Slow Travel – The Best Way to Travel

There is travelling and then there is slow travelling.

One of the defining moments of slow travel is the opportunity to be part of local life and to connect to a place and its people. I always try to bring these elements to all the culinary trips I organize, from Tuscany, to the Amalfi Coast and Puglia, as well as Spain and India. What better way to get to know a culture than through its food. I also believe there is no better way to experience slow travel than to stay at an Agriturismo.

Definition: Agriturismo – a combination of the Italian words for “agriculture” and “tourism”. It is a style of vacationing in farm house resorts, where most of the ingredients (80%) come from the farm itself.

This past summer, my husband and I had the pleasure to experience a stay on a beautiful Agriturismo in Le Marche region of Italy. La Tavola Marche Agriturismo & Cooking School is truly a unique authentic culinary experience, relaxing and definitely off the beaten path!

Two young expats, Ashley and Jason fell in love with the area years ago, packed up their belongings in the USA and made Le Marche region home. Many agree with me that this young couple have done an amazing job with their beautiful Agriturismo.

They are warm, welcoming, great fun to be with and no doubt have a true love for the land, the local people, the food and culture. You cannot help but feel their energy and passion while visiting.

Ashley, the most perfect warm and inviting host, will make you feel right at home the second you arrive. Her smile and laughter is infectious, her hospitality is genuine and you feel as though you are staying with friends.

Chef Jason, a professional chef with over 15 years of experience in some of the top cities in the world, whips up his delicious creations daily. Besides the wonderful meals he prepares, a true “farm to table” experience, he also teaches wonderful cooking classes at the inn. Thinking of taking a hands-on cooking class while visiting? Nessun problema…as there is no lack of choices. From cooking with Spring’s Wild Edibles, Basics of the Italian Kitchen, Pasta & Sauces…and more! They also offer holiday packages.

Another bonus while we were visiting was being there on Pizza Night, which is held every Thursday night. Hands down, Chef Jason’s pizza is one of the best I have ever tasted. Freshly prepared right in front of us, and cooked in the wood burning oven. Each pizza was different with fresh delicious toppings. We didn’t know which one to try…so we tried all of them :-).

I would definitely recommend a stay at this charming inn, set amidst the beautiful lush mountains of Le Marche region. Keep in mind, it is not for everyone as there is no television, no internet, and it is peacefully quiet. At first, I thought…omg…no internet, but honestly, it was the best thing to just disconnect for a couple of days. When I wanted to check my emails, it was a short 10 minute drive to the nearby town of Piobbico. We sat at the cafe, enjoyed a gelato and espresso and it was just fun to be amongst the locals.

If you want to feel your stress melt away, this is for you. Take in the beauty of the area, eat amazing food and take a real time out. I hope you will have the chance to visit one day. I know I will be returning to this truly magical hidden gem.

Carol Ketelson is the owner and operator of Delectable Destinations LLC. Dedicated to planning, co-ordinating and curating customized group tours to hand-picked destinations. As an experienced travel planner, Carol’s customized itineraries, specialized tours and off-the-beaten-path experiences create memorable journeys for her small groups of singles, couples, divorced, widowed and solo travelers seeking exceptional trips into the culture and cuisine of destinations around the world. Spring and Fall bookings invite travelers to taste delectable local cuisine, culturally rich traditions and mesmerizing sights. For over 10 years, Carol’s tours have captured the true essence of Tuscany, the Amalfi Coast, Puglia, Spain, Ireland and India.