156. Can't decide where to stay in Lake Como?

156. Can't decide where to stay in Lake Como?

Author: Kimberly Holcombe July 24, 2024 Duration: 25:18
Welcome to another episode of “Kimberly’s Italy,” where I, Kimberly and my co-host Tommaso, take you on a journey through the captivating regions of Italy. In this episode, I shift the spotlight to the stunning Lake Como and its charming surrounding villages. As Rome prepares for an influx of visitors for the Catholic Church Jubilee in 2025, we offer recommendations for alternative travel destinations, encouraging you to explore less touristy areas for a more authentic Italian experience. Main Themes: Alternative Travel Destinations: With Rome expected to be bustling with Jubilee visitors, I suggest considering Lake Como as a serene and picturesque alternative. Personal Experiences: I share my personal visits to Lake Como during off-peak seasons, highlighting the benefits of avoiding large crowds and truly immersing in the local culture. Diverse Attractions: From dining and shopping in Como to the tranquil charm of villages like Moltrasio, there’s something for every traveler. Noteworthy mentions include the elegant Passalacqua hotel and the beautiful gardens and artwork at Hotel Tremezzo and Villa Carlota in Tremezzo. Limited Ferry Services: While ferry services may be limited in some areas, I assure you that villages such as Laglio and Argegno, offer exceptional dining, hiking, and breathtaking views of the Alps. Historic Villas and Bustling Waterfronts: North of Argegno, explore Sala Comacina and Leno, known for their historic villas and vibrant waterfronts with public markets and eateries. Ease of Mobility in Menaggio: Menaggio is highlighted for its easier mobility and less crowded atmosphere compared to Bellagio and Como. Sailing and Kiting Adventures: For the adventurous, I discuss the thrilling sailing and kiting experiences available, particularly at the Bellano Sailing School near Varenna. This episode emphasizes the joy of uncovering hidden gems and experiencing local life away from the usual tourist trails. Join me and my co-host Tommaso as we delve into the wonders of Lake Como, offering practical tips and heartfelt stories to inspire your next Italian adventure. Follow us on Social Media Instagram Facebook 

There's a particular magic to Italy that goes far beyond its famous landmarks, a rhythm of life that you only really start to feel once you've lingered in a local piazza or navigated a bustling market. Kimberly's Italy Travel is an invitation into that deeper experience, guided by Kimberly Holcombe, whose own story began with a life-changing move to Milan years ago. That journey didn't just create memories; it reshaped her perspective, and she shares that genuine, lived-in understanding in every episode. You'll hear personal stories from her travels, often punctuated by the kind of comical, real-world lessons that no standard guidebook ever mentions. This podcast serves as a rich audio companion, weaving together passionate discussions about regional cuisine, layers of local history, and the vibrant arts that define Italy's culture. It’s about the sensory details-the taste of a perfectly simple dish, the echo in an ancient alleyway, the warmth of a conversation with a new friend. Listeners gain practical, invaluable travel tips born from direct experience, all while feeling like they're sharing a coffee and a laugh with a knowledgeable guide. Through these conversations and reflections, the aim is to transport you, offering not just a list of destinations, but a feeling for the places and people that make Italy endlessly captivating.
Author: Language: English Episodes: 100

Kimberly's Italy Travel
Podcast Episodes
137. Planning a trip from a TikTok Video??? [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:14
We have more travel news and updates for 2024 and we also want to share some cautionary advice regarding the misinformation which is rampant online. There are thousands of self-proclaimed Italian Travel Experts and Influ…
136. Travel News for bel’Italia 2024 [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 21:36
This episode dishes out some travel news, updates and new rules implemented for 2024. Italy is trying to deal with the volume of tourists while maintaining it’s standing as the 4th most popular European country to visit.…
135. The Classy, Colorful and Tasty City of Parma [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 24:38
Tasting boards in Parma can’t be beat if you are a fan of ham or cheese, or both! To taste the difference between 24 or 36 month cheese is always a treat, but then throw in the various types of parma ham for meat lovers…
134. Culinary Paradise in Parma [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 29:03
Tommaso’s first time in the Italian city of Parma was basically Prosciutto Paradiso! The city’s historic center is very charming, colorful, clean and full of well dressed, and well-fed Italians. We entered every salumeri…
133. Behind the Wheel of a 1969 Fiat Cinque Cento… What a Day! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 33:38
Hopefully most of you know what a Fiat Cinque Cento looks like, however if not, they are the smallest cars imaginable, yet they are as cute as can be! Cinque Cento means 500 hundred in Italian, and when referring to a ca…
132. A Visit with the Present Day Leonardo da Vinci! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 30:07
Tommaso finally gets to visit Nostra Vita in person! A small vineyard owned and nurtured by an incredibly creative family, is a little slice of Tuscan heaven. It is also an experience to treasure since everywhere you loo…
131.  A Sunday night drive in rural Tuscany ... Hilarity ensues! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 23:34
Our first night in Montepulciano was just going to be dinner at a small local ristorante, however duty called when our friend we were travelling with requested some much needed supplies from a pharmacy / farmacia. The ti…
130. A Broken Wrist Didn’t Ruin Our Umbrian Adventure! [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 28:50
Our back road drive to Todi in Umbria was picture perfect, as was our stay in a renovated small castle. One wrong step off the road did result in a broken wrist for our friend, but she was a trooper and carried on to the…
129.  Discovering the History and Artistic Riches of Assisi [not-audio_url] [/not-audio_url]

Duration: 32:27
Our day trip to Assisi proved to be more enriching than we all thought it would be. Most people go to see the Basilica of St Francis, but this sweet little city also offers a plethora of history. The Temple of Minerva fr…