The Irish Podcast

From Bed Bugs to Budgets: Our Italian Travel Adventure One Year Abroad (Catch Up Episode)

In this catch-up episode, we're diving into the nitty-gritty of our Italian journey, sharing the highs and lows that come with navigating life in a new country.
Segment 1: Getting Accommodation
The challenges and successes of finding suitable accommodation.
Getting our first apartment, worries of getting scammed and helpful websites.
Idealista.it, 100casa, and Foreigners in Florence Facebook Group.
Proposals, contracts, Agency fees and deposits.
 
Segment 2: Work Overview
How Cormac got work without speaking italian.
Jane’s digital nomad experience in losing clients and finding new work.
Tax and Grants.
 
Segment 3: Visitors and Making Friends
Sharing stories of friends and family visiting.
Discussing the process of making friends in a new country.
Finnegan’s Pub, Bumble Friends
 
Segment 4: Learning Italian
Challenges and victories in learning the language.
Duolingo, Udemy and cheat sheets. https://www.udemy.com/share/103MTu3@MBDWthbSVJ6V1NdfLJboM3EuPpsMrmK03F0FXmLoIH7uo-0vkb4UkBSPTEMwJ0Hlbw==/
 
Segment 5: Deciding to Stay - Going to Edinburgh (Taking a Break)
The thought process behind deciding to stay in Italy.
Bad patterns and routines. Working late nights.
Taking a break and going to Edinburgh - the significance of the trip.
Self Development & creative projects. WSET-2 wine course.
 
Segment 6: Bed Bugs
We had 3 de-infestations but unfortunately it was a building wide issue.
 
Segment 7: Our new location
 
FOLLOW US
Website: www.altlivin.comInstagram: @altlivinTikTok: @altlivinYoutube: /Altlivin 
 
ABOUT SEASON TWO
Meet Jane and Cormac, your companions on a captivating journey through the highs and lows of embracing an Irish life in Italy. Join us as we unravel the tales of our relocation, navigating life as digital nomads and bartenders, and immersing ourselves in the daily hustle of a new country.
Prepare to venture into the heart of Tuscany with us, where we'll uncover the enchanting nuances and quirks that define Italy. From awe-inspiring landscapes to side-splitting misadventures, including our memorable 'Bed Bug' experience – a story that's not to be missed!
Take a special detour with us to the Edinburgh Fringe, where we'll regale you with our escapades and encounters in one of the world's most dynamic cultural festivals.
Whether you're a seasoned travel enthusiast or simply curious about the intricacies of relocating to a new land, our podcast offers you a front-row seat to a medley of stories, laughter, and the warm embrace of Irish hospitality. So, grab your headphones, settle in, and let us entertain you! 🌍✈️
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. 
Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a worldwide movement to link visitors with organic farmers, promote a cultural and educational exchange, and build a global community conscious of ecological farming and sustainability practices. Find out more: https://wwoof.net
Jane is a communications consultant working in the culture and energy sectors. She has previously produced and promoted international organisations including Web Summit, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and European Capital of Culture projects. After 10+ years of working in Communications & Events, Jane has transitioned to fully remote consulting work. Although regularly travelling back to Ireland for work, she is now based in Florence with Cormac.
 
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE (FREE)
Here is our day by day excel sheet of our 6 week summer trip across Italy. It includes the following categories: Dates, Transport Methods, Accommodation Links, Fun (Tours, Bars & Excursions), Food and Tips for the following cities:
Naples
Salerno
Sorrento
Rome
Siena
Florence
La Spezia (and Riomaggiore)
Venice
Desenzano del Garda
Sirmione
Malcesine
Riva del Garda
Download the travel guide for free at: https://www.altlivin.com/shop
 

Top 10 Tips for Visiting Italy: Our Best Irish Travel Advice One Year On

In this special bonus episode, join us for a captivating journey through the top ten tips everyone should know when traversing the stunning landscapes of Italy. Reflecting on Season 1, which chronicled our adventures from the sun-soaked streets of Naples to the serene shores of Lake Garda, we've compiled the ultimate guide to enhance your Italian escapades.
Tune in as we unravel the secrets of navigating Italy's private and regional trains, perfecting the art of packing light for a seamless travel experience. Learn the ins and outs of checking into your hotel, including mastering the city tax and ensuring you have enough cash on hand.
Discover the wisdom of embracing a fanny pack for safety while navigating local scams, and delve into the world of mosquito warfare with essential tips on sprays, plugs, nets, and rackets. Uncover the power of tipping locals for insider itineraries, with a special nod to bartenders as the true maestros of travel advice.
Embark on a cultural exploration as we guide you through the art of avoiding pricey pints in the land of fine wines, steering you towards the hidden gems of dive bars with their own unique charm. And, of course, learn the nuances of language to truly immerse yourself in the heart of Italy.
Join us for this grand finale bonus episode, where each tip is a golden nugget of wisdom, ensuring your Italian adventures are not just memorable but practically flawless. "Ciao Bella!" awaits, as we bid a fond farewell to Season 1 with a flourish of travel expertise!
SEASON ONE SCOREBOARD
Salerno: 98
Florence: 88
Naples: 88
Ischia: 85.5
Lake Garda: 85.5
Rome: 85
Siena: 84
La Spezia: 79.5
Venice: 76
Lake Como: 74.5
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. 
Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a worldwide movement to link visitors with organic farmers, promote a cultural and educational exchange, and build a global community conscious of ecological farming and sustainability practices. Find out more: https://wwoof.net
Jane is a communications consultant working in the culture and energy sectors. She has previously produced and promoted international organisations including Web Summit, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and European Capital of Culture projects. After 10+ years of working in Communications & Events, Jane has transitioned to fully remote consulting work. Although regularly travelling back to Ireland for work, she is now based in Florence with Cormac.
 
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE (FREE)
Here is our day by day excel sheet of our 6 week summer trip across Italy. It includes the following categories: Dates, Transport Methods, Accommodation Links, Fun (Tours, Bars & Excursions), Food and Tips for the following cities:
Naples
Salerno
Sorrento
Rome
Siena
Florence
La Spezia (and Riomaggiore)
Venice
Desenzano del Garda
Sirmione
Malcesine
Riva del Garda
Download the travel guide for free at: https://www.altlivin.com/shop
FOLLOW US
Website: www.altlivin.comInstagram: @altlivinTikTok: @altlivinYoutube: /Altlivin 

Ischia Unveiled: Navigating the Gem of the Tyrrhenian Sea - Tips, Tricks, and Thermal Thrills

In today’s episode we’ll be covering the Island of Ischia. We'll be chatting about:
Why we went to Ischia
Where to stay? Ischia Porto, Ponte or Forio?
Transport, accommodation, food and fun
The value for money
and some overall tips from Italian residents if you're planning on visiting Italy
SEASON ONE SCOREBOARD
Salerno: 98
Florence: 88
Naples: 88
Ischia: 85.5
Lake Garda: 85.5
Rome: 85
Siena: 84
La Spezia: 79.5
Venice: 76
Lake Como: 74.5
Sorrento: 67
 
FUN FACTS ABOUT ISCHIA
Ischia is well known for its thermal water and thermal gardens used since ancient times. Its volcanic nature makes Ischia one of the largest spas in Europe.
It also has ancient vinyards with some of Cormac's favourite wines in the world.
Procide (an island close by) is where parts of the film Il Postino was filmed
The typical representative dish of the island is “Rabbit all’ischitana" a rabbit stew.
TRANSPORT
Transport: Naples Airport - Taxis, Bus, Metro to Molo Beverello Port (behind Castel Nuovo)
Boats - We got the Hydrofoil
Ischia - Busses and Taxis - 50 euro for 5 of us across the island from Ischia Porte to Forio
It took 20 minutes to walk from Ischia Porte to Ischia Ponte
Ebikes & Car Rentals - You can rent an ebike for a day for 25 euro (9am to 6pm) but a car for almost the same price for 24 hours
Accommodation: 
We rented an Airbnb in Ischia Porte as we had a large group and had several activities planned, although there are some beautiful hotels around Ischia Ponte.
Food: 
RIP OFF: Trattoriva (Sapori Ischitani)
Amazing chicken at Antico Girarrosto Ischitano
Pizza Village: Cheap and cheerful
Ristorante Pizzeria Fratelli La Bufala by Giardini di Enzo
FUN: 
Beach - Ischia Porte - 5 euro for 66cl beers
Procida - Boat Tour - get your guide - 79 euro
Castle Castello aragonese - top tip - get the lift
Bar beside the castello.- amazing value for good cocktails - Ristorante Bar da Coco' 
Archangelo Michael Festival - Patron Saint Festival in September
Poseidon Thermal Pools - 37 euro for 1/2 day
RIP OFF:  Porto51 for cocktails
Bar del Porto dal 1963 - cheap place for drinks
U' MUORZ - another pub in Ischia Porte
Honourable mention - China Tempto for amazing vinyard tours and wine tastings
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. 
Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a worldwide movement to link visitors with organic farmers, promote a cultural and educational exchange, and build a global community conscious of ecological farming and sustainability practices. Find out more: https://wwoof.net
Jane is a communications consultant working in the culture and energy sectors. She has previously produced and promoted international organisations including Web Summit, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and European Capital of Culture projects. After 10+ years of working in Communications & Events, Jane has transitioned to fully remote consulting work. Although regularly travelling back to Ireland for work, she is now based in Florence with Cormac.
 
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE (FREE)
Here is our day by day excel sheet of our 6 week summer trip across Italy. It includes the following categories: Dates, Transport Methods, Accommodation Links, Fun (Tours, Bars & Excursions), Food and Tips for the following cities:
Naples
Salerno
Sorrento
Rome
Siena
Florence
La Spezia (and Riomaggiore)
Venice
Desenzano del Garda
Sirmione
Malcesine
Riva del Garda
Download the travel guide for free at: https://www.altlivin.com/shop
FOLLOW US
Website: www.altlivin.comInstagram: @altlivinTikTok: @altlivinYoutube: /Altlivin 
 

Weathering Como: Tips for a Short Stay at Lake Como

In today’s bonus episode we’ll be covering Lake Como. We'll be chatting about:
Why we went to Lake Como
Transport, accommodation, food and fun
The value for money
Some overall tips from Italian residents if you're planning on visiting Italy
SCOREBOARD
Salerno: 98
Florence: 88
Naples: 88
Lake Garda: 85.5
Rome: 85
Siena: 84
La Spezia: 79.5
Venice: 76
Lake Como 74.5
 
FUN FACTS
Lake Como supposedly has its very own lake monster, Lario! Mussolini was executed on its shores in 1945.Lake Como is the capital of Italy's silk production.A-listers, such as George Clooney, Madonna, Richard Branson, Sylvester Stallone, Gianni Versace, and soccer legend Ronaldinho, own or have owned villas around the shores of Lake Como.
TRANSPORTTrain from Florence to Milan. 1 hour from Milan. We transferred in Monza.Boats are similar to Lake Garda. Ferries are divided between the North and South with a handful of fast boats covering the entire lake each day. You can find the ferry timetable here.There are ferries that run between the central towns.Getting from Lake Como to Lake Garda. Our friends ended up hiring a car.
ACCOMMODATIONWe stayed just beside the santa maria cathedral in Piazza Cavour.We stayed in June and booked last minute - €265 for 2 nights. However, it did turn out to be a bit of a scam.
FOODOx Pub and GrillMiddle EastPlatea Ristorante
FUNBar ComoA visit to VarennaExplore the castle/park at Tremazzena/BellagioBoat Hires
 
We’re Jane and Cormac. Our next episode is the official final episode of Season 1 all about the island of Ischia. If you liked our podcast then please subscribe, and please give us a 5 star review, it’s free and takes just a couple of seconds. 
 
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. 
Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a worldwide movement to link visitors with organic farmers, promote a cultural and educational exchange, and build a global community conscious of ecological farming and sustainability practices. Find out more: https://wwoof.net
Jane is a communications consultant working in the culture and energy sectors. She has previously produced and promoted international organisations including Web Summit, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and European Capital of Culture projects. After 10+ years of working in Communications & Events, Jane has transitioned to fully remote consulting work. Although regularly travelling back to Ireland for work, she is now based in Florence with Cormac.
 
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE (FREE)
Here is our day by day excel sheet of our 6 week summer trip across Italy. It includes the following categories: Dates, Transport Methods, Accommodation Links, Fun (Tours, Bars & Excursions), Food and Tips for the following cities:
Naples
Salerno
Sorrento
Rome
Siena
Florence
La Spezia (and Riomaggiore)
Venice
Desenzano del Garda
Sirmione
Malcesine
Riva del Garda
Download the travel guide for free at: https://www.altlivin.com/shop
 
FOLLOW US
Website: www.altlivin.comInstagram: @altlivinTikTok: @altlivin
 

Lake Garda: The Ultimate Travel Guide Across 5 Towns

In today’s episode we’ll be covering the incredible towns of Lake Garda. We'll be chatting about:
Why we went to Lake Garda
The towns of Densenzano, Sirmione, Malcesine, Riva & Limone
Transport, accommodation, food and fun
The value for money
and some overall tips if you're planning on visiting Italy
Make sure you’re subscribed and 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
SEASON SCOREBOARD
Salerno: 98
Florence: 88
Naples: 88
Lake Garda: 85.5
Rome: 85
Siena: 84
La Spezia: 79.5
Venice: 76
FUN FACTS
The lake is divided between the North and South.
Mount Baldo is fantastic for skiing in winter and beautiful hikes in the summer summer.
Lake Garda is Italy's largest lake Freshwater lake.
It's extremely popular with Irish Tourists.
Transport: 
How to get to Lake Garda? Fly into Venice, Verona or Milan.
Get the train to Densenzano - 1 hour from Milan, 2hr30 from Florence
Ferries are divided between the North and South with a handful of fast boats covering the entire lake each day. You can find the ferry timetable here.
Get a cable cart up to Mount Baldo. Be sure to book in advance! You can book tickets here.
Accommodation:
Hotels are your best option in Lake Garda
Best hotel we stayed in Liomone was the Hotel Splendid Palace
Riva del Garda we stayed in Casa Canarino
 
Food: 
Densenzano: Trattoria Pizzeria Enoteca Alessi - great carraffes and good beef dishes
Sirmone: Caffè Pizza Margherita
Gorgeous breakfast in: Bar La Vinessa
Malcesine: watch the sunset at Caffé San Marco
Limone: Hotel Splendid Palace - all inclusive
Riva: Friggitoria al porto
Fun: 
Densenzano - paddle boats and cheap sun bed hire 
Mount baldo in Malcesine - you can see the dolomites and swiss alps
 
Riva - Windsurfing, sailing, parasailing
 
Gardaland is also nearby
 
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. 
Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a worldwide movement to link visitors with organic farmers, promote a cultural and educational exchange, and build a global community conscious of ecological farming and sustainability practices. Find out more: https://wwoof.net
Jane is a communications consultant working in the culture and energy sectors. She has previously produced and promoted international organisations including Web Summit, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and European Capital of Culture projects. After 10+ years of working in Communications & Events, Jane has transitioned to fully remote consulting work. Although regularly travelling back to Ireland for work, she is now based in Florence with Cormac.
 
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE (FREE)
Here is our day by day excel sheet of our 6 week summer trip across Italy. It includes the following categories: Dates, Transport Methods, Accommodation Links, Fun (Tours, Bars & Excursions), Food and Tips for the following cities:
Naples
Salerno
Sorrento
Rome
Siena
Florence
La Spezia (and Riomaggiore)
Venice
Desenzano del Garda
Sirmione
Malcesine
Riva del Garda
Download the travel guide for free at: https://www.altlivin.com/shop
 
FOLLOW US
Website: www.altlivin.comInstagram: @altlivinTikTok: @altlivin
 

Venice in 72 Hours: The Budget-Friendly Itinerary

In today’s bonus episode we’ll be covering the city of Venice. We'll be chatting about:
Why we explored Venice?
Our best tips for Transport, accommodation, food and fun
The value for money
Some overall tips from Italian residents if you're planning on visiting Italy
SEASON SCOREBOARD
Salerno: 98Florence: 88Naples: 88Lake Garda: 85.5Rome: 85Siena: 84La Spezia: 79.5Venice: 76
TRANSPORT
High speed italo train - you can also get the bus, fly into the airport or catch a waterbus (vaporetti)
The Venice People Mover is an elevated shuttle train from the mainland to the island
We got the train into Piazzale Roma and walked everywhere
Gondolas - From 1st November 2023 the rates will be €90.00 for a 30-minute tour; after 07:00 pm (until 3:00 am) €110.00 for a 35-minute tour.
They'll be trialing a 5 euro entry fee for day trippers across 30 dates in 2024 
Google maps doesn't work
ACCOMMODATION
City Tax: 1 and 5 euros per person per night, and varies according to the time of year  
We used https://www.bed-and-breakfast.it/ and stayed in the san polo island near santa croce
FUN
Bicchiere - look up the word for glass in italian - really cheap bars - Bacareto da Lele
Al Fortino - Kiosk bar - super cheap with a view of cool bridgesIrish Pub Santa Lucia
Piazza San Marco
Lots of islands -Murano and Burano - avoid the day trips Rialto Bridge
ABOUT SEASON ONE
In this season, we, Cormac and Jane, share our travel highs and lows, providing insights into remote working, realistic travel budgets, top tips, and the realities of working and living abroad. Each episode focuses on a different region or city we explored during our six-week journey across Italy, from Southern Naples to Lake Garda in the North.
ABOUT US
Cormac is an experienced Irish bartender with a background in Hotel Management and Business. Originally from Leitrim, he ventured abroad with the intention of working on a vineyard in Northern Italy using WWOOF.
Jane, a communications consultant with expertise in culture and energy sectors, has previously worked on international projects including Web Summit, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and European Capital of Culture initiatives. After over a decade in Communications & Events, Jane transitioned to fully remote consulting work and now resides in Florence with Cormac.
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE (FREE)
For a detailed breakdown of our 6-week summer trip across Italy, including dates, transport methods, accommodation links, fun activities, food recommendations, and tips for various cities, download our free travel guide at altlivin.com/shop.
FOLLOW US
Website: www.altlivin.com
Instagram: @altlivin
TikTok: @altlivin
YouTube: /Altlivin
 

Coastal Delights: A Tale of La Spezia and Cinque Terre

In today's episode, we're taking you on a journey to the enchanting coastal town of La Spezia and the picturesque Cinque Terre.
Here's what we'll be discussing:
Why We Explored La Spezia and Cinque Terre: Discover the reasons that led us to this stunning Italian destination and what makes it so special.
Transport, Accommodation, Food, and Fun: Get practical tips on getting around La Spezia and Cinque Terre, where to stay (hint: Airbnb is a top choice), the best places to savor delicious Italian cuisine, and the most exciting activities to enjoy in the area.
Value for Money: We'll dive into the cost-effectiveness of visiting La Spezia and Cinque Terre, helping you make the most of your travel budget.
Overall Tips: As an Irish couple who've been living in Italy for the past year, we've gathered invaluable insights that will enhance your visit to this coastal gem.
Fun Facts
Cinque Terre's Colorful Homes: The five villages of Cinque Terre are famous for their colorful homes, which create a stunning visual contrast against the rugged coastline. Each village has its unique charm and hue.
UNESCO World Heritage: Cinque Terre and its surrounding area, including La Spezia, have been designated as a UNESCO World Heritage Site since 1997. This recognition is due to their exceptional cultural and natural significance, preserving the centuries-old traditions of the region.
Ligurian Cuisine: La Spezia and Cinque Terre are renowned for their delicious Ligurian cuisine. Pesto alla Genovese, a famous basil-based sauce, originates from this region. Be sure to savor local seafood dishes, such as anchovies and fresh catches from the Ligurian Sea.
Transport
We got the train from Florence to La Spezia and took a day trip to Riomaggiore. We would recommend staying in Genoa and visiting the Nothern towns of the Cinque Terre for a day or two. Here are the Cinque Terre villages from North to South: Monterosso, Vernazza, Corniglia, Manarola and Riomaggiore. 
Restaurant & Bar Recommendations
Maia e Battiston
Bar e Vini a Pié de Ma
The Waterfront
Top Experiences
Levanto: Pesto-Making Class: https://gyg.me/P867oQWn
From Florence: Seaside Beauty Day Trip to Cinque Terre: https://gyg.me/lMkxo9XT
From Levanto: E-bike Through the Cinque Terre to Vernazza: https://gyg.me/WLANrWr3
*We earn a small commission if you use the links above to book an experience
SEASON SCOREBOARD
Salerno: 98
Florence: 88
Naples: 88
Rome: 85
Siena: 84
La Spezia: 79.5
ABOUT SEASON ONE
In this season, we, Cormac and Jane, share our travel highs and lows, providing insights into remote working, realistic travel budgets, top tips, and the realities of working and living abroad. Each episode focuses on a different region or city we explored during our six-week journey across Italy, from Southern Naples to Lake Garda in the North.
ABOUT US
Cormac is an experienced Irish bartender with a background in Hotel Management and Business. Originally from Leitrim, he ventured abroad with the intention of working on a vineyard in Northern Italy using WWOOF.
Jane, a communications consultant with expertise in culture and energy sectors, has previously worked on international projects including Web Summit, Edinburgh Festival Fringe, and European Capital of Culture initiatives. After over a decade in Communications & Events, Jane transitioned to fully remote consulting work and now resides in Florence with Cormac.
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE (FREE)
For a detailed breakdown of our 6-week summer trip across Italy, including dates, transport methods, accommodation links, fun activities, food recommendations, and tips for various cities, download our free travel guide at altlivin.com/shop.
JOIN OUR EVENTS: The Irish Pub Tour (Florence)
Join us, Cormac and Jane, for an unforgettable tour of the best Irish pubs in Florence. Learn about the history of Irish whiskeys and gins, perfect the art of pouring Guinness, and make new friends on a delightful drinking adventure through the captivating city of Florence. The tour includes visits to four bars and at least 4 drinks. Learn more at airbnb.ie/experiences/4177857.
FOLLOW US
Website: www.altlivin.com
Instagram: @altlivin
TikTok: @altlivin
YouTube: /Altlivin
Plan your trip to La Spezia and Cinque Terre with our insights, and get ready for an unforgettable Italian adventure. Stay tuned for more exciting destinations in our travel podcast series!

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

In today’s episode we’ll be covering the wonderful city of Florence
We'll be chatting about:
Why we went to Florence
Why we moved to Florence
Transport, accommodation, food and fun
The value for money
and some overall tips if you're planning on visiting Florence from an Irish couple who’ve been living in the city for the last 8 months
SEASON SCOREBOARD
 
Salerno
98
Florence
88
Naples
88
Rome
85
Siena
84
 
Transport: Within the city: 
Ride Movi bicycle and scooters
Bird Scooters
Download App Taxi
Busses from Santa Maria Novella and St Marco’s Piazza
Easy Day Trips:
Milan: 2 hours by train
Bologna: 38 minutes by train
Pisa: 1 hour by train
Cinque Terre: 2 hours 40 mins by train
Venice: 2 hours by train
Rome: 2 hours by train
Other fantastic day trips include Lucca, Livorno and Siena.
Accommodation: We recommend staying in an Airbnb. Do NOT stay at the Hotel Royal. Our favourite hostel (with got a private room) was Hostel Archi Rossi.
Food:  
Trattoria San Lorenzo
Trattoria Sabatino
Centrale Market foodcourt (upstairs) and downstairs for groceries
Antica Porchetteria Granieri 1916
Antica Trattoria da Tito
Trattoria Zà Zà
Crown of India
New Dehli
Trattoria Dell'Orto
Wild buns bakery
 
Fun: 
The Excelsior Hotel for coffee or sunset
Piazze Michelangelo
Finnegan's Pub
Cuban bar (Antica Panineria SMN)
Santo Spirito and market
Fiesole
The Irish Pub Tour
The Florentine - Great guide to events in Florence
 Tourist Guide
Ponte vecchio
Sante Croce
Uffizi
The Academia
Pitti palace/Boboli Gardens
Duomo & Tower
Wine Tours - Out of the Box (high end) and Get your Guide (cheap alternative)
 
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. 
Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a worldwide movement to link visitors with organic farmers, promote a cultural and educational exchange, and build a global community conscious of ecological farming and sustainability practices. Find out more: https://wwoof.net
Jane is a communications consultant working in the culture and energy sectors. She has previously produced and promoted international organisations including Web Summit, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and European Capital of Culture projects. After 10+ years of working in Communications & Events, Jane has transitioned to fully remote consulting work. Although regularly travelling back to Ireland for work, she is now based in Florence with Cormac.
 
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE (FREE)
Here is our day by day excel sheet of our 6 week summer trip across Italy. It includes the following categories: Dates, Transport Methods, Accommodation Links, Fun (Tours, Bars & Excursions), Food and Tips for the following cities:
Naples
Salerno
Sorrento
Rome
Siena
Florence
La Spezia (and Riomaggiore)
Venice
Desenzano del Garda
Sirmione
Malcesine
Riva del Garda
Download the travel guide for free at: https://www.altlivin.com/shop
 
JOIN OUR EVENTS: The Irish Pub Tour (Florence)
Join Cormac and Jane for a tour of the best Irish pubs in Florence. Learn about the history of Irish whiskeys and gins, how to pull the perfect pint of Guinness and make new friends on a drinking adventure across the beautiful city of Florence.
The group travels to four bars across the city. 4+ Drinks included. Learn more: https://www.airbnb.ie/experiences/4177857
FOLLOW US
Website: www.altlivin.comInstagram: @altlivinTikTok: @altlivinYoutube: /Altlivin 

Visiting Siena during the Palio di Campo: Tuscany’s Beautiful Medieval City

In today’s episode we’ll be covering our first Tuscan city, Siena
We'll be chatting about:
Why we went to Siena
The Palio di Siena
Transport, accommodation, food and fun
The value for money
and some overall tips if you're planning on visiting Siena
SEASON SCOREBOARD
 
Salerno
98
Naples
88
Rome
85
Siena
84
Sorrento
67
 
Siena has a total of 17 districts, famously known as contradas, which come together twice a year on July and 16th August, to compete against each other. We stayed in Giraffe district.
Transport: Train from Rome to Florence and then got a train to Siena
Accommodation: Airbnb
Food:  Wild Boar at Il Masgalano Ristorante Pizzeria
Fun: Early Market every WednesdayPalio di Siena (Horse Racing)Weed and Love BarSan Paolo Pub
 
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. 
Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a worldwide movement to link visitors with organic farmers, promote a cultural and educational exchange, and build a global community conscious of ecological farming and sustainability practices. Find out more: https://wwoof.net
Jane is a communications consultant working in the culture and energy sectors. She has previously produced and promoted international organisations including Web Summit, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and European Capital of Culture projects. After 10+ years of working in Communications & Events, Jane has transitioned to fully remote consulting work. Although regularly travelling back to Ireland for work, she is now based in Florence with Cormac.
 
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE (FREE)
Here is our day by day excel sheet of our 6 week summer trip across Italy. It includes the following categories: Dates, Transport Methods, Accommodation Links, Fun (Tours, Bars & Excursions), Food and Tips for the following cities:
Naples
Salerno
Sorrento
Rome
Siena
Florence
La Spezia (and Riomaggiore)
Venice
Desenzano del Garda
Sirmione
Malcesine
Riva del Garda
Download the travel guide for free at: https://www.altlivin.com/shop
 
JOIN OUR EVENTS: The Irish Pub Tour (Florence)
Join Cormac and Jane for a tour of the best Irish pubs in Florence. Learn about the history of Irish whiskeys and gins, how to pull the perfect pint of Guinness and make new friends on a drinking adventure across the beautiful city of Florence.
The group travels to four bars across the city. 4+ Drinks included. Learn more: https://www.airbnb.ie/experiences/4177857
FOLLOW US
Website: www.altlivin.comInstagram: @altlivinTikTok: @altlivinYoutube: /Altlivin 

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

In today’s episode we’ll be covering Italy's capital city, Rome.
Cormac and Jane have been on the road for six months travelling the length and breadth of Italy. Each week the pair discuss travel tips, realistic budgets, and share what it’s really like for a bartender and an arts worker to move abroad. Now living in Florence, this podcast honestly documents their move away from Ireland. You can find out more at www.altlivin.com
In this podcast we'll be chatting about:
Why we went to Rome
The Vatican and other tours
Transport, accommodation, food and fun
The value for money
and some overall tips if you're planning on visiting Rome
Transport: Trains, Ridemovi, scooters, Lime bikes, Taxi's, uber, free now, bus, metro
 
Food: 
Ristorante Pizzeria Al Fagianetto - The best pesto pasta in the world
Prosciutteria Cantina dei Papi - Trevi - An incredible Sandwich
Antico Forno Roscioli - Our top Pizza experience in Italy
 
Fun: 
Guided Tour of the Capuchin Crypts
Trevi FountainJazz BarVatican Museums with Sistine Chapel and Vatican Basilica
Walked around TratesvereBig Bus TourThe Abbey Theatre Irish Bar
 
Overall Score: 85
 
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. 
Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a worldwide movement to link visitors with organic farmers, promote a cultural and educational exchange, and build a global community conscious of ecological farming and sustainability practices. Find out more: https://wwoof.net
Jane is a communications consultant working in the culture and energy sectors. She has previously produced and promoted international organisations including Web Summit, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and European Capital of Culture projects. After 10+ years of working in Communications & Events, Jane has transitioned to fully remote consulting work. Although regularly travelling back to Ireland for work, she is now based in Florence with Cormac.
 
DOWNLOAD OUR FREE DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE (FREE)
Here is our day by day excel sheet of our 6 week summer trip across Italy. It includes the following categories: Dates, Transport Methods, Accommodation Links, Fun (Tours, Bars & Excursions), Food and Tips for the following cities:
Naples
Salerno
Sorrento
Rome
Siena
Florence
La Spezia (and Riomaggiore)
Venice
Desenzano del Garda
Sirmione
Malcesine
Riva del Garda
Download the travel guide for free at: https://www.altlivin.com/shop
 
JOIN OUR EVENTS: The Irish Pub Tour (Florence)
Join Cormac and Jane for a tour of the best Irish pubs in Florence. Learn about the history of Irish whiskeys and gins, how to pull the perfect pint of Guinness and make new friends on a drinking adventure across the beautiful city of Florence.
The group travels to four bars across the city. 4+ Drinks included. Learn more: https://www.airbnb.ie/experiences/4177857
FOLLOW US
Website: www.altlivin.comInstagram: @altlivinTikTok: @altlivinYoutube: /Altlivin