Two friends, two carry-ons, and one unforgettable Italian adventure! Amy and Stacey take us along on their summer journey through Florence, Venice, and beyond, sharing candid insights that will inspire even hesitant travelers to pack their bags.

Their contrasting travel styles create the perfect balance – Stacey embraces the "we've never been there so how do we know it's not great?" philosophy while Amy researches options meticulously. This partnership leads them to unique accommodations including an art-filled Florentine apartment where royal family portraits hang in bathrooms and an unexpected boxing match unfolds outside their window.

The duo navigates Italy's efficient train system between cities, discovering the charm of Murano island with its legendary glass blowing traditions and comically tiny showers where "if you drop the soap, you have to turn everything off and open the door to retrieve it." They explore Florence's historic wine doors from a vintage VW van, tour Chianti vineyards with fascinating backstories, and battle 99-degree heat that transforms museum visits into endurance challenges.

What makes this episode particularly valuable is their practical wisdom for everyday travelers. They debunk common fears about language barriers, demonstrate how to pack efficiently for extended international trips, and show that meaningful travel doesn't require expertise – just willingness to embrace new experiences. Their genuine enthusiasm for discovery comes through in every story, from hunting perfect Murano glass souvenirs to sipping Negronis (despite finding them "awful") and shipping home Italian wines.

Have you been putting off international travel? Listen as these friends prove that with minimal planning, reasonable budgets, and open minds, unforgettable adventures await. Where will your next journey take you?

Amy, Kitty & Stacey

P.S. Isn't our intro music great?! Yah, we think so too. Thank you, Ivy States for "I Got That Wow".

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