Women Who Travel | Condé Nast Traveler Hiking Through Italy, Gilded Age Homes, and Bombastic State Fairs
Aug 28, 2025
Kristen Meinzer, a podcaster and author with a passion for travel, culture, and history, shares her vibrant adventures. She discusses hiking the Via Francigena in Tuscany, revealing its sensory beauty and historical depth. Kristen's fascination with the Gilded Age comes alive through stories of American 'royalty' and not-to-miss sites like the Biltmore Estate. She highlights the cultural richness of the Minnesota State Fair—food, traditions, and community spirit—while also sharing tips for fairgoers and her future walking aspirations.
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Walking The Via Francigena In Tuscany
- Kristen walked a section of the Via Francigena in Tuscany over under two weeks and loved the village-to-village rhythm.
- She describes daily distances up to 16 miles with varied landscapes and frequent village encounters.
On-Foot Travel Reveals Local Texture
- Kristen says walking reveals landscape changes and local life in ways vehicles can't, mile by mile.
- On-foot travel created encounters with farmers, village life, vineyards, and varied terrain she wouldn't see from a car.
Friendly Encounters With Locals
- Kristen recounts meeting a farmer who spoke little English but warmly greeted pilgrims with concern about the heat.
- She compares living along the Via Francigena to living near the Appalachian Trail where walkers are expected and welcomed.
