I just returned from two weeks of “Living the Language” with Esperienza. I have to admit that though the website is clear and complete, it wasn’t til I lived it that I got it. In fact, as I thought about what to write, I went back to the site and found the description so on the nose, that I don’t think I can add much.
Meet Giulia Massetti
Meet the language guide bringing Italian to life for our students, Giulia Massetti. Giulia is fueled by a belief that language is a bridge that connects people, and that learning to say something in another tongue is a step toward seeing the world through someone else’s eyes. That understanding drew her into teaching and shapes the warm and generous way she coaxes others to learn Italian.
Momentum, not memorization: Esperienza’s unique approach to Italian immersion
With Esperienza’s “Living the Language” programs, language takes hold by engaging the senses, having meaningful exchanges with locals, and diving into the culture. We find that the Italian language isn’t something to master, but to enter into, messy, social, alive. Rather than focusing on drills, language is introduced through experience. The point is not perfection. It’s participation!
The Power of Presence, And Poetry
Thoughts Inspired By A Special Summer
Having now returned from my late summer travels in Romagna. I’m pleased to say it was a month of deep immersion and unexpected creativity, filling me with great energy for the time ahead.
Much of my time was spent with our adventurous and inspiring Esperienza travelers as we explored the region and co-created so many beautiful moments together during our new Art, Cuisine and Language tours.
Far More Than Learning Italian
Esperienza is Pennabilli and Pennabilli is Esperienza. At least that’s how I see it. The comfort, simplicity and beauty of the town and its people inform all that Esperienza does. It’s as if Anna and the rest of the Esperienza team ask themselves with each program and with every detail hidden within that program, whether in Italy or America … “how would our friends in Pennabilli feel about this? Would they be proud of how we are representing Italy? Representing them?” It’s a brilliant guide post. And lucky me…
As Though We’ve Lived Here All Our Lives
Our instructor Emanuela delivered Nick and me to Fabrizio at Bel Fico, one of Pennabilli’s favorite restaurants located on the charming town square. Ostensibly, our assignment was to “work” alongside Fabrizio and his staff for an hour or so, but in fact we were there to have a chance to talk with real Italians in a natural environment. The place was empty when we arrived at 5:00 PM, but that soon changed as local patrons began filling the barstools and benches. Fabrizio was a fabulous host, attentively introducing us to his patrons as he deftly pulled shots of espresso and poured glasses of wine for his guests.