​For many, the dream of owning a villa in the rolling hills of Tuscany seems like an unattainable fantasy. But according to Adriano and Julius Petermaier, the visionaries behind Easy Living Tuscany, that dream is closer to reality than you might think. On a recent episode of the Total Tuscany Podcast, the brothers shared their journey from local real estate agents to social media sensations, and offered invaluable advice for anyone looking to make Tuscany their home.

There are travel experiences… and then there are stories you tell for the rest of your life. Total Tuscany Podcast Episode 97 delivers one of those stories, taking listeners deep into the heart of Italy with Dream Italy’s unforgettable Viva Italia Experience.
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The episode marks a long-awaited return for the podcast, and hosts Travis Justice and Pat Campagna come back swinging with a conversation that perfectly captures what Total Tuscany has always been about: extraordinary experiences over ordinary trips. Their guest, Giorgio Dell’Artino, founder of Dream Italy, doesn’t just sell tours—he curates once-in-a-lifetime moments.

Viva Italia began with a simple but brilliant idea. Why not let travelers experience Tuscany the way Italians dream about it—behind the wheel of a world-class luxury car, carving through the rolling hills of Siena? What started with two exotic cars has evolved into a fully immersive, fully supported self-drive luxury experience spanning Tuscany, Italy, and even parts of France.

Picture this: you slide into a Ferrari, Lamborghini, or Maserati, the engine growling as vineyard-lined roads unfold in front of you. A professional tour leader guides the route. Every detail—fuel, logistics, hotels, meals, parking, and support—is handled. You don’t worry about directions, traffic rules, or flat tires. You simply drive, savor, and experience Italy in a way very few ever will.

As Giorgio explains, Viva Italia isn’t about reckless speed. It’s about control, confidence, and connection—to the road, the landscape, and the culture. The routes are carefully chosen for beauty and safety, with moments where drivers can truly feel what these cars were built to do. And yes, guests even rotate cars during the tour, giving them the chance to experience multiple vehicles.
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What makes this episode especially compelling is the depth of Dream Italy’s philosophy. Since 1997, Giorgio has personally built relationships with nearly 2,000 top-tier suppliers—from five-star hotels and historic castles to private yachts, Michelin-level dining, and exclusive cultural access. Every Viva Italia itinerary is customized, whether it’s a two-day Tuscan escape or a multi-day journey from Rome to Milan, Venice to the Dolomites, Sicily, or the French Riviera.

​Tuscany has long been a source of inspiration for travelers, artists, and dreamers. Its rolling hills, charming villages, and rich history make it a destination unlike any other. But for those who want to dive deeper into the heart of this enchanting region, Laura Gray's new book, The Magpie's Guide to Montalcino, offers a fresh and intimate perspective. Recently featured on the Total Tuscany Podcast, Laura shared insights into her latest work and the passion behind it.

A Must-Read for Tuscany Enthusiasts

For anyone who has ever dreamed of wandering through Tuscany's vineyards, exploring its historic towns, or simply savoring a glass of Brunello while watching the sunset over the hills, The Magpie's Guide to Montalcino is a must-read. Laura Gray's deep appreciation for the region shines through on every page, making this book an essential addition to any travel lover's collection.

Whether you're a seasoned traveler or a Tuscany enthusiast, Laura Gray's The Magpie's Guide to Montalcino offers a unique and heartfelt perspective on one of Italy's most beloved regions. Take advantage of her insightful conversation on the Total Tuscany Podcast, where she delves deeper into her experiences and the making of this beautiful book.
So, pour yourself a glass of Brunello, settle in, and let Laura Gray take you on a journey through the enchanting streets of Montalcino—one page at a time.

Welcome to an insightful exploration of Bruna Carvalho's remarkable journey from the hustle and bustle of city life to the serene embrace of nature in the picturesque hills of Tuscany. In this podcast episode, Bruna shares the profound experiences and pivotal moments that shaped her decision to leave behind the urban chaos and embark on a transformative path toward creating a haven of tranquility, La Gualda Vecchia. 
City Life vs. Nature's Calling:
Growing up amidst the urban sprawl of São Paulo and Rome, Bruna and her husband yearned for a deeper connection with nature despite their city upbringing. Feeling the pull towards a slower pace of life and a closer bond with the natural world, they embarked on a quest to find a new home that would resonate with their newfound values.

The Journey to Tuscany:
After years of city living and international relocations, Bruna and her family stumbled upon an ancient farmhouse nestled in the hills of Tuscany. Despite initial uncertainties and challenges, they were drawn to the timeless beauty of the region. They took the leap of faith to start anew amidst the rolling vineyards and olive groves.​

Entrepreneurial Spirit and Hospitality:
As a natural-born entrepreneur with a background in marketing, Bruna envisioned transforming their farmhouse into a sanctuary for guests seeking solace and rejuvenation. With meticulous attention to detail, they restored the centuries-old property into a haven of serenity, offering guests a retreat from the stresses of modern life.

Guest Experience and Community Engagement:
At the heart of Bruna's homestead lies a commitment to creating meaningful experiences for guests, whether it's savoring locally sourced cuisine, stargazing under the Tuscan sky, or simply immersing oneself in the tranquility of nature. Beyond hospitality, Bruna actively engages with the local community, sourcing materials and services locally to support sustainable practices.​

Looking to the Future:
As Bruna reflects on her journey thus far, she remains committed to nurturing her homestead as a beacon of tranquility and mindfulness. With plans to expand offerings and engage with a global audience, she envisions her retreat as a sanctuary for those seeking a deeper connection with themselves and the natural world.

​​Join us on this inspiring journey as we delve into the transformative power of embracing nature's tranquility with Bruna Carvalho. From city life to rural serenity, her story serves as a testament to the profound impact of following one's heart and finding solace amidst the beauty of the natural world.

Welcome to another exciting episode of Total Tuscany with Travis Justice and Pat Campagna. We bring you the stories of individuals who have embarked on unique journeys and found their passion in the heart of Italy. In this episode, we have the pleasure of hosting Sara Amrhein, an extraordinary artist known for her exquisite polymer clay handmade jewelry. Join us as we delve into Sara's creative process, her inspirations, and the fascinating tale of her relocation from the United States to the enchanting city of Florence, Italy.

Journey To Florence
Sara's journey is about her art and the life-changing decision to move from the United States to Florence, Italy. The podcast explores the reasons behind Sara's move, the cultural adjustments, and the impact it has had on her artistic expression. Discover the challenges and joys of immersing oneself in a new environment and finding inspiration in Tuscany's rich history and artistry.

Crafting Beauty From Polymer Clay
Sara is a master of her craft, creating one-of-a-kind jewelry pieces from polymer clay. Listeners will get an exclusive peek into Sara's workshop, learning about her intricate techniques to mold, shape, and color the clay into unique and stunning jewelry. From earrings to necklaces, each piece is a work of art that reflects Sara's creativity and passion.

Cultural Influences on Art
Florence is renowned for its artistic heritage, and Sara shares how living in this cultural hub has influenced her work. From the architecture to the local traditions, listeners will gain insights into the various elements of Tuscan culture that have left an indelible mark on Sara's jewelry designs.

A Glimpse into Sara's Future Projects
As the podcast unfolds, Sara offers a sneak peek into her upcoming projects and the direction she envisions for her art. Listeners can look forward to hearing about Sara's future endeavors and the exciting developments in her journey as a polymer clay jewelry artist based in Florence.

Whether you're an art enthusiast, a jewelry lover, or someone curious about the intersection of art and life, this episode promises to be a delightful exploration of the world ofSara Amrhein. Tune in and immerse yourself in the beauty of polymer clay art and the charm of Tuscany.

​Tuscany, with its picturesque landscapes, rich history, and, of course, delectable cuisine, has always been a source of fascination for many. In the heart of this Italian region, a culinary enthusiast and expert, Chicca Maione, takes center stage, sharing her passion for Tuscan cooking through her platform, cookingintuscany.cc. Recently, Chicca enjoyed joining Travis Justice and Pat Campagna on the Total Tuscany Podcast, where the trio delved into Tuscan cuisine, culture, and more.

​Cooking in Tuscany: A Gastronomic Journey
Cookingintuscany.cc serves as Chicca's canvas, where she paints a vivid picture of Tuscan cuisine. From mouth-watering pasta dishes to succulent meats, each recipe is a testament to her commitment to preserving and sharing the authentic flavors of Tuscany. Through her website and online cooking classes, Chicca invites you into her kitchen, providing step-by-step guides and personal anecdotes that make the cooking experience not just about food but a journey through the heart of Tuscany.

Culinary Education with Chicca: Online Cooking Classes and Cooking Club
Beyond her delectable recipes and engaging blog content, Chicca Maione extends her passion for Tuscan cuisine to a broader audience through her online cooking classes and exclusive Cooking Club. These initiatives serve as a virtual gateway for enthusiasts worldwide to experience Tuscan cooking in the comfort of their own kitchens.

​Online Cooking Classes: A Hands-On Experience
Chicca's online cooking classes are a unique opportunity for individuals to learn directly from the expert herself. Through live and recorded sessions, participants are guided through the intricacies of preparing authentic Tuscan dishes. Whether you're a seasoned chef or a novice in the kitchen, Chicca's classes are designed to be accessible, informative, and, most importantly, hands-on. Participants acquire valuable cooking skills and gain insights into each dish's cultural and historical significance. The classes foster a sense of community as participants share their culinary creations, creating a global kitchen where food lovers from different corners of the world unite through their shared love for Tuscan cuisine.

On the last episode of the Total Tuscany Podcast, we visited with Claudia Callegari and introduced you to her wine club. She provides a unique service and offers quarterly selections of Tuscan wine from boutique wineries and selections you may need help finding in the United States.

Since that recording, we have traveled to Tuscany and met personally with Claudia. Her passion for Tuscan wine is more evident in person than on the podcast. She took us to two different vineyards, each with a different personality, mission, and history. 

This podcast aims to inspire everyone to visit Tuscany and experience the wine, food, history, culture, and landscapes. But we also realize that it's not always possible.

​But what if Tuscany would come to you? It just so happened that when we returned from Tuscany, Claudia was right behind us. It just so happened she was coming to the United States to do a wine tasting for a non-profit organization in our city. The event was successful, and many people who had never been to Italy got to experience Tuscan wine in a way they never have before, with a true expert who knows more about the vintages than any local distributor. 

With Claudia being so close, bringing her into the studio for another podcast was only natural. We usually have different guests in back-to-back episodes, but her wine-tasting got us thinking. Instead of you going to Tuscany, what if Tuscany came to you? 

We've had our out wine-tasting and dinner, which was very successful. Is there an opportunity for people like Claudia to come to the United States and sell wine directly? We think so. In fact, the experience may be the nudge you need to start traveling more. When you can put a face with a name, it takes a lot of the worry and unknown of traveling out of the equation and supports wineries that may never have the reach to such a broad audience. 

​On this episode of the Total Tuscany Podcast, we have the pleasure of introducing a true connoisseur of Tuscan wines, Claudia Callegari, who will take us on a journey through the sun-soaked hillside vineyards and coastal plains that have made Tuscany world-renowned for its winemaking prowess.

With her extensive experience and intimate knowledge of this acclaimed wine region, Claudia has an uncanny ability to unearth the hidden gems that are virtually impossible to find outside of Tuscany. As the custodian of a carefully curated portfolio of top-tier niche wines and new appellations, she offers a superior expression of the local terroir and outstanding cellaring potential. With tireless dedication, Claudia ensures that her selection is always up to date so you, our esteemed listeners, can always access the best and latest Tuscan wines.
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​But the Callegari experience goes beyond a mere collection of exceptional wines. Claudia and her sister Silvia offer a gateway to the secrets held within each unique terroir of Tuscany. With their profound knowledge of the region, they can guide you through unforgettable wine and culinary experiences. From bespoke winery tours and exclusive wine tastings to private cooking classes and more, the Callegari sisters create fully customized private experiences that immerse you in the passion and essence of Italy. 

​There's a deep-rooted story behind Callegari—a story fueled by the passion for the quintessential taste of Italy. Raised in Tuscany, Claudia and Silvia Callegari have been intimately involved in the premium wine and culinary scene for as long as they can remember. Together, they form the perfect team, complementing each other's strengths and expertise. With a combined 25 years of experience, Claudia and Silvia are thrilled to share their profound knowledge of exclusive Tuscan wines, accompanied by their dedication, joy, and, of course, a unique lady's touch.

So, please sit back, relax, and prepare to be transported to the enchanting world of Tuscan wines as we embark on this extraordinary conversation with Claudia Callegari. Cheers!