Episode #17: Experience Authentic Italy in 2025 with Angelo Cartotenuto of LivTours

Kathy McCabe, host of Dream of Italy, welcomes Angelo Carotenuto, founder of LivTours (formerly LivItaly). They discuss how tourism in Italy has evolved, with Carotenuto emphasizing the importance of booking experiences well in advance, particularly for major attractions like the Vatican Museums and St. Peter's Basilica. Kathy and Angelo explore his unique tour offerings, from Vespa sidecar rides in Rome to early morning Vatican visits and after-hours access to St. Mark's Basilica in Venice.

Carotenuto shares his philosophy on creating meaningful travel experiences, drawing from his background as a tour guide with acting experience. He emphasizes that travel to Italy is deeply emotional and transformative, with tourists often arriving with dreams and expectations shaped by media, history, and cultural influences. Kathy and Angelo also spend time covering practical advice for visiting Rome during the 2025 Jubilee Year and highlights the importance of exploring lesser-known neighborhoods like Prati for authentic dining experiences.

Kathy and Angelo discuss:

• How optimal booking window for Italian tours is now 4-6 weeks in advance, with many travelers planning even further ahead.
• The unique experiences LivTours offers like like women-focused historical tours, artisan workshops in Florence, and traditional rowing lessons in Venice.
• Why 2025 Jubilee Year in Rome will bring increased visitors but shouldn't significantly disrupt regular tourism activities.
• How early morning and after-hours tours provide exceptional opportunities to experience major attractions without crowds.
• Why the Prati neighborhood in Rome offers authentic dining experiences away from tourist crowds, including restaurants like Sorpasso and Cacio e Pepe.
• Why quality of tour guides is crucial to the travel experience, with the best guides combining historical knowledge with storytelling abilities.
• How to save 10% on LivTours tours and experiences with code: DREAMOFITALY10