Culinary Traveling Genes Adventures

Culinary Adventures Info

Culinary Traveling Genes Adventures

The Wanderlust Gene

Did you know there is a gene related to those with a thirst for travel and adventure?
Yup, it’s true! The DRD4-7R gene, or allele, as it’s called in genetic speaks, is a dopamine receptor that regulates the amount of dopamine in our brains.
Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that releases happy, excited and motivational feelings. Basically, it’s the brain chemical that makes us feel good. This gene was nicknamed ‘The Wanderlust Gene‘ because of its connection to fearless globetrotters who chase new experiences and excitement at every turn.

The Wanderlust Gene

Did you know there is a gene related to those with a thirst for travel and adventure?

Yup, it’s true! The DRD4-7R gene, or allele, as it’s called in genetic speaks, is a dopamine receptor that regulates the amount of dopamine in our brains.

Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that releases happy, excited and motivational feelings. Basically, it’s the brain chemical that makes us feel good. This gene was nicknamed ‘The Wanderlust Gene‘ because of its connection to fearless globetrotters who chase new experiences and excitement at every turn.

Studies have shown that individuals with this gene – like me – have been linked to traits like novelty and adventure seeking characteristics, environmental sensitivity, risk taking and impulsivity.

If you love adventure, traveling, discovering new places, and learning about culinary Yup, it’s true! The DRD4-7R gene, or allele, as it’s called in genetic speaks, is a dopamine receptor that regulates the amount of dopamine in our brains. Dopamine is a neurotransmitter that releases happy, excited and motivational feelings. Basically, it’s the brain chemical that makes us feel good. This gene was nicknamed ‘The Wanderlust Gene‘ because of its connection to fearless globetrotters who chase new experiences and excitement at every turn. Studies have shown that individuals with this gene – like me – have been linked to traits like novelty and adventure seeking characteristics, environmental sensitivity, risk taking and impulsivity.

If you love adventure, traveling, discovering new places, and learning about culinary traditions, then join us for ‘A Taste of Tuscany’!, then join us for ‘A Taste of Tuscany’!

testimonials

My wife and I loved the Tuscan Experience – the culinary, the culture, the sites, history, and so much more! Lina, Carmine, et al, are a great team and most hospitable. They are not only your hosts but will surely become your family! It’s an experience you will never forget! You will live, learn, laugh, and love the country, and the people you’re with. You bond with all the people and will yearn to return to the old country and escape from the hustle and bustle of today’s world…. An amazing experience! You will be glad you checked this box on your bucket list! La Vita e Bella! Ciao!
Drew & Leslie
It was one of the best vacations I have ever taken. The activities were well planned at beautiful locations with the most breathtaking views. We learned to make homemade pasta and focaccia, visited local pasta factory, experienced traditional cheese-making, tasted delicious wine, and many more. Most of all, Lina and her family welcomed and took care of us like we were family. Their hospitality and enthusiasm for the Italian culture made the trip even more special. I’m looking forward to seeing what Lina is going to plan for the next trip.
Ruby Fan
Our Culinary Genes experience was outstanding – several great ‘Agriturismo’ activities and locations – pasta and soap making, and trips to farms featuring wheat and pasta, sheep’s milk and cheese, olives and olive oil, juniper berries and gin, a morning at the farmers’ market and an evening at a vineyard with breathtaking scenery – all with great lodging, transit and meals along the way. The combination of the wide array of activities and the very welcoming hospitality afforded by Lina and her family made for a one-of-a-kind experience – we can’t wait to go back!
Robert & Cate Haws
In my 10+ years in the health and wellness field, I’ve never met anyone who is more passionate about nutrition and helping people lead healthier lives than Pasqualina Raspaolo. Not only does she have an incredibly diverse background that gives her a unique perspective and expertise, but, most importantly, she deeply cares about other people and she pours her heart and soul into her work. The retreats Lina offers are truly life-changing and the family recipes she uses for her Nonna Gianna foods are absolutely amazing. She always goes above and beyond in every service she provides. What a gift she is to the world.
Chris Carreiro
I can’t thank Chef Pasqualina and her team for this amazing wellness and culinary experience. It is my first trip to Europe and I enjoyed every moment, filled with love, joy and yummy experience. As a Holistic Health Coach and a Natural Foods Chef, I love to explore and learn the local and authentic Italian cultural, food, and wine. Pasqualina arranged different trips to visit local farms, meeting the owners and taste the “farm to table”!! After I came back from the trip, I cook healthy Italian dishes to share with my clients, they get to know more about the culinary experience as well.
Kit Wong-Khoo

We were privileged to participate in the Culinary Genes Culinary Experience in Tuscany in June of 2022. We cannot overstate what an amazing time we had on this adventure!

The experience was curated and led by Pasqualina (“Lina”) Raspaolo, who is both a consummate professional and a thoughtful, warm and fun human being. Her delight and love for the food, wine and people of the Tuscany region was abundant in every aspect of this experience. Lina’s positive energy was infectious to everyone around her. Her connection to the farmers, vintners and artisans we interacted with and the places we visited were a testament to the special relationships she has cultivated and unique programs that only Culinary Genes can offer.

Our accommodations had all of the comforts of home wrapped up in a luxurious villa. We were surrounded by exquisite views of the landscape surrounding Cortona. Given Lina’s discerning eye, I’m sure that any accommodations she may select for future trips will be equally special.

The itinerary was well thought out and executed to perfection. Our welcome dinner was a feast, with one scrumptious course after another as well as excellent wine, a telling indication of the week to come. Over the next six days, we learned to make ravioli and pecorino cheese and had several wine tastings and meals at gorgeous vineyards. We spent a day truffle hunting with dogs and eating the most indulgent truffle laden pasta. We explored ancient walled cities, each magnificent in its own way. The consistently high quality of our experiences was due to Lina’s deep connection with the region, where she spends many months throughout the year.

Lina was assisted by several members of her extended family who live in the Cortona area. After a few days, they felt like our family as well. Through them, and all of the other people we visited on their farms, vineyards and restaurants, we truly felt as if we were connecting with the land and the people of Tuscany. We have fond memories of our time with Culinary Genes and hope to do another trip in the future.

Randi and David Hoyt
If you are traveling to Italy and plan to visit Tuscany, I highly recommend a small group experience offered by Culinary Genes called ‘A Taste of Tuscany.’ What our guide and hostess Pasqualina offers to her guests, is not merely a taste of Tuscany, but rather a seven course Italian feast of the Region! The small family farms, vineyards, and the local people, serve as the dessert. The visitor is given more than just a glimpse of what life is like in this world renowned region. The Tuscan way of life is on full display, and our group was encouraged to jump in with both feet and experience it! The Villa in Cortona offered breathtaking views, and every day offered food, wine and new friends who welcomed us into their world. The hard work and hospitality of those who call this place home was heartwarming. Pasqualina welcomed us with open arms and attended to all of our needs. Her Passion for food, this place, and the people who live here was evident in all the events she planned for our group. From the opening dinner, to the final farewell, it exceeded all expectations of what ‘A Taste of Tuscany’ had to offer. I left not feeling I had visited this remarkable place, but rather that I had “lived” here! Gracie Mille Pasqualina
Robert Carreiro

Almost a year ago, I took a group trip to Tuscany and it was an unforgettable experience. The rolling hills and stunning countryside took my breath away. The food and wine were equally impressive. I indulged in fresh pasta, rich sauces, and delicious wine and cheeses.

One of the highlights of my trip was visiting the charming medieval town of Cortona. The narrow streets and stunning Gothic architecture made me feel like I had stepped back in time. I also enjoyed wandering through the famous Piazza della Repubblica.

Another highlight was visiting the small town of Pienza with with stunning renaissance architecture and its breathtaking views.

The trip was organized by Pasqualina and the Culinary Genes team. Not only was she knowledgeable, professional, and made the whole trip super fun, she also made us feel like we were all part of her family. She’s the best!

Overall, my trip to Tuscany was an incredible experience. The combination of beautiful scenery, delicious food and wine, and rich history and culture made it a trip I will never forget. I highly recommend taking ‘A Taste of Tuscany’ trip with Culinary Genes.

Oscar F (June 2022 Trip)

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