Viktoria

Bologna Travel Story: Three Winter Days of Culture, Food and Christmas Lights

Bologna Travel Story: Three Winter Days of Culture, Food and Christmas Lights

A personal travel story from Bologna: three days of ballet, Christmas lights, medieval towers, mortadella, porticoes and slow urban wandering in Italy’s most soulful city.

Christmas Pâté en Croûte – A Hungarian, Tuscan and French Story at One Table A few days before Christmas, friends and family start asking the inevitable question: what will be on the festive menu this year? And I confidently list what I’ve been planning since November – a menu that is a little Hungarian, a little Tuscan, exactly the way I love it. Then Jean Pierre walks in… carrying a pâté mould. From that moment, everything accelerates. The carefully planned Christmas menu collapses – in the very best way. 🎄 Have you ever visited a butcher just a few days before Christmas? It’s an unmissable experience. Half chaos, half inspiration – and one of the best places to learn recipes without opening a book. You simply listen to conversations, or pay attention to how the butcher talks about certain cuts of meat. Stories, techniques and traditions unfold naturally. Every year, our Christmas menu is built around three pillars: • one Hungarian dish, • one Tuscan dish, • and one international dish. From Hungary, fisherman’s soup and poppy seed bread pudding always make it to the table. From Tuscany, crostini and the traditional Siena-style powdered sugar Christmas biscuits – recipes you’ll find in the winter edition of Tuscan Olive Garden, featuring a classic Tuscan Christmas menu. Last year, we prepared Beef Wellington. This year, however, now that we own a pâté mould, it was time to turn to pâté recipes.

Christmas Pâté en Croûte – A Hungarian, Tuscan and French Story at One Table

A few days before Christmas, friends and family start asking the inevitable question: what will be on the festive menu this year? And I confidently list what I’ve been planning since November – a menu that is a little Hungarian, a little Tuscan, exactly the way I love it. Then Jean‑Pierre walks in… carrying a […]

Zuppa Inglese: The Controversial Story Behind Italy’s Most Debated Dessert

Zuppa Inglese: The Controversial Story Behind Italy’s Most Debated Dessert

A deep dive into the history, myths, and regional debates of zuppa inglese, Italy’s most controversial dessert — complete with an authentic recipe, cultural background, and step-by-step instructions.

The Magic of the Neapolitan Presepe – How the Nativity Scene Became the Heart of the Italian Christmas

The Magic of the Neapolitan Presepe – How the Nativity Scene Became the Heart of the Italian Christmas

Discover the magic of the Neapolitan presepe, the world-famous nativity art of Naples. Explore its history, traditions, artisans, and the vibrant Christmas spirit that makes Naples the heart of the Italian holiday season.

Enjoy the Ease: Winter in New York — After a Long European Journey

Enjoy the Ease: Winter in New York — After a Long European Journey

Explore winter in New York with Olivia Bennett: ice skating at Rockefeller Center, the iconic holiday tree at The Met, and a journey through world-class art exhibitions. A cultural and festive December in the city

Champagne Time, France: December 2025

Champagne Time, France: December 2025

A personal travel story from France’s Champagne region: winter vineyards, UNESCO landscapes, producer Champagne tastings, summer visits, and tips for understanding cuvées, crus and grapes. Perfect year-end inspiration for wine lovers

Saturnia, Tuscany — A Personal Escape into Italy’s Most Magical Hot Springs

Saturnia, Tuscany — A Personal Escape into Italy’s Most Magical Hot Springs

Discover a personal travel story from Saturnia’s famous thermal springs in Tuscany. Explore the Cascate del Mulino waterfalls, natural hot pools, healing waters, legends and wellness moments — the perfect escape from the November rush.

Bologna

Bologna: A City Made for Wandering and Eating

A heartfelt travel story from Bologna: medieval squares, ancient porticoes, iconic towers, delicious food markets, and an emotional farewell at San Luca. A perfect guide to experiencing Bologna in one unforgettable day.

A Taste of Thanksgiving in Tuscany – What Americans Really Eat on Turkey Day

A Taste of Thanksgiving in Tuscany – What Americans Really Eat on Turkey Day

xperience a true American Thanksgiving in Tuscany: the traditions, the iconic dishes, and a perfect roasted turkey recipe for your holiday table.

The Best Street Crêpes in Paris – Street Food #1

The Best Street Crêpes in Paris – Street Food #1

Discover the best street crêpes in Paris, from Montmartre’s hidden gems to traditional French Candlemas traditions. A delicious guide to Parisian crêpe culture.