I wish I could have bottled up this pasta from daVincenzo in Positano. Photo: Gina Melton
I just returned from a culturally-packed two week holiday in Italy.
On the long plane trip back to reality, I couldn’t help but think about how fortunate I was to experience all I did on my trip. I spent cherished quality time with my Mom and sister, saw amazing art and historic sites, all while eating and drinking like a Medici.
Trite Frederico Fellini references aside, life is simple but oh so sweet in Italy. There was always time for a shot of espresso, a glass of wine and good conversation. The most expensive meal that we had—amidst the incredibly picturesque mountains of Fiesole overlooking the entire city of Florence—was as promised, elegant and refined. It was also mind-numbingly expensive. That experience made the effortless meals we had in tucked away, family-owned places all the more satisfying. Like at daVincenzo’s in Positano. The rigatoni in a tomato sauce with meat (above) followed by a zingy lemon sponge cake was unforgettable. We learned that the meals at daVincenzo’s are still lovingly prepared by the family’s Nonna. The food was not fancy, yet it was incredibly cravable.
In fact, two weeks later, I’m still thinking about it.
Gina, I’m drooling! You are so right… and I believe it’s because they not only cook with love but essi mangiamo con amore!
Gurrrrrrrlllll! Damn, that looks good! Am I’m sure the pasta was cooked al dente, correct?! My husband has always wanted to take me to Paris and we are going to go for my spesh birthday in two years but I’m leaning towards Italy instead. Did you do a tour? Where did you go?
And one more q: How did you get those blog/face book, et al icons on the bottom or each post? I want to do that too! Grazie, bella! x
Hi There! We didn’t do an offical tour but worked with a great tavel agent who handled all the logistics. We saw Venice, Bologna, Florence, Multipulciano, Siena, Roma and Positano. I loved it all and would like to hit Puglia and Sicily on the next trip.
As for those icons- it’s a word press plug in called “sexy bookmarks.”
Thanks for reading!
That they do Helen! xxoo
Gina, I love Itlay, too. Everything about it. Of course, anybody that goes there says the same, right? That pasta looks divine. I always end up losing a few pounds when in Italy. It must be all the walking, cause I certainly enjoy my share of food and drink. Ciao
Hi Maureen, Thanks for the comment! I’ve only met one person who didn’t like Italy and well, they were pretty much crazy–so that explains that
I love the simple Italian foods that let the ingredients shine best. Have a great weekend! Gina
Thanks for the info, Gina! I don’t have wordpress but blogger. Thought about going over to it, is it easy to use? Cheers!
Sigh…I don’t think I have the words to express my love for Positano. I still have an iconic photo from the side of the mountain on my wall. It’s like a breath of fresh air just thinking about it! Anyways….Camp Blogaway was a blast and now I am excited to follow your blog and learn more about your cooking and travels!
Thanks for reading Kristina! Maybe next year we could do Camp Blogaway- the Positano edition. It’s a pretty magical place. Great to meet you and I’m looking forward to following your adventures too!
Color me jealous! My mama went on a ten day vaycay in Italy a few months ago and her stories definitely put it at the top of my travel lust list!
italy, italy, oh italy…i do love it! i did a series on my last trip to italy…my mom, sister and i did a culinary tour of bologna…it was fantastic. the only thing better than a trip to italy is a food trip to italy with like minded eaters!
Hey Christy: I’ll have to check it out on your blog. I can’t beleive the trip is over– and I can’t wait to get back and see more of southern italy. Have a great weekend girl!
When you go, I can give you the lowdown on where to go, stay, etc.