Italy

For anyone who considers themselves a romantic, there can’t be another place in the world where you belong more than Italy. Music, theater, art, and irresistible cuisine all play a role in this beautiful European country. After having visited this historical area, some choose to call it home. Because of all it has to offer, moving to Italy seems like the logical thing to do. Whether you’re looking for sun or mountains for winter sports, there is definitely something for everyone.

There’s no question there’s work involved when you decide that moving to Italy is in the cards for you. Making a transcontinental move is a big undertaking, especially if it’s just part-time. However, droves of people do it every year due in part to the variety of climates—northern cities draw those who are looking for the Alps to offer fun and adventure for winter sports lovers, and the southern and coastal cities offer the warmth of the sun to visitors.

If you can afford it, purchasing a second home or vacation home in Italy will be worth the effort. Moving to Italy will offer you the familiarity of your home life in the U.S., but the excitement and stability of being able to vacation in your own home. There will be no more worrying about booked hotels, rental cars or where the properties are located. You’ll be able to make the trip to Italy with the peace of mind knowing that you are headed home.

Since there is such a difference in the areas of the country, you will need to choose what climate best suits your lifestyle. Also, keep in mind how important you feel it is to be near the nightlife of the bigger cities and all they have to offer. Will you be looking to purchase a single-family home or villa, or will you be more interested in a townhouse or condo which will eliminate much of your upkeep of the yard, landscape, etc. Another great option would be the timeshare. This would allow you the same property every year, but you would share the cost with others, so you would be limited as to when and how long you could vacation there.

Once you’ve found the perfect place for you, you need to think about how many items you’ll be moving from your current home. If you’re buying into a timeshare, you’ll likely not need much since they often come furnished. However, if you purchased your own property, you will need to fill your new space with items from your current home and likely blend in some Italian décor to make your home feel more Mediterranean.

Spaces are generally smaller than what you’re used to having. You’ll likely downsize much of your furniture. In addition, you will want to do some research to find out how much money you can save by purchasing items from Italy rather than having them shipped from the U.S.

In order to feel more at home in your new space, enroll in a cooking class or take Italian language classes. The more immersed you become in your new culture, the more likely you are to enjoy it. Take full advantage of local markets and shops and be adventurous in exploring the landscape. There are few places on earth that have so much to offer in one small space.

Once you’re settled in you will appreciate all of the work that went into making Italy your second home. You will find that before long, you’ll feel more relaxed and at ease and will be trying to coax others into moving to Italy, as well.