Ciao!

I am Jacquita Diehl and live in Potomac, Maryland. I have been lucky enough to stay for several months in Florence twice in the past several years. Both times, Benedetta Vitali had room for me in the Zibibbo kitchen for serious cooking lessons. Both trips, I was alone with sporadic visitors from the U.S. Benedetta is a reliable resource; very kind, smart and knowledgeable.

I had wonderful experiences and have infinitely improved my understanding and preparation of Tuscan food. The discipline of high standards and patience I learned while working with Benedetta and her staff has improved all of my cooking. I also learned to clean and prepare fish and to make the wonderful desserts served at Zibibbo. I would describe Benedetta's food as "soul satisfying".

I feel completely comfortable in Florence. While I do not recommend walking around after 1 a.m. alone, I have done so on many occasions and felt completely secure. August is hot and many small stores close for two or more weeks out in the neighborhoods. (The gelaterie stay open luckily!)

In 2007 I lived first in Umbria for two months; I realized Florentines really like or love Americans and welcome us, no matter how badly we slaughter the language. I have lived in the center and further out near the Fortezza da Basso. Let me know if you have questions or need help with arrangements or if you would like to speak by phone. Send an e-mail to Benedetta, and she will put you in touch with me.

I was thrilled to see the Gourmet article and hope you have a wonderful time; I am confident you will.

Jacquita Diehl