Author Archives: Natalie

7 Things to Know Before You Visit Terme: Natural Hot Springs in Italy

If you are planning a trip to Tuscany, you are signing up for all kinds of indulgences. After all the hard work of eating truffles and drinking Chianti, you might want to enjoy a bit of well earned relaxation. Terme, natural hot springs, are a fantastic way to soak in the Italian lifestyle. Some are […]

Gourmet Salami at Antica Norcineria Viola in Rome

I was a vegetarian from the age of about 7 to 25. In between,  I dabbled in veganism while my parents waited for me to out grow my meat-free phase. It was hardly a “phase,” but when I moved to Rome, I dropped it. In Italy (and now in general), I eat meat in moderation. […]

Ditta Artigianale: Third Wave Coffee in Florence

ditta artigianale in Florence

Happy National Coffee day to my fellow Americans! I love me some coffee. Most days, slightly burnt and rather acidic Roman espresso will do just fine. Other times, I have to go to Florence for the day. Ditta Artigianale was everything I dreamed it would be. The second location, in Florence’s Oltrarno area, is a […]

6 things I’ve Learned from 6 years in Italy

I moved to Rome on September 28, 2010. I had a heinous direct flight from Los Angeles, then booked a weird group transfer van from the airport, and met my landlord at an apartment that I had rented sight unseen. I managed to stay awake until 7:30 pm, before falling asleep until 3 am and […]

Palazzo Braschi: Rome’s Museum at Piazza Navona

I have been curious about Palazzo Braschi for a very long time because I walk by it constantly. Located on the edge of Piazza Navona, you can pass through the courtyard to get to the square. I always imagined the building was filled with statues. As I walked in for the first time, it did […]