Welcome to The Irish Podcast! Today’s episode is a very special bonus episode featuring my once boss and now friend, Brendan Savage. Brendan has had a remarkable career in the arts, working in everything from opera production to light installation art, and even going on tour with U2. This podcast is all about how we co-founded the Galway Uke Fest, alongside his brother Gerry.

The Galway Uke Fest 2024 is just around the corner, taking place from June 21 - 23. Tickets are on sale now, so make sure to grab yours! www.galwayukefest.com

Brendan will share what his job entails in the lead-up to the festival and during the event itself. We’ll discuss how we go about planning and curating the festival’s lineup each year and how the festival has evolved since its inception.

We’ll hear some of Brendan’s most memorable moments and discuss the biggest challenges in organizing the festival.

Finally, Brendan will share what he finds most rewarding about organising the uke fest and offer advice to anyone looking to start their own cultural or music festival.

If you’re interested in getting involved or supporting the Galway Uke Fest, Brendan will tell you how.

Stay tuned for an engaging and insightful conversation about the magic of bringing people together through music!

Social Links: https://linktr.ee/theirishpodcast

ABOUT SEASON 3

Join Jane and Cormac once again as they delve into the exhilarating and often challenging journey of moving abroad in Season 3. This season, we're diving deep into what it takes to make the leap to a new country, with firsthand accounts and practical advice for anyone considering an adventure.

We'll be catching up with friends who have made Italy their home, exploring their unique experiences and insights. Our friends will share their stories of adapting to a new culture, finding work, and building a community far from home.

But that's not all! We’re bringing in some special guest episodes featuring our beloved friends and family back in Ireland. These episodes will provide a comforting glimpse of home, filled with heartwarming anecdotes and perspectives on what it's like to stay connected with loved ones while living abroad.

Whether you're dreaming of an international move or simply curious about the realities of expatriate life, Season 3 promises a rich tapestry of experiences, practical tips, and the unmistakable charm of Irish storytelling.

Social Links: https://linktr.ee/theirishpodcast

In this episode, we dive into the rich and diverse world of Irish and Italian cuisines. We’ll compare and contrast various aspects, from traditional breakfasts to festive foods, providing insights into the ingredients, flavours, and cultural significance of meals and dishes.

Traditional Breakfasts: We'll explore the hearty ingredients of a full Irish breakfast versus the simple sugar filled Italian breakfast.

Comfort Foods: Join us as we warm up with a discussion on Irish stew, Italian minestrone, risotto, and other comforting dishes from both cultures.

Breads and Baking: Discover the differences between Irish soda bread and Italian focaccia, along with a comparison of scones and biscotti.

Seafood Specialties: Dive into the fresh tastes of Galway Oysters and Dublin Bay prawns compared to Italian seafood pasta.

Cheese and Dairy: Savour the distinct flavours of Irish cheddar against Italian classics such as Parmigiano-Reggiano and mozzarella.

Festive Foods and Traditions: Explore the traditional holiday foods of Ireland and Italy, perfect for celebrations like Christmas and Easter.

Desserts and Sweets: Sweeten your day with a chat about Irish apple tart and barnbrack versus Italian tiramisu and cannoli.

Pasta vs. Potatoes: Delve into the central role of pasta in Italian cuisine and potatoes in Irish cuisine, examining the cultural significance and variety of dishes featuring these staples.

Meat: From the meat-heavy diet of the Irish to the famous bistecca alla fiorentina, learn about meat quality and restaurant menu staples.

Tune in for a flavourful journey through the rich culinary landscapes of Ireland and Italy. Whether you’re a foodie or just curious about different cultures, this episode is sure to tantalise your taste buds.

Social Links: https://linktr.ee/theirishpodcast

ABOUT SEASON 3

Join Jane and Cormac once again as they delve into the exhilarating and often challenging journey of moving abroad in Season 3. This season, we're diving deep into what it takes to make the leap to a new country, with firsthand accounts and practical advice for anyone considering an adventure.

We'll be catching up with friends who have made Italy their home, exploring their unique experiences and insights. Our friends will share their stories of adapting to a new culture, finding work, and building a community far from home.

But that's not all! We’re bringing in some special guest episodes featuring our beloved friends and family back in Ireland. These episodes will provide a comforting glimpse of home, filled with heartwarming anecdotes and perspectives on what it's like to stay connected with loved ones while living abroad.

Whether you're dreaming of an international move or simply curious about the realities of expatriate life, Season 3 promises a rich tapestry of experiences, practical tips, and the unmistakable charm of Irish storytelling.

Social Links: https://linktr.ee/theirishpodcast

Welcome to this week's bonus episode of The Irish Podcast! Every Monday, we share stories from our friends in Italy and Ireland, bringing you unique perspectives and fascinating journeys.

In today's episode, we have the pleasure of hosting American writer Jeremy Hawkins. Jeremy takes us on an incredible journey from his roots in Chapel Hill, North Carolina, to his life and love in Florence, Italy. As the author of "The Last Days of Video," Jeremy's storytelling prowess shines as he recounts his experiences.

Tune in as we dive into Jeremy's diverse experiences:

• His educational background and the road to becoming a writer.
• Navigating the intricacies of obtaining American visas.
• Adapting to life in Italy during the challenging times of Covid-19.
• Embracing the remote work lifestyle.
• The joys of Italian cuisine and the journey of losing 25 pounds.
• The adventure of learning Italian and integrating into a new culture.

Whether you're an aspiring expat, a food enthusiast, or simply love a good story, this episode has something for everyone. Don't miss out on this insightful and entertaining conversation with Jeremy Hawkins.

Check out "The Last Days of Video": https://www.amazon.com/Last-Days-Video-Novel/dp/1619024853/ref=cm_cr_arp_d_product_top?ie=UTF8

ABOUT SEASON 3

Join Jane and Cormac once again as they delve into the exhilarating and often challenging journey of moving abroad in Season 3. This season, we're diving deep into what it takes to make the leap to a new country, with firsthand accounts and practical advice for anyone considering an adventure.

We'll be catching up with friends who have made Italy their home, exploring their unique experiences and insights. Our friends will share their stories of adapting to a new culture, finding work, and building a community far from home.

But that's not all! We’re bringing in some special guest episodes featuring our beloved friends and family back in Ireland. These episodes will provide a comforting glimpse of home, filled with heartwarming anecdotes and perspectives on what it's like to stay connected with loved ones while living abroad.

Whether you're dreaming of an international move or simply curious about the realities of expatriate life, Season 3 promises a rich tapestry of experiences, practical tips, and the unmistakable charm of Irish storytelling.

Social Links: https://linktr.ee/theirishpodcast

We're kicking off this season by diving into the whirlwind adventure of moving from Ireland to Italy. In this episode, we'll take you through the history of our previous accommodation in Ireland and the pivotal moments that led us to make the leap to Italy.

We'll start by sharing the story of when we began seriously considering a move to Italy, highlighting the challenges and excitement that came with such a big decision. Our journey began in Naples, where we scoured Idealista for potential apartments.

We'll walk you through our experiences with our three different Florentine apartments broken into the following categories:

• Location: [Specific Neighbourhood]
• Layout: [Size and Rooms]
• Price: [Cost of rent, bills and deposit]
• Agency: [Agency Name]
• Contract: [Type]
• Bills: [Cost and Management]
• Appliances/Furnishings

We'll also delve into some of the more challenging aspects of our move, including losing our deposits and dealing with a bad agency. However, it wasn't all bad news; we'll also share our positive experiences with a good agency and how we navigated different types of contracts, from temporary one-year agreements to longer residency contracts.

For those considering a move to Italy, we'll provide some valuable advice based on our experiences, including tips on securing residency and other practical insights.

So, grab your headphones and join us as we embark on this new season with stories, lessons, and plenty of laughter from our Irish-Italian adventure!

If you're looking for rental accommodation in Florence, we highly recommend Beatrice at: https://www.100case.it/web/

Social Links: https://linktr.ee/theirishpodcast

ABOUT SEASON 3

Join Jane and Cormac once again as they delve into the exhilarating and often challenging journey of moving abroad in Season 3. This season, we're diving deep into what it takes to make the leap to a new country, with firsthand accounts and practical advice for anyone considering an adventure.

We'll be catching up with friends who have made Italy their home, exploring their unique experiences and insights. Our friends will share their stories of adapting to a new culture, finding work, and building a community far from home.

But that's not all! We’re bringing in some special guest episodes featuring our beloved friends and family back in Ireland. These episodes will provide a comforting glimpse of home, filled with heartwarming anecdotes and perspectives on what it's like to stay connected with loved ones while living abroad.

Whether you're dreaming of an international move or simply curious about the realities of expatriate life, Season 3 promises a rich tapestry of experiences, practical tips, and the unmistakable charm of Irish storytelling.

Social Links: https://linktr.ee/theirishpodcast

Welcome back to the season finale of The Irish Podcast! In Part 2 of our insider’s guide to Florence, we delve into the vibrant wine culture, the best spots for nightlife, and fun cultural activities and day trips. Whether you’re looking for a relaxed evening with a glass of wine, an energetic night out, or some cultural exploration, we’ve got you covered.

**Wine:** - Enjoy top wine spots like Zanobini's, Osteria Nuvoli, and Enoteca Alessi.

**Nightlife:** - Experience fun atmospheres at Boris' and Il Trip per Tres. - Find the best pint of Guinness at Finnegan's. - Discover late-night pubs like Fiddlers and Caffe Notte. - Explore the best drink selections at Dondino and The Old Stove. - Perfect for students: Lions Fountain and Red Garter. - Budget-friendly bars: Druggaria, Napoli Bar, and Sisters. - Best smoking areas and outdoor spaces: Il Trip per Tres, Rosie's, Rondinella, and Fico Bistrot. - Avoid for service: Pop Cafe. - Happy hour spots: Hidden Pub. - Cocktail havens: Mysterium and Sabor Cubano. - Best views: The Loggia. - Craft beer delight: Joshua Tree. - Top entertainment spots: Finnegan's, Ostello Bello, and Le Murate. - Accessibility: Fitzpatrick's. - Our favourite pubs: Finnegan's, Boris's, Caffe Notte, and Il Trip per Tres.

**Culture & Day Trips:** - Activities at Cascine Park: gigs, golf, and horse racing. - Local swimming pools. - Must-see sights: David, Uffizi, Pitti Palace, and the Science Museum. - Recommended day trips and bus tours. - Unique experiences: Marcello's Golf Cart Tour, wine tasting at Antica Alessi, electric bike tours, hot air balloon rides, and The Tipsy Tours. - Fun pasta and cooking courses. - Caution against bus tours. - Reliable guides: The Florentine and Get Your Guide.

Join us as we share our top picks and personal experiences to help you make the most of your time in Florence. From wine tasting to late-night adventures and cultural excursions, this episode has everything you need for an unforgettable Florentine adventure. Don't miss out!

Tune in now and let’s explore Florence together!

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ABOUT SEASON TWO

Meet Jane and Cormac, your companions on a captivating journey through the highs and lows of embracing an Irish life in Italy. Join us as we unravel the tales of our relocation, navigating life as digital nomads and bartenders, and immersing ourselves in the daily hustle of a new country.

Prepare to venture into the heart of Tuscany with us, where we'll uncover the enchanting nuances and quirks that define Italy. From awe-inspiring landscapes to side-splitting misadventures, including our memorable 'Bed Bug' experience – a story that's not to be missed!

Take a special detour with us to the Edinburgh Fringe, where we'll regale you with our escapades and encounters in one of the world's most dynamic cultural festivals.

Whether you're a seasoned travel enthusiast or simply curious about the intricacies of relocating to a new land, our podcast offers you a front-row seat to a medley of stories, laughter, and the warm embrace of Irish hospitality. So, grab your headphones, settle in, and let us entertain you! 🌍✈️

ABOUT US

Cormac is a professional Irish bartender having worked in the hotel and bar industry for 9 years. Originally from Leitrim, he studied Hotel Management and Business at GMIT. He was working in Galway in the bar trade for 5 years before he decided to move abroad. His original plan was to work on a vineyard in Northern Italy using WWOOF.

Worldwide Opportunities on Organic Farms (WWOOF) is a worldwide movement to link visitors with organic farmers, promote a cultural and educational exchange, and build a global community conscious of ecological farming and sustainability practices. Find out more: https://wwoof.net

Jane is a communications consultant working in the culture and energy sectors. She has previously produced and promoted international organisations including Web Summit, Edinburgh Festival Fringe and European Capital of Culture projects. After 10+ years of working in Communications & Events, Jane has transitioned to fully remote consulting work. Although regularly travelling back to Ireland for work, she is now based in Florence with Cormac.

DOWNLOAD OUR FREE DAY-BY-DAY GUIDE (FREE)

Here is our day by day excel sheet of our 6 week summer trip across Italy. It includes the following categories: Dates, Transport Methods, Accommodation Links, Fun (Tours, Bars & Excursions), Food and Tips for the following cities:

Naples Salerno Sorrento Rome Siena Florence La Spezia (and Riomaggiore) Venice Desenzano del Garda Sirmione Malcesine Riva del Garda Download the travel guide for free at: https://www.theirishpodcast.com/shop