MY BOOKS

29 Mar 2023

Leaving for Italy – Finally

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 6

I am elated to be on my way back to bella Italia, finally!

11 Oct 2022

Planning a trip to Italy

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 3

Planning a trip to Italy has always been exciting and fun for me. I enjoy the process almost as much as I like the trip. But so much has changed in the world, including travel, and I have learned that … Continued

22 Aug 2022

How My Italy Love Affair Began

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books about Italy, Italy Travel | 2

The year I turned sixty, two things happened to me. I got contacts for the first time in my life, and I went to Italy for the second time.

20 Jun 2022

Back to Sorrento

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, Made in Italy | 3

Sorrento is a lovely city which serves as an excellent hub and gateway to the Amalfi Coast. The shopping can entertain me for the entire day, and I can get lost in the tiny alleys that branch off from Via … Continued

6 May 2022

Mother’s Day 2022

by margieinitaly | posted in: Family | 4

Happy Mother’s Day to all mothers, including grandmothers, godmothers, stepmothers, foster mothers, mothers-to-be, and mothers of the four-legged variety. Mother’s Day is a day to celebrate mothers and thank them for all they do. May is the month … Continued

29 Apr 2022

Italy Travel with Teens

by margieinitaly | posted in: Family, Italy Travel, Italy Travel Planning, TRAVEL | 9

The first time I went to Italy was in 2007 and I fell in love with the country and its people. As a second-generation Italian, I felt an immediate connection and the need to return again and again. I have … Continued

29 Dec 2021

Thank You from My Heart

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books, Books by Margie Miklas, Writing | 2

You’re all so special to me. I’m not sure you know that, but it’s true. I want to thank each one of you for all of your support and encouragement throughout the years, and especially this past year, which has … Continued

28 Nov 2021

Colors of Naples and the Amalfi Coast ~ $20 and free shipping

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books, Books about Italy, Books by Margie Miklas, Italy Travel | 2

Buongiorno and Ciao! All of you who follow this blog know I have a passion for Italy and all things Italian. In the pursuit of that passion, travel to Italy becomes a way for me to satisfy that urge. My … Continued

11 Sep 2021

Announcing the New Audiobook, Critical Cover-Up

by margieinitaly | posted in: Audiobook, Books, Books by Margie Miklas, Critical Cover-Up, Writing | 2

Big News! My debut medical thriller, CRITICAL COVER-UP, originally published in 2017, has just been released as an audiobook! Narrated by the the talented Blair Seibert, my first novel is now also available on Audible, Amazon, and Apple Books. … Continued

4 Sep 2021

My Guest Interview on Authors Podcast

by margieinitaly | posted in: Author Interview, Books | 0

I’m incredibly honored to be a guest on today’s episode of Inside the Minds of Authors podcast. Thank you, D.C. Gomez for the invitation and opportunity to talk about my newest medical thriller, A Cure for Deceit. An author herself, … Continued

6 Jul 2021

Listen to a Sound Clip from The Venice I Know

by margieinitaly | posted in: Audiobook, Books about Italy, Books by Margie Miklas, Italy Travel | 4

Narrated in my own voice, The Venice I Know is now an audiobook. Listen to this 2 1/2- minute audio clip about food and drink in Venice, from chapter 4 of The Venice I Know. Margie Miklas · The Venice … Continued

24 Jun 2021

Visit a Forcola Workshop in Venice

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books about Italy, Books by Margie Miklas, Italy Travel | 0

I’m always in favor of supporting local artisans, and if you want to experience something different, something only found in Venice, visit a forcola workshop. Very few of these woodcarving workshops remain today. Their specialty is to make oars … Continued

20 Jun 2021

Italy Photo of the Day – Venice

by margieinitaly | posted in: Audiobook, Books, Books about Italy, Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 0

“Far from perfect, this island shaped like a fish entices me, despite today’s numerous issues and infrastructure difficulties that appear to worsen every year. There’s just something special about Venice, making it unique and unlike anywhere else I’ve been.” … Continued

15 Jun 2021

Italy Photo of the Day – Amalfi Coast

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 0

By geography and topography alone, most Amalfi Coast towns are built into hills and cliffs. This fact necessitates narrow winding roads cut out of the rock and, in some instances, steep staircases to navigate through the towns. Positano definitely … Continued

10 Jun 2021

New Audiobook Release – The Venice I Know

by margieinitaly | posted in: Audiobook, Books about Italy, Books by Margie Miklas, Italy Travel | 3

June is National Audiobook Month, and I’m thrilled to announce that my latest book on Italy, The Venice I Know, is now an audiobook, narrated in my own voice. Click here to listen to a sample narrated in my own … Continued

3 Jun 2021

YouTube Author Interview

by margieinitaly | posted in: Author Interview, Books | 11

I recently had the privilege to be interviewed by Vince Stevenson on Boomers on Books, a video channel for emerging and established authors all over the world. If you missed the live-streamed event, you can catch it now … Continued

2 May 2021

Exciting News – A New Audiobook

by margieinitaly | posted in: Audiobook, Books by Margie Miklas | 8

Hi everyone, Since Americans aren’t able to travel to Italy due to the pandemic, as you might expect, I’ve focused on writing, and also, turning several of my books into audiobooks. And I’m pleased to announce that my multi-award-winning … Continued

27 Mar 2021

Who Reads Your Books?

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books, Books by Margie Miklas, Italy Travel, Writing | 11

Do your family members ready your books? This may come as a shock, but my 94-year-old mother is the only person in my family who has read all seven of my books. It’s true. My mother is the best! A … Continued

16 Jan 2021

New Book Release on Venice Travel

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books about Italy, Italy Travel, Writing | 6

I’m thrilled to announce the release of my newest book, The Venice I Know, dedicated to the resilient people of Venice, whom I have come to know and love. Ranking as #1 in Venice Travel Guides on Amazon’s Hot New … Continued

9 Nov 2020

The Venice I Know

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books about Italy, Italy Travel, Writing | 7

My newest book is about Venice, and it’s currently in the editing phase. Despite the fairy-tale-like scenes in Venice portrayed in Hollywood movies, and the romantic photos posted on Instagram, Venice is much more than just another beautiful … Continued

30 Oct 2020

A Cure for Deceit by Margie Miklas Wins Silver Award

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books, Books by Margie Miklas, Medical Thriller, Writing | 12

It’s official! A Cure for Deceit won a prestigious Royal Palm Literary Award (RPLA). ANNOUNCED AT the 2020 FLORIDA WRITERS ASSOCIATION CONFERENCE The Florida Writers Association, Inc., (FWA) has announced that Margie Miklas’ winning entry, A Cure for Deceit, … Continued

11 Oct 2020

New England Travel Memories

by margieinitaly | posted in: TRAVEL | 4

During these uncertain times forcing many of us to restrict travel, I take comfort in looking at my photos from past years. Living in Florida, I find the one thing I miss about living up north is the change of … Continued

6 Oct 2020

The Importance of Family

by margieinitaly | posted in: Family | 26

Twenty-eight years ago, when I was in graduate school, I wrote a paper about the role my family played in establishing the values I had developed throughout my life. In going through some old files, I found this paper, and … Continued

15 Sep 2020

Italy Photo of the Day – Venice

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 6

Beneath us is the beautiful Piazza san Marco, and I can also see far beyond it. So many red rooftops create a sea of buildings, and the panoramic views of Venice are more than I could ever hope to see. … Continued

7 Sep 2020

When You Can’t Travel

by margieinitaly | posted in: London, TRAVEL | 8

A year ago I was packing to go to London for the first time. How times have changed. None of us could have imagined how a virus would take over the world and affect our lives in so many significant … Continued

4 Sep 2020

Travel, Writing, Quarantine, and Awards

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books, Books by Margie Miklas, Coronavirus, Italy Travel, Writing | 13

As you know by now, travel is in my blood, and like many of you, as a result of the coronavirus pandemic, I’ve had to cancel my plans to go to Italy this year. At this point, without a safe … Continued

28 Aug 2020

My Amalfi Coast Love Affair – I Drove on the Amalfi Coast

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books, Italy Travel | 4

Enjoy this excerpt from Chapter 15 of My Amalfi Coast Love Affair. The Amalfi Drive is believed to be the most scenic and spectacular road in Europe.

12 Aug 2020

My Amalfi Coast Love Affair – Ravello

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books by Margie Miklas, Italy Travel | 2

One of the gems on the Amalfi Coast is the hilltop town of Ravello. My readers often tell me they wish I included photos in my books. The reason I don’t…photographs typically do not show up well in paperback … Continued

9 Jul 2020

Limoncello – Drink of the Amalfi Coast

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 4

Almost synonymous with the Amalfi Coast is limoncello, the refreshing liqueur, aperitif, and digestivo made from the large lemons grown in Campania. While controversy exists regarding the origins of this popular drink, limoncello prevails as the drink of choice anywhere … Continued

1 Jul 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 0

The island of Murano in the Venetian lagoon has ranked as the world’s finest center for glass making since the thirteenth century. Have you been to Murano? I love feedback, so please feel free to share your thoughts. Ciao and … Continued

21 Jun 2020

Medical Thriller Selected as Semi-Finalist

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel | 2

Great News! A Cure for Deceit has been selected as a semi-finalist in the 2020 Royal Palm Literary Award from the Florida Writers Association! Read more on my Critical Cover-Up blog page.

4 Jun 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 5

I love watching Antonio, almost fourteen, as he walks arm in arm with his dad in the streets of Sicily. This scene is not one commonly seen in America, which is why I appreciate its meaning. If you are … Continued

2 Jun 2020

New Audiobook ~ My Love Affair with Sicily

by margieinitaly | posted in: Audiobook, Books about Italy, Writing | 3

I’m pleased to announce that MY LOVE AFFAIR with SICILY is now also available as an audiobook! Available on Audible, Amazon, and iTunes. Narrated by me, you’ll be able to listen to my voice as I recount experiences in this … Continued

25 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 7

Dreaming of walking along the shore in Gallipoli, a beautiful town in the south of Italy. This is Puglia! What is your favorite memory from southern Italy? I’d love to hear your thoughts, so please leave a comment. Grazie and … Continued

23 May 2020

Where to Find the Best Pizza in Naples

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 2

In the trendy neighborhood of Vomero, high above the historic center of Naples, I find Gorizia Pizzeria, the oldest pizzeria in this part of the city. Established by Salvatore Grasso in 1916, this landmark prides itself on creating the … Continued

20 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 4

“Positano bites deep. It is a dream place that isn’t quite real when you are there and becomes beckoningly real after you have gone.” – John Steinbeck A jewel of exquisite beauty on the Amalfi Coast Steep streets with endless … Continued

19 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 0

The view of the town of Maiori from the top of the mountain is magnificent. Life here seems simple, and yet, at the same time, it is difficult. By geography and topography alone, most Amalfi Coast towns are built into … Continued

18 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 7

Rome’s ancient Coliseum glows at twilight as the sun filters between its open windows. No filters needed here. So many memories from the Eternal City. Longing to return. What is your favorite memory of Rome? I’d love to hear your … Continued

17 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 2

The stunning Rialto Bridge at night. At the mere mention of Venice this memory floods my senses. An iconic landmark, the oldest bridge in Venice is also one of the most photographed. At night it’s almost magical. Have you experienced … Continued

15 May 2020

My Audiobook Has Finally Arrived

by margieinitaly | posted in: Audiobook, Italy Travel | 4

Attention audiobook lovers! A travel audiobook that captures the allure of Italy’s Amalfi Coast, as Margie Miklas takes us on a journey of personal experiences through storytelling. This audiobook reveals a more personal side of the author, and the … Continued

11 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 4

Once a floating pontoon built in the 12th century, the Rialto Bridge is an iconic symbol of Venice and the oldest bridge on the Grand Canal. The bridge, originally constructed from timber, today is made of stone. Although a number … Continued

10 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day – Napoli

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 8

A pasticceria is a dream come true for anyone with a sweet tooth. I cannot walk past Leopoldo CafeBar without satisfying my craving for dolci in Napoli. A dessert restaurant since 1940, this establishment is named after its founder, Leopoldo … Continued

9 May 2020

A True Coronavirus Saga

by margieinitaly | posted in: Coronavirus, Italy Travel | 5

When I first read this coronavirus tale a friend wrote, I could hardly believe it. With his permission, I am sharing his true coronavirus saga, in his own words. This is from Peter Strom, owner of La Bella Vita, specializing … Continued

7 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 5

Venice possesses a charisma I can’t resist. These gondolas lined up on the Grand Canal are the universal image of Venice. I wait for the day I can return to La Serenissima. How about you? Have you experienced a gondola … Continued

6 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 8

Wouldn’t you love to wake up to a view like this? I would too, and I dream of the day I can go back to bella Italia and experience il dolce far niente, the sweetness of doing nothing, in a … Continued

4 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 4

This photo of the day can be anywhere in Italy, but it happens to be in Portofino. Seeing laundry hanging in Italy makes me smile, as this is so quintessentially Italian. I’m sure you’ve seen similar images in almost every … Continued

3 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 7

Largo di Torre in Rome is an archaeological site of four temples that lie sunken 20 feet below modern street level. It’s home to over one hundred cats that are cared for by loving volunteers. I visited this amazing place … Continued

2 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 2

One of the most beautiful places on Italy’s Ligurian coast is the village of Vernazza in the Cinque Terre. Seen from above, this view of Vernazza, with its pastel houses lining the marina, can be a postcard. Have you been … Continued

1 May 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 9

Lake Como seems magical to me, and this scene in the small village of Varenna needs no words. Have you traveled to Varenna on Lake Como? I’d love to hear your about your experiences, so please leave a comment. For … Continued

30 Apr 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 10

Villa Cimbrone in Ravello on the Amalfi Coast is probably best known for this outdoor Terrace of Infinity, also called the Belvedere of Infinity. Lined with sculptured marble Roman busts, the views of the Tyrrhenian Sea and coastline below … Continued

29 Apr 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 4

The seaside town of Scilla is a beautiful and delightful fishing village in Reggio Calabria. Have you visited Scilla or driven past this picturesque town on your way back from Sicily? I’d love to hear your your thoughts. Please leave … Continued

27 Apr 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Audiobook, Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 4

My maternal grandparents were born in the small village of Cesarò, located in the Messina province of Sicily. I sense a real emotional connection here and truly feel at home. I cannot describe this wonderful feeling except to say that … Continued

26 Apr 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 10

This stunning view from Ostuni through a narrow walkway, perched high above the historic center, takes my breath away. I’m never disappointed by what I find when I take walks in Italy off the beaten path. Sometimes no agenda is … Continued

25 Apr 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 2

I love wandering through these piazzas in Italy, where a photo opportunity appears around every corner. The beautiful Piazza Vecchia is the heart of the old town in Upper Bergamo in northern Italy’s Lombardia region. In the center of this … Continued

24 Apr 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 11

I loved watching this gondolier in Venice before I snapped this photo. The life of a gondolier in Venice may seem romantic, but specific requirements must be met before one attains this title. In the 16th century, over 10,000 gondoliers … Continued

23 Apr 2020

My Amalfi Coast Love Affair Audiobook

by margieinitaly | posted in: Audiobook, Books about Italy, Italy Travel | 6

Coming soon! ❤️ The AUDIOBOOK! I’m pleased to announce that my most recent Italy memoir, My Amalfi Coast Love Affair, will be available soon as an audiobook! Watch this video and listen to a sample audio here. Also available in … Continued

22 Apr 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 4

St Mark’s Square in Venice is arguably one of the most romantic and beautiful piazzas in Italy. Venice at night seems even more magical, especially with the dulcet sounds of love songs filling the air. These professional musicians entertain until … Continued

21 Apr 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Art, Italian lifestyle and culture, Italy Photo, TRAVEL | 6

I enjoy watching local Italians at work, and this Vietri ceramic artisan pauses just long enough for me to meet her. I am mesmerized as I watch Anna Rita hand paint a ceramic plate with precision. Do you enjoy meeting … Continued

20 Apr 2020

Italy Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 14

These umbrella pine trees which provide partial shade as pedestrians stop to view Rome’s Circus Maximus. Also known as stone pines, these trees were originally brought to Rome from Greece. Have you seen these beautiful trees during your … Continued

30 Mar 2020

A Few Words from the Heart

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian lifestyle and culture, Italy Travel, TRAVEL, Writing | 30

It’s been seven weeks since I posted anything here. I simply haven’t been inspired to write. In early March, when Italy’s coronavirus outbreak escalated to large numbers of cases and deaths, predominantly in the northern regions, I felt an … Continued

9 Feb 2020

La Passeggiata – An Italian Lifestyle

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian lifestyle and culture, Italy Travel | 5

The first time I visited Italy I was naive and had no clue about the Italian lifestyle known as la passeggiata.

26 Jan 2020

My Amalfi Coast Love Affair – Ceramics of the Amalfi Coast

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books about Italy, Books by Margie Miklas, Italy Travel | 8

“I wish you’d include photos in your books.” Readers often comment how they wish I included photos in my books. The truth is…photographs typically do not show up well in paperback books. As a result of their feedback, I’ve decided … Continued

26 Dec 2019

My Amalfi Coast Love Affair – The Island of Capri

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books about Italy, Books by Margie Miklas, Italy Travel | 4

My readers often tell me they wish I included photos in my books. The reason I don’t…photographs typically do not show up well in paperback books. So now I’ve decided to post some excerpts and the accompanying Amalfi Coast photos … Continued

1 Nov 2019

New Release ~ A Medical Thriller

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books, Books by Margie Miklas, Medical Thriller, Writing | 6

It’s official! A Cure for Deceit, a medical thriller, has been published! I am pleased to announce the release of my latest book, A Cure for Deceit Now available on Amazon in Kindle and paperback formats. What happens … Continued

14 Sep 2019

Margie in Italy Goes to London

by margieinitaly | posted in: London, TRAVEL | 13

It’s been over a year since I’ve been in Italy, and normally by now I’d have made plans for a return trip. But this year is different, and although a part of my heart is always in Italy, I’m traveling … Continued

7 Sep 2019

My Amalfi Coast Love Affair – Experiences in Positano

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books about Italy, Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 7

I often hear from my readers they wish I included photos in my books. The fact is… photographs typically do not show up well in paperback books. So I’ve decided to post some excerpts and the accompanying Amalfi Coast photos … Continued

6 Aug 2019

My Amalfi Coast Love Affair Photos

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books about Italy, Italy Travel | 5

So many of my readers tell me they wish I included photos in my books. The reason I chose not to do so, is because they don’t show up well in paperback books. So I’ve decided to post an excerpt … Continued

3 Jun 2019

Venice by Night

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 29

Venice by night is magical. Traveling on a vaporetto along the Grand Canal, I’m mesmerized at the sight of all the architecture lit up against the night sky. The air is still and the wind blows just enough to cause … Continued

9 Apr 2019

Siena’s Fountain of Joy

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian History, Italy Travel | 17

Anyone who has visited Siena couldn’t miss the famous Fountain of Joy, also known as Fonte Gaia. Situated on the high side of Piazza del Campo, this fifteeenth-century white marble sculpted fountain and pool is one of a few … Continued

28 Mar 2019

Writing, Books, and Book Signings

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books, Writing | 7

Writing, writing, and more writing..not so much on my blog, but I’m busy writing the sequel to Critical Cover-Up. I’ve made a writing schedule for myself so that I’ll be disciplined enough to have the manuscript completed and ready to … Continued

28 Jan 2019

Only in Italy

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian lifestyle and culture, Italy Travel | 10

After reviewing some of the tens of thousands of photos I have taken in Italy, a few interesting ones make me laugh and say, “Only in Italy.” Two things prompted me to take each photo. One is … Continued

27 Dec 2018

Italian Lifestyle Photos – Only in Italy

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian lifestyle and culture, Italy Photo | 35

I take photos everywhere I go in Italy. I find beauty on a narrow street and tranquility in the setting sun, but I also seem to be drawn to unique circumstances, which are part of the Italian lifestyle. These situations … Continued

23 Dec 2018

Holiday Greetings from Margie in Italy

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian traditions, Writing | 14

Merry Christmas and Happy Holidays Buon Natale a tutti! Grazie mille a tutti Ciao a presto See you next year!

2 Dec 2018

People of the Amalfi Coast

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books about Italy, Italy Travel | 5

Meet Pasquale and Maria from Maiori. They are special people of the Amalfi Coast. Ceramica L’Arte Vietrese greets me with its colorful storefront, and its partially open door beckons me to step inside. A huge selection of hand-painted vases, … Continued

11 Nov 2018

Amalfi Coast Love Affair Photos

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books about Italy, Italy Travel | 8

“I don’t know what it is about the Amalfi Coast that tugs at my heart and makes me wish I was there, more than any other place in Italy.” *** These are the first words from my latest book, My … Continued

16 Oct 2018

New Release ~ My Amalfi Coast Love Affair

by margieinitaly | posted in: Books about Italy, Italy Travel | 9

It’s official! My Amalfi Coast Love Affair has been published! I am pleased to announce the release of my latest book, My Amalfi Coast Love Affair, available now in digital and paperback formats. Available now As you turn the pages, … Continued

24 Aug 2018

New Amalfi Coast Book Coming Soon

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, Writing | 28

I’m excited to announce that my fourth book on Italy is nearing completion. Since I returned from Italy, I wrote the final chapters about a place near and dear to my heart. Anyone who has been reading my blog, … Continued

11 Jul 2018

Dream Trip to Italy

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 24

A tenth visit to Bella Italia proved to be my dream trip to Italy, because this truly was a romantic vacation. I traveled with someone I love, and that made every place we went as a couple, a new … Continued

2 Jun 2018

Impressions of Paris

by margieinitaly | posted in: Paris, TRAVEL | 21

As a first-time visitor to Paris, I’m a bit out of my comfort zone, unlike when I travel to Italy. But my expectations for a good time are high, especially since I’m traveling to this romantic city with someone I … Continued

18 May 2018

Rome Colosseum Underground Tour

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian History, Italy Travel | 0

When an opportunity arose for me to experience a Colosseum Underground Tour, including a walk through the Palatine Hill and Roman Forum with The Roman Guy, I was elated and wasted no time making arrangements. It’s been years since I’ve … Continued

18 Apr 2018

Return to Italy

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 28

Travel is an integral component of my DNA, or at least it has been, ever since I became an adult. I’ve been fortunate to be able to visit Italy almost every year, beginning in 2007, when I fell in love … Continued

20 Mar 2018

Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 14

I love these low-overhead street vendors who operate out of these small trucks in Italy. These vehicles are called APE‘s, made by Piaggio, the same company who manufactures the famous Vespa scooter as well as other vehicles. In fact the … Continued

22 Feb 2018

Vietri Ceramics Artist

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian traditions, Made in Italy | 8

In Vietri-sul-Mare I don’t think I can walk five feet without hues of blue, yellow, red, and green showering my senses. Brilliant colors blast my eyes like a kaleidoscope, and I love it. At a little workshop, I have the … Continued

1 Feb 2018

Photo Collage from Venice ~ Italy Travel

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 41

Italy travel is on the rise and Venice is a favorite travel destination. Its beloved nickname of La Serenissima, seems to be going by the wayside though, as the city becomes congested with tourists. Venice is one of my favorite … Continued

5 Jan 2018

People of Italy – Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 21

This couple in Sorrento touched my heart, like so many people of Italy do. They owned and operated this shop in Sorrento, and were so kind to me, allowing me to photograph them and look around their workshop. The expressions … Continued

17 Dec 2017

Borghese Park in Rome

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 29

In a city of almost three million people, I always enjoy finding a place to get away from it all. When I needed a break from the fast pace of sightseeing in Rome, I made my way over to … Continued

10 Dec 2017

Life in Italy in Photos

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel | 11

Life in Italy is not always easy. This photo is typical of many places where staircases, steps, and inclined walkways are the norm. The first set of steps is in Positano on the Amalfi Coast, and the next … Continued

23 Nov 2017

Cats in Italy

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 20

Cats in Italy seem to be everywhere. Maybe I just notice them more since most live outside. These cats, gatti, seem to appear in every single town I visit. I must say though, that I do not recall seeing them … Continued

5 Nov 2017

Favorite Instagram Photos from Rome

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, Photography | 9

Rome is a place I can visit over and over, and experience something new every time. Enjoy some of my favorite Instagram photos from Rome. View this post on Instagram A welcome sight on these hot days in … Continued

3 Nov 2017

Making Charcoal in Italy – A Lost Art

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel | 25

One of the highlights of my visit to Le Marche is an authentic Italian experience with the coalmen or carbonai in the Metauro River valley of Borgo Pace. These charcoal burners are the last of a generation to make charcoal … Continued

1 Nov 2017

My Favorite Instagram Photos from Venice

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 12

Venice is a favorite place in Italy for me. Enjoy some of my favorite Instagram photos from Venice. View this post on Instagram One of the most photographed sights in Venice ~ The Bridge of Sighs ##Travel #Italy #Venice … Continued

27 Oct 2017

Thank You from My Heart

by margieinitaly | posted in: Writing | 3

How many ways can I say thank you from my heart and express my gratitude to you? This blog is primarily a travel blog, concentrated on Italy and all things Italian. I know occasionally I write about other things and … Continued

22 Oct 2017

Italian Vintage Photo Exhibit

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Photography | 22

I love Italian vintage photos so when I realized I’d be in New York City in time for an Italian vintage photo I definitely was interested. Since I was arriving in New York on the last day of the exhibit, … Continued

6 Oct 2017

Proud to Be Second Generation Italian

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian History, Italian lifestyle and culture | 22

In celebration of Italian Heritage Month, I wrote a story about my maternal grandmother. It was published in the October issue of La Gazzetta Italiana, an Italian-American newspaper from Cleveland, Ohio. Since the digital version of the newspaper is available … Continued

21 Sep 2017

Italy Travel – Photos from Portofino

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 18

I fell in love with Portofino when I had a chance to spend a day there a few years ago on a Mediterranean cruise. This charming town on the Ligurian coast is one of the places I’d definitely plan to … Continued

16 Sep 2017

Critical Cover-Up is Available Now

by margieinitaly | posted in: Critical Cover-Up, Writing | 12

I’m thrilled to announce that the wait is over, and my novel, Critical Cover-Up, has been published and is available now on Amazon in paperback and Kindle editions. A psychological thriller where corruptive hospital practices threaten to shatter illusions of … Continued

30 Aug 2017

Critical Cover-Up – Coming Soon

by margieinitaly | posted in: Writing | 14

Ciao amici, I want to take this opportunity to say grazie mille from the bottom of my heart. Thank you all for being such loyal supporters of my blog. If you have visited lately, then you already know that it … Continued

20 Aug 2017

A Flower Vendor in Naples

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 3

On a side street in Naples across from a church a flower vendor sets up shop every day. The street might be dirty and graffiti may cover the side of his three-wheeled Ape vehicle, yet he tends to his plants … Continued

9 Aug 2017

View from Le Sirenuse, Positano

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 15

A view from Le Sirenuse Hotel in Positano…with the Li Galli Islands in sight in the Tyrrhenian Sea below “A picture is worth a thousand words.” I could savor this scene for hours. For me this is tranquility, beauty, peaceful … Continued

6 Aug 2017

Climbing St Peter’s Dome in Rome

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, Italy Travel Planning | 16

If you’ve ever wondered how to get views like this, you have to consider climbing to St Peter’s Dome in Rome, actually at the Vatican. Visiting St. Peter’s Basilica was always one of the top places I wanted to go … Continued

22 Jul 2017

Authentic Artisan Experience in Le Marche

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian traditions, Italy Travel | 19

Tucked away in a village in Le Marche is the workshop of Emanuele Francioni, a talented young artisan who is the sixth-generation to carry on an age-old family tradition. This special method of printing with handmade stencils and paint comes … Continued

15 Jul 2017

Life in Italy – You Gotta Love the Italians

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian lifestyle and culture, Italy Travel | 28

Life in Italy is beautiful Yes, for sure, I love traveling to Italy whenever I can. The more I visit Italy, the more I learn from the Italian people and their beautiful lifestyle. You gotta love the Italians. I … Continued

6 Jul 2017

Authentic Italian Experience in Le Marche

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian lifestyle and culture, Italy Travel | 24

Lush green rolling hills, soothing red fields of poppies, pretty yellow fields of rapeseed as far as your eye can see, and quaint little-known hilltop villages. Sounds like Tuscany, but it’s not. I’m about to enjoy an authentic Italian experience … Continued

22 Jun 2017

Seaside Photos in Italy

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 15

Beautiful beach scenes and seaside views abound in Italy. Since Italy is a peninsula with two large islands, Sardinia and Sicily, plus countless smaller islands, it’s not surprising to discover these beach scenes in Italy. As you know I love … Continued

18 Jun 2017

Exploring Rome with a Local

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 20

Although I’ve visited the Eternal City on five previous occasions, I never had the opportunity to explore Rome with a local, until now. I yearned to be in the city again, since my last time in Rome was four years … Continued

11 Jun 2017

A Luxury Villa in Tuscany

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian lifestyle and culture, Italy Travel | 30

Close your eyes and imagine yourself on a hillside in Tuscany, surrounded by the beauty of nature, a feeling of serenity, and a gorgeous terra cotta tinted villa. Sounds like a dream, doesn’t it? This was my reality as I … Continued

30 May 2017

Italian Traditions of Today

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian lifestyle and culture | 42

When our ancestors left Italy in search of opportunity, and a better life, they brought with them their Italian traditions. Today Italian-Americans respect and honor their heritage by maintaining customs learned from their parents and grandparents. … Continued

17 May 2017

Walking in Italy – Streets, Staircases and Hills

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian lifestyle and culture, Italy Travel | 12

Most of Italy is mountainous or hilly at the very least, so plan on walking a lot when traveling to Bella Italia. On average, I walk a minimum of five miles a day and many times it’s closer to eight … Continued

1 May 2017

Mammoni and Mammismo – An Italian Lifestyle

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian lifestyle and culture, Italian traditions | 6

Six years ago I wrote a post about an Italian lifestyle titled Mammoni – Mamma’s Boys in Italy and today it ranks as my most popular post. Mammoni, a term applied to single Italian men who live at home with their … Continued

23 Apr 2017

The Gift of Positano

by margieinitaly | posted in: Art, Italy Travel | 22

If you told me I could click my heels three times and I’d be in Positano, I wouldn’t have to think about it. My answer would be “Yes, please, right now.” Since I don’t live in a fantasy land and … Continued

9 Apr 2017

Video View of the Amalfi Coast Road

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Road Trip, Italy Travel | 21

For all the times I’ve tried to describe the Amalfi Coast road, I could never really adequately explain what this short video shows so clearly. A classic example of “show, don’t tell.” Thank you, Coastal Living Instagram, for posting this … Continued

26 Mar 2017

The Next Step in the Writing Process

by | posted in: Writing | 10

Many of you know that I’ve been working on my first novel, and now I’ve reached the next step in the writing process. For the past few weeks, my manuscript has been in the capable hands of my editor, Susan … Continued

19 Mar 2017

25 Favorite Photos of Tuscany

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 18

Tuscany is one of the most popular destinations in Italy, and these photos easily explain why. Located in central Italy, Tuscany stretches from the Apennine Mountains to the Tyrrhenian Sea. From the rolling hills with scenes of serene … Continued

5 Mar 2017

Surviving an Airport Strike in Italy

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian lifestyle and culture, Italy News, Italy Travel, Italy Travel Planning, TRAVEL | 6

Last week travelers were affected by an airport strike in Italy.. So what’s new, right? Strikes in Italy are commonplace, part of the lifestyle. They can occur with all modes of transportation, and they do, on a regular basis. During … Continued

26 Feb 2017

Italy Travel Tips – What I Learned from Experience

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 41

You know, you can do the same thing ten times and still learn from your experience. And this certainly holds true for travel. No matter how many times I travel to Italy I learn something new, sometimes through challenging experiences. … Continued

23 Feb 2017

The Faraglioni Rocks of Capri

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Travel, TRAVEL | 21

Emerging out of the depths of the Tyrrhenian Sea are mammoth rock formations. I experience a magical moment when I first see the towering “sea stacks” located at the southern end of the island of Capri. They cause me to … Continued

12 Feb 2017

Views of Italy – Photo of the Day

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italian lifestyle and culture, Italy Photo, Italy Road Trip, Italy Travel, Photography, TRAVEL | 3

Italy is a photographer’s dream, with views to die for everywhere I go. So to choose one place where the view is a favorite is impossible…Enjoy just a few of my most memorable scenes from my travels to Bella … Continued

8 Feb 2017

Travel to Italy – Photographic Images from Lucca

by margieinitaly | posted in: Italy Photo, Italy Travel | 15

Whenever I travel to Italy, my camera is a necessity to capture the memories of a place and its photographic images forever. The images are from Lucca, a delightful city in Tuscany not far from Pisa or Florence. If you … Continued

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