What is it really like to live in a small town in Tuscany, Italy?

We went to a small town in Tuscany, Italy thinking it would simply be another place to explore…

but what we found was something much deeper.

In this episode, I’m sharing the story of our two weeks in a quiet Italian village—the slow mornings, the familiar faces, and the unexpected feeling of being welcomed in.

If you’ve ever wondered what it’s really like to experience slow travel in Italy, or what living in a small Italian town truly feels like, this episode gives you a glimpse beyond the typical tourist experience.

Somewhere between shared meals, local conversations, and moments of stillness… something shifted.

This episode is about more than a place.

It’s about authentic travel in Italy, finding connection through culture, and what happens when you slow down enough to feel what you’ve been missing.

Follow along on my blog: https://www.trulyitaly.tours/our-next-steps

Get up to info on our moving plans on my newsletter: https://www.trulyitaly.tours/email-newsletter

Ciao tutti! In this inaugural video-style episode, I check in from home with a heartfelt update on life, Truly Italy, and the road back to Italy—this time with a husband, cats, and a lot more logistics than 2009. I share where I'm in the Italian citizenship process (through marriage), what I'm learning along the way, and why I'm building both a podcast and YouTube channel to document every step (and help others who want to do the same). I also explain why I'm postponing some trips, what’s next for my Tuscany vision, and details on an exciting new collaboration: a women’s retreat near Milan in September 2026. If you’ve ever wanted to move abroad, start over, or simply travel with more courage—this one’s for you.a presto, Kate Hamacha's website: https://www.haamacha.com/Women's Retreat September 21-25, 2026- details coming soon!Truly Sardinia: September 5-12, 2026 - https://www.trulyitaly.tours/truly-sardiniaDo you have questions or topics you want me to talk about? Email them here: katie@trulyitaly.tours

In this quick life update, I'm sharing what’s happening behind the scenes with Florence & Me and Truly Italy.

I talk about my Italian citizenship process (through marriage), the real steps of preparing to move back to Italy, and what you can expect from the podcast + new YouTube channel—short, honest videos documenting the journey.

I also open up about postponing some 2026 trips, why Tuscany remains my “signature” focus, and a new women’s retreat collaboration planned for September 2026 near Milan.

Expect practical updates, encouragement for anyone dreaming of taking the leap to Italy, and plenty of candid side notes—cats, budgeting, and all.

A presto!

Kate

Hamacha's website: https://www.haamacha.com/

Women's Retreat September 21-25, 2026- details coming soon!

Truly Sardinia: September 5-12, 2026 - https://www.trulyitaly.tours/truly-sardinia

Do you have questions or topics you want me to talk about? Email them here: katie@trulyitaly.tours

Both are correct. Here's a short episode on how to order a caffe' decaffeinato. :)

Enjoy!

Do you have questions or topics you want me to talk about? Email them here: katie@trulyitaly.tours

Is an authentic trip to Italy calling your name?

Here are our Truly Italy Experience in 2026.

June 6-14, 2026 - ⁠Truly Tuscany ⁠

September 5-12, 2026 - ⁠Truly Sardinia ⁠

a presto,

Kate

Yes, I've been on radio silent all summer. Nothing to worry about. Listen how I'm changing course and learning how to keep Truly Italy and Italy in my heart day by day.

Also anyone who wants to connect with me regarding just talking about italy, reminiscing about your study abroad days, or the time you living in Italy for a year, I'd love to hear from you.

In the meantime, what do you think about our plan???

You got to listen to find out. :)

Join me on a Truly Italy Experience in 2026.

June 6-14, 2026 - Truly Tuscany

September 5-12, 2026 - Truly Sardinia

a presto,

Kate

In this heartfelt episode, Katie Portanova shares her deep connection to Florence, Italy, exploring her journey from a visitor to a local resident.

She reflects on the transformative moments that shaped her experience, the importance of slowing down, and the friendships that enriched her life.

Katie emphasizes the difference between being a traveler and a tourist, advocating for authentic experiences that foster genuine connections with the culture and people of Italy.

She invites listeners to consider joining her in future travel experiences that prioritize meaningful interactions over mere sightseeing.

Join Katie on a Truly Italy Experience in 2026.

Truly Tuscany Experience June 6-14, 2026

Truly Sardinia Sailing Experience September 5-12, 2026

One of my fave restaurants in Florence: I Mangiarino

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In the states we know how to multi-task way too much. In Italy, wasting time is an art. Spending time with friends is a gift. Lingering at lunch is pure joy.

Listen to why I still wish wasting time was in my every day life.

Follow me and my writings on Substack here

Be the first to know about my Travel Experiences in Tuscany & Sardinia here

Hope to see you on one of my trips soon! :)

My heart lives in all these piazze for a reason. I'm now giving you a reason to visit them.

Hope you enjoy this episode!

Want my Ultimate Tuscany Insider Guide for FREE??

Get it here: https://www.trulyitaly.tours//ultimate-tuscany-guide