Italy

Pistachio Gelato

Gelato is one of my absolute favorite things to eat in Italy. While it is the Italian version of ice cream, the two are completely different. Gelato uses more milk, less cream, sugar, and fresh ingredients. It is also churned at a slower speed and for a much shorter period of time, which means less air is incorporated into the mix which creates fewer ice crystals. Gelato really is an…

Campari Negroni

In the heat of the summer, there is no better way to cool off in the late afternoon than with a spritz. Campari is a bittersweet liqueur with flavors of cherry, cascarilla, clove, rhubarb, cinnamon, and orange peel. The Campari Negroni is a bolder flavor than Aperol and is typically mixed with other liquors, so it is the stronger of the two. Because of this, the Negroni tends to be…

Aperol Spritz

In the heat of the summer, there is no better way to cool off in the late afternoon than with a spritz. The Aperol Spritz is an aperitif with citrus and a slight bitter flavor and since it has a relatively low alcohol content, it’s great for almost everyone to enjoy! Aperol tends to be more popular with women and men typically prefer the Campari Spritz with its…

The Genuis of Aperitivo

Aperitivo is one of the simplest and most genius things in Italy. After work, typically from 7-9 pm, Italians love to stop at an outdoor table at a local bar for a glass of wine or a nice spritz and some snacks before they have dinner. It’s a great way to unwind and cool off from the heat of the day. It’s also unbelievably cheap…

Let the Universe Guide You

Even the best laid plans can fail. Trains get delayed. Workers go on strike. And, trust me, you will get lost. The single most important thing I have learned from traveling is that these "setbacks" are the universe's way of telling you that something else was meant to happen. Instead of getting frustrated, lean into these moments with an open mind. Some of my best experiences and fondest memories have happened because things didn't go according to plan.
Emily Cooper