Growing up in a small town in the tiniest state (RI), I always knew I wanted to get out and see the world. My first big international adventure was to Italy, where I was fortunate enough to study abroad in college. Somewhere during my semester of sipping on espresso and indulging in the best food of my life, I became absolutely smitten with the country. I also came down with a severe case of the 'travel bug'. To propel myself to keep traveling, I became certified in teaching English as a foreign language, and spent years after college teaching and exploring Asia, South America, and Europe.
Fast forward to the present, and I’ve put down roots in the States and have recently developed a keen interest in wine. Luckily for me, studying for my WSET (Wine & Spirit Education Trust) certifications brought me back to focus on the country that originally ignited my wanderlust — bella Italia! I will always adore this country and I’m thrilled that I get to be an Italy specialist here at Audley and share this with anyone who wishes to see and experience la dolce vita.
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Q&A with Jasmine
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
On a recent vacation in Italy, I booked a couple of spots for my husband and me on a group tour to a winery. After some confusion upon arrival we learned that the winery has two locations — and of course we were at the wrong one where tours are not typically held. However the owner told us to stay and she gave us our own private guided tour and tasting. We had a blast laughing, joking and listening to her personal stories about living on a vineyard. She ended up opening up all these old, rare vintages of wine that we never would have been able to taste if we showed up at the correct vineyard. Our mistake ended up being an absolutely unforgettable experience.
Where would you love to travel next?
Honestly, after my last trip to Italy, all I’ve been thinking about is how badly I want to go back. Specifically, I’m dying to get to Sardinia. Imagine a day hiking along the beautiful coastal trails, cooling down with a dip in crystal turquoise waters, and capping it off with an al fresco dinner of local Sardinian lobster with a glass of Vermentino. Heaven.
Which book, film, or artwork captures Italy the most?
Ahead of traveling, I always watch a few episodes of cooking shows filmed in my destination so I can start getting excited about all the food I’m going to eat. Netflix’s ‘Chef’s Table’ has a fantastic episode about Dario Cecchini, a Florentine butcher-turned-restaurateur. It’s a touching story of a child that dreamed of being a veterinarian, but grew up to inherit his family’s butcher shop. He takes his love and gratitude for the animals and puts it into the quality of his food, teaching diners to respect the lives of the animals they eat. I loved learning about sustainable farming and butchering practices in Tuscany, but Dario’s warm and gregarious nature truly showcases Italian hospitality. As he puts it, “I want everyone who comes to the butcher shop to think it’s a day of celebration.”