Aglio e Scalogno

Aglio e Scalogno
Aglio e Scalogno: Garlic and Shallots at the Christmas Market in Florence

Saturday, January 2, 2010

Don't Skip Orvieto!

Orvieto sits atop a mesa of volcanic material about one hour from Rome, in the region of Umbria.

Among other fabulous sites, Orvieto boasts a 2600 year old Etruscan burial ground (necropolis) pictured here. The necropolis sits at the base of the mesa, below the historic center of town, but is easily reached by bus or on foot. We walked from our hotel near the Duomo, and it took about 20 minutes to get there. It was mid-December and early afternoon, and we were the only visitors there, which just added to the wonder of the place. When you go to the tourist office, ask for the Carta Unica, which buys you discounted access to multiple sites, including the necropolis, and to use of the town bus.


Here is a view from the necropolis looking up toward the town. The sheer cliff walls are really stunning, though it was overcast on this day so the lighting doesn't really show it off.

The town was festively decorated for the holiday season with lights projected onto the churches and street decorations throughout the town.
It was a delight to stroll the streets at night - so quiet and beautiful.
More to come on Orvieto, so stay tuned!

Wine: you CAN take it with you when you go!

Wine: you CAN take it with you when you go!

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This link provides interesting info about how much wine you can bring back to the US duty-free, etc. and links you to the US Customs "Know Before You Go" pamphlet. Plus, I just really like Dr. Vino's wine blog for so many reasons! I'm picking up his "Wine Politics" for my January read.

I still vote for using the VinniBag instead of styrofoam for transporting wine. Styrofoam is not eco-friendly, is not leak-proof, and is not recyclable. Visit http://www.vinnibag.com/ or http://www.magellans.com/.

Don't Just Dream It - Do It ! Let us take you on a tour of a lifetime!

Don't Just Dream It - Do It !   Let us take you on a tour of a lifetime!
L to R: Marybeth, Giuliana (owner/founder) Steve (filmmaker)

Giuliana, owner of La Contadina Travels and Tours

Giuliana, owner of La Contadina Travels and Tours
Giuliana, on the right, leading a tour in Umbria

Steven Robert McCurdy, documentary filmmaker and my fellow tour guide

Steven Robert McCurdy, documentary filmmaker and my fellow tour guide
Steve taking a self-portrait in Italy

Another self-portrait of Steve, who is co-leading the tour with me

Another self-portrait of Steve, who is co-leading the tour with me

Italian Club of Salt Lake

If you're in Utah or coming for a visit and are interested in events related to Italian culture, music, or food, check the Italian Club of Salt Lake (ICSL) website for information: www.italianclubofsaltlake.com .

The ICSL also offers wonderful Italian language classes in a fun and comfortable setting at Raw Bean Cafe', at 611 South West Temple (great access off I-15). I'm the coordinator of the classes as well as a student, and believe me, the classes are great!