Discovering Florence: Insider Travel Tips from Irish Expats Living in the Heart of Tuscany

Embark on a virtual journey through Florence, the enchanting city at the heart of Tuscany, with insider travel tips from Irish expats Cormac and Jane, who have called this cultural haven home for the last 8 months. In today's episode of the Irish Expat Podcast, we uncover the magic of Florence and share our firsthand experiences.

Why Florence? Why Move to Florence? Join us as we unravel the reasons behind our choice to visit and ultimately relocate to Florence. Discover the magnetic charm that captivated us, from the art-filled streets to the warm embrace of this Italian gem.

Getting Around Florence: Transportation Tips Navigate the city like a local with our transportation insights. From Ride Movi bicycles and scooters to Bird Scooters and convenient taxi apps, we guide you through Florence's efficient transport options. Explore easy day trips to Milan, Bologna, Pisa, Cinque Terre, Venice, and Rome—all just a train ride away. Bonus: uncover fantastic day trip recommendations to Lucca, Livorno, and Siena.

Where to Stay: Accommodation Recommendations For an authentic Florence experience, we recommend staying in an Airbnb. Learn from our experiences and avoid Hotel Royal. Our favorite hostel, Hostel Archi Rossi, offers a cozy retreat with private rooms.

Indulge Your Palate: Florence's Culinary Delights Savor the flavors of Florence with our curated list of dining spots. From Trattoria San Lorenzo to the lively Centrale Market food court, discover hidden gems like Antica Porchetteria Granieri 1916 and Trattoria Zà Zà. Unleash your taste buds and explore the culinary wonders Florence has to offer.

Fun Beyond the City: Florence's Cultural Highlights Experience Florence's cultural richness with our recommendations for fun activities. Sip coffee or enjoy a sunset at The Excelsior Hotel, visit the iconic Piazzale Michelangelo, and explore Santo Spirito and its vibrant market. From Fiesole to Finnegan's Pub, we guide you through Florence's diverse entertainment options.

Must-Visit Attractions: A Florence Tour Guide Don't miss the key attractions Florence has to offer. From the historic Ponte Vecchio to the awe-inspiring Uffizi Gallery, immerse yourself in the artistry of Sante Croce, The Academia, Pitti Palace, and Boboli Gardens. Climb the Duomo & Tower for panoramic views, and consider wine tours with Out of the Box or Get Your Guide for an alternative perspective.

Season Scoreboard: Florence Ranks at 88 Check out our season scoreboard ranking Florence at 88, reflecting our highs and lows in this vibrant city.

About Season One: A Journey Across Italy Season One captures the adventures, challenges, and insights of Irish Expats Cormac and Jane as they traverse Italy. Delve into topics like remote working, realistic travel budgets, and the realities of living abroad. Each episode focuses on a specific region or city visited during their six-week holiday from Southern Naples to Lake Garda in the North.

Tune in below or your preferred podcast platform to uncover the treasures of Florence. Happy listening, and may your Florence experience be as extraordinary as the art that graces its streets! #Florence #TuscanyTravel #ItalianAdventure #IrishExpats

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Rome Budget & Travel Tips: Restaurant Recommendations, The Vatican, Capuchin Crypts & More

Embark on a virtual journey to the heart of Italy as Cormac and Jane, the dynamic duo behind the Irish Expat Podcast, share their insights and adventures in the eternal city—Rome. Six months into their Italian escapade, they unfold the layers of Rome's charm, providing invaluable tips for your next visit.

Listen to the Podcast: Episode Spotlight on Rome

Before we dive into the travel tips, plug in your headphones and join Cormac and Jane as they recount their experiences in Rome. From exploring the Vatican to savoring the city's culinary delights, their podcast promises an authentic and candid guide to Rome. Tune in below!

Why Rome? Unveiling the Secrets

Explore the allure that beckoned Cormac and Jane to Rome. This podcast episode unveils the untold stories and hidden gems that make Rome a magnetic destination. Whether you're a history buff, art enthusiast, or simply a curious traveler, Rome promises an immersive experience.

Navigating Rome: Transportation and Logistics

Planning a Roman adventure? Don't fret about logistics—Cormac and Jane have you covered. From navigating the extensive train system to embracing the convenience of Ridemovi, scooters, Lime bikes, taxis, Uber, free now, buses, and the metro, this podcast dissects Rome's transport options. Optimise your travel with these insightful tips.

Indulge Your Palate: Rome's Culinary Delights

Rome's gastronomic scene is a journey in itself. Cormac and Jane spill the beans on where to find the best pesto pasta, incredible sandwiches, and pizza perfection. Dive into Ristorante Pizzeria Al Fagianetto, Prosciutteria Cantina dei Papi, and Antico Forno Roscioli for a taste of Rome's culinary excellence.

Unlocking Fun: Beyond the Colosseum

Rome isn't just about the Colosseum. Cormac and Jane share their adventures, from the mysterious Capuchin Crypts to iconic spots like the Trevi Fountain, jazz bars, and the Vatican Museums. Whether you're seeking history, art, or authentic Roman experiences, this episode is your virtual key.

Overall Verdict: Rating Rome at 85

Get ready for the hosts' candid overall score for Rome, providing a nuanced perspective on the city's charm, challenges, and overall allure. It's a realistic and unfiltered take on the Eternal City.

Listen Now for a Roman Adventure

Before you book your flight, delve into the Irish Expat Podcast's Rome episode for insider tips and authentic tales. Tune in above or your preferred podcast platform. Let Cormac and Jane be your virtual guides to the wonders of Rome. Happy listening, and may your Roman adventure be as epic as the Colosseum itself!

Italian Travel Tips: Exploring Expensive vs. Budget Destinations in Italy!

Ciao! As an avid traveler who has fallen in love with Italy, I'm here to spill the beans on some Italian travel tips. Today, we're going to explore the differences between expensive and budget destinations in this beautiful country! You can find below the average daily spend in some of Italy’s most expensive regions alongside their budget alternatives.

Let's start with Lake Como, known for its luxurious villas and celebrity sightings. It's undoubtedly a stunning destination, but it can also come with a hefty price tag. However, if you're on a budget, don't worry! Just head 75 miles south to Lake Garda, and you'll find an equally breathtaking destination with a more wallet-friendly price tag. Lake Garda is a popular choice for budget travelers, offering picturesque scenery and affordable accommodations.

Next up, let's talk about Portofino, a chic coastal town that is often associated with luxury travel. However, if you want to save some euros, why not consider Genoa? It's just a short train ride away from Portofino and offers a similar vibe without breaking the bank. Genoa is a great alternative for budget-conscious travelers, with its historic charm and affordable dining options.

Now, let's talk about Positano, a dream destination for many with its cliffside houses and stunning beaches. However, it can also be quite pricey. But fear not, fellow budget travelers! Cinque Terre is just around the corner, offering breathtaking coastal hikes, colorful villages, and a more budget-friendly experience. Cinque Terre is a must-visit for those on a budget, with its stunning scenery and affordable accommodations.

Speaking of Cinque Terre, it's undeniably beautiful, but if you're watching your wallet, consider staying in La Spezia. It's a nearby city that offers affordable accommodations and easy access to the stunning Cinque Terre trails. La Spezia is a great base for budget travelers, with its convenient location and budget-friendly options.

Moving down to the Amalfi Coast, Sorrento is a popular tourist spot known for its stunning cliffs and lemon groves. However, if you're looking to save some cash, why not consider Salerno? It's just a short train ride away from Sorrento, and you'll still get to enjoy the beautiful Amalfi Coast without the hefty price tag. Salerno is a budget-friendly alternative to Sorrento, offering similar coastal beauty without the high costs.

Last but not least, let's talk about Rome, the eternal city and a must-visit destination for many travelers. However, it's no secret that Rome can be expensive. If you're on a budget, consider Naples, just a short train ride away. You'll still get to experience the rich history and culture of Italy, but with more budget-friendly options. Naples is a great budget destination, offering a vibrant local scene and affordable accommodations.

I hope you found these Italian travel tips helpful in planning your next adventure to this beautiful country! Whether you choose to splurge on the luxurious destinations or opt for the budget-friendly alternatives, Italy has something for everyone. Don't forget to listen to The Irish Expat Podcast (Link Below) for more tips and tricks on exploring Italy on a budget. Ciao for now!

#ItalyTravel #BudgetVsExpensive #TravelTips #LakeComo #LakeGarda #Portofino #Positano #Rome #AmalfiCoast #Naples #CinqueTerre #LaSpezia #Salerno #TravelOnABudget

Sorrento: Is it Budget Friendly? Holiday Hacks, Sun Beds & Private Beaches

"Welcome to the Irish Expat podcast! In today’s episode, we’ll be covering our next destination, Sorrento. We’ll be chatting about why we went to Sorrento, exploring the Amalfi Coast, transport, accommodation, food and fun, the value for money and some overall tips if you’re planning on visiting Sorrento, Naples or the Amalfi Coast.

Sorrento is located on the Sorrentine Peninsula in the region of Campania in southern Italy between the Bay of Naples and the famed coastline. Although it’s not located on the Amalfi Coast itself, it’s still a great place to visit.

We’ll be discussing some great places to eat such as Garden bar, Kiosk bar, Le Petit Bistr96 and Qui. We’ll also be talking about some fun things to do such as visiting Piazza della Vittoria and Piazza Tasso. We’ll also be discussing some issues with sunbeds and why you should go to Ischia rather than Capri.

If you like this episode then please give us a five-star rating. You can find us on Instagram and TikTok at @altlivin and find out more about us on altlivin.com.

Overall Score for Sorrento: 67

ABOUT SEASON ONE

Irish Expats Cormac and Jane discuss their highs and lows of travel. Season one follows their journey across Italy. Topics include remote working, realistic travel budgets, top tips, and what it’s really like to work and live abroad. In season one, each episode will focus on a region or city they visited on their six-week holiday from Southern Naples to Lake Garda in the North.

ABOUT US

Cormac is a professional Irish bartender having worked in the hotel and bar industry for 8 years. Originally from Leitrim, he studied Hotel Management and Business at GMIT. He was working in Galway in the bar trade for 5 years before he decided to move abroad. His original plan was to work on a vineyard in Northern Italy using WWOOF."

10 Pointers for Becoming a Digital Nomad Successfully in 2023: From Preparation to Understanding Visa Requirements and More

Do you aspire to having the freedom to live and work anywhere you please? The digital nomad lifestyle, which enables people to work from anywhere in the globe and travel, is gaining popularity. However, adopting a digital nomad lifestyle is not simple, and there are numerous preparations and decisions that must be made.

Jane has been working remotely for over seven years. In 2022 she moved to Florence, Italy. In this blog we'll look at ten suggestions to help you succeed as a digital nomad in 2023. These pointers can assist you on your path to becoming a digital nomad, from comprehending the advantages and drawbacks of the lifestyle to navigating visa needs and locating a quality co-working place. So prepare for a once-in-a-lifetime experience and pack your bags!

1. Recognise the definition of a digital nomad: A digital nomad is someone who works from anywhere in the globe, providing them the flexibility to live anywhere they like. They can travel the world while working from a laptop or phone. Understanding that being a digital nomad is a lifestyle rather than a particular career is crucial.

2. Think about the advantages: One of the numerous advantages of the digital nomad lifestyle is the freedom to work from anywhere and the flexibility to pick where you live. Other advantages include the potential to meet new people, the chance to network with multinational corporations, and the chance to experience various cultures.

3. Recognise the drawbacks: Before deciding to become a digital nomad, you should take into account the income instability, difficulties obtaining visas, tax complications, loneliness, and laborious nature of the lifestyle.

4. Have a good strategy in place: It's crucial to have a solid plan in place if you want to guarantee that your revenue will be stable. This can entail building up a nest fund, locating clients or freelancing employment, and creating a travel budget.

5. Find out about visa requirements: Different countries have different visa procedures. Make sure you are aware of the visa requirements for the nations you intend to visit and submit your application well in advance of your trip. In Italy, you must officially apply for residency after 3 months of continuous stay in the country as an EU citizen.

6. Consult a tax expert: Foreign nationals who generate their money outside of the US should research IRS tax legislation and speak with a tax expert. It's crucial to be aware of and compliant with the tax regulations of the nations you intend to visit.

7. Establish a support system: Being apart from friends and family can be isolating. While traveling, be sure to maintain contact with loved ones and have a support system in place.

8. Learn the language: It's a good idea to learn a few basic phrases before traveling to a nation where the language you don't speak is spoken. It will be simpler to get around and communicate with locals as a result.

9. Finding a decent co-working space is important since it allows you to meet other digital nomads and work there. It's a great way to socialise and meet new people.

10. Accept the challenge: Changing your lifestyle to become a digital nomad is an exciting journey. There are many interesting factors to take into account as you go out on your trip, from leaving your country to spending hours at a café or co-working space to traveling throughout different countries. You'll learn useful talents, make new friends, and explore a world other than your own.

In conclusion, those seeking freedom and flexibility in their employment can choose the fascinating and growing digital nomad lifestyle. There are numerous advantages to this way of life, including the freedom to work and reside wherever you choose, the chance to explore other cultures, and the chance to meet new people. However, it's crucial to realize that becoming a digital nomad is not simple and that there are many steps and decisions you must make before starting this adventure. You may better prepare yourself for the difficulties of this way of life and succeed as a digital nomad in 2023 by using the advice in this blog post. You may live the digital nomad dream and explore the world if you make the necessary preparations.