COVER STORY
Name : Paola Peruzzo City : Padova , Italy 3 gifts I would pick : Cheese ( Grana Padano and Polenta ), Ceramic souvenirs and items from the factory outlets
Grana Padano
Typical of the Po River Valley , Grana Padano is a DOP product made from semi skimmed cow milk . As it ages , the flavours become pronounced , savoury and texture more appreciated , perfect if accompanied by polenta , a dish of boiled corn meal that may be consumed baked , fried or grilled , that has its roots in the peasant cuisine of northern Italy .
My secret : You ’ ll find many typical little cheese shops in the city centre , between Piazza della Frutta and Piazza delle Erbe , where Grana is sold for a good price ( about € 7 , 5 / kg ) and where you can taste it before buying !
Items from the Factory Outlets
Outlets are great places to find a wide selection of luxury shoes and the latest styles , and bags .
My secret : Come to visit the many factory outlets of Padova especially the area of “ Vigodarzere ” and the Outlet village of “ Noventa di Piave .” You could return home with exclusive products , spending about half the price !
Ceramic souvenirs
If you want to find a unique product with a century-old tradition , handmade ceramic souvenirs are perfect for a special gift … plates , fridge magnets , keychains , artistic vase — suitable for all tastes !
My secret : Every third week of the month , in Prato della Valle , the largest square in Italy , there ’ s a local market where you can find for € 5-10 many beautiful artisanal creations . With the help of our craftsmen you can choose among current models or create new ones — as you like !
Meet Paola
Paola Peruzzo lives in the beautiful town of Padova , Italy , 40 km west of Venice . She is a clinical pedagogist and correspondent for a Swiss periodical of art , culture and society . Always curious and enthusiastic , Paola is passionate about classical & world music and photography . She is our magazine ’ s Italy Correspondent .
38 Travel Secrets monsoon issue 2016 travelsecretsmag . com