North American Travel Journalists Association, one of the most prestigious organizations in the travel industry, has recognized the “best of the best” of travel writers, photographers and broadcast journalists in its annual competition for 2018 and selected La Dolce Vita University: An Unconventional Guide to Italian Culture from A to Z by author Carla Gambescia as the Silver Prize winner for its one and only travel book award category. 

Author Carla Gambescia’s rousing tribute to Italy and its astonishing culture is an eclectic compendium of 165 mini-essays exploring all things Italian, from food & wine to art, architecture, history, literature, film, style and more. La Dolce Vita University brings Italy to life with wit, exuberance and joy.

Carla was a former partner in the Ciao Bella Gelato Company. She conceived and co-led the Giro del Gelato bicycle tour which won Outside magazine’s “Best Trip in Western Europe,” and for nearly a decade she owned  and operated Via Vanti! Restaurant & Gelateria in Mount Kisco, New York. Via Vanti! won plaudits for its innovative Italian cuisine, extraordinary gelato (named “Best Gelato Shop in New York”) and vibrant program of culinary and cultural events.   

Says Gambescia: “I’m honored to receive this important award, especially since this is my first book. My aspiration is that La Dolce Vita University proves to be influential in how Italy and her culture are perceived, less because of its “scholarship” but more for its accessible style and the heartfelt passion I hope is evident to my readers.” 

Meet Carla in person as she speaks throughout the country at Italian Cultural Centers, local libraries and bookstores as well as Italian retailers such as Eataly. A calendar of her events is posted at www.ladolcevitau.com