Visiting with Massimo Bottura and Lara Gilmore in Modena

Buona sera da Modena! I’ve just finished five days of filming for Season 3 of Dream of Italy on PBS and mio Dio, I don’t even have the words to describe what I saw and felt. Chances are you know Chef Massimo Bottura? He has three Michelin stars, the restaurant Osteria Francescana that he owns with his American-born wife Lara …

Enjoy The Movie Magic of Under the Tuscan Sun at Villa Laura in Cortona

This article originally appeared in the February/March 2023 issue of Dream of Italy. If you have read Frances Mayes’ bestselling memoir or watched the movie Under the Tuscan Sun like me, you’ve probably dreamed of visiting the magical town of Cortona and wondered about that villa called Bramasole, which means “to yearn for the sun,” that plays center stage. [You can …

Editor’s Note: February/March 2023 Dream of Italy Issue

This Editor’s Note originally appeared in the February/March 2023 Issue of Dream of Italy. Members receive access to more than 190 back issues—if you’re not a member, join here.   I was very randomly led to re-visit Lago di Garda just a few weeks ago and I couldn’t be more grateful. In this issue, you will read my review of Lefay …

Members Only: Ask Kathy McCabe Your Personal Italy Travel Questions

I am always looking for ways to improve the Dream of Italy Membership – of course the magazine and archive of 195+ back issues is at the center of that – and I am introducing a new benefit: a chance to ask me your personal travel questions on a regular basis! Need a recommendation of a charming place to stay in …

Win Four Nights in Florence!

We are here to make your Italian dreams come true! Win four nights at a beautiful Florence apartment from Italy Perfect! – One winner will receive four consecutive nights for up to four guests staying together at a select Italy Perfect vacation apartment rental in Florence, Italy. This prize is valued at approximately $2,500-$4,000 USD. You can redeem this prize …

Podcast Episode #13: Fractional Ownership in Florence with Italy Perfect

 Transcript with Show Notes Embedded: Lisa Byrne: The idea of fractional ownership is that you own a share in a property. Now, it’s not a timeshare, but you actually have deeded ownership in a property where you can stay for a month a year and enjoy feeling like a local. Kathy McCabe: This is Kathy McCabe. Welcome to the …

New Non-EU Visa Waiver Will Be Required to Travel to Italy As Of Early 2024

Starting in early 2024, preparing to travel to Italy on a non-European Union passport will require an extra step. Americans will still be able to travel any of the Schengen countries including Italy to stay for up to 90 days in a 180 day period without a visa, but they must obtain the European Travel Information Authorisation System (ETIAS) visa …

You Need to Be Thinking About Italy Right Now..

Buon Anno! I wish you a healthy, happy and prosperous new year. If traveling to Italy is even a possibility for you in 2023, please listen up: Start planning, start booking NOW! There’s no better advice that I can give you. Don’t feel pressured but do start taking action especially if you plan to visit Italy in the summer. Why? Italy is booking up – already! For …