Modena is a little town in the Emilia-Romagna region of  Italy, it is located north of the country and only a 30 mins train ride from Bologna. Modena is a pretty household name in the country, it is not only famous for being the home of a few popular ingredients in Italian Cuisine, it is also the home to motors powerhouse. Ferrari, Maserati, Pagani all got their roots in Modena, which is why the town also have a little nickname as the Land of Motors. Modena is rich and social advance. The place have a high quality of life. For those who are less interested in the cars, perhaps the gastronomical produce might interest you more. The precious Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, Parmigiano Reggiano Cheese or Lambrusco wine are just some examples of it. The town is a good base for exploring such farms and see the making of these great products.

Continue reading →

Continuing on my food adventures in Modena, right after my visit to a Parmigiano Reggiano factory on the outskirts of the city, I am headed to Acetaia Di Giorgio, where they make the black gold of Italian cuisine. It was located in the city of Modena, perhaps only around a 20 mins walk away from the city centre. I took a cab straight from 4 Madonne Caseificio dell’Emilia and the ride probably took about 10 mins or so. Traffic is not an issue here at all and the cab ride cost 17 Euros. Acetaia Di Giorgio is one of the most famous brands in producing Aceto Balsamico Tradizionale di Modena DOP. Acetaia Di Giorgio is a family run business and produce only for the very best chefs in the world and sold in limited qualities. Everything is handmade and monitor for generations in the Barbieri family!

Continue reading →

Being a foodie myself, I have always been intrigued on the origins of exclusive ingredients have come about. Truffles Hunting? Making of coke? Wine Making? How Jamon is made? And of course cheese! The most famous cheese that all of us probably know of would be the famed Parmigiano Reggiano produced in certain region in Northern Italy! It is more commonly known to us as Parmesan cheese. Not to be afraid, this is not a foodie guide that you are reading at but my visit to a local Parmigiano Reggiano factory in the city of Parma. Without going too deep into the history of Italy, there are a couple of beloved food in the country which are namely, truffles, parma ham, balsamic vinegar and of course the Parmigiano Reggiano cheese.

Continue reading →

In fact, I have been to Florence 6 years ago, back then in 2012, although that was part of a day tour so it is more of a little touch and go in Florence. I was captivated by the Duomo and more so by the Arno River, with the Ponte Vecchio across it. The sight is one that I would love to lay eyes once again. Furthermore, on the ending phase of my whirlwind trip in Europe, the fantastic The Mall outlet will be nice for some shopping. I had 4 main to do list in Florence, The Duomo, Arno River, Central Market and Piazzale Michelangelo! In fact there is something very funny on my fate with Florence. A lot of my thoughts and interest begin back then in 2003 after watching a Hong Kong TVB Drama about pilots, Triumph In The Skies. With many of the filming sites located in Florence, it sure sparkes my interest in seeing them in person.

Continue reading →

Another pretty interesting and unique activity that I have done during my travels would definitely be taking part in a cooking class. This is probably the first time that I have done so while travelling. Italian cuisine it shall be. It is something that we always dine out for? Like, lets go for some pasta! Lets order pizza in! It is nice to finally to see how it is really done by the locals right in their backyard. Of course, while Bologna is named as the true heart of Italian cooking and cuisine, Florence is not far back as well! Cooking class are pretty common in Florence too! In fact, in terms of a true authentic local market, the Florence Central Market is the most famous one in the country! I have been keen on visiting the Central Market for the longest time after hearing about it! Visiting market is one of my hobbies! Somehow I got the idea of doing a cooking lesson to have a hands on experience on making some Italian food!

Continue reading →

I believe this would be something that many people would be interested in! Especially the shopping fanatics or those who have a keen eye for branded leather goods. In fact this place is so tempting that even those who are prudent in spending, will spend! You definitely can’t resist yourself if you are here. Of course, for those who specifically make a trip here, you already know what you want! The Mall Florence is one of the most famous factory outlet in Europe or Italy where many famous brand were from. This include brands like Gucci, Prada, Miu Miu. In fact I would say that 90% of the people come here just to get their hands on Prada or Gucci! They are also the one that have the largest presence at The Mall!

Continue reading →