Apart from the 3am start to the day due to the early flight from Stansted, I love the first trip out to Italy to open up the house after the winter. One of the many great benefits of our location is that we are just an hour away from two airports, Bari and Brindisi, allowing us to juggle timings and costs to suit our needs. This year, in particular, the endless rain we’ve experienced in the UK has made it feel less like summer, making the prospect of Italian sunshine all the more appealing.
The Anticipation of Winter Work Revealed
There is always a sense of excitement when it comes to seeing the work that has been done over the winter. This year, we were especially looking forward to using the new wood burner and appreciating the replacement beams and newly shaded area. The mid-season in Italy offers warm days with fewer crowds and cool nights, making it an ideal time to visit. The wood burner will be a cosy benefit for those chilly evenings, particularly in late September and early October.
Arriving in Italy: Warmth and Culinary Delights
Stepping off the plane to the warmth and blue sky is such a great feeling. Our first stop is always our favourite restaurant, Osteria del Porto in Savelletri. There are numerous good restaurants in Savelletri, but this one stands out as the best, and it is advisable to book even in the mid-season. The fish is caught locally, and the prices are very reasonable. The restaurant offers stunning views across the harbour where you can watch the fishermen and leisure boats. If you’re interested, you can visit their website here.
Settling In: Shopping and Unpacking
After our delightful meal, we head to the shops to get basic supplies. Sitting in the harbour with a glass of one of our favourite wines, 5 Roses, makes the early start worthwhile for both of us. Shopping on a satisfied stomach helps us avoid overbuying. The first few days are spent unpacking and cleaning, assessing the key tasks after a winter away. This year, we decided to paint the outside of the house due to the rain, which had dulled the white walls.
Embracing Local Life in Fasano
You can walk into Fasano or run if you are feeling energetic; it is just 2 kilometers, and lovely fresh coffee awaits you. We prefer to do most of our food shopping locally to support the small family-run shops. Shopping in Italy is a social and enjoyable experience, much like eating. Everyone stops for a chat and to savor the freshness of their purchases. There’s a charming bakery that sells everything from wine to sink plugs, highlighting the delightful differences between shopping in Italy and the UK.
Enjoying the Italian Lifestyle
One of the great joys of spending time in our Italian home is the leisurely pace of life and the social aspects of everyday activities. Whether it’s shopping for fresh produce, enjoying a coffee in the local café, or simply strolling through the town, there’s a sense of community and connection that is deeply satisfying.
The local shops offer a wonderful variety of fresh, local produce. The butchers, bakers, and grocers are all family-run, and their pride in their products is evident. Shopping becomes an experience, not a chore, as you engage with the shopkeepers, learn about their products, and maybe even get some cooking tips along the way.
Exploring New Restaurants
While we have our favourite spots, we also enjoy trying out new restaurants. This year, we’ve discovered several new places that I’ll be writing about in my next blog. Each restaurant offers its unique take on local cuisine, and we love exploring the variety of flavours and styles.
Final Thoughts
Our trips to Italy are more than just a holiday; they are a chance to reconnect with a way of life that values community, quality, and the simple pleasures of good food and good company. Despite the early start from Stansted, the warmth and beauty of Italy make it all worthwhile. From the excitement of seeing the winter’s work on the house to the joy of the local food and the charm of the small shops, every aspect of our stay is something to savour. We look forward to many more visits and sharing our experiences with you.
If you’re considering a visit to Italy, particularly in the mid-season, I highly recommend it. The combination of warm days, cool nights, fewer crowds, and the vibrant local life makes it an ideal time to experience all that this beautiful country has to offer. And who knows, you might just find yourself falling in love with it, just as we have.
