Episodios

  • Don't Lose Your Dream House Over a Wire Transfer
    Jul 9 2025

    Ciao friends — it’s Samantha, and in this episode of A New Life in Italy, we’re talking about something that no one tells you enough about when buying property in Italy: how to actually move your money… without losing your mind, your deal, or your savings.

    You’ve probably been dreaming about that hilltop farmhouse or beachy little pied-à-terre. You find the one, make the offer… and boom. Things get real. Fast.

    But here’s the thing: Italy isn’t going to sit around and wait while your bank tries to figure out how to send euros across the ocean. If you don’t plan ahead, you could miss out entirely. I’ve seen it happen—more than once.

    In this episode, I sit down with my go-to currency expert Rachel Canalis from GC Partners. She’s helped tons of our clients transfer big sums securely, quickly, and—bonus—usually with a way better exchange rate than their bank.

    We share some real-life stories, including one (ouch) where a couple lost their dream home in Umbria because their money didn’t land in time. Spoiler: their bank caused all the drama, and the backup buyer got the house.

    Rachel and I talk about what to do instead—like opening a currency account early, locking in your exchange rate, and working with someone who actually knows the process inside and out. We also cover how to handle deposits if you don’t have an Italian bank account (hint: your notaio can help with that), and why compliance checks are no joke when sending large international transfers.


    If you’re even thinking about buying property in Italy, this is the stuff that will save you time, stress, and possibly thousands of euros. I promise, it’s not just boring money talk—this is the behind-the-scenes stuff that makes or breaks your dream.


    So grab your espresso, and let’s talk about how to avoid the currency traps and get those keys in your hand—with confidence.


    Ciao for now! 🇮🇹✨


    Resources

    GC Partners Free Account


    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!

    Download the Smart Move Italy App available in iOS and Android.

    Until next time!

    Ci vediamo!

    Mentioned in this episode:

    Sentire Media Website

    APP Link

    Sentire Media Website

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    44 m
  • Stop! Don’t Move to Italy This Summer—Do This Instead
    Jun 25 2025

    Hey there, it’s Samantha!

    In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m digging into something that surprises a lot of people: why summer is actually one of the worst times to start your move to Italy—and what you should be doing instead.

    I know, I know… sunshine, Aperol spritzes, the dream of strolling into your new Italian life with sunglasses and gelato in hand—it all sounds perfect. But trust me, summer is not the time to pack your bags and expect things to fall into place. It’s the time to prep, not pounce.


    Let’s talk Ferragosto. It’s that magical (and maddening) stretch in August when Italy basically hits pause. Offices shut down, real estate agents disappear, and even the most basic bureaucratic tasks suddenly become impossible. In the episode, I share the story of a lovely Canadian family who learned this the hard way—they tried to move in August and ran straight into a wall of closed doors (literally and figuratively). It was chaos.


    So, what should you do instead?


    Summer is your secret weapon for getting organized. I walk you through three essential things to focus on right now:

    1. Gather your documents
    2. Decide which visa path is right for you
    3. Set a realistic budget (because spoiler: Italy is dreamy, but it still comes with bills)


    I also break down the 7 Key Decisions you’ll need to make to move to Italy successfully—things like where to live, whether to rent or buy, how to support yourself, and more. If you’re feeling stuck or overwhelmed, this episode is going to help you slow down and get strategic.


    You’ll also hear me answer some great listener questions—about the timing of visa applications, whether summer scouting trips are worth it (they are!), and how to gear up for a September start when everything in Italy comes back to life.


    If you’re dreaming of Italy, now’s the time to start planning—not panicking.


    🎁 And don’t forget to grab your free guide:


    The Seven Key Decisions to Plan Your Move to Italy


    This checklist is your roadmap to turning “someday” into a real, doable plan.

    So pour yourself a cold spritz, take a breath, and let’s get planning.


    Ciao for now!

    — Samantha



    Resources:

    Download the 7 Key Decisions Free Guidebook

    Book a Tax Evaluation Call

    Listen to Episode Save Money On Your Move to Italy

    Numbeo Cost of Living Tool

    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

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    22 m
  • How Fast Can I Move to Italy
    Jun 11 2025

    How Fast Can You Really Move to Italy? Let’s Talk Timing.

    Hey there, it’s Samantha! If you’ve ever found yourself wondering how soon can I actually move to Italy?—this episode is for you.

    I’m diving into what the timing really looks like depending on your situation. Whether you’re dreaming of moving in six months… or six days, I break down the fastest paths (and the not-so-fast ones), so you know what to expect.

    If you’ve got Italian or EU citizenship, good news—you’re already ahead of the game. But even then, there are things to think about, especially if you’re moving with a non-EU spouse or partner. You’ll still need a home lined up and documents like the idoneità alloggitiva before you pack your bags.

    For everyone else, I walk through visa options—like the Elective Residency Visa, which can be surprisingly quick if your finances are straightforward. I also explain why the Investor Visa might be a smart (and fast) alternative, especially since you don’t need to secure housing before applying.

    Then, we shift gears and talk about the slower routes—like the Digital Nomad Visa or Student Visa—where bureaucracy can drag things out. I share what to avoid, what to prepare early, and why August and December might not be the best times to make your big move.

    And of course, I answer your questions—about property, visas, documents, and all the nitty-gritty you’ve been asking me in emails, DMs, and calls.

    So if Italy’s calling and you’re trying to figure out how soon you can answer, this episode will give you a clear roadmap. Grab a notebook and let’s walk through it together.

    Ciao for now!

    —Samantha

    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!

    Download the Smart Move Italy App available in iOS and Android.

    Until next time!

    Ci vediamo!


    Mentioned in this episode:

    APP Link

    Sentire Media Website

    Sentire Media Website

    APP Link

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    36 m
  • My Favorite Things — Life in Italy Edition
    Jun 4 2025
    Ciao! It’s Samantha, and in this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m sharing my personal favorites — the tools, places, and little life-savers that make living in Italy easier, more beautiful, and a lot more fun.From my go-to Italian language teachers to where I escape the summer heat (spoiler: not Florence), the restaurants I return to again and again, and even the apps I use daily — this episode is full of real, honest recommendations. No sponsors, no affiliates — just what I actually love and use.I’ll also talk about how I shop for furniture, which real estate sites I trust, and why the Smart Move Italy app is always open on my phone. Plus, I answer your questions about healthcare, taxes, and budgeting for a home here.Grab a coffee and join me — this one’s all about making life in Italy a little smoother, a little tastier, and a lot more fun.Ciao for now!SamResources:Download the Smart Move Italy APPMy Favorite Language TeachersLorella Frederico (Private Italian teacher)Italy Made Easy (Language membership)Italian Matters (Language courses)My Favorite ServicesSubito (Italian craigslist)Pronto Pro (Italian Angies list)Facile (Insurance)My Favorite FurnitureMaison du Monde (furniture)Westwing (furniture)Redute (furniture)Tikamoon (furniture)My Favorite Places to EatL’Ortone (Florence where to eat)Osteria Merlo (Cetona where to eat)Newbridge Pizza (Florence pizza)Ristorante Cateni (Orgia where to eat)Vanelli (Best cappuccino)Trattoria Toscana (Cortona where to eat)La Loggetta (Cortona where to eat)La Puntabella (Best Veggie Lago Trasimeno)Sotto Vento (Seafood Passignano)U Curdunn (Locorotondo Puglia - must go!)La Tavernetta (San Teodoro Sardegna where to eat)My Favorite Sites for Real Estate
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    37 m
  • You Got the Visa—But Can Your Family Come Too?
    May 21 2025

    In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m diving into a question I get all the time from clients, members, and listeners: “If I get the Digital Nomad Visa… can I bring my spouse? What about my kids?”

    The short answer? Yes—you can.

    But (you knew there’d be a but, right?)… it’s not always as straightforward as people expect.

    So today, I’m walking you through what it really looks like to bring your family with you when you’re making the move to Italy on a Digital Nomad Visa. We’ll talk about what’s possible, what the law says, and what you can actually do to keep your family together during the move.

    I’ll break down what qualifies as a family member in Italy’s eyes (spoiler: you need to be legally married or in a registered civil union—common-law relationships don’t count here). And I’ll explain the difference between bringing children versus bringing a spouse, especially now that Italy has introduced a two-year wait for spouses under family cohesion. Yep, that’s new—and not great—but there is a workaround.

    I’ll walk you through the steps you need to follow, like:

    • Getting your own Digital Nomad Visa approved first
    • Securing a long-term lease in Italy
    • Applying for the Nulla Osta (a critical clearance document)
    • And gathering all the paperwork—like marriage certificates, birth certificates, and apostilles—that you’ll need to submit on your family’s behalf

    I also talk about some of the real challenges people face once they’re in Italy—like how different every Questura (immigration office) is, and why that can seriously affect your timeline. It’s one of those things no one tells you about until you’re already in it, so I’m telling you now.

    And of course, I answer some of your listener questions—like whether your spouse can work on the family visa, what happens if you're not married, and how the process looks different for other visas like the Elective Residency Visa.

    This episode is packed with the practical, behind-the-scenes info you need to make sure you’re not caught off guard. If you’re planning to move to Italy and want to bring your partner or kids, this episode will help you plan it the right way—without the panic, delays, or unnecessary heartache.

    So grab a coffee, maybe a notebook, and let’s get into what it really takes to move to Italy with your family. You don’t have to do it alone—we’re here to help every step of the way.

    Ciao for now!

    — Samantha

    Resources

    The Family Visa

    Smart Move Italy


    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

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    26 m
  • Buying a Home in Italy (Without Losing Your Mind)
    May 7 2025

    Ciao friends—Samantha here!

    In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m taking you behind the scenes of one of the biggest (and most confusing) decisions you can make when moving to Italy: buying a home.

    If you’ve ever found yourself endlessly scrolling through dreamy Italian property listings online and thinking, “I’ll just message the agent and go from there,”—I’m going to stop you right there. Because the truth? The buying process in Italy isn’t as simple—or as straightforward—as it might be in your home country. But don’t worry, I’m breaking it all down for you step-by-step.

    We’ll talk about:

    • How to properly search for property without falling into the “perfect listing” trap
    • What really happens during negotiations (hint: it's not always quick or clear-cut)
    • Why having your own representation is not just helpful—it’s essential
    • What to expect at the final deed signing, and what comes after you get the keys

    And to make it even more real, I’m joined by one of our wonderful clients—and now friend—Sarah Wheeldon, a fellow Canadian who made the leap and bought her dream home in Pitigliano. You might’ve seen her on our YouTube channel, but today you’ll hear the full story: the highs, the nerves, the lessons, and what life is like now that she’s living in the home she once imagined.

    We also tackle some common myths (like “It’s cheap!”—well, not always), some behind-the-scenes truths (like what happens when the listing is no longer available), and how to avoid wasting time or money on your buying trip.

    If you’re dreaming about buying a home in Italy—whether it’s now or five years from now—this episode is full of insights to help you plan smarter and feel more confident.

    And if you want support through the process? You know where to find us—SmartMoveItaly.com 💛

    Ciao for now!

    — Samantha

    Resources:

    Property Purchase Assistance BOOK A CALL

    Episode 44 How to plan a perfect buying trip

    Episode 18 How to save money with currency exchange

    Dott Simone Magherini (Senior Commercialista)

    Mentioned in this episode:

    APP Link

    Sentire Media Website

    Sentire Media Website

    APP Link

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    54 m
  • Why Moving to Italy Might Not Fix Your Life
    Apr 23 2025

    In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m getting honest about something I think too many people overlook when planning a big move: the emotional side of starting over in a new country.

    Yes, Italy is beautiful. Yes, the lifestyle shift can be amazing. But today, I want to talk about what doesn’t always make it onto Instagram—the reality of what happens when you move your entire life, your identity, and your sense of home to a place where everything is different.

    I’ve seen it time and time again: people show up full of excitement and plans, only to find themselves totally unprepared for what happens after the paperwork is done and the boxes are unpacked. The truth is, living in a new country—especially alone, or as a couple who might not be on exactly the same page—can shake up everything you thought you knew about yourself.

    In this episode, I talk about the quiet parts of this journey: the grief of leaving behind people who really knew you, the frustration of starting from zero, the moments where you second-guess whether you made the right decision. I share a story from a woman in our community who found herself unexpectedly overwhelmed with loneliness in her first Italian winter. She wasn’t expecting how hard it would be to not share a language—or a history—with anyone around her.

    But I also want to show you what’s on the other side of that discomfort. There’s something incredibly freeing about being unknown in a new place. It gives you a chance to rebuild—not from scratch, but from experience. You get to choose what you carry forward and what you let go of.

    Later in the episode, I’ll give you some practical suggestions for making the transition smoother—especially if you’re doing this solo. We’ll talk about what helps, what usually takes longer than expected, and what it really means to give yourself time and space to settle in.

    And of course, I’ll answer some listener questions too—from managing the language barrier to what timeline you should expect for feeling “at home” in Italy.

    If you're in that in-between place—planning your move, freshly landed, or a few years in but still adjusting—I hope this episode makes you feel seen. You’re not alone, and you’re not doing it wrong. You’re just finding your way.

    —Samantha

    Resources: Join our Membership

    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:

    APP Link

    Sentire Media Website

    Sentire Media Website

    APP Link

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    21 m
  • Think Italy Is Cheap? Here’s What It Actually Costs to Live Here
    Apr 16 2025

    In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m digging into one of the most common—and important—questions I get: how much does it really cost to live in Italy?

    Now, I know it’s easy to fall in love with the idea that Italy is some dreamy, budget-friendly paradise. And in many ways, it can be more affordable than other countries—but I’m here to give you the honest truth about what it actually costs to live here long term.

    We start with the big one—housing. Whether you’re buying or renting, I walk you through what to expect, the hidden costs that can sneak up on you (like deposits, agency fees, or surprise renovation needs), and why those super cheap countryside listings might not be the deal they seem.

    Then we get into the real day-to-day stuff—utilities, groceries, healthcare—the boring-but-essential pieces of everyday life. I talk about where things are surprisingly affordable (like dining out!) and where they’ll bite into your budget (hello, winter heating bills in old stone houses).

    I also break it all down by region, because yes—where you live in Italy makes a huge difference. The north tends to be pricier, while the south can offer a slower pace and smaller bills—but it also comes with trade-offs you’ll want to consider.


    Throughout the episode, I share tips to help you save (like shopping at local markets and skipping the tourist trap cafés), and also where I think it’s absolutely worth splurging. Because let's be honest—some things, like staying warm and exploring Europe while you’re here, are just worth it.


    And at the end of the episode, I answer a few listener questions, including whether you can live on €2,000 a month, what to expect in southern Italy, and a few unexpected costs that often catch people off guard.


    So if you’re thinking about making the move—or you’re in the middle of planning—it’s a good one to tune into. My goal is to help you make smart, informed choices so you can build your new life in Italy without unnecessary stress (or sticker shock).


    Resources

    Cost of living calculator

    Smart Move Italy

    Sales Calendar

    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:

    APP Link

    Sentire Media Website

    Sentire Media Website

    APP

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    35 m