Next summer (2021) I want to spent 2-3 weeks in a villa somewhere in Tuscany. Then travel to Ascoli Piceno to see if I can find any family members. Here are my questions:
In Tuscany, I'd like to live in a village where there are outdoor markets and where I might be able to take a few cooking classes. I grew up with my Nona's recipes but would like to learn more. I would really like to be immersed in the culture, walk to markets and experience the locals. What village or town in Tuscany would you recommend?
Second, what is the best way to travel to Ascoli Piceno? When I was in Italy 25 years ago, the drivers were a bit crazy and made me nervous. I'm not sure I could comfortably drive there. Is it still the same way? If it is still fast and furious, what are my options?
In Ascoli Piceno, I'm sure I can find a hotel. Do you think I would need an interpreter (I speak no Italian) to find birth/death/marriage certificates? If so, what is the best way to procure an interpreter? I have my great grandparent's information and my grandfather's information as well as their address during WWI.
Lastly, is there some way to do some of the leg work from here (US) to see if I can find any records? My Nona told us that his entire family had died from a disease that swept through Ascoli Piceno... however, it was very well known that she didn't like any of them, so we truly don't believe that happened!!
Thanks for any help you can send my way!
In Tuscany, I'd like to live in a village where there are outdoor markets and where I might be able to take a few cooking classes. I grew up with my Nona's recipes but would like to learn more. I would really like to be immersed in the culture, walk to markets and experience the locals. What village or town in Tuscany would you recommend?
Second, what is the best way to travel to Ascoli Piceno? When I was in Italy 25 years ago, the drivers were a bit crazy and made me nervous. I'm not sure I could comfortably drive there. Is it still the same way? If it is still fast and furious, what are my options?
In Ascoli Piceno, I'm sure I can find a hotel. Do you think I would need an interpreter (I speak no Italian) to find birth/death/marriage certificates? If so, what is the best way to procure an interpreter? I have my great grandparent's information and my grandfather's information as well as their address during WWI.
Lastly, is there some way to do some of the leg work from here (US) to see if I can find any records? My Nona told us that his entire family had died from a disease that swept through Ascoli Piceno... however, it was very well known that she didn't like any of them, so we truly don't believe that happened!!
Thanks for any help you can send my way!