Italy, known for its rich history, stunning architecture, and world-renowned cuisine, attracts travellers from all over the world. From the bustling streets of Rome to the winding canals of Venice, the country is brimming with iconic destinations.
For our latest post, we had the pleasure to discover its beauty through the eyes of Fabrizio Mistretta. He talks to us about Italy, travelling, and of course food.
He grew up in Sicily and started his career in Rome, his passion for the events industry led him to join Gastaldi Global DMC seven years ago, where he now serves as a Project Manager.
“Working in a Destination Management Company (DMC) has given me a unique perspective on Italy and its many wonders. Beyond the well-trodden paths of Rome, Milan, Venice, and Florence, lies a wealth of captivating destinations waiting to be explored. From quaint villages nestled in rolling hills, to serene landscapes dotted with vineyards, Italy is a treasure trove of breathtaking scenery and local culture.”
“I hope that through my experiences, others will also come to love and appreciate the beauty of Italy, beyond its well-known cities.”
Naturally, some tours are absolute highlights, and a unique twist can transform a classic tour of a city in a peculiar experience. “One such example is to incorporate a visit to a traditional Italian bar, where the group can sample a typical appetizer. The tour can also be turned into a thrilling treasure hunt, offering an element of excitement to the experience.”
In Florence, a special touch is added by welcoming groups with professional actors dressed in medieval costumes, either at the airport or during the welcome cocktail reception at the hotel. This elevates the overall experience and leaves a lasting impression on the guests.
Italian cuisine has travelled all over the world and has considerably marked our imagination. “When visiting Italy, eating is a ‘consumption’ of a local heritage, comparable to what is experienced when visiting historical sites and museums.” So, we asked Fabrizio what his favorite meal would be, he faces a challenge when trying to recommend just one dish from the vast and tempting selection of Italian cuisine. With options ranging from pasta and cheese to wine, fish, and vegetables, dining at a traditional Italian restaurant or farmhouse is a journey of culinary discovery, allowing guests to savor the rich heritage and diverse flavors of the country. To experience this unforgettable feast of flavors, scents, and memories, Fabrizio invites you to uncover the hidden gems of Italy’s traditional eateries.
The Italian cuisine also takes a large place when creating a perfect gala dinner for groups. He highly recommended the Italian Feast dinner. The guests are treated to a culinary journey with different food corners featuring traditional Italian cuisine prepared fresh before their very eyes. From handmade pasta to pizzas, Limoncello to ice cream, the guests can relish the taste of local and fresh ingredients.
As they enjoy their meal, Italian musicians roam around the tables, filling the air with the sounds of typical Italian music such as the lively “Tarantella” from Taranto, a city in Puglia. These musicians, dressed in traditional costumes, bring an added cultural touch to the evening. This theme has been consistently well-received by groups and clients, making it a popular choice for gala dinners.
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