PODCAST · society
Florence & Me
by Katie Portanova
I'll be sharing my stories of living abroad, my favorite places in Italy and more importantly Florence. My intention is to inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and explore life with travel. For the adventure seeking, head over to trulyitaly.tours where I create cultural travel experiences with my friends in Florence and Tuscany. Andiamo! Follow me on insta @katerinafiore or @truly_italy Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/florence--me/support
Episodes
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Italy Taught Me the Art of Being a Regular
What if one of the best ways to experience Italy isn't finding somewhere new—but going back? When I think about the years I lived in Florence, some of the places that meant the most to me weren't famous landmarks. They were the places I returned to again and again—the same pub, the same tiny…
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How Many Days Do You Really Need in Tuscany?
How many days do you really need in Tuscany? Three days? Five? A full week? If you want my quick answer, I’d give Tuscany 5–7 days if you can. But I think there’s a much more important question to ask: What kind of experience do you want to have with the time you have? In this episode of Florence…
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Slow Travel in Italy: Why Seeing Less Makes a Better Trip
Florence. Rome. Venice. Tuscany. Cinque Terre. Amalfi. When you're planning a trip to Italy—especially one you've dreamed about for years—it's easy to feel like you need to see as much as possible. But somewhere between packing, changing hotels, catching trains and racing to the next reservation,...
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The Apartment We Almost Bought (And Why My Body Said No)
We almost bought an apartment in Tuscany. It was charming, affordable, and close enough to our dream of moving back to Italy that it was easy to picture ourselves saying yes. But while my mind was focused on timelines and possibilities, my body was sending a very different message. In this…
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Why We're Moving to Italy — The Real Story of What We're Preparing to Leave Behind
Twelve years ago, Stefano and I left Florence chasing a better living in the US. We found it, for a while. In this episode I'm telling you the real reason we're moving back to Tuscany, and it's not the version you see on my socials. I talk about the panic attacks I've had at airports, not knowing...
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Slow Travel in Tuscany: What A Slow Day In A Tuscan Village Actually Feels Like
What does slow travel in Tuscany actually feel like? In this episode I take you inside one real day in Radicondoli, a tiny hilltop village in southern Tuscany, from waking up without an alarm to a three‑hour dinner with locals and everything in between. I walk you through the morning cappuccino…
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Slow Travel in Tuscany: How to Choose your Base in Tuscany
If you've got 17 towns pinned in Tuscany and no idea which one to actually stay in, this episode is for you. I walk you through exactly how to choose the right base for your slow week in Tuscany: what your base actually needs to do (not just look pretty), a simple checklist to evaluate any town,...
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Slow Travel in Tuscany: How to Plan One Slow Week in Tuscany (Without Seeing Everything)
If your Tuscany plans currently include four bases, seven hotel changes, and a color‑coded spreadsheet, this episode is for you. I walk you through how to plan one calm, slow week in Tuscany with a single home base and a simple rhythm, so you come home rested instead of wiped out. We’ll talk…
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Katie's Italian!!!!!! Our Next Steps back to Italy
In this episode I take you with me to downtown Chicago, into the Italian consulate, and inside the day I officially stepped into Italian citizenship after more than 20 years of trying. I share: The long, messy path to citizenship (starting all the way back in 2002) The church in Florence that’s...
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Why I Paused My Tuscany Trips
Most Italy trips are built around rushing: too many cities, not enough days, and a suitcase that never stays unpacked. After years of hosting trips, I realized I was helping people re‑create the very pattern she no longer believed in. In this episode, I share why I chose to pause my old Italy…
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The Village That Changed Everything
What is it really like to live in a small town in Tuscany, Italy? We went to a small town in Tuscany, Italy thinking it would simply be another place to explore… but what we found was something much deeper. In this episode, I’m sharing the story of our two weeks in a quiet Italian village—the…
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The Road Back to Italy: My Citizenship Process + Why I’m Shifting My Travel Plans
Ciao tutti! In this inaugural video-style episode, I check in from home with a heartfelt update on life, Truly Italy, and the road back to Italy—this time with a husband, cats, and a lot more logistics than 2009. I share where I'm in the Italian citizenship process (through marriage), what I'm...
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The Road Back to Italy: My Citizenship Process + Why I’m Shifting My Travel Plans
In this quick life update, I'm sharing what’s happening behind the scenes with Florence & Me and Truly Italy. I talk about my Italian citizenship process (through marriage), the real steps of preparing to move back to Italy, and what you can expect from the podcast + new YouTube channel—short,...
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Decaf Coffe or Un Espresso?
Both are correct. Here's a short episode on how to order a caffe' decaffeinato. :) Enjoy! Do you have questions or topics you want me to talk about? Email them here: [email protected] Is an authentic trip to Italy calling your name? Here are our Truly Italy Experience in 2026. June 6-14…
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Calling All Italy Lovers: Let’s Find Our Way Back Together
Yes, I've been on radio silent all summer. Nothing to worry about. Listen how I'm changing course and learning how to keep Truly Italy and Italy in my heart day by day. Also anyone who wants to connect with me regarding just talking about italy, reminiscing about your study abroad days, or the…
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I Belong Here: Becoming a Local in Florence
In this heartfelt episode, Katie Portanova shares her deep connection to Florence, Italy, exploring her journey from a visitor to a local resident. She reflects on the transformative moments that shaped her experience, the importance of slowing down, and the friendships that enriched her life....
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Italy Taught Me to Waste Time Well
In the states we know how to multi-task way too much. In Italy, wasting time is an art. Spending time with friends is a gift. Lingering at lunch is pure joy. Listen to why I still wish wasting time was in my every day life. Follow me and my writings on Substack here Be the first to know about my...
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My Favorite Piazzas in Florence
My heart lives in all these piazze for a reason. I'm now giving you a reason to visit them. Hope you enjoy this episode! Want my Ultimate Tuscany Insider Guide for FREE?? Get it here: https://www.trulyitaly.tours//ultimate-tuscany-guide
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Coffee Culture in Italy
Today I talk about types of coffee, when to have caffe and what's the difference between sitting and taking your coffee and standing. I hope you enjoy this episode! Any questions email here: [email protected] Want my Ultimate Tuscany Insider Guide? Get it here for free:...
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5 Historical Towns to Visit in Tuscany
In this episode, I share my passion for exploring the hidden historical gems of Tuscany, focusing on lesser-known medieval towns, castles, and travel tips for travelers. I highlight specific locations such as San Gimignano, Monteriggioni, Volterra, Pienza, and San Galgano, providing insights into...
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The History of Wine Doors
Have you ever wondered why there are so many wine doors in Florence? Or why you can't find them in Florence? In this episode I share the history of these wine doors, Buchette del Vino, thanks to this amazing book by Diletta Corsini & Lucrezia Giordano. So many cool insights I didn't even know...
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Ponte Vecchio - Florence's Oldest Bridge
The Ponte Vecchio is one of my fave places to visit when I'm in Firenze. Today I'll talk about the history, who built it, what was there before gold shops and WHY it was never destroyed during WW2 like the other bridges in Florence. Enjoy this episode! I sure did love making it! :) Not on my…
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Vasari Corridor - Where the Medici walked...
The Vasari Corridor is finally open after years of being closed. This episode is some history on the corridor and why the Medici liked walking up there. Here's where you get your ticket: https://www.uffizi.it/en/pages/combined-ticket Want to get my email list? go here:...
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2024 Recap & Future Italy Goals
This episode recaps our successful year of growth. -Our 1st yoga Retreat -Investing in Video & Photography -Our 2nd Truly Tuscany Retreat -Creating our First Sailing Trip in Sardinia - Future plans for the Podcast -New trips coming up for 2025 Learn more about our Trips:...
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How to Embrace Slow Travel
I share some tips and strategies on planning a slow, relaxing and memorable vacation in Italy. 8/30-9/6 2025 Truly Florence 9/8-9/15 2025 Follow me on the socials to see our travels in real time insta: @truly_italy Facebook: TrulyItalyTours Youtube: Truly Italy To get all the info on our upcoming...
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Update & Truly Italy Does Yoga #85
Been busy the last few months. Planning a sailing trip in Sardinia and preparing for our first Yoga Retreat in Tuscany at the very villa i was meant to do a yoga retreat back in 2020, ironic no? Follow me on the socials to see our travels in real time insta: @truly_italy Facebook: TrulyItalyTours...
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How to Travel Overseas - Traveling Alone, How to do it: EP 84
Traveling alone? Unsure on how to go about it? Listen to this episode, I'll give you tips on how to be respectful, learn about culture and connect with locals. Enjoy! Learn more about our upcoming retreats and events, sign up here for our email list.
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How To Travel Overseas Series- Customs in Europe #83
What to do when you get to customs in an international airport? I'll tell you all the details in this episode. Learn more about our upcoming retreats and events, sign up here for our email list.
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How To Travel Overseas Series-Layovers: What do you do? #82
How long should you layover be when you arrive in Europe? How does customs work? These questions and more I'll answer on this episode. Enjoy Learn more about our upcoming retreats and events, sign up here for our email list.
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How To Travel Overseas Series-I need a passport #81
Are you someone who has always yearned to travel overseas but something was holding you back? Now you have no excuse. I have mapped out, talked out, step by step on how to fill out and prepare you FIRST US Passport application. You are welcome! One more step to Italy, right? Hope this helps!…
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Ep 80 - Christmas in Tuscany & 2025 Retreats
What an amazing time we had! I wish Florence was closer because we would spend each Christmas there if we could. We had memorable encounters, delicious food and friends around us that mean the world to us! Keep an eye out on our itineraries for September 2025. They are going to be epic!! Learn…
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Ep 79 - Buon Natale & Last Ep of the Year!
Thank you to all my listeners & supporters!! Buon Natale & Buon Anno Nuovo! This is my last episode of the year. Can't wait for 2024!!! To learn more about our upcoming retreats and events, sign up here for our email list.
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Ep 78 - Italy Hospital & Medical Talk with Giulia
What do pharmacies have in Italy? Do I have to have travel medical insurance if I have to go to the hospital? Will I find my over the counter meds in Italy? Can I get my antibiotics in Italy? We will answer all these questions in this episode. Enjoy! Want to connect with Giulia? Find her website...
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Ep 77 - Italy Restaurant Tips with Giulia
Giulia and I discuss the common misconceptions of dining in Italy. We talk about water, wine, coperto, tipping and much more. Want to connect with Giulia? Find her website Urban Yolk here. Watch her VLOG on her journey of moving from South Africa to Northern Italy with her husband and 6 cats!!…
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Ep 76 - Christmas in Florence
Planning a trip to Florence for Christmas?? Listen to this one! Listen to my latest episodes on The Clopen Effect: Part 1 Part 2 Want to be in Tuscany in September 2024? Fill out this questionnaire to connect about our upcoming retreat. Early Bird pricing: Reserve by December 1, 2023, receive…
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Ep 75 - Tuscany Recap - Authenticity, Connection and Passion
I give you a recap of my amazing trip to Tuscany. I speak about the amazing collaborators I'm working with for our upcoming retreat. These experiences should not be missed. Enjoy! :) Want to be in Tuscany in September 2024? Fill out this questionnaire to connect about our upcoming retreat. Early...
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Ep 74 - Florence Highlights to Visit
I leave in a week for Florence and I wanted to tell you all the areas and places I can't to visit again. These are must sees when you are visiting Florence yourself. Il Duomo Santi Apostoli Piazza della Signoria Piazza Santo Spirito Sant'Ambrogio Piazzale Michelangelo Fiesole (where I studied and...
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Ep 73 - ETIAS Visa and Where to Fly into
There's a new tourist visa starting in 2024. I talk about how much it is, who's it for, how does it work, etc. Stay tuned as the official date it will be active. Want to be in Tuscany in September 2024? Fill out this questionnaire to connect about our upcoming retreat. Early Bird pricing…
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Ep-72 Things to Pack for Italy
This is a list that have items that not a lot of people think of. I like to give you practical things to bring while in Italy. I hope this helps you for your upcoming trip to Italy. Want to be in Tuscany in September 2024? Fill out this questionnaire so we can connect about our upcoming retreat....
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Ep - 71 : Did you sign up yet?
I go over all the details for our September 2024 retreat. We have an Early Bird Promo available until 7/31/23, when you book you get $300 off. Let's get you to Italy. Want to be in Tuscany in September 2024? Hop on a call with me to learn more about our upcoming retreat. Early Bird pricing:...
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Ep-70: Connection while we Travel
I've be thinking a lot about this word lately. Connection. How do you connect with the culture, people in a different country? What's your process when you visit a country? Do you research? Do you try to learn phrases to use? Well, I believe connection is what made my travels so much deeper for…
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Ep 69 - Curiosities of Florence- Piazza della Passera
I start off with reminscing on my first paid vacation in 20 years. I'm serious. Then I mention how I'm consistently spread the word on Truly Italy and why we do. I've been interviewed now on 2 podcasts, wrote an article and yesterday 7/16/2023, I was at a local festival promoting my Tuscan Wine...
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Ep 68 - Curiosities of Florence: Michelangelo and Florence's Floods
This episode is more fun trivia about things you can see on the streets of Florence. No need to pay a museum fee, just open your eyes and search for these hidden messages from the past. Want to be in Tuscany in September 2024? Hop on a call with me to learn more about our upcoming retreat....
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Ep 67 - Tuscan Wine Parties & Katie's in a Magazine
In this episode, I explain what is all included in our Tuscan Wine Tasting Parties. Also I toot my own horn sharing my first article published in a local magazine. You can read my article here. Want to sign up to host your own Tuscan Wine Tasting Party? Learn more here Want to be in Tuscany in...
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Ep 66 - Tips on Traveling with Ease in Italy
So many people make the mistake of packing too much, planning too many excursions and traveling to too many cities on a short trip. Here are my tips and questions to ask yourself when you are traveling to Italy for the first time or the 10th time. Ciao for now! Want to be in Tuscany in September...
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Episode 65 - September 2024 Retreat Details
Everything you need to know about our upcoming retreat in September 2024. Dates September 7-14, 2024. Have more questions? Set up a Q&A Call with me here. Can't wait to have you on this amazing retreat! More to come! :) Want to be in Tuscany in September 2024? Hop on a call with me to learn...
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Episode 64 : How to spot a Tourist Trap Restaurant
There are many things you should keep an eye out for when looking for a restaurant in Italy. Listen to my tips so you don't get stuck eating really bad Italian food. To learn more about our FIRST FLORENCE RETREAT, sign up here for our email list. Want to plan a private Italy trip with...
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Episode 63 : Best Tuscany Beaches
I've been to so many beaches in Italy. I've narrowed down the ones I'd recommend visiting either by train or by car. Summer can't come soon enough. Enjoy! To learn more about our FIRST FLORENCE RETREAT and all other Tuscany Retreats, sign up here for our email list. Want to shop with me at Savvi,...
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Episode 62: Curiosities of Florence - Per Non Dormire
The Bartolini family created their wealth by putting others to sleep. Listen to the full episode to find out how. To learn more about our FIRST FLORENCE RETREAT and other Tuscany Travel Retreats, sign up here for our email list. Want to know where to eat in Florence? Shop my guides & itineraries...
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Episode 61 : Florence Retreat Details July 2025
It's about time. I'm finally planning an amazing trip to Florence in July 2025. This trip will be for Florence Lovers who enjoy taking their time when they travel. I'll be in my element, in my city sharing all the amazing sights and stories with you. Our trip will be 9 days/10 nights. Enough time...
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ABOUT THIS SHOW
I'll be sharing my stories of living abroad, my favorite places in Italy and more importantly Florence. My intention is to inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and explore life with travel. For the adventure seeking, head over to trulyitaly.tours where I create cultural travel experiences with my friends in Florence and Tuscany. Andiamo! Follow me on insta @katerinafiore or @truly_italy Support this podcast: https://podcasters.spotify.com/pod/show/florence--me/support
HOSTED BY
Katie Portanova
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Frequently Asked Questions
How many episodes does Florence & Me have?
Florence & Me currently has 79 episodes available on PodParley. New episodes are automatically indexed when they're published to the podcast feed.
What is Florence & Me about?
I'll be sharing my stories of living abroad, my favorite places in Italy and more importantly Florence. My intention is to inspire you to step out of your comfort zone and explore life with travel. For the adventure seeking, head over to trulyitaly.tours where I create cultural travel experiences...
How often does Florence & Me release new episodes?
Florence & Me has 79 episodes. Check the episode list to see recent publication dates and frequency.
Where can I listen to Florence & Me?
You can listen to Florence & Me on PodParley by clicking any episode. We provide an embedded audio player for direct listening, and you can also subscribe via your preferred podcast app using the RSS feed.
Who hosts Florence & Me?
Florence & Me is created and hosted by Katie Portanova.
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