Program 381a: Italy by Train; Italy: North Versus South

British author Tim Parks explains why the Italian rail system, which he depends on daily, means more to him than a mere means of transportation. Then a pair of tour guides from opposite ends of Italy highlight the regional differences that make travel in Italy such an enjoyable study in contrasts.

• Tim Parks, author of "Italian Ways: On and Off the Rails from Milan to Palermo"  (Norton)
• Riccardo Panareo and Aldo Valerio, tour guides based in La Marche and Sicily, Italy
• Gene Openshaw, art and history specialist, and co-author of "Rick Steves' Europe 101"

• Tim Parks wrote the best seller "Italian Neighbours" about his experience settling into Italy, and he's also authored a number of novels. His website includes information about his book, "Italian Ways:  On and Off the Rails from Milan to Palermo."
• Wikipedia lists Tim Parks' bibliography, and works he has translated from Italian to English.  
• The New York Times reviewed Tim Parks' book, "Italian Ways."
• Advice for coping with the scheduled rail strikes in Italy.
• Padre Pio, a Capuchin priest from the mid 20th century, is considered by some as a patron saint for Italian adolescents and civil defense workers.
• A guide to the traditional pizza served in Naples, from the Serious Eats website.
• SSC Napoli is the big soccer team from Naples.
• One of the Italian hill towns that caller Ruth in the web extra explored was Torre Alfina.
• Gene Openshaw co-authors Rick's art and history book, "Europe 101."
• Martin Luther was studying in Erfurt, Germany in the year 1500.
• Gene Openshaw has made a chart of Renaissance notables he calls "the Class of 1500."