The Joy of January in Italy

By: Effetto Italy  On: January 15, 2021  In: Italian Culture 

January in Italy…the weather can be fussy and cold, and the festive celebrations of the holiday season have subsided.  And yet, January is a month loved by many Italians. 

Enjoying the quiet

As January is low season in travel, a calm descends upon on the country.   Fewer tourists mean smaller crowds, which makes sitting at a café or strolling, not pushing, through a museum all the more enjoyable.  Additionally, prices will be lower in the off season.

Saldi saldi!

There is a lovely quiet in the streets, but still there is a pulsing energy. Why? Because it’s the beginning of the winter sales, saldi, throughout the country, bringing a great deal of joy to all the local fashionistas.

Unlike sales in the USA, which are initiated at the discretion of the individual store or brand, the sales in Italy are regulated by the government both in timing and in labeling of product.  The winter sale starts in January and usually lasts about 6-8 weeks.  Each region may have different start and end dates, particularly in 2021, due to COVID. Discounts usually start at 20-30% off and can reach as high as 70%.  It’s a great opportunity to snag luxury designer wear at a more affordable price.

Comforting food

Some of the most delicious dishes, designed to warm you up in the cooler temps, are served throughout the winter.  Some of our regional favorites are:

• Polenta – A classic in Northern Italy, this simple dish made of ground cornmeal can be prepared a variety of ways.  Served as a porridge or cooled into a loaf to be fried, baked or grilled, polenta is a perfect vehicle for a wide assortment of sauces or meats.
  
  
• Ribollita – A Tuscan favorite, ribollita is a very hearty stew made up of winter vegetables, beans, and leftover bread.  Comfort eating at its best!
  
  
• Bagna cauda – A hot, “fondue-esque” dish originates in Piemonte and is a blend of garlic, olive oil and anchovies. It can be served as an appetizer or main course and uses fresh vegetables to dip.
  
  

Snow and sun

Winter sports abound in the Italian Alps, some of the best skiing in the world. You can ski, snowboard and try your hand at other winter activities… or just enjoy the apres-ski lifestyle. The conditions are often excellent, and the scenery is breathtaking.  But if snow is not your thing, head south to southern Italy or Sicily, where the climate remains quite temperate and often warm throughout the winter.  In fact, you can even ski on Mt. Etna in Sicily and get the best of both worlds!

Enjoy the quiet season!

Ciao for now,

The Effetto Italy Team

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