Parmigiano Reggiano (video)

Parmesan cheese (Parmigiano Reggiano) is a hard, granular cheese that is made in a particular area of Italy.
This video offers an overview of the process perfected over the years by skillful Italian cheesemakers to make 'The King of Cheese'.

- Can't see the video? Watch it from YouTube
- iPod version (MP4 - 6.8Mb)
- Zune version (WMV - 5.7Mb)

What other Italian cheese do you like?

Podcast #13 - Trentino region and Dolomites

Dolomites, lakes, skiing and mountain climbing. Trentino region is located in the heart of the Italian Alps and is a mecca for active sport lovers.

In this podcast interview, Katia Vinco of the Trentino tourism office, describes a variety of opportunities to enjoy this area throughout the year.

Listen / Download this episode in MP3 format
(4.6Mb - 6:33 mins)

What's that small tray near the cash register?

Many people are surprised when, after paying for coffee or whatever you had at a bar, the cashier puts the change on a small plate next to the register instead of giving it directly to you.
The plate creates a kind of "transition area" for the money going from you to the cashier and, as in the case of your change, from the cashier back to you. This "plate rule" actually applies to most stores.
Thanks to our reader Caroline in California for suggesting this new blog topic. Got questions about the Italian culture? Write us and preview a chapter of our eBook for free.