Buongiorno Italy readers! 

We look forward to sharing many more great ITALY stories with you in the months to come, but before we do, let's take a look at some of our favorite reads from the past year, everything from recipes to slideshows and interviews with Italian journalists and the US Consul General to Florence. 

Get out those scarves and gloves and make this a January to remember in Italy. We have the best roundup of events and festivals around the boot, from a snow festival in the Dolomites to a piano festival in Sicily. Here's our monthly roundup. 

Venice has been authorized to charge an entry fee to visitors arriving in the city for the day by any means of transport, states a clause introduced in Italy’s budget law for 2019. 

Pretty sure this is exactly the kind of dish that this winter needs. Farinata di Cavolo Nero or Polenta with Tuscan Kale. Hearty comfort food with a touch of green.  

First thing most of us need in the morning is a good coffee. Coffee pods may be the trend now, but we still prefer coffee made with the Moka machine. And here are five things to keep in mind to achieve optimal results.  

The guidebooks can show you the beautiful but well-traveled sites in the Veneto. But are you eager for more? Here’s how to tour as an Italian chef would--uncovering the foods, wines, and traditions that make this region so unique.

Parmigiano Reggiano is a versatile cheese and, depending on its aging time, it is best combined with certain foods and wines. Read in our latest dual-language feature suggestions on the best ways to savor your Parmigiano.

In Italy, lenticchie (lentils) are said to represent the coins soon to befall those who consume the dish before the coming year. We share our best recipe to ring in 2019 on a nutritious, and delicious, note. 

Sicily is filled with literally thousands of museums, churches and palaces which make the prospect of planning even a short visit, overwhelming at the least. We share part one of a two-part series on unmissable artworks on Italy’s biggest island.   

Guidebook to 43 graded, mostly easy walks, all based in in Tuscany. Take in the Renaissance splendor of Florence and Siena along a variety of paths among the World Heritage scenery of Val d'Orcia and San Gimignano and the stunning island of Elba. 

The verb ‘stare’ is a very common Italian verb. It’s also an irregular verb, so it’s useful to understand how it works and which contexts to use it in.

Looking for a new life in Italy's most underrated region? Check out this property for sale in Palmoli, Abruzzo in the historic center. This spacious apartment is located on the second floor in a two-family semi-detached house, partially furnished. A steal at only €22,000.

Wishing you all a wonderful weekend from Georgette, your editor, and the Italy Magazine team.