Something About David: The Channel

Hello all!

It’s been awhile and I keep meaning to update you on the latest happenings with “Something About David.”

While written blog posts are coming, the main focus these days are my video featurettes on some of the incredible places I have been visiting! Please follow along with my journey by clicking the Youtube icon on the homepage and liking & subscribing to be notified of new episodes when they are released!

Thanks again for all your support, it means alot to me. More Italia to come!

Ciao for now!
D.

Andiamo (Let’s Go!)

Well readers, I am leaving tomorrow!

The time has finally come. After being an idea for years, it’s all finally coming together. I did a last minute shop for some essentials hurriedly today before leaving overseas and I have just moments ago checked in for my flight! I will be flying directly into London (Heathrow) and I will be spending three nights in Central London revisiting old friends and exploring my old haunts. I’ll be sure to include in a future blog some of my London tips and experiences I had during this short stay. Once finished in England’s capital I will be flying direct to Milano and head southwest to Genova where I will begin my Italian adventure.

I feel incredibly excited to begin this experience but also quite nervous as it’s quite a change from the pandemic-life I’ve gotten used to for the last couple of years. However, with one foot before the other I intend to explore at a comfortable pace, and remember to travel not in a touristic frenzied manner but by optimizing authentic experiences of happiness and joy.

Readers, I cannot wait to take you on this journey with me. Many more blogs will be shared (consistently), and I will also begin my travel vlogs that I will share on Youtube once I get enough footage and content to show you all. Non vedo l’ora! I cannot wait.


Ciao for now!
D.

So much Italia; so little time.


Well readers, it is under 50 days until I am back in Italy. I’ve found myself in a tornado of things to prepare, loose-ends to resolve and even ensure I have met all the necessary requirements to travel. While I have laid out most of my plan for my travel itinerary, some other areas I was waiting until closer to the date of departure. With the state of the world being as its been, I ensured all my bookings were cancellable or refundable and for things less guaranteed I’ve just begun the process for; such as the visa for Italy, and travel medical insurance. Perhaps not the most fun things to figure out but absolutely crucial to have completed before stepping foot in Il Bel Paese. As I am triple vaccinated (with one booster) I’ve already met most international requirements, however Italy like many countries around the world are opening up and reverting back to “the way things were.” The Green Pass for Italy (a.k.a. vaccine passport) which was required for entering specific establishments or venues, will no longer be required by the time I arrive in May (at least at the time of this post!). Definitely a smart idea to always check on entry requirements prior to visiting any country.

As an avid photographer, I’m ensuring any equipment I bring with me are good to go, and as a rather lax iPhone user, I’ve been spending time backing up loads of files and removing them from the phone storage as I should have done ages ago! I suppose this is a good time to also mention I will be creating video content along with some of my blog posts, or even separate at times depending on which topics I plan to cover. Expect lots of tourist aid, features on certain regions or towns, and of course food highlights. While I do not yet have a video posted, please note that you can subscribe to my Youtube channel at this link. This journey is an opportunity I’m absolutely blessed to have the means to give a shot, and I intend to take along all of you for the experience. With a fine eye for detail and with hopes to introduce an audience to more quality hidden gems of Italy, I anticipate great content to keep you entertained and in wanderlust as I find my footing!

While I don’t plan to share episode details before their release, I absolutely have specific content planned or experiences lined up that I want to highlight. I’m very much wanting to show a more introspective type of tourism, at a comfortable pace conveying how much can really be experienced without exhausting yourself at the end of each day. Some days really deserve pure satisfaction for the soul by absorbing the sights and sounds, allowing your senses to explore while still. While there are so many types of ways to travel, I truly want to focus on following what feels right in each place, while yes, ensuring I visit specific points to check off on the good ol’ bucket list.

I will be posting more in the coming weeks, and I thank you for being patient with me while I try to balance all this change alongside my current job prior to this journey.

Ciao for now!
D.

Daydreams and Agendas

As the days pass and the departure date grows nearer, the anticipation for the approaching experience builds to a frenzied level of excitement. My days are now always filled with thoughts of scenes and possibilities that will soon become a reality once in Italy. Whenever I have a looming trip planned, my elation and giddiness is reawakened by my inner child, much like that feeling leading up to Santa’s arrival at Christmas. I may even become a bit incorrigible leading up to it, as it’s all I will talk about or revert back to during conversations with poor friends and family!

One of the many reasons I am most excited to get back to Italy is that, while I’ve visited the country many, many times, I have yet to have explored the depth that I have planned for this trip. I plan to visit all the regions during my travels. This is an important goal for me to reach as I have such a love for the country and truly want to experience all corners of it. Due to some other international trips, and then the pandemic, its been a long five years since I have last been in beautiful Italia. The ache and desire to return is tenfold and I intend for the reunion to be done right. While I could easily talk at length about certain plans for each of my planned locations I plan to visit I wanted to first feature five different destinations to share some examples of what I am looking forward to most.

Reader, also please note, this is in no particular order:

  • Matera is a city I am completely enamoured with already. Firstly, it’s in a part of Italy I’ve not yet visited (Basilicata) and the city itself is one of the worlds longest continually inhabited. The city is perched atop a high rocky peak, cascading down the outcrop with ancient cave dwellings in the Sassi area sprinkled towards one end where some of these rock formations have been converted into museums, restaurants, and even luxury holiday apartments. Matera was recently featured on the big screen in the latest James Bond film, “No Time To Die” during its opening high-speed chase sequence. This rustic city is absolutely steeped in history; and I have a feeling it will be where I take an incredible amount of photos due to its unique nature.
  • The island of Sicily. Okay I am cheating a bit, but this entire region has been on my bucket list for so long. It is the largest island in the Mediterranean, and has so much influence from colonising countries throughout history such as Portugal, Greece and North Africa. In fact, Sicily is home to the most examples of ancient Greek architecture outside of Greece. I’ve forever heard that the more south you go in Italy, the more authentic and rich the history becomes. It will be incredible to experience this myself, while visiting some incredible sites like The Turkish Steps, active volcano Mount Etna and the 18th-century baroque grandeur of Noto.
  • Sanremo is in the northwest of the country, within the region of Liguria. The town is less well-known to international folk, but synonymous for Italians for the annual music festival of its namesake. I’m hoping to attend the festival myself, but also enjoy the beauty of the beachfront promenade, The Ariston Theatre, and also a rather surprising Russian Orthodox church. Its location is fabulous also due to its proximity to beautiful towns like Dolceacqua, and even Monaco and the Côte d’Azur of southern France are only about 50km away!
  • Milan perhaps best known for being a fashion capital or centre of business in Italy, has not been a big draw for me personally, but there are still some experiences within the city for which I just cannot control my excitement. As a major foodie and Italianophile, I’ve sampled many a regional delight however one of my favourite dishes is the saffron painted, Risotto Milanese. It’ll be great to again see it’s beautifully bright golden colour and try it in its birthplace. Also, one of DaVinci’s most famous works is in Milan; Il Cenacolo or as wider known with its English name, The Last Supper. To see that work of art will be a life-changing moment for myself. Another of the most classic images of the city is the immaculate Gothic-styled cathedral in the city centre (Il Duomo), it’s adjacent to a beautiful shopping space called Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II. The elegant 19th century shopping centre is ornately designed with golden iron and tall glass vaulted ceilings, housing designer shops and cafes throughout. It will absolutely be my first stop.
  • Lastly, Bologna is a city I have surprisingly been near to many times but never yet visited. La Rossa has grown in interest for me over the years due to its beautiful red stone, vibrant food scene, its two towers and for its convenient location for day-trips to other beautiful towns within Emilia-Romagna. What many people may not realize is that most famous Italian dishes known internationally all come from Bologna and its surrounding towns. Some examples are Ragu alla Bolognese, Tortellini, Lasagne, Mortadella, Balsamic Vinegar, Parmigiano Reggiano, Prosciutto di Parma and so many more.

I could easily list many more places I’m excited for and I may actually include some more in a future post. Do any of you have some recommendations for me? Italy, I am so, so ready for you, but still a few months yet until departure…


Ciao for now!
D.

L’Opportunità Divina: From Turin to Noto

The pandemic was a period of immense change for everyone globally with daily routines destroyed, jobs obliterated and relationships waned. What will tomorrow bring? Why is life worth living? Will this feeling of uncertainty ever end? For myself, while working any remote job possible to keep my mental-health in check, it was a period of self-discovery. What do I want? What is really important to me? What am I comfortable with at this stage of my life? As a single thirty-something-year-old man, living a suburban Canadian life, a soul-satisfying adventure became the optimum goal and plan.

I’ve lived abroad before, in London, England the centre of the world and gateway to countless destinations. Those 6 years were not only full of excitement and experience, but they made me into the person I am today; curious of the world, culture and language. During my time in England, I was able to travel quite extensively throughout Europe, but one country repeatedly drew me back and claimed my heart. The land of pasta, vespas, hand gestures, art, and love. Il Bel Paese; Italy. The love for Italy began quite early in my youth, obsessing over the food and stories from Ancient Rome in particular. When I first visited as an 18 year-old, retracing the steps of some of histories most incredible characters in the Roman Forum, the history and energy of the place was palpable and impactful all these centuries later. After creating memory after memory within Italy, and since being away from the country for five years, I have decided to enact a tour de force of an experience and live there for one year starting late spring 2022.

From May, I will be visiting all regions of Italy, setting up bases in a variety of hotels and Airbnb’s truly experiencing all corners and flavours of the country. I have used most of the pandemic planning first the places I want to visit and then strategising an itinerary and route that makes sense geographically, but also maximises the best weather and timing for specific regions. From Sanremo to Vicenza, Napoli to Ostuni, Tropea to Agrigento I will be taking my readers along for the ride. Sharing tips and tricks along the way, I want to really highlight Italy and its magic through my eyes and bring awareness to lesser known areas and businesses alike.

Do come with me, not only for the journey itself, but also for the planning and research before! I will offer some great tips for booking accommodation and making itineraries that positively impact any holiday planning or adventure. This will not be a whirlwind trip with lots of information in the blink of an eye that shows on your daily newsfeed, but instead an introspective and respectful recount of a culture and its immaculate sights.


Ciao for now!
D.

Authentic Italian vs Italian-American

For most foodies, Italy is a mecca for regional specialties, simple recipes at their most masterful, and flavours unmatchable outside its designer knee-high boot. Yet what of its dishes served globally, and what liberties have been taken on some deliziosi classics? Let us first highlight that Italy while a country of splendour; three-quarters the size of California, truly boasts its pride of its varying provinces and always highlights their creative forte. When asking someone travelling to Italy of their gastronomic plans; many tend to include obvious staples such as pizza, pasta and gelato. It is important to advise however, that specific dishes within these categories for example; may be found at their true original and best in specific parts of the country; and perhaps not in the one or two cities that you may be visiting.

This concept is typically non-existent when visiting an Italian restaurant in the USA and Canada, with eateries offering a mix-mash of choice and differing ingredients. When visiting Italy, its important to research what regions are famous for, or more specifically certain towns or cities. For example, with pizza, it was created in Naples, and this city is known to be the heart of the food-type. In the late 1800’s, Queen Margherita of Italy grew bored of her typical European-fare, and desired something new for her palette. A Neapolitan cook constructed a beautiful pizza symbolizing national pride with the ingredients evoking colours of the flag (tomato, mozzarella and basil). The dish was thereafter named for the Queen, and is as important to the identity and citizens of Naples today as ever. The Campania region itself is absolutely divine and famous for its buffalo mozzarella, limoncello, calzone and San Marzano tomatoes. Now, in Italy, you can absolutely order pizza throughout; however, variations then come to play with modifications from the original essence and methods. For example, Pizza Romana originating in Rome, is a similar concept, however is prepared in rectangular slices individually as more of a takeaway, and has a thicker base closer to that of a focaccia.

One common factor to true Italian cuisine, is that the production style of many regional specialties has barely changed. No modern additives, or tricks to mass produce; everything is made as a labour of love ensuring optimal quality time and time again. From the famous dishes in Lombardy such as osso bucco, gorgonzola and risotto, to the hearty cuisine of Emilia-Romagna with parmigiano reggiano, tortellini, and Prosciutto di Parma, and into Lazio with such dishes as bruschetta, spaghetti carbonara, and porchetta; Italy is to be savoured.

On this side of the world however, Italian food, while incredibly popular takes on some different nuances. Spaghetti and meatballs, chicken alfredo, chicken parmesan while staples in Italian-American cuisine, do not really exist in Italy. As it happens with most cultures; when large groups migrate to other countries, they try to cook what they know, but do so with different availability of ingredients. The fact is, both food types while delicious, on the plate and as complete meals are very different. As you would make plans to choose to have a night eating Indian or Chinese food, you can do the same considering Italian or Italian-American! Both can be enjoyed, but offer different satisfaction. In North America the dishes tend to be heavier, and larger in portion and more processed, whereas again in Italy, less is more; simple ingredients and presentation, all handmade and somehow light in digestion. More and more authentic Italian restaurants are popping up around the world and there are good options available more than ever before. Both cuisines can be enjoyed; but I would suggest not asking for a chicken alfredo the next time you’re in Rome…


Ciao for now!
D.

Top Ten: London Edition

Planning a visit to London? As an ex-Londoner of nearly six years, I consider myself a bit of a specialist. Tired of the typical top sights on every travel page? I’m going to walk you through some of the cities hidden treasures and haunts that the locals visit.

Sketch is a restaurant that has to be experienced with all the senses. Located in swanky Mayfair, this restaurant hosts multiple rooms, each with a distinct character and setting for any mood. Whether you want to drink in its lush emerald tropical bar, dine amongst the pink plush furniture and mod art in the Gallery, or enjoy the gastronomic journey via white tablecloth of the Michelin starred Library. Sketch has it all. I personally love dining in the gallery, the staff is immaculate, and the food divine and innovative. Trust me, you won’t ever forget your visit to the loo in their iconic egg-capsuled toilets atop a white majestic staircase enshrouding a private VIP club below.

Neal’s Yard is a blink and you miss it courtyard that is within the heart of Covent Garden. Painted with bright, cheerful colours, the space offers incredible dining options, quirky cafes and a hair salon to let out your inner fairy. Also, the yard features one of Londontown’s famous blue plaques as the flat above was the art space and creative headquarters for the legendary comedic troupe; Monthy Python.

Fortnum and Mason, rivals famous department store Harrods instead on the beautiful Piccadilly in the West End. The famous site opened in 1707 is a stunning place to visit; renowned for its sumptuous selection of teas, food and fine china. The iconic shop is the official grocer to the queen, and features numerous high tea restaurants within making it an obvious bucket-list experience for any tourist.

Heaven is a legendary club along the Strand that is one of the cities most popular spaces for dancing and drinks into the wee hours of the morning. Also known as G-A-Y, this LGBTQ+ iconic site is loved by all, featuring different genre’d rooms, and many A-list guests that put on surprise performances on the main stage most weekends. Tip: go to sister location, G-A-Y bar in Soho to get a flyer for a cheaper entrance cost.

The Royal Borough of Kensington and Chelsea is one of Central London’s most picturesque, lined with red bricked estates, and beautiful bespoke shops. Royal in name due to housing the famous Kensington Palace within its borders. Walk along Pont street, or Walton street and relish in the old charm. This area is also very popular due to its proximity to fabulous attractions like The Natural History museum, Victoria and Albert museum and the Science museum.

The Shard is one of the cities newest hot spots, and once you view it, you very quickly understand its appeal. A glass skyscraper with 95 floors; home to luxury hotel accommodation, numerous restaurants and bars, the views are world class. A romantic drink or dinner here just might do the trick; trust me!

So, you have probably heard that London is quite expensive; well yes it can be, but there are lots of selections at a more comfortable cost. Some Mid-Range Restaurants popular with locals and easier on the wallet that I would recommend are – Côte (French), Zizzi (Italian), Wagamama (Pan-Asian) and Inamo (Japanese). Give them a try to avoid a mega splurge; they are all delicious in their own way with multiple locations city-wide.


Butler’s Wharf along the Shad Thames on the south bank of the river transports you to Victorian-styled industrial, brick-lined streets full of lovely shops (including a year round Christmas store!) and incredible restaurants right along the river with epic views of the incredible Tower Bridge. For a memorable experience try the beautiful offerings at Le Pont De la Tour and Cantina del Ponte. I suggest visiting the latter on one of the nights they have an opera singer performing.

With regards to coffee, London is not short of cafe choices. Two of my favourites however are first Carpo, a Greek marketplace offering dried fruits, exotic chocolates and strong, delicious coffee. I love the location on Piccadilly, its a great start to an explore of Soho and the West End. Secondly, Monmouth Coffee is an artistic and educational experience. Rotating coffees, with international crop sources, the flavour profiles here are second to none. I prefer the Seven Dials location, but there is a lovely storefront also at Borough Market.

Hampstead Heath is a paradise of countryside in north London. With its quaint village surrounding, beautiful affluent homes and attractions like writer John Keats home to visit, it is an area meant to be explored. Rolling fields, beautiful lakes, and swimming clubs this is where to escape the busy sounds of the city and reconnect with nature.

I hope this guide for a visit to London is of use on your next trip! I could make a Top 100 list very easily, and keep thinking of other things to add but alas, I must allow you to get on discovering! Feel free to contact if you have any questions on this beautiful city for an upcoming holiday.


Ciao for now!
D.

Isola di Tavolara

An ancient wind blusters,
Clouds trap all rays of light,
A whispering echo of dancing sea grass within my ears,
An intimidatingly dark sea welcomes the fearless,
But your kingdom awaits he’s beckoned;
“No” he murmurs.
Un traghetto away,
Silence.
Un giorno, un giorno.

D.