Sipping Italy with Tino

Tales from Italian Coffee Bars

Ciao amici,

Welcome to my weekly newsletter! Let me start with a little introduction about myself and this weekly rendez-vous. I’m Tino Masecchia, a 68-year-old retiree who traded the bustling streets of Montreal, Canada, for the serene landscapes of Tuscany. Although I was born in a small town in the Lazio region and emigrated to Montreal when I was 10 years old, it was during my two-month escapade in Tuscany back in 2022 that I decided this was the place where I would love to retire.

During that time, I embarked on a journey to attend the Eroica bike event and walk 365 km of the Via Francigena, a historic pilgrimage route. Little did I know this experience would not only reconnect me with my roots but also give me a deeper understanding of who I am and why I do certain things the way I do them.

As an emigrant returning to my homeland, I've gained a unique perspective on the daily routines, attitudes, gestures, customs, and eating habits of the Italians, to say a few. Now, I view this through a lens that blends both an outsider's curiosity and an insider's intimate knowledge. With a mix of humor and deep understanding, I’m excited to share these observations with you. And what better place to explore these experiences than the quintessential Italian Bar—our beloved coffee shop.

Whether it’s for a fleeting minute or an indulgent hour, these bars offer magical experiences. Inspired by these moments, I’ve embarked on a journey to share with you the unique stories that unfold in different bars in my area and elsewhere I travel.

Every Saturday morning read “Sipping Italy with Tino” and delve into the cultural nuances, from the warm manners and polite gestures of the locals to the passionate conversations about football that reverberate through the streets. Get to know the traditions and etiquette that define Italian hospitality.

Whether you’re a coffee aficionado, a travel enthusiast, or someone intrigued by Italian culture, “Sipping Italy with Tino” invites you to savor the richness of Italy, one sip at a time.

A sabato prossimo.

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