In America, we often talk about ‘Southern Hospitality,’ but I’ve discovered something even more extraordinary here in Italy that I’d call ‘Italian Hospitality.’ I’m continuously amazed by the warmth and generosity of the Italian people, and I feel incredibly fortunate.

Rossella and Matteo introduced me to Italy by taking me from their quaint village of San Felice sul Panaro to the stunning region of Tuscany. We stayed with Matteo’s cousin, a retired restaurant owner with a beautiful Tuscany farm complete with fruit trees and a vast garden. Each day, we indulged in fresh, scrumptious home-cooked meals, which also helped improve my comprehension of Italian—a language I’m learning more each day, much to my excitement.

My time in Tuscany was a dream, immersed in delicious food and breathtaking landscapes. I spent my days soaking up the sun, enjoying music, and reading. A lengthy stroll through the Tuscan wine country allowed me to admire the vineyards, wineries, and charming bed and breakfasts, taking in new flavors and dishes. Our dinners began with an array of antipasti that I initially mistook for the main course. Each new dish was a delightful surprise, and despite my disbelief at how much I could eat, I relished every bite.

The antipasti included succulent bruschetta topped with tomato, garlic, and olive oil, toast with pate, fresh cantaloupe, various cheeses, homemade apple butter, Parma ham, artichoke hearts, olives, and salad. The combination of cheese with a slice of bread covered in homemade apple butter was particularly heavenly. Of course, wine was a constant companion throughout our meals, except at breakfast.

The main course was an exquisite al dente pasta dish featuring fresh tomatoes, basil, eggplant, and mozzarella. Following dinner, we were treated to a lemon torta, a potent homemade plum liquor, and a selection of fresh fruits from the garden—strawberries, cherries, plums, peaches, apricots—all incredibly juicy and flavorful.

Tuscany might be Italy’s answer to America’s Napa Valley, but with its proximity to the sea, it’s even more enchanting. The soothing experiences of the Tuscan countryside, from the long walks to the home-cooked meals, truly nurtured my soul. Ah, Italian Hospitality—there’s honestly nothing like it!