The Draw of Heritage Tourism

My Nanny and Poppy, born in the late 1800’s being the first generation of their family born here in the US of Italian Immigrants. Fresh from the sun-drenched hills of Italy, my great grandparents brought with them a slice of the old country that colored my childhood with warmth and tradition. From the moment I walked in the door of my weekends and summers with them, there was a scent of homemade sauce bubbling on the stove and squeals as we misbehaved and Nanny chased us with the wooden spoon. Nanny’s hands, always dusted with flour, as she made homemade pasta on the old square wooden pasta board that my Mom still uses today over 100 years later!

Starting with Nanny and Poppy, from them, I learned the importance of family, the joy of simple pleasures, and the unbreakable bonds of our Italian roots. Their influence was as rich and comforting as Nanny’s farina, leaving an indelible mark on my heart and shaping the person I am today.

Because of that feeling, this is why multi-generational travel is so transformational. My mom continued to instill the importance of family and the Italian traditions she grew up with. For my mom’s birthday, we took her on a trip back to the “homeland” to experience it with some of her kids and grandkids, the land of their ancestors. This phenomenon, often called "heritage tourism," allows Italian-Americans (and other American Immigrants) to connect with their roots and explore their cultural identity. That seven days in Rome and along the Amalfi Coast, brought our family closer, we appreciated our Italian culture even more. And it made for memories that we all will have forever. It is a trip that if given the opportunity every multi-generation family should take no matter what country is considered their homeland.

What is the appeal to this type of travel?

Discovering family history for many Italian-Americans, a trip to Italy offers the chance to visit their family's hometown and potentially meet distant relatives. They may explore local archives, visit ancestral homes, or simply walk the streets their parents or grandparents once walked. This connection to family history can be profoundly moving and help fill in gaps in their understanding of their heritage and family history. Another way to feel connected to those who may no longer be here with us. Yet, at that moment you feel they are right there beside you.

Experiencing the Culture Firsthand?

While Italian-American culture has its own rich traditions, visiting Italy allows for immersion in the authentic Italian way of life. From the language and cuisine to social customs and daily routines, travelers can gain a deeper appreciation for the culture that shaped their ancestors and continues to influence their own identity. And it brings the vivid stories to life that their/our parents and grandparents told while we all were growing up! You see them there in your minds eye and it will make you laugh, smile and sometimes cry.

Culinary Exploration Food plays a central role in both Italian and Italian-American cultures.

Visiting Italy allowed my family to taste authentic regional dishes, perhaps discovering the origins of family recipes or experiencing new flavors. This culinary journey can deepen their understanding of Italian cuisine beyond the Italian-American adaptations they may be familiar with. And it floods your memories of the smells and tastes that long lost loved ones used to make. There was a time or two, that just walking into a trattoria brought tears to my eyes, as the smell was just like my Nanny’s kitchen!

Connecting with the Homeland For some Italian-Americans, especially those whose families have been in the U.S. for generations, visiting Italy fulfills a lifelong dream of seeing their ancestral homeland. It can provide a sense of belonging and help them feel more connected to their heritage. Italian-Americans travel to Italy for a complex mix of personal, cultural, and historical reasons. These journeys often prove to be transformative experiences, allowing travelers to better understand their heritage and themselves.

It is a type of trip that if given the opportunity every multi-genfamily should take no matter what country is considered their homeland. And use a trusted travel advisor to help get you there.