After years of living in Italy, traveling through nearly every region, and building a life there, I learned that the Italy I loved most wasn't always the Italy found on the typical itinerary.
It was the long lunches. The tiny villages. The people who welcomed me into their world. The food made with stories behind it. The unexpected moments that became the ones I remembered most.
That's what I want to share with you.
Through intimate small-group journeys and thoughtfully chosen experiences, I create opportunities to slow down, connect, and experience Italy as more than a destination.
My love affair with Italy began when I was 16 and studied abroad to explore my Italian roots. I still remember arriving, meeting my host family, and realizing they didn’t speak a word of English. Thankfully, I had my Italian dictionary in hand. That first evening, they served me my very own pizza—and it was love at first sight… or should I say, bite?
Years later, after university, I returned to Europe and fell head over heels for an Italian ski instructor. One thing led to another, and I found myself falling just as hard for the Italian Alps—and eventually moving to Italy for good.
What began as a love of the country grew into a life immersed in its language, culture, food, and traditions. I became fluent in Italian, earned a Master’s in Italian Gastronomy & Tourism, traveled extensively throughout the country, and even had my own fairytale wedding in an Italian castle. (Yes, I married the ski instructor.)
Over the years, I became the person friends and family turned to when they were planning a trip to Italy. And I noticed something: the experiences I loved most weren't necessarily the ones found on a typical itinerary. They were the long lunches, the family-run restaurants, the unexpected villages, the local traditions, the conversations, and the little moments that made me feel connected to the place.
WORK WITH ME
Now based in the U.S., I bring together the knowledge, relationships, and perspective I gained from years of actually living in Italy—not simply visiting it. Through personalized trip planning and intimate small-group journeys, I help you experience an Italy that feels authentic, thoughtful, and deeply personal.
CHAT WITH NICOLE
Whether you’re dreaming about your first trip or returning to a place you already love, I’d love to hear what you have in mind. Tell me what’s calling you to Italy, and we’ll start from there.