When it comes to Italian travel experiences, there are so many different options available it can be confusing and overwhelming. To help you choose what’s right for you, we discuss the pros and cons of different travel options— private, group, boutique, or luxury travel. Learn the different ways people travel and find the best solution for you.For …

In this episode of P.S. Italy, Valerie and Gina interview Paolo Bertoli, a professional musician (Paolo Bertoli Orchestra) and owner of Associazione Music School located in Parma, Italy. We discuss the cultural importance of the accordion and what it means to be a professional musician in Italy. You can follow Paolo Bertoli on Facebook https://www.…

Stanley Tucci's "Searching for Italy" series on CNN is a delightful viewing experience for all who long for Italian culture and cuisine. In Episode 3: Bologna and the Gems of Emilia Romagna, he travels and eats his way through the region. We were pleasantly surprised when we watched because this episode captures the highlights of our Foodie Tour. W…

In this episode, Valerie shares her funny and inspiring story about finding true love in Italy. After a chance business meeting, Val's life would change forever. Her story reminds us of the importance of following your heart. We hope this episode will inspire you to "buy the ticket". Stop dreaming about Italy and start planning your next trip with …

The Cinque Terre, located in the northwest corner of Italy, is candy for the eyes. These five colorful and historic coastal villages are postcard-perfect - each town offering a unique experience. Learn the four most common ways to visit the towns (hiking, train, boat, or car) and what you can expect at each village. Rio Maggiore, Manarola, Cornigli…

Verona is known as the city of love. It is the home of Shakespeare's Romeo & Juliet and a UNESCO World Heritage site. You will fall in love with the pink marble streets, the Arena di Verona (opera house) and the beautiful cafes and shops. Join us as we explore the history and attractions of this charming northern Italian city located on the Adige R…

Your first trip to Europe is exciting and sometimes a little scary - especially when you are older. In this episode, Valerie interviews Gina about "buying the ticket" for her first Italian adventure -- at the age of 40. With only a backpack and a lifelong desire to see Italy - Gina steps outside her comfort zone and begins genuinely living. For mor…

Yule is a long standing and ancient tradition celebrating the Winter Solstice. It is one of the oldest winter celebrations in the world. We discuss the history of Yule in Italy and the customs surrounding this time of year. We hope you enjoy learning about this most unusual custom and the related traditions - still celebrated in different regions o…

New Year's Eve in Italy is uniquely celebrated. We discuss common (and not so common) NYE traditions, customs, and superstitions including the importance of wearing red underwear, how to banish bad luck, why eating the right foods can bring you prosperity and who to avoid January 1st! For more fun Italian traditions and customs signup for our free …

Christmas traditions in Italy are different than what many might think. In this episode we discuss midnight mass at the Vatican, the Italian Christmas witch, Christmas markets, bagpipers, and different customs between northern and southern Italia.Looking for a great Christmas gift for a loved one or yourself? Join us for one of our boutique fall 20…

On our final podcast of Season 1 we discuss Emilia-Romagna, Italy -- where to go and what to see in this beautiful region of northern Italy. Val and Gina discuss P.S. Italy's 2021 tours -- what to expect, what we offer, and why you might want to join us Summer 2021. Italy has so much offer. Consider spending time in the "foodie capital of the world…

The Medici family ruled the city of Florence throughout the Renaissance. A complicated family - both loved and hated. In this podcast, we discuss our Live Like a Medici 2021 Tour. Learn about the family as we follow the life and legacy of the Medici family in and around Florence. Itinerary: https://psitalyretreats.com/live-like-a-medici/P.S. Italy …

Enjoy the very best of the Italian countryside as we hop from vineyard to sightseeing. This week is full of fun. Highlights include: Lake Garda, Modena, Ferrari, Fellino and Piacenza vineyard tours.Vineyard Wine Tour Itinerary: https://psitalyretreats.com/vineyard-wine-tour/P.S. Italy Retreats is owned and operated by Gina Marcello, Ph.D. and Valer…

Emilia-Romagna, Italy is known as the foodie capital of the world. Join us July 23-July 31st, 2021 for a delicious week of food tasting and tours. Stop dreaming about Italy and start planning!Highlights of our Foodie Week include: Bologna's mortadella factory, Prosciutto di Parma factory tour, Carrara Mountain Tour and lardo di Colonnata food tasti…

Learn to cook and live like a local in Emilia-Romagna, Italy! We discuss our summer 2021 Cooking Tour July 30- August 7, 2021. Each lesson will inspire and delight as we tour the region. Highlights include farm-to-table pizza and crostata (a local dessert), risotto, torta frita, gelato, local tortelli, bronzino and tiramisu. Full itinerary: https:/…

Italy is known for its delicious cheeses and meats. This week we discuss our July 23-31, 2021 foodie tour. We highlight Parmesan-Reggiano cheese, Prosciutto di Parma ham, Felino Salami, Lardo di Colonnata, and Mortadella while discussing the different cities we will visit and experiences you can expect with our small group custom tours.Full itinera…

Italian spas date back to ancient Rome, when natural thermal springs were the center of socialization. On this episode, we discuss P.S. Italy Retreats Spa Week tour (July 9-17, 2021). There's really no better way to experience Italy -- spa hopping and shopping. Relax, unwind, enjoy Italian culture and learn how to live like an Italian!Itinerary ava…

Be inspired and write in the mountains of Emilia-Romanga, Italy. Join us Summer 2021. Spend time with like minded writers, enjoy the beauty of the Italian countryside, and take time for self-care. An interview with P.S. Italy's resident writing instructor Anne Dennish. On this episode we discuss our writing workshops and tours. Take time to slow-do…

It's been three months since our last podcast. We're thrilled to return and announce our summer 2021 tours. Take a listen to what's next for P.S. Italy Retreats. Learn to travel like a local not a tourist.Meet your hosts and join us on Facebook @PSitalyRetreats for LIVE Italian conversation every Tuesday at 3 pm EST…

Information about the impact of the coronavirus in Italy is alarming. In this podcast, Italian resident Valerie Manfredini provides information about what is happening in the small village of Bedonia (northern Italy, Parma Province). We discuss Italy's healthcare system, day-to-day life in the small villages, and the impact of the virus on local re…

By Gina Marcello

By Anne Dennish

By Al Dukes

By Gina Marcello

By Gina Marcello

By Gina Marcello

By Gina Marcello

By Gina Marcello

By Gina Marcello

By Gina Marcello