​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 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.

Cooking Club: A Culinary Community
Chicca's Cooking Club furthers the culinary experience by providing members with an immersive and interactive community. Club members enjoy exclusive benefits such as access to premium recipes, behind-the-scenes content, and priority registration for online classes. This culinary club is not just about recipes; it's about forging connections, sharing experiences, and celebrating the joy of cooking together. Club members receive regular updates on new recipes, cooking tips, and invitations to virtual events to engage with Chicca and fellow members. The Cooking Club transforms the solitary act of cooking into a collaborative and enriching experience, fostering a sense of camaraderie among individuals who share a common passion for Tuscan gastronomy.

Bridging Gaps and Fostering Connection
Chicca Maione's commitment to providing online cooking classes and creating a vibrant Cooking Club is not just about sharing recipes but bridging geographical gaps and fostering connections. In a world where physical distances often separate us, these virtual platforms unite people, creating a global community that transcends borders.
Whether you're a participant in one of Chicca's online cooking classes or a member of the Cooking Club, the experience goes beyond the culinary realm. It's an opportunity to connect with like-minded individuals, share stories, and create lasting memories around the shared love for Tuscan cuisine.

Total Tuscany Podcast: A Meeting of Minds
The Total Tuscany Podcast, hosted by Travis Justice and Pat Campagna, celebrates all things Tuscan. When Chicca Maione joined the podcast as a guest, it was a meeting of minds that promised to unravel the secrets behind Tuscany's culinary excellence. The episode showcased Chicca's expertise and provided listeners with a taste of the vibrant and diverse world of Tuscan gastronomy.

A Feast for the Senses
In Tuscan culinary exploration, Chicca Maione's cookingintuscany.cc stands as a beacon for food enthusiasts and those eager to embark on a gastronomic journey through one of Italy's most iconic regions. The Total Tuscany Podcast episode featuring Chicca was not just an interview but a sensory feast for the listeners, offering a taste of Tuscany's flavors, traditions, and the warmth that defines its culinary heritage. As Chicca Maione continues to inspire and share the magic of Tuscan cooking, her collaboration with Total Tuscany Podcast is a testament to the vibrant and ever-evolving world of culinary arts in this enchanting region. So, join the trio on this podcast journey. Let the aroma of Tuscany's finest dishes transport you to a world where every meal celebrates life, love, and the simple joy of savoring exquisite flavors.

A Culinary Adventure Awaits
As Chicca Maione continues to leave an indelible mark on Tuscan cooking, her online cooking classes and Cooking Club serve as beacons guiding enthusiasts through a delightful culinary adventure. By embracing these initiatives, individuals not only savor the flavors of Tuscany but also become part of a global community united by a passion for good food, cultural exploration, and the joy of cooking together. Join Chicca on this virtual gastronomic journey. Let the aroma of Tuscan dishes fill your kitchen with the warmth and vibrancy of Italy's culinary heritage.

​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!

​When Americans travel to Italy, they often need clarification about the practice of tipping. 

In the States, it's common to tip anywhere between 15 and 30% when at a restaurant, bar, or cafe. The standard is 20%. 

Total Tuscany Podcast hosts Travis Justice and Pat Campagna have been to Italy several times, even they are somewhat confused about when and when not to tip in Italy after all this time. 

It's hard to believe we have been doing this podcast for almost nine years now, and we are getting closer to our 100th episode and have never spent a serious amount of time talking about the subject of gratuity. 

​When discussing such an important issue, we bring in the experts. Linda Sorgiovanni fromItaly Customized joins us again on the podcast. Operating a boutique travel company, Linda is asked by clients to factor in a tip to the cost of services. That's more challenging than it sounds, as it is not customary to tip for some services, but it is for others. 

After listening to this podcast, you will be able to travel to Italy with complete confidence on when to tip or not to tip! 

If you have a quick question about traveling to Tuscany, a recommendation, or even travel planning and a full-service itinerary, email us, [email protected].
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I sat at the kitchen table between my Italian boyfriend, Francesco, and his mom near the sink, trapped in an awkward place where her insults had to pass through me to get to him. All of the blood in her body had rushed into her face as she listed off the many reasons American women make terrible mothers. She lifted a saucepan in the air like she was about to bludgeon me with it, then turned and chucked it into the soapy water, sending a tidal wave of suds crashing onto the counter. When she turned her back to violently scrub the dishes, I snuck out the sliding glass door.
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That’s a passage from the book “Naked In Italy”, a memoir by M.E. Evans detailing her not so fairytale adventure of living in Florence.  Sure there were the rolling hills of the Val d'Orcia, cheap wine, and good looking Italian men.  But as M.E. explains in the book and in this podcast, no matter how hard you try, you can’t escape life. 
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Our conversation with her is candid. She doesn’t hold back and her humor that is on display in the book comes out as quick wit on this podcast. If you love to laugh, if your cherish honesty, and if you love the roller coaster of life with Tuscany as the backdrop then you are going want to buy Naked In Italy today! You won’t want to put it down. 

What started as a simple website and blog telling you about the unique and chic in Florence, Italy, has now turned into a 200+ page book. 

Nardia Plumridge has published the ultimate guide for the Renaissance City, "Lost In Florence."  The travel book is a comprehensive dive to the very best places to eat, drink, shop and explore; so on your visit, you feel more like a local rather than a tourist.  Nardia takes you behind the facade of the palazzi to a magical journey down the cobblestone side streets of Florence to discover vintage stores housing designer names, restaurants offering farm-to-table dishes and boutique hotels in 16th-century buildings.

​Nardia was a guest on the Total Tuscany Podcast back in 2015. She's a journalist by trade; her passion is telling stories that inspire people to travel and search for the hidden games that are one-of-a-kind. Nadia has contributed to the New York Times and is considered the Tuscan expert for Expedia.  The conversation we have with her on this podcast focuses on what went into writing the book, the best times to visit Tuscany and Florence, and where she plans to get "Lost In" next. 

The book, "Lost in Florence" features five main sections; Wine, Dine,Fine Sublime and Nine, covering the very best in food and drink, fashion, cultural experiences and Nardia's top nine Florentine markets, Gelatarias, Pizzerias and more. Full day itineraries help you navigate the best of the city, and the day trip section to nearby Siena, Cinque Terre and the Chianti wine region allows you to make the most of your trip.

We hope you enjoy our conversation with Nardia as much as you enjoy her book.