FAQs
- What is the “Lombardia e Australia: Un ponte tra cultura, tradizioni e professione” tour?
This program aims to strengthen and celebrate the cultural, linguistic, and professional ties between Australia and Lombardia, Italy. It offers participants the opportunity to explore the region’s history, traditions, and professional excellence through cultural tours, workshops, and internships. - Who is eligible to participate in this program?
The program is open to everyone of Lombard descent, including university students and young professionals seeking cultural enrichment and professional development. - What are the key activities included in the cultural tour of Lombardia?
Key activities include visits to historical sites, participation in local reenactments, exploration of small villages, and culinary tours along with wine tasting experiences. You’ll also have the chance to visit cultural institutions, enjoy traditional Milanese culture, and travel on historical trains. - What is the difference between Tour A and Tour B?
Tour A focuses on cultural immersion through a tour of Lombardia, while Tour B includes both cultural activities and professional internships in both Australia and Lombardia. Tour B participants will also engage in networking and professional visits to companies in the region. - Are the cultural tours and professional internships available in both Australia and Lombardia?
Yes, the cultural tours will take place in Lombardia, while professional internships are available in both Australia (with companies founded by Lombard entrepreneurs) and in Lombardia itself. - When will the cultural tours take place in Lombardia?
The cultural tours are scheduled to take place from September 26 to October 11, 2025, for all participants of Tour A and Tour B. - Are there any age restrictions for participants?
There are no specific age restrictions, but participants must be at least 18 years old to join the program. Tour B is ideal for young professionals and university students looking to develop their careers. - How can I apply for the program?
Applications can be submitted through our website, where you’ll find detailed instructions on how to apply, the necessary documents, and eligibility criteria. - What costs are involved in participating in the program?
The program fee includes preparatory courses at Co.As.It. in Sydney, travel, accommodation, and most activities during the cultural tour. Specific costs may vary depending on the package you choose. Please refer to our program details for a breakdown of expenses.
Cultural Tour-Specific Questions
- What types of cultural activities will be included during the tour of Lombardia?
Activities include visits to historical sites, cultural workshops on Milanese language and traditions, wine tasting tours, visits to ancient towns, and travel on historical trains, offering a well-rounded experience of Lombard culture. - Will participants have the opportunity to visit historical sites in Lombardia?
Yes, participants will explore key historical landmarks, including the Società Storica Lombarda in Milan, monuments to fallen soldiers, and local festivals of medieval Lombardia. - Can I expect to experience local food and wine during the cultural tour?
Absolutely! The program includes gastronomic experiences such as wine tours along the Franciacorta Wine Road, traditional meals, and tastings of regional delicacies aboard the Treno dei Sapori (Train of Flavors). - What are the benefits of participating in the workshops on Milanese language and culture?
These workshops offer participants an immersive experience in the unique Milanese dialect, as well as insights into local traditions, literature, and theatrical expressions. It’s a great way to connect with your Lombard roots. - Will there be opportunities to visit local villages or lakes in Lombardia?
Yes, participants will visit picturesque villages such as Salo` on Lake Garda, and Monte Isola on Lake Iseo, where they will experience traditional Lombard architecture, history, and local customs.
Internship and Professional Development Questions (Tour B)
- Will there be professional internships available for all participants, or only those in Tour B?
Professional internships are available exclusively to participants in Tour B, which combines cultural tours with career-focused opportunities in both Australia and Lombardia. - What industries or sectors are involved in the professional internships (e.g., design, fashion, food)?
Internships span several industries, including fashion, design, food, technology, and luxury goods, offering a wide range of opportunities for participants to enhance their professional skills. - How will the professional internships in Lombardia benefit the career development of participants?
Internships provide hands-on experience in globally recognised sectors like fashion, design, and technology, while also fostering international networking and cultural understanding—key for any global career. - Will I have the opportunity to work with companies that have connections to both Australia and Lombardia?
Yes, participants will have the chance to intern with companies that have a direct connection to both Australia and Lombardia, providing a unique opportunity for cross-cultural professional experiences.
Language and Preparation Questions
- Are there any language requirements to participate in the program?
No, but participants will engage in preparatory Italian language courses to help them better navigate the program and immerse themselves in Lombard culture. - What kind of preparatory courses will be offered in Sydney before the trip to Lombardia?
The preparatory courses will focus on Italian language, Lombard culture, and an introduction to the Made in Italy sectors, including fashion, design, and food. - How long are the preparatory courses in Sydney?
The preparatory courses will run for 18 weeks in Sydney, taking place in terms 2 and 3 of 2025. - Where will the preparatory courses take place?
The courses will be offered at locations in Leichhardt or Sydney CBD. - Is there a focus on learning the Lombard dialect in the preparatory courses?
Yes, one of the workshops will focus on learning the Milanese dialect, giving participants a deeper understanding of the language and traditions of the Lombard region.
Logistical and Practical Questions
- What is included in the program fee (e.g., flights, accommodation, meals)?
The program fee covers preparatory courses in Sydney, flights, accommodation during the Lombardia cultural tour, Breakfast and access to activities and experiences included in the program. - Are flights and accommodation arranged by the program?
Yes, flights and accommodation will be arranged by the program. Participants will stay in comfortable accommodation in Lombardia during the tour. - How do I get to and from Lombardia during the cultural tour?
Flights from Sydney to Milan will be arranged for participants, and transportation within Lombardia will be provided for all scheduled activities. - What should I bring with me to the program?
You should bring comfortable clothing for both sightseeing and professional activities, as well as any personal items you may need for a two-week stay in Lombardia. Details on what to pack will be provided before departure. - Will I have free time to explore Lombardia outside of the scheduled activities?
Yes, there will be some free time during the program for you to explore Lombardia independently and enjoy additional activities.
Miscellaneous Questions
- How will the program ensure cultural and professional exchanges between Australia and Lombardia?
The program fosters exchanges through a combination of cultural immersion activities and professional internships, where participants can engage with local professionals and businesses in both regions. - Will there be opportunities to network with other participants or professionals during the program?
Yes, there will be various networking events, both formal and informal, to connect participants with local professionals, companies, and fellow participants. - How will the program support participants in terms of language and cultural immersion?
Through preparatory courses, workshops, and on-the-ground experiences in Lombardia, the program will offer full immersion in the Italian language and Lombard culture.
