Life is a remarkable journey filled with unexpected twists and turns. Sometimes, the path we least expect leads us to the greatest adventures. This is the story of how I followed my heart and embarked on an extraordinary voyage that took me from the United States to Puglia, Italy. With a spirit of exploration and a desire to reconnect with my roots, I set out to make my “Italian Dream” a reality.
Growing up half-Italian, Italy had always held a special place in my heart. Every summer, I eagerly anticipated the moment I could pack my bags and head to the airport to visit the country where I felt at home. I had spent years studying the language and culture, which only ignited my inexplicable connection with the country.
After graduating from university in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic, my post-grad plans to spend a few months traveling the world were interrupted. So my plan B was to move back home with my parents and begin working a remote job. That went well, and I continued living like this until the world slowly started to open back up. That’s when I realized that my remote job allowed me the freedom to work from anywhere, and that I may still have a chance to embark on an adventure I had always sought after.
As the world stood still, I pondered where my heart truly longed to be. Italy had always been a place that felt like home, and I had been longing to experience a life there. It was a country that had imprinted itself on my soul since childhood. With my post-grad travel plans canceled, I found myself untethered for the first time—no school, no in-person job, nothing holding me back. The decision was crystal clear; I would move to Italy, if only temporarily.
After doing some thinking, I decided I didn’t want to go anywhere too touristy and I’d like to be near the sea: so I set my sights on Puglia. Being summoned by the beautiful coastline and exquisite Italian food, I bid my family, friends, and coworkers farewell with the promise of returning after 3 months. And For three unforgettable months, I immersed myself in the rhythm of life in Puglia, all while continuing to work remotely.
The combination of stunning landscapes, friendly locals, and mouthwatering culinary delights created an experience that was nothing short of magical. As the three months drew to a close, I had just started forming solid friendships and getting myself settled…I found myself yearning for more (Surprise, surprise!). My temporary experience quickly transformed into permanence in my heart. In a leap of faith, I made the decision to quit my job and embrace the unknown. I was determined to make Italy my home and simply "figure it out" along the way.
Suddenly unburdened by the constraints of a job, I spent several months traveling around Europe with friends who were eager to visit me, and I ended up adding 12 countries to my passport!
A year has passed since that fateful decision, and I can say with certainty that I have never looked back. I was yearning for a change of pace from the US hustle, and an experience I could tell stories about for the rest of my life. Although not always easy, the journey has been transformative, allowing me to discover the depths of my own resilience, passion, and wanderlust.
