Today's topic takes a slightly different direction than my previous entries. It’s all about disconnecting in order to connect: Italian-style. In today's bustling world, where staying perpetually connected through social media and working around the clock has become the norm, the need to truly disconnect and find solace off the grid has never been more pressing. The continuous cycle of notifications and deadlines can cloud our appreciation for life's simpler pleasures. Seeking an escape from the digital shackle, I set off on a mini adventure not just to break free from the relentless pace of modern life but also to connect with myself in the untouched and overlooked wonders of Italy. Despite my yearning for the familiar comfort of Rome's lively Spanish Steps and the chance to reconvene with long-time friends in Florence, I made the decision to step away from it all. Instead, I opted for some invaluable solitude, taking the opportunity to spend quality time in my own company.

Steering clear of the well-trodden paths leading to Rome and Venice, I purposefully pointed my compass towards the country's hidden gems. This voyage into the less-explored corners - from the lush landscapes of Abruzzo to the rustic streets of Ceppaloni - was a deep exploration into the heart and soul of Italy, offering a genuine connection with its people and the unspoiled beauty of its territories. Thankfully, I learned to speak Italian over the years, which was invaluable during my travels as many of the locals in the places I visited were not fluent in English. However, you don’t really need to master the language in these places, although every attempt to try a phrase or a few words is greatly appreciated by the locals. Even without proficiency in Italian, you would find that that the residents are incredibly welcoming. Their warmth and hospitality deeply touched me, making each mature woman feel like a grandmother and every passerby as kind like a neighbor. I truly felt at home there. My sole piece of advice? I strongly suggest opting for a car rental - preferably the most compact model available, given that many attractions are hard to access with public transportation - and the tight roads can be less forgiving. When the rental place tells you, “It’s okay if you smash a little”, you know it’s going to be an interesting adventure! One more thing - I want to clarify that I wasn't compensated by any of the locations or products mentioned in this blog. It's simply me recounting the amazing experiences I've had. I hope you’re inspired to take some time for yourself and exlpore the road less travelled, as I did.

Immersed in Thermal Waters

My first adventure brought me to Manciano, located in the Maremma area of Tuscany. This town boasts wide views that seem to stretch forever. Here, taking it slow and enjoying a cup of coffee at sunrise and a glass of wine as the sunset began a daily ritual for me, a way to remember there's more to life than just screens and digital notifications. Not far from Manciano, the hot springs in Saturnia invite visitors for a relaxing dip - free to the public. These thermal waters, known for their soothing qualities, offer a warm escape that feels like a stark contrast to the often-cooler air outside during this time of the year, although the weather was quite mild during the week of October when I was there. Adding to the experience, there's a cozy property nestled in the hills that provides a quiet place to stay, called Agriturismo Pian di Cataverna – Agriturismo alle Terme di Saturnia. This hidden gem mixes modern comforts with a touch of traditional style, offering a peaceful break close to nature. The hot springs - now a hot spot for tourists - populates quickly, so the best time to go is early in the morning. That’s exactly what I did. Flip-flops and a towel in hand, I headed there in the dark at 6:30am. With only one couple arriving at the same time, I watched the sun rise along with the steam, immersed in a private corner of the springs. The temperature was ideal! Time flew by, with hours seeming like minutes, as more people gathered at the springs. What a way to start the day! After a shower to make sure all the harmless micro worms were washed away, I had a lovely complimentary breakfast before checking out of this tranquil oasis. As I drove through the narrow, antique towns speckled along the mountain and headed towards my next destination, I could think of only one thing: this world we live in offers so much beauty. We just need to slow down, be present, and be grateful for all of the good things that surround us, no matter where we are.

Old World in Modern Times

Ceppaloni, a tranquil haven nestled in the Campania region, provided a much-needed respite from the digital world. Roaming its serene streets, I felt a million miles away from the noise of social media and the incessant buzz of emails. Each interaction with the locals opened up new worlds of discovery, turning what could have been mundane moments into opportunities for authentic connection and learning, far beyond what any online search could yield. Ceppaloni, known as "La citta di tartufo", is a special little town in Italy famous for its truffles, which are a type of fancy mushroom sought after by food lovers. This place has a long history tied to these underground treats. The area’s good soil and weather make it an ideal spot for truffles to grow, and local people have been hunting for them for generations with the help of their dogs. The town isn't just about truffles though; it's full of historic buildings surrounding an antique castle and has a rich history that you can feel as you walk its streets. The community in Ceppaloni maintains time-honored practices, including festive events as well as celebrations honoring its community members. In simple terms, Ceppaloni is where tradition meets nature. Ceppaloni shows that old traditions can be maintained in modern times, allowing people to honor the past as they continue to move forward. I have to say, I also loved seeing all of the beautiful cats in the streets, each one curious but friendly.

Between Peaks and Pastures

In the mountainous terrains of Abruzzo, I found companionship in nature rather than through a screen. The region’s expansive parks and narrow winding roads leading to breath-taking views invited me to connect with Italy’s natural splendor at a leisurely pace, offering quiet moments of solitude that were both rejuvenating and reflective within the stunning backdrop. I opted for Villa Attilio in Case Marconi, a charming chalet owned by a wonderful family where the atmosphere was incredibly welcoming. The owners of the house took the time to ensure that I felt comfortable and safe, reassuring me that they were just a phone call away if I needed anything. After traveling for the entire month of October, I managed to sleep for twelve hours straight in this beautifully preserved family treasure. It provided me with a sense of home despite being far from it, particularly because it evoked memories of the house I was raised in in Pennsylvania which belonged to my Italian grandparents. Although not a local product of Abruzzo, it was here that I discovered the unforgettable aroma and taste of Caffè Borbone, which is made a renowned coffee roasting company that comes from Naples. This brand is synonymous with the rich coffee culture of Naples, aiming to please every coffee lover out there, no matter their preferred brewing method. Sipping some as I write this blog. :)

Stories Carved from Amalfi's Coast

My final stop before attending an amazing family wedding in Pratola Serra and Benevento was the awe-inspiring village of Furore on the Amalfi Coast. Furore is known for its houses that are perched high above the sea. The house I stayed at, called Casa Bellavista, offered escape and tranquility. Unlike its vibrant neighboring town of Positano, Furore felt like a hidden sanctuary; its beauty and peace providing a perfect setting for contemplation without the distraction of crowds and an ideal starting point to explore the nearby attractions. Those who have visited Amalfi know this: driving is not for the faint-hearted. It's undoubtedly a task that necessitates both being present and exercising patience. The owners of the property displayed their patience as they waited for me to arrive.; Navigating through the traffic on the twisting incline required some time. Once again, upon arrival, I was greeted with a warm welcome to a place that felt like home. The owners were just like my long-lost cousins - the kind that you know you may not see for a while but will welcome you back with open arms when you return. This property offered such a spectacular view. Waking up to see the sunrise with a freshly brewed cup of coffee and a few biscotti from the charming local market… well, it’s something that I will never forget. The peace and clarity experienced, the fresh air, the local dogs and chickens voicing the arrival of a new day, and the sun rising to reveal the beautiful (seemingly vertical) gardens nestled among the winding roads and terrain below. There’s nothing like it. And somehow, my laundry hanging on the balcony lines from the night before seemed to add to the experience. Although this house was positioned at a considerable elevation, looking up at the houses above provided a view that was equally captivating as the one below.

Upon Reflection

This solo journey through Italy’s lesser-known paths was a testament to the enriching experiences that await when we dare to disconnect and venture into the unknown. Despite the challenges of navigating a foreign land alone (and trying to figure out how to pay the autostrada tolls along the way), the rewards were in the moments of kindness, the breathtaking sights, the magical encounters with the cats and dogs who owned the streets, and the personal revelations encountered in solitude. For those seeking to unravel the beauty of life unplugged, try reconnecting with yourself against the backdrop of Italy’s hidden treasures. Stepping off the beaten path offers not just a break from the digital world but a journey into the richness of the real one. Buon viaggio!

Thank you for reading this blog post! If you enjoyed the content and want to learn more about the topics discussed, I highly recommend checking out my book, REFLECT: A Perspective on Understanding Your Reality and Becoming Unstuck. In it, I dive deeper into the strategies and insights shared in this post, offering even more valuable information and practical advice. Click here to order your copy of REFLECT today! You can also visit my website for more information.