To really enjoy Italy get acquainted with its different local regions

Italy is smaller than California and yet it is so diverse you know in its topography and

geography and dialects and songs but most of all in its food.

In just a bit, Chef Lydia Bastionich shares her favorite seasonal specialties from her

Italian homeland, the kind of food that can connect us with our past.

These are the flavors of their roots or their relatives and what it does, it gives them strength.

Wine expert Nigel Murrell shares tips for choosing which wine will make an ideal pairing

with every meal you prepare.

And there are some wines that need more time to breathe, some wines that need less,

some wines that can simply open up in your glass little by little, but some that benefit tremendously from being decanted for maybe a half hour or even longer.

And listeners tell us what makes their hometown special.

It's all just ahead on today's travel with Rick Steeves. Stay with us.

You know, my favorite country to explore in Europe is Italy. I think one reason is because each region of Italy has its own character, even its own foods.

What's on your plate can even tell you about a town's history, since they specialize in what's fresh and in season locally.

Chef Lydia Bastioni shares some of her favorite comfort foods from the regions of Italy in just a bit on today's travel with Rick Steeves. And later in the hour a wine expert

helps us know what to look for in making a great pairing with what's on the menu for tonight.

First, let's get excited about a few places that are closer to home.

In fact, what is it about where you live that makes it feel special?

What would you recommend a visitor do to feel like part of your community?

And what are some of the lesser known gems that people might overlook about your success? your city.

our phone number is 877 333 7425 and you can email us at radio at Rick Steves.

Rick Steeves.com.

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