Friuli-Venezia Giulia region, northeasternmost of Italy’s twenty regions, is comparable to the size of Connecticut with Trieste as it’s capital. Due to the geographic proximity of neighboring countries and cultures, Trieste enjoy a distinct diversity of races and people from all ethnic backgrounds. One of the most fascinating aspects of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region is its terrain. The landscape changes dramatically from the foothills of the Italian Alps to the plains where dairy cattle graze to provide milk for delectable cheeses. To exemplify this, one can look to the city of San Daniele perched on the foothills of the Alps where it enjoys a combination of sweet mountain air and salty breezes from the south to produce some of the world’s best prosciutto. Udine, the unofficial capital of the Friuli-Venezia Giulia region demonstrates the versatility of the Friulan culture perhaps better than any other city in the region. It is permeated with class and sophistication. Here you can find the wonderful architectural influence of the Venetians seen in the main piazza or perhaps the subtle artistry of Tiepolo in the main duomo. The streets are lined with some of the finest shops with state of the art fashion and design. It is a city that transcends the region with dignity and style. Friuli-Venezia Giulia is best known for its boundless knowledge of how food and wines interact. This area has the largest grape variety in all of Italy and is renowned for its production of white wine. The selection of white wines to choose from is literally endless, but the quality is consistently superb. Whether it is the classic Tocai Friulano or the mysterious taste of Picolit, you can find a wine to enjoy with your every meal. The climate for this region is pleasant with relatively mild springs and autumns. The tempered weather allows the natural flora and fauna to flourish creating a habitat of growth of natural herbs and spices found specifically in this area. The Friulans use their resources to produce their wines and foods that are considered to be some of the finest in Italy. Evenings can be chilly especially in the Spring and Fall. It would be worthwhile to bring some outerwear for the cooler evenings and a raincoat for some occasional inclement weather. Winter clothing for the fall and spring is generally not needed, as the temperatures during this period are warmer than one would expect in New York City for example.