Discover La Dolce Vita in Italy

I find immense joy in helping people plan travel to Italy, especially when it’s their first time. Witnessing the excitement in their eyes and hearing about their experiences is incredibly fulfilling. Most travelers return from Italy saying it was even better than they had imagined. There’s so much more to Italy than the typical tourist traps. When I can encourage travelers to slow down and truly immerse themselves in the culture, they begin to understand how transformative Italy can be. They discover La Dolce Vita, the “Sweet Life,” and gain a deeper appreciation for the destination and its people.

When I first set foot in Italy, it was nothing like I had envisioned. My two young daughters and I found ourselves on a last-minute trip to the tiny village of Stia in Tuscany—not by choice, but because my daughter had been invited to sing at an annual opera workshop. Stia is so small it’s barely visible on Google Maps, and upon our arrival, I was struck by its quaint charm. After getting lost on our drive, we pulled into the town square, and as I looked left and right, I could see both ends of the village. After years of dreaming about Italy, I worried we’d be bored in this tiny place. But, oh, was I wrong!

What followed was a life-changing experience that opened my eyes to the beauty of living like a local. I had already been working as a professional travel advisor, but at this moment, I knew Italy was my true calling. We shopped at the market for fresh, locally grown produce and enjoyed lively entertainment in the piazza. We savored espresso each morning at the local café while the church bells rang; everything surrounding us felt so authentically Italian. The locals welcomed us with open arms, showing us around Tuscany and inviting us to embrace La Dolce Vita for two unforgettable weeks. Italy, beyond the tourist traps. This is what I want to share with the world!

From that moment, I knew we would return to Italy. I thought maybe once every two years or so, but now we visit multiple times each year, diving deeper into what this magnificent country offers. It’s hard to describe the feeling we experienced there, but it was genuinely transformative. The Italians have a saying, “La dolcezza di non fare nulla,” which means “the sweetness of doing nothing.” That’s exactly what we did—slowed down the pace, enjoyed life in its purest form, and simply existed in the moment, free from distractions. We savored every second, soaking in the peace, beauty, and authenticity that surrounded us.

Every trip to Italy since has brought new adventures. We’ve explored other charming villages, each offering its unique richness. We’ve learned to appreciate the distinct characteristics of Italy’s diverse regions, discovering new experiences and things to love each time. The natural beauty is beyond anything you can imagine, and the food? It’s in a league of its own. Fast food, as we know it in America, simply doesn’t exist here. Instead, everything is fresh, straight from the farm or sea. Locally made wines, olive oils, cheeses, and cured meats are staples of the Italian diet.

Breakfast typically consists of a simple cappuccino and a “cornetto” (croissant), enjoyed slowly as people take their time. Businesses close for “riposo,” allowing everyone to relax and enjoy a leisurely lunch, often the biggest meal of the day. As evening approaches, Italians gather for “Aperitivo,” where cocktails and snacks are shared in the piazza, a lovely way to unwind before dinner. 

Dinner is a time for the family to reconnect. Usually served around seven or eight, it’s lighter than lunch and often consists of a salad, a “primo” (pasta or soup), and a “secondo” (meat or fish) with seasonal vegetables. After dinner, it’s customary to take a stroll, known as a “passeggiata,” where you can catch up with neighbors and soak in the evening ambiance.

This is the Italy I want you to experience. It’s so much more than just the Colosseum, the Vatican, or the Leaning Tower of Pisa. Imagine touring vineyards, watching artisans craft handmade goods, exploring marble quarries where Michelangelo sourced his stone, or even joining a cooking class in a local family’s home. The possibilities are endless, from truffle hunting to swimming in the grottos along the Amalfi Coast.

One trip will never be enough—you’ll want to return time and again.

Authentic experiences are what make travel truly special. They go beyond your wildest dreams and stay with you forever. If I can discover Italy, so can you! I’ve made it my passion to help others find their way to this incredible country. As a travel professional with insider knowledge and partnerships with industry experts in Italy, I specialize in crafting authentic, once-in-a-lifetime journeys.

Watching our kids stand in awe before the breathtaking masterpieces of the Vatican Museums for the first time is a moment we’ll cherish forever.

Are you dreaming of Italy but not sure where to start? Planning your trip doesn’t have to be complicated! As an Italy travel specialist, I help create “once-in-a-lifetime” experiences that keep clients coming back for more. You’ll fall in love with Italy just like we did, and want to return again and again, I promise! 

Anyone can call themselves an Italy expert, but few offer the professional experience, personalized service and insider knowledge that can transform a simple trip into an extraordinary journey. We’re here to help turn your Italian dream vacation into reality. With our industry expertise and deep connections across Italy, we take the guesswork and stress out of travel planning. You’re not just visiting Italy—you’re immersing yourself in its rich culture and beauty. Ready to start planning? Click this link to get started. For inspiration, take a look at some of the Italy itineraries in our portfolio.

Looking for inspiration? Check our our portfolio of itineraries from our own travels and tours we’e planned for other clients, then contact us to start planning.