Kathy Bechtel, owner/culinary director, italiaoutdoors usa
What Italiaoutdoors offers
“Unique, active (biking, skiing, hiking, walking) adventures in Northeastern Italy. Our tours combine expert recreational programming with an unmatched food and wine program.”
Where she works
“My HQ in my home in Newburyport, on the road in Italy, and the Northeast regions of the Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige, Fruili-Venezia Giulia, and Emelia Romagna.”
Her role
“I create and lead the culinary side of our programming, including selecting wines and the wineries we visit, leading cooking classes or selecting restaurants, and educating our clients on the regional cuisines.”
Favorite moment on tour with clients
“When they climb a hill they didn’t think they could, or ski a slope that perhaps made them a bit nervous at the top. With a bit of coaching, they can really rise to meet challenges they didn’t think they could handle a few days before.”
Best part of the job
“Italy is an incredibly diverse country. As we explore by bike, foot, or skis, each day we see different foods, wines, and traditions, all reflecting the unique culture, history, and geography of the regions we visit. It’s almost like visiting a different country every day.” italiaoutdoorsfoodandwine.com; chefbikeski.com.