Why Italy Calls My "Name"
While we still have a road ahead of us to navigate, the longing and desire to travel is as strong as ever. The possibilities are starting to feel a bit more tangible now, and everyone is brewing with ideas of what's next for them, whenever that may be.
For me, I am thinking about all of the new places I want to go to. I love the anticipation of going someplace I have never been. I get excited about the prospect of traveling to a destination I have read about, or that has inspired me in some way and then experiencing it firsthand.
At the same time, there are a handful of places that may not be new to me but hold a very special place. That I feel connected to and seem to call my "name."
For me, one of those places is Italy.
I remember how excited I was the first time I went to Italy many years ago. I couldn't wait to see so many of the paintings, sculptures, and architecture I studied when pursuing my Art History degree. And, of course, I was looking forward to the food and the beautiful cities.
Once I set foot there, I was hooked. I felt that warm connection to Italy from the beginning. It continues to draw me back.
Why? There are so many reasons, but here are a few of my favorite explanations -
In Venice, August 2018
Photo: Kosh Patel
I blend in. I often am taken for being Italian. Even in Italy.
During our first trip to Italy, we had an amusing, animated conversation with the friendly owner during a stop for a panini one afternoon. He was convinced I was Italian, spoke to me in Italian. He was in disbelief regardless of my broken attempts at speaking the language. Despite my detailed explanations of my origins, he thought (and stated as much) that I was pulling his leg. I am pretty sure he was still skeptical when we left.
Since that time, I have had countless similar experiences in Italy. Kosh and I have even been in situations where locals will greet me with "Buongiorno" or "Ciao" while they say "Hello" to him.
Rome, Italy
You can experience traces of centuries yet feel present in the moment. And, Italy is so beautiful.
The first time I was in Rome, I remember how incredibly awestruck I was. I stopped in my tracks on a corner where I could see Ancient ruins, a Renaissance building, a Baroque church, and more all around us in that very spot. All mixed in with the vibrant sights and sounds of the modern world, which were so present at the same time.
Italy is also filled with so much richness and beauty - from big things to small details. From the designed to the everyday. Cities full of history, picturesque hilltop towns, colorful villages, dreamy landscapes. The warmth of the people. From a door knocker in Venice to handmade artisan pottery in Florence to a vibrant produce market in Rome. You can understand why so much incredible art and music was inspired by the beauty found here.
The incredible food. Need I say more? Actually, yes, I do need to say more.
I have Celiac disease, so managing my dietary needs is a priority when I travel. I have been in Italy both before and after my diagnosis. Fortunately, I have been able to enjoy the local cuisine, even on our visits since I was diagnosed. Without a doubt, it still takes work, research, and coordination to manage my needs, but there is a very good level of awareness of Celiac disease in Italy.
We found a pizzeria in Naples with the best gluten-free pizza I have had in the world. (Good gluten-free pizza is not easy to come by, trust me. It makes sense that the best anywhere would be in Naples, the birthplace of pizza!). A trattoria in Venice that makes tasty gluten-free pasta (it was so good, we went there twice). While exploring Chianti, we enjoyed wine tasting with lunch. They made a special plate for me with specialties that were different than the rest of our table. Everyone was eyeing my plate (and maybe wanted to trade?). I may go back to Naples just for that pizza.
Espresso, my daily coffee of choice
The best coffee anywhere. Period.
Espresso is my daily coffee of choice. It is embedded in the Italian culture.
Just espresso with nothing else, not watered down, no sugar. I like the intense, strong flavor of coffee and espresso delivers.
And the best is in Italy. Nothing more to say on this one.
The wine. With my name on it.
My first name is very unusual. Even in India, from where my family originates, my name is very uncommon.
The wine bottle with my name on it, on my mantle
Photo: Kosh Patel
So, imagine our surprise when we sat down for lunch outdoors on a piazza in Florence and we see my name on the wine menu. Fattoria Poggio Romita. A choice of Vino Bianco or Vino Rosso. We decided on the Bianco because it was a warm summer afternoon. Translated, it means something along the lines of "Farm on a hillock of Romita." We kept the bottle, which sits on our mantle. We wished we could have found some to bring home (we looked at some of the wine shops in town but couldn't find any). Not sure if they still make it, but we may have to look for that hill when we head back to Italy. Naturally, how could I not have a soft spot for a place that has a wine with my name.
And, of course, beyond the wine with my name on it, Italy is home to a plethora of incredible wines.
I know I am not alone when it comes to Italy.
I can see or sense the warm smiles and eyes lighting up people when Italy comes up, whether during a conversation or when someone is reacting to a social media post where I am sharing something about Italy.
I am sure you won't be surprised that I often hear things from travel enthusiasts like -
Vernazza, Italy
"Italy is my favorite place anywhere" or
"I can't wait to go back to Italy (or <fill in the blank place in Italy>)" or
"Italy is the first place I am going to go to as soon as I can"
"I have never been to Italy and am dreaming about going"
And so on…
Here's the other thing about Italy for me. Despite traveling there on numerous occasions, there is still so much more to explore. Italy can satisfy my desire to explore new places and experience new things. At the same time, I can still fulfill that bit of nostalgia and connection I have for Italy. Plus, I am all about building your travel portfolio and filling it with a diverse set of experiences that enable you to take in all that the world has to offer. Why fill it with the same type of travel each time?
Feeling inspired about Italy? Or have a similar connection to one of Europe’s other favorites? I am taking you to Italy along with a few other favorite European destinations that may bring about that similar warmth and nostalgia for you. These are among the destinations I know many of you are looking forward to heading back to when you can. I am sharing ideas on how you can experience a different side of these favorites. Head over to the article If You Love Europe You'll Love These 5 Fresh Destinations for more inspiration for your travels to come.
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