Debbie and Tommy discuss their summer holidays including family visits in Tuscany, Tommy's summer at the Lake, and the challenges of traveling during peak season. They share their experiences in different vacation destinations and the cultural differences they encountered. Debbie talks about the Italian holiday Ferragusto and the crowded beaches in Italy during August. They discuss the importance of creating memories during family gatherings and the dynamics of hosting large groups with some valuable tips for managing family vacations including renting a house during the off-season for more affordable and authentic travel experiences. They also touch on their favorite summer reads as they tease their upcoming episode with author Frances Mayes! Summer reads mentioned in this episode: The Friday Afternoon Club: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/203708995-the-friday-afternoon-club Thursday Night Murder Club: https://www.goodreads.com/series/299267-thursday-murder-club Strange Sally Diamond: https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/62322008-strange-sally-diamond Pre Order Debbie's Book: https://debbietravis.com/laugh-more/ Frances Mayes 'A Good Marriage:' https://www.penguinrandomhouse.com/books/706935/a-great-marriage-by-frances-mayes/ Chapters (00:00) Introduction and Summer Holidays (08:12) Crowded Beaches and Cultural Differences (14:01) Family Gatherings and Creating Memories (19:03) Managing Large Groups and House Rules (23:07) Funny Anecdotes and Tips for Family Vacations (28:23) Camping Adventures and Funny Travel Stories (34:22) Renting a House Off-Season for Authentic Travel (39:07) Exploring Historical Sites: The Colosseum and More (41:30) Summer Reads: 'Strange Sally Diamond' and 'The Thursday Night Murder Club' (43:17) Upcoming Podcast with Author Frances Mayes & Happy Summer Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices