By Anna Bonavita

It’s been two very long years since I last visited Italy. Though I suspect much has changed, I am looking forward to those things that will likely never change: the stunning landscape, the fresh, locally sourced food, and the people who animate and make all of Italy’s magic possible.

As we have dreamed and continue dreaming of Italy, some uncertainty still remains. Writing these words on my way to Bologna, I’m hopeful my EU Digital Passenger Locator Form will meet the latest requirements of the Italian government. If it does, I will be able to finally embrace my friend Nicoletta at the gate. As another friend said, "To be in Italy, I will gladly endure the 8 hours of wearing an N95 on a plane. It is a small price to pay for going to paradise."

Among the many reasons I am arriving at this particular time is to participate in the celebration of Pellegrino Artusi's 201st birthday. The mere idea of a communal dinner right there on the main square of Forlimpopoli, the birthplace of the “father of Italian cuisine,” makes me tremble with excitement, and yet feels surreal. Wish me luck and stay tuned for news from Romagna.