Italy - Eataly

Italy 2014

(11.16.2014- 11.21.2014)

3 days in Rome, 1 day in Florence

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1. Shopping

Save your money and dive into the luxury of the brands for a cheaper cost!

Chanel:
The Classic - Medium Bag
Here is the cost if you buy in Italy vs US:

• Euro: 3550 = ~$4,455 - tax back ($500) = $3955 
• US: $4,900

Longchamp:

Foldable medium Size bag or Backpack

• Euro: 68 = $85.68 - tax back (___) 
• US: $125 (If you catch a Nordstrom or Bloomingdales 20% sale in Nov., you can get it for around $100)

2. Transportation

Rome: 
Easy to get around subway.

Florence:
Unfortunately there was not subway. Of course taxis are always available.

Cars: I noticed that the cars here are almost all hatches. Nothing to luxurious as us Americans like, which I thought it was interesting. Sometimes simple and clean is enough to get the job done.

3. Fashion

Fancy, spiffy and clean.

4. Flee Markets

Oddly enough, to get great buys, you must head to the flee markets.

5. FOOD

The food was delicious! Unlike most food in America, they don't add a lot of spices. It is quite simple, but very fresh. I believe every restaurant we ate at made their own pasta.

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Things to see in Rome:

1. Vatican Museums
• Long tour but worth it
2. St Peter’s Basilica
• If you are lucky, you may see the Pope! I did
3. Monument to Victor Emmanuel II
4. Castel Sant Angelo
5. Santa Maria degli Angeli e dei Martiri
6. Pantheon
7. Musei Capitolini
8. The Trevi Fountain 
• Unfortunately it was under construction during the time I went, but don't forget to throw a coin over your back and make a wish!
9. The Spanish Steps
• You will find all your shopping needs here!

Bialetti Espresso Maker

Bialetti Espresso Maker

When I went to Italy I feel in love with this coffee maker. I was so cute that I had to get one for myself.

Directions straight from the Website:

Using the Bialetti Espresso Maker

How to make an espresso

• Fill the base with water to just below the level of the safety valve. Be careful not to overfill as the air in the space between the water and the coffee filter is what heats and forces the water up through the coffee. If the water tank is overfilled the result is boiled coffee, with a bitter or burnt taste.
• Insert the funnel.
• Loosely fill the funnel with espresso ground coffee, do not press coffee down.
• Screw the top section firmly to the base.
• Place the coffeemaker on a low to medium heat.
• When using on gas adjust the flame so that it does not extend up the side of the pot.
• It takes only 3 – 6 minutes, depending on the size of the coffeemaker and the intensity of heat, until it’s ready to serve.
• All Bialetti stovetop espresso makers are suitable for use on gas, electric and ceramic hobs.  Venus is also suitable for induction.

Using the Bialetti Mukka Express Cappuccino Maker

How to make a cappuccino

• It is really important that you use the correct measurements at all times. When making cappuccino always use the plastic measuring cup that comes with the Mukka. 150ml is ideal for the water tank, which is the lower half of the Mukka.
• Place the funnel in the water tank and loosely fill with espresso ground coffee.
• Screw the upper part tightly to the tank.
• Open the lid and add the milk – up to the level indicated in the tank. 190ml is ideal for the milk tank, which is the upper half of the Mukka.
• Any milk may be used (however “blue top” milk gives the richest froth).
• Milk should preferably be at room temperature, however may be used straight from the refrigerator.
• Close the lid and push the pressure button to activate.
• Place the cappuccino maker on a medium to medium high heat.
• When using on gas, adjust the flame so that it does not extend up the side of the pot.
• It takes only 3 – 6 minutes, depending on the intensity of heat, for the cappuccino to froth.
• To reach the right temperature for the cappuccino it is recommended to leave the Mukka on the hot plate for approx. 1 minute after the cappuccino valve has popped up.
•  The Mukka is suitable for use on gas, electric and ceramic hobs.  It is not suitable for induction.