Writer | Professor | Italy Specialist

 As a 21-year-old study abroad student in Milan on September 11, 2001, I found myself unable to return home as the world became unfamiliar. So I went south—to my grandfather’s village in Abruzzo. Twenty-five years later, I reflect on what that journey, my grandfather Ubaldo, and my great-uncle Olindo taught me about courage, uncertainty, and the meaning of home. 

 Tourism flows to Italy have returned to pre-pandemic levels, making  genuine experiences elusive. But a professor’s simple tips can add  meaning to your trip. 

 When my son was born there was no question he would have an  Italian name. I also  wanted to give him something I never got – a second language.  

For countless Italian American households, gardening is an enduring legacy that links them to the past. In my experience, it should be part of the present and represents our future.  

“If you loved me, you’d eat it” was my Italian grandmother’s mantra. While preparing for my first guest chef appearance, I realized her food gene was passed on to me. 

In this interview on Paola’s Parenting Playbook, I discuss "When is the right time to take your kids overseas?" 

In this episode, I demonstrate my recipe for prepare parmigiana di melanzane and sauteed zucchini blossoms. You'll learn to make a ragu that could pair with your favorite pasta too! 

I began speaking Italian to my son, Ale, when he was born. I’ve never stopped. Unless I need to clarify, everything I say to him is in the language of Dante. 

In this episode, I prepare lasagna alla bolognese and tiramisu, two favorites in my family.

“Italy is a dream that keeps returning for the rest of your life,” Anna Akhmatova. From my perspective as a professor who has led countless study abroad programs in Italy, I’d humbly like to offer some travel advice: step off the beaten path and connect with locals.   

 Before smartphones and translation apps, a phrase book and disposable cameras taught me everything I needed to know about being somewhere.  

Subscribe to a aguidetoitaly on YouTube for tips and Italian words and phrases to enjoy a truly meaningful trip