Episode 3 Under the Tuscan Sun Author Frances Mayes on the Beauty of Italy

Frances Mayes is the New York Times Bestselling Author of Under the Tuscan Sun, which was turned into the beloved romantic movie starring Diane Lane in 2003. Frances joins Melissa to talk about how her love for Italy transformed her own life while simultaneously encouraging women to take risks and make changes in their lives. Plus, with her newly released book, A Place in the World: Finding the Meaning of Home, she explores the mysterious concept of home and what it encompasses, from the homes we build to the countries we visit. She explains how “the house protects the dreamer” and the value of a home in magnifying creativity. She discloses some of her favorite destinations and regions (including where to eat bread comparable to cake), and details how Italy differs from anywhere else in the world. They talk about the art of travel, beauty, the unexpected gifts of writing, and how to get under the skin of a place to really experience it. Plus- don’t miss Frances’ favorite secret spots and cities to add to your travel list.

Lightning Round with Frances:

• Favorite hotel? My all-time favorite hotel is in Cortona—Il Falconiere (The Falconry), a sybaritic, comfortably elegant inn amid vineyards and olive groves, with a super restaurant, cooking school, and spa.