Main Character Energy

So you watched The White Lotus and booked a trip to Italy to channel your “main character energy.” Now what? Obviously, you need to purchase a cool hat and start planning. This past year, I spent a few weeks riding the Frecciarosa up and down the country and have a few ideas to get you started.

Wine. I mean, where else would a visit to Italy start? In previous trips, I opted to stay in Florence and go on the typical “wine tours” where they load you onto a bus and cart you around several vineyards. It was fun and allowed me to see more with less time. My most recent visit, however, I opted to travel to Prosecco Road and spend the night at Mani Sagge, a charming boutique vineyard and winery. It was amazing! Everything happened at a much slower pace, allowing me to really soak up the culture along with the prosecco. The vineyard was a family passion that has existed for generations - something about that made the experience feel more authentic.?

You’ve had your fill of prosecco (if that’s even possible), clearly, it’s time for food. Let’s make our way to the Amalfi Coast and head up into the mountains to a small town called San Lazzaro. I took the bus from the coast (along with some non-drowsy Dramamine), but you could drive if you have a car and you like living life on the edge (of a cliff). Now, it’s time to make some pasta. I went through Airbnb experiences to book the pasta making class, and it was absolutely seamless. The host held it at his home, making the entire experience cozy and personal. He greeted me with fresh mozzarella and wine, as we gathered ingredients for the pasta from the garden. He taught me how to make three different types of pasta. While he cooked the pasta, he sent me off to explore the abandoned castle with a glass of homemade wine. The views overlooking the coast were absolutely amazing. When I returned, he had the food plated and afterwards surprised me with a delicious dessert. I couldn’t have asked for more from the experience.

What is a trip without a few souvenirs? Instead of buying random knick knacks, let’s go to Venice and make our own! While I was in Venice, I booked another Airbnb experience (I had so much success with the last one) to take a glassmaking class. Venice is renowned for its glass, so it was a relevant cultural experience to have. The class started with the teacher crafting a somewhat elaborate piece, showcasing how skillful a glassmaker must be to create something so delicate. While he was doing that, he was also explaining different techniques and utensils he used. When it was my turn to craft something, I decided to make a snail. He keenly observed me, offering tips and tricks along the way. I was able to come back later that evening to collect my glass snail before I left Venice. It was a neat experience and gave me much more of an appreciation for the glass goods I saw in the area.?

Traveling Italy is a fantastic idea - there’s an endless amount of things to do and sites to see (and wine to drink). We all know Jennifer Coolidge would be found on Prosecco Road exuding “main character energy” - so why not join her. Don’t we all model our lives after celebrities anyways? Have fun and let me know if you take me up on any of the ideas!