The pandemic was a period of immense change for everyone globally with daily routines destroyed, jobs obliterated and relationships waned. What will tomorrow bring? Why is life worth living? Will this feeling of uncertainty ever end? For myself, while working any remote job possible to keep my mental-health in check, it was a period of self-discovery. What do I want? What is really important to me? What am I comfortable with at this stage of my life? As a single thirty-something-year-old man, living a suburban Canadian life, a soul-satisfying adventure became the optimum goal and plan.
I’ve lived abroad before, in London, England the centre of the world and gateway to countless destinations. Those 6 years were not only full of excitement and experience, but they made me into the person I am today; curious of the world, culture and language. During my time in England, I was able to travel quite extensively throughout Europe, but one country repeatedly drew me back and claimed my heart. The land of pasta, vespas, hand gestures, art, and love. Il Bel Paese; Italy. The love for Italy began quite early in my youth, obsessing over the food and stories from Ancient Rome in particular. When I first visited as an 18 year-old, retracing the steps of some of histories most incredible characters in the Roman Forum, the history and energy of the place was palpable and impactful all these centuries later. After creating memory after memory within Italy, and since being away from the country for five years, I have decided to enact a tour de force of an experience and live there for one year starting late spring 2022.
From May, I will be visiting all regions of Italy, setting up bases in a variety of hotels and Airbnb’s truly experiencing all corners and flavours of the country. I have used most of the pandemic planning first the places I want to visit and then strategising an itinerary and route that makes sense geographically, but also maximises the best weather and timing for specific regions. From Sanremo to Vicenza, Napoli to Ostuni, Tropea to Agrigento I will be taking my readers along for the ride. Sharing tips and tricks along the way, I want to really highlight Italy and its magic through my eyes and bring awareness to lesser known areas and businesses alike.
Do come with me, not only for the journey itself, but also for the planning and research before! I will offer some great tips for booking accommodation and making itineraries that positively impact any holiday planning or adventure. This will not be a whirlwind trip with lots of information in the blink of an eye that shows on your daily newsfeed, but instead an introspective and respectful recount of a culture and its immaculate sights.
Ciao for now!
D.
Something About David 