By Samantha Wilson
4.6
4545 ratings
The podcast currently has 39 episodes available.
Welcome back to A New Life in Italy! Today, I’ve got a truly special guest and an incredible conversation lined up for you. If you’ve ever dreamed of moving to Italy, not just for the beautiful views and pasta, but to actually start a family and raise children here, then this episode is for you.
I’m sitting down with none other than Georgette, the creator of the popular blog A Girl in Florence. G
Hello and welcome to another episode of A New Life in Italy, where we explore all aspects of living and thriving in Italy. I’m your host, and today we have a special guest joining us—someone who has been a key voice in the expat community in Florence long before the influencer wave even began. I’m talking about none other than Georgette, best known by her blog and social media presence as A Girl in Florence.
Georgette is an American who’s been living in Italy for over 15 years, and she’s built an amazing life here with her French husband and their daughter, Annabelle. But here’s the twist—Georgette’s journey didn’t end when she made the move to Florence. In fact, she’s now navigating a whole new chapter: raising a child in Italy.
What does it really take to raise a family in a foreign country? How different is parenting in Italy compared to the U.S. or even Switzerland, where Georgette and her family lived for three years? And what is it like to raise a child in a city as historic and vibrant as Florence?
We’re going to get into all of that, and trust me, you won’t want to miss the insights Georgette has to share about juggling motherhood, cultural adaptation, and finding community in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.
So, whether you’re dreaming about raising kids in Italy or just curious about what life is like as an expat parent, stay tuned. This episode is packed with honest, real-life experiences and tips that might just inspire your next move.
Resources:
A Girl In Florence Blog
Follow Georgette on Instagram
Subscribe to her Substack
Rate, Review, & Follow
If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.
Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!
Until next time!
Ci vediamo!
Mentioned in this episode:
Sentire Media Website
Sentire Media Website
Hello, everyone, and welcome back to A New Life in Italy, where we dive into everything you need to know about life, travel, and the incredible journey of moving to Italy. I’m your host, and today we’re going to explore a topic that most people strive to accomplish, but often dont know exactly how—how to experience the authentic Italian lifestyle by traveling to smaller towns and lesser-known spots, and living like a local, rather than sticking to the usual tourist destinations.
Now, don’t get me wrong. I love Rome, Florence, and Venice just as much as the next person, and they’re absolutely worth visiting. But for those of you who are planning to move to Italy one day or simply want to experience a more authentic, laid-back version of Italian life, there’s so much more to discover beyond the big cities.
In this episode, we’re going to talk about how you can explore Italy through its smaller towns and off-the-beaten-path villages. We’ll dive into how you can connect with local culture, experience the slower pace of life, and really understand what it’s like to live like an Italian.
To help guide us through this conversation, I have two very special guests today: Zeneba Bowers and Matt Walker, you may know them from Little Roads Europe.
They are experts in finding these little gems, and helping you experience traveling like a local.
So, if you are planning your next Italian adventure, or are already here and want to go beyond the IG spots, and get a true account of what the italian lifestyle is really like, stick around because this is going to be good.
Resources:
Little Roads Europe
GC Partners
Rate, Review, & Follow
If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.
Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!
Until next time!
Ci vediamo!
Mentioned in this episode:
Sentire Media Website
Sentire Media Website
In this episode of "A New Life in Italy," I took you on a deep dive into the must-know steps and key considerations for anyone dreaming of making the big move to Italy. We started by getting crystal clear on the 'why' behind your move—because knowing your motivations is the first step to creating a life that truly lights you up. Then, we explored how to choose the perfect location that aligns with your lifestyle (because, let's face it, Italy has so much to offer, and finding your ideal spot is everything!).
We didn't stop there—I walked you through the often tricky visa process, shared tips on budgeting for Italy's cost of living, and unpacked the ins and outs of healthcare options. Plus, I shared practical advice on how to truly integrate into your new community and why having a long-term plan is non-negotiable for a smooth transition.
I also answered some of your burning questions—like how to navigate renting with pets, the steps to apply for residency if you're a non-citizen married to an Italian, and whether it's worth touring different areas before settling down.
This episode was all about laying the groundwork for a successful move to Italy, and I can’t stress enough the importance of thorough research and planning. And, before I forget, I’m thrilled to announce an upcoming boot camp designed just for those of you seriously considering this life-changing move. Trust me, you won’t want to miss it!
Visa Guide Book
Rate, Review, & Follow
If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.
Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!
Until next time!
Ci vediamo!
Mentioned in this episode:
Sentire Media Website
In this episode, I had the pleasure of speaking with Marianne, a Norwegian living in Oslo who, along with her husband, embarked on the adventure of buying and renovating a 600 square meter ancient palazzo in Sicily.
Marianne shares her journey of purchasing the property in Palazzolo Accredi, a small town in Sicily, and transforming it into an Airbnb.
Her story is one of passion, determination, and embracing the challenges of renovating a historic property in a foreign country So, if you're considering buying a property in Italy or embarking on a renovation project, this episode is a must-listen for valuable insights and inspiration.
Be sure to check out Marianne's Instagram account, Sweet and Pfeiffer, for a visual journey through her Sicilian renovation adventure.
Sweet N Pfiffer Instagram
Shop
Rate, Review, & Follow
If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.
Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!
Until next time!
Ci vediamo!
Mentioned in this episode:
Sentire Media Website
Hello everyone, Samantha Wilson here, your host of A New Life in Italy. In this episode, we delve into the heart of Italian culture by exploring Ferragosto, a significant holiday in Italy.
Ferragosto, which dates back to ancient Rome, was established by Emperor Augustus in 18 BCE as a period of rest and celebration after the harvest. Over the centuries, it evolved, with the Catholic Church later aligning it with the Assumption of Mary on August 15th. During the 1930s, the fascist regime promoted "popular trips" with reduced fares, allowing the working class to enjoy holidays by the sea.
Today, Ferragosto remains a cherished time for Italians to take a break, reconnect with family and friends, and enjoy festivities. Many businesses close, especially in smaller towns, but tourist areas and larger cities like Rome, Florence, and Milan remain lively.
For those planning to visit or move to Italy during Ferragosto, I shared some essential tips:
1. Book in Advance: Accommodations fill up quickly.
2. Expect Closures: Many shops and services will be closed.
3. Embrace Local Culture: Join beach parties, festivals, and parades.
4. Indulge in Food: Enjoy traditional Italian summer foods and gelato.
5. Check Travel Schedules: Beat the crowds by starting your day early and consider using public transportation.
Living in Italy has taught me the importance of taking a break and enjoying life. So, from all of us at SmartMove Italy and Sentieri Media, we wish you buon Ferragosto. Enjoy your summer, and we'll see you after the break.
Rate, Review, & Follow
If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.
Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!
Until next time!
Ci vediamo!
Mentioned in this episode:
Sentire Media Website
Welcome back to another episode of A New Life in Italy. I'm your host, Samantha Wilson. Today, we delve into a topic that fascinates many: the health and longevity of Italians.
Italy is celebrated for its healthy lifestyle, often attributed to the Mediterranean diet, a culture that values leisure, and strong family connections. However, there's more to it than just diet and exercise. In this episode, we explore what it truly means to live healthily in Italy, including the healthcare system and what happens when you get sick.
Our special guest today is Dr. Susan Levenstein, an American doctor who has been practicing in Rome for nearly 40 years. Dr. Levenstein shares her insights into the health of Italians, the lifestyle, and the differences between the Italian and American healthcare systems. She highlights the universal access to healthcare in Italy, the benefits of the Mediterranean diet, and the cultural habits that contribute to the longevity of Italians.
Dr. Levenstein also touches on the lower rates of gun ownership, drug abuse, and the importance of social networks and family ties in Italy. She emphasizes that while the Italian healthcare system may not be perfect, it provides essential care that contributes to the overall well-being of its residents.
For those inspired by this episode, you can find more about Dr. Levenstein through her book Dottoressa: An American Doctor in Rome and her blog Stethoscope on Rome. Links to these resources are available in the show notes.
We also address listener questions about taxes on liquid assets when moving to Italy, the elective residency visa, and the reality of one-euro homes.
Resources:
Dottoressa: An American Doctor in Rome
Stethoscope on Rome.
Rate, Review, & Follow
If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.
Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!
Until next time!
Ci vediamo!
Mentioned in this episode:
Sentire Media Website
Welcome back to another episode of A New Life in Italy! I'm your host, Samantha Wilson, and today we dive into the fascinating world of Italian wine, a vital part of Italy's heritage. I share a bit about my own journey to Italy, where I initially planned to retire and explore every Italian wine.
In this episode, I introduce you to Ashwin Mathia, a charismatic wine expert and the host of the Instagram account "Unpinned Wine." Ashwin, a self-described "recovering sommelier," joins us to discuss his unique approach to making wine accessible and enjoyable for everyone. He shares his personal journey from Chennai, India, to Atlanta, Georgia, and finally to Florence, Italy, where he now resides.
Ashwin explains the cultural differences between wine appreciation in Italy and the U.S., emphasizing how wine is deeply integrated into Italian life. We also discuss some of our favorite Italian wine varieties, including Sangiovese, Nebbiolo, and Nero d'Avola, and what makes them special.
Ashwin's story of moving to Italy is particularly inspiring. He recounts how a chance meeting with Tuscan winemakers in Washington, D.C., led him and his wife to spend significant time in Italy, eventually deciding to move here permanently.
For those interested in learning more about wine, you need to check out Ashwins course "Unpinned," which aims to demystify wine and make it accessible to everyone. I have seen the course and it's amazing and only $3.99 a month!
Thank you for tuning in! If you have any questions about moving to Italy, feel free to send us a voicemail at our website, smartmoveitaly.com/podcast. Don't forget to rate and leave a review if you enjoyed this episode. Ciao for now!
Resources:
Unpinned Instagram
Unpinned Course
Rate, Review, & Follow
If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.
Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!
Until next time!
Ci vediamo!
Mentioned in this episode:
Sentire Media Website
Today I’ll be filling you in on the enticing opportunities Italy is offering to foreigners and locals, including the NEW incentive for homebuyers in qualiying mountain towns in Tuscany.
Get ready to uncover initiatives like one-euro homes, tax regimes, and town rejuvenation projects designed to make your Italian dream a reality.
Learn about the financial benefits and practical steps to take advantage of these offers, from picturesque villages helping pay for property to tax regimes for new residents.
I’ll be setting the record straight on the details and misinformation surrounding these initiatives, guiding you to get inspired and decide if Italy’s special deals are right for you.
The links mentioned throughout the episode are listed below. Tune in to explore the possibilities!
Resources
Residentialità in Montagna 2024 in Tuscany
MIni PIA Tourism-Integrated Facilitation Packages
PIA Integrated Facilitation Programs
7% Flat Tax Books
Rate, Review, & Follow
If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.
Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!
Until next time!
Ci vediamo!
Mentioned in this episode:
Sentire Media Website
In this episode of A New Life in Italy, we dive deep into the evolving landscape of the Digital Nomad Visa (DNV) in Italy. Since our last discussion on this topic, there have been significant updates and developments that are crucial for anyone considering this lifestyle.
I share these important updates that impact:
We also have a special guest, Kristen Wilson from Traveling with Kristen, who shares her extensive experience as a digital nomad.
Resources
Digital Nomad Visa Information
Travelling with Kristin Youtube
Badass Digital Nomads Podcast
Rate, Review, & Follow
If you loved this episode and want to hear more, please consider rating and reviewing my show! This helps me support more people — just like you — to move toward their new life in Italy and live the life they deserve.
Tap to rate with five stars, and select “Write a Review.” Then be sure to let me know what you loved most about the episode!
Also, if you haven’t done so already, follow the podcast. I’m adding new episodes every week and, if you’re not following, there’s a good chance you’ll miss out. Follow now!
If you want to learn more about ways that my team and I can help you live your dream life in Italy, visit us at www.smartmoveitaly.com or send me an email!
Until next time!
Ci vediamo!
Mentioned in this episode:
Sentire Media Website
The forgotten way to save money on your move and life in Italy. In this episode of "A New Life in Italy," I dived into the crucial topic of budgeting and how currency fluctuations can make a major impact on your cash flow.
Together with my special guest Rachel Canales from GC Partners, we explore how smart financial planning, particularly in handling the shift from your home currency to the euro, can significantly impact your budget.
I discuss the differenced between online banks and Italian banks, and how you can bridge the gap between arrival and settling in.
Are you ready to start saving money? Let's get started!
Resources:
Wise Online Bank
GC Partners (open a free account)
If you have any questions about moving to Italy, feel free to send us a voicemail ! Thanks for listening, and ciao for now!
Mentioned in this episode:
Sentire Media Website
The podcast currently has 39 episodes available.
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