Tuscany Showcases its Rich Culture and Beauty in Montreal
Tuscany recently brought a taste of its charm to Montreal with an event called la Toscane à découvrir at Casa d’Italia. The aim was to dazzle Canadians with the region’s exquisite food, wine, and culture, going beyond the well-known cities and landmarks.
According to Salvatore Basile, country manager at the Italian National Tourist Board, Tuscany offers much more than just Florence, Siena, or the Chianti area. The region’s marketing campaign revolves around a never-ending Renaissance, symbolizing a new era of self-discovery and mental well-being in travel and tourism.
Francesco Tapinassi, director at Toscana Promozione Turistica, emphasized that the Renaissance concept extends to lifestyle and wellness experiences in Tuscany, including spa retreats and embracing the local way of life.
As the event unfolded, it highlighted the growing preference of Canadian tourists for European destinations like Tuscany over the U.S., especially with evolving tourism trends and trade tensions. Tapinassi noted a significant increase in Canadian visitors to Tuscany, positioning the region as a top choice for European vacations.
Despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Tuscany not only bounced back but exceeded its pre-pandemic tourist numbers. The region is now focusing on a “renaissance” to encourage visitors to explore beyond the iconic leaning tower of Pisa, delving into the hidden gems and traditions scattered across Tuscany.
Renowned Italian pianist, composer, and singer-songwriter Tommaso Novi graced the event with a musical showcase featuring classics by Puccini, Rossini, Verdi, and Bizet, offering a glimpse into the melodic soul of Tuscany.
The event also served up a delectable array of traditional Tuscan dishes, providing a true taste of the region’s culinary excellence. Fortunato Mangiola, Deputy Consul General of Italy in Montreal, highlighted that the event was part of the Italian week of cuisine in the world, a series of culinary celebrations aiming to promote Italy’s exceptional gastronomic heritage.
