originally appeared in the April/May 2022 issue of Dream of Italy. Members receive access to nearly 190 back issues—if you’re not a member, join here.
A cover story on Trieste is long overdue. This is the city of my dreams. Why? Because despite some 60 (I’ve lost count) trips to Italy, I still have not visited this magnificent place. I’ve been mesmerized by Trieste for more than two decades, since I read the stunning travel memoir, Trieste and the Meaning of Nowhere by Jan Morris. I later had the great privilege of meeting Jan at the Book Passage Travel Writers Conference. Yet sometimes, you leave the best for last, or at least later!
I asked noted guidebook writer Michael Pauls to share his take on this city of coffee and culture. The timing could not be more appropriate as a few weeks ago I moderated an event in San Francisco with Ricardo Illy, the former CEO of Illy Coffee and former mayor of Trieste. He has just written a new book, The Art of Excellent Products, and spends the introduction explaining how Trieste has shaped his view of business.
While Italians’ drink of choice will always be wine first and foremost, the craft beer scene has really taken off in Italy. Beer geeks can now sip microbrews at craft breweries throughout the peninsula and explore a range of styles unique to Italy, and I asked beer aficionado Kevin Raub to give us the lowdown on his favorite places for craft beer in Italy.
Spring is in full force, making all of us that much closer to nature. Italy is home to some of the world’s most beautiful gardens but my absolute favorite is at La Foce in Tuscany – perfect for a dream day in Italy. On the back cover you will find an ode to one of Italy’s most iconic trees, one you will find throughout the Eternal City, the Roman pine tree.
I always welcome your feedback and ideas.
— Kathy McCabe