A New Life in Italy

Thinking about retiring to Italy in 2026? Before you sell everything and book the one-way ticket, this episode is your reality check.In this episode of A New Life in Italy, Samantha Wilson breaks down what she would personally do right now if she were planning a retirement move to Italy from scratch today.Not the fantasy version.Not the Instagram version.And definitely not the “figure it out later” version.After a recent situation where a client became completely derailed by misinformation they read online about the Elective Residency Visa, Samantha dives into one of the biggest hidden challenges people face during this process: panic, overwhelm, and emotionally reacting to bad information.Inside this episode:• The real financial conversations you need to have before applying for the ERV• Why passive income matters more than savings• The exact spreadsheet Samantha would create before planning a move• Why waiting another year could actually protect your dream• The “February Test” every retiree should do before choosing where to live• Why renting first may save you financially and emotionally• The biggest mistakes people make after reading Facebook advice• How misinformation creates panic and bad decision-making• The practical documents you should begin preparing now• Why Italy is not just a lifestyle move in the beginning… it’s an administrative project• How to prepare emotionally, financially, and realistically for life in Italy long termIf you have been researching the Elective Residency Visa, the 7% tax regime, retiring in Italy, or simply wondering if your dream is still realistic… this episode is for you.This is not about fear.It’s about creating a move that actually survives real life.Questions answered in this episode include:• How much passive income do I realistically need for the Elective Residency Visa?• Can investments count toward the ERV?• Should I rent or buy first in Italy?• Is the 7% tax regime really worth it?• What are the biggest mistakes retirees make when moving to Italy?• How do I avoid misinformation and panic online?Want more help planning your move to Italy?Visit Smart Move Italy for resources, support, consultations, and guidance for visas, relocation, property, and retirement planning in Italy.Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website

Well hello there, and welcome back to another episode of A New Life in Italy. I’m your host, Samantha Wilson.Today’s episode is one of those that might completely change how you see Italy.Because if you’ve ever tried to apply for a visa, buy a home, or deal with a comune… and walked away thinking “what is going on here?”… you are not alone.So today we are unpacking why Italy feels so complicated and what is actually happening behind the scenes.This episode is for anyone who is planning a move to Italy, already living here, or feeling stuck in the process and wondering if they’re doing something wrong.My goal with this episode is to give you a completely new lens so you can stop fighting the system… and start understanding how to work with it.So whether you are just starting to explore your move or already deep in the process, you are in the right place. Let’s get into it.In this episode, we break down one of the most misunderstood parts of living in Italy… the system itself.You’ll learn why Italy, despite being a major global country, often behaves like a collection of small communities.We talk about:Why Italy feels slow, fragmented, and sometimes inconsistentThe historical reason behind regional differences and local decision-makingThe “Calimero mindset” and how it shapes how decisions are madeWhy you rarely get a straight answer and what that actually meansHow bureaucracy, property, and visa processes really work behind the scenesMost importantly, we shift the way you approach Italy so you can move through it with more ease, more confidence, and far less frustration.Because this is not about finding the perfect checklist.It’s about understanding the environment you’re operating in.And once you do that…Everything changes.If Italy has ever made you feel confused, stuck, or like you’re doing something wrong… this episode is your reset.Italy is not broken.It’s not disorganized.It’s operating exactly as it was designed… shaped by history, local identity, and a culture of negotiation over control.And when you understand that, you can:Ask better questionsBuild the right relationshipsStay flexible in your approachAnd ultimately… get where you want to goIf you’re planning your move to Italy and want support navigating visas, property, or the relocation process, this is exactly what we do every day at Smart Move Italy.And if this episode helped you see things differently, make sure to follow the show and share it with someone who needs to hear this.Because the more you understand Italy…the easier it becomes to build your life here.Audience Questions SegmentWhy does my visa process look completely different from someone else’s, even when we’re applying for the same thing?How do I know which information to trust when I’m getting different answers from the consulate, the comune, and online?Is there a way to speed things up in Italy, or is it really just about patience?Why does it feel like things only move forward when you know the right person?How do I handle being told “no” when I’ve seen someone else get a “yes”?RESOURCES: Smart Move Italy Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website Sentire Media Website

Thinking about moving to Italy but not planning to retire?Then at some point, probably soon, you'll face the question: what am I actually going to do for work?In this episode of A New Life in Italy, Samantha Wilson sits down with Aisling, an Irish expat who moved to Italy, changed careers in her late 30s, and built a successful freelance business teaching English to corporate clients.If you’ve ever considered teaching English in Italy, freelancing, or starting over in a new country, this episode gives you a real, honest look at what it actually takes.Because the truth is… it’s not just about speaking English.It’s about qualifications, bureaucracy, relationships, and building something sustainable over time.Aisling shares her 10-year journey from working in the arts in Ireland to teaching business English in Milan, and eventually creating a flexible, location-independent career from her home in Tuscany.You’ll learn how she got started, what surprised her most about working in Italy, and why relationships matter more than resumes in the Italian business world.This episode is essential listening if you are planning your move to Italy and want to understand how to realistically support yourself once you arrive.What You’ll Learn in This Episode:How to teach English in Italy and what qualifications you actually needThe difference between working for a language school and freelancingHow to set up a freelance business in Italy, including Partita IVAWhy you need a commercialista and how taxes work for freelancersHow to find clients in Italy and why networking is everythingThe reality of Italian bureaucracy when starting a businessHow long it takes to build a stable income as an expatWhy business English is one of the biggest opportunities in ItalyHow COVID changed remote work opportunities across the countryWhat it really takes to build a sustainable career in ItalyWho This Episode Is For:Anyone planning to move to Italy and needing to workExpats considering teaching English in ItalyFreelancers and remote workers looking to relocate to ItalyPeople changing careers later in life and starting over abroadListeners who want a realistic view of working and living in ItalyResources Mentioned:Aisling’s book: Freelance English Teaching in Italy: How to Find High-Paying Clients and Build a Sustainable CareerIf you’re serious about moving to Italy and want expert guidance on visas, relocation, or building your life here, you’ll find everything you need at Smart Move Italy.And if this episode helped you, make sure to follow the podcast and share it with someone who’s dreaming about their own life in Italy.Because this move is possible… when you know how to do it right.Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website APP LinkSentire Media Website

Have you ever noticed something strange when you visit Italy?You eat pasta.You eat bread.You eat pizza.And somehow… you feel better.People say this to me all the time. The bread doesn’t bother their stomach. The pasta doesn’t leave them bloated. They feel healthier even though they feel like they’re eating more.So what’s going on?In this episode of A New Life in Italy, Samantha talks with Dr. Anna Toker, a board certified colorectal surgeon with nearly 30 years of experience studying digestive health. Dr. Toker recently traveled to Italy to explore why people here eat foods many people fear, yet still maintain better gut health and longevity. Dr. Anna Toker-transcriptTogether they explore the real reasons behind the “Italy effect” including slower meals, better ingredients, smaller portions, more walking, and less stress around food.You’ll learn why the Mediterranean lifestyle may be just as important as the Mediterranean diet and why slowing down might be the most powerful ingredient of all.Listener Q&AAt the end of the episode Samantha answers three listener questions:• What surprised you most the first time you visited Italy?• Should you rent or buy when you first move to Italy?• What is one mistake people make when planning their move?If you’ve ever wondered why food feels different in Italy, this episode explains why.Resources MentionedDr. Anna Toker: Find her insights and educational content on Instagram and online.Connect with Smart Move ItalyIf you’re dreaming about your own new life in Italy, Smart Move Italy can help guide you through the process.From visas and relocation planning to buying property in Italy, the team works with people from around the world who are ready to start their next chapter here.Subscribe to A New Life in ItalyIf you enjoy the show, be sure to follow and subscribe so you never miss an episode.And if you know someone who dreams about living in Italy, share this episode with them.Because sometimes the journey to a new life begins with one small idea… and a great conversation.Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website APP LinkSentire Media Website APP Link

No one really talks about this until it happens to you. You wake up sick in Italy and suddenly everything feels heavier. New system. New language. New rules. And a lot of what you think you know about healthcare no longer applies.In this episode, Samantha records in real time, still in pajamas and actively sick, to walk you through what actually happens when you get sick in Italy. Not the official version. Not the perfect government website version. The real life, boots on the ground experience.This is a must listen if you already live in Italy, are planning a move, or spend extended time here and quietly wonder what you would do if you got sick. Where do you go first. Who do you call. Do you need insurance. Can the pharmacy really help. And how do you explain what is wrong when your brain is foggy and Italian is not your first language.You will learn how the Italian healthcare system works in practice, why the pharmacy is often your first stop, when to see a doctor, when to avoid the emergency room, and how to stay calm when everything feels unfamiliar. Samantha also shares what it is like dealing with COVID in Italy right now and why the approach here feels very different than what many people remember from past years.The goal of this episode is simple. To help you feel calmer, more prepared, and less afraid of the what ifs. Getting sick abroad does not mean you are alone. It just means the system works differently.What You Will Learn in This EpisodeHow healthcare in Italy actually works at a high levelWhy the pharmacy is your first line of care and how pharmacists help diagnose and treat symptomsWhich common medications in Italy match what you may know from homeWhen to see a doctor and the difference between public and private careHow much private doctor visits typically cost and how fast you can be seenHow emergency rooms work in Italy and when to go to the pronto soccorsoWhat COVID looks like in Italy right now and how cases are managedHow to handle language barriers when you are sick and stressedWhy rest is taken very seriously in Italy and how that mindset affects recoveryWho This Episode Is ForPeople already living in ItalyAnyone planning a move to ItalyLong term visitors or digital nomadsAnyone nervous about healthcare abroadAnyone who wants to feel prepared before something goes wrongListener Questions Mentioned in This EpisodeIs it better to rent first or buy right away when moving to ItalyHow do you know if a small town is livable year round and not just great for vacationsWhat is the one thing people should have figured out before moving to Italy to make the transition smootherIf this episode helped you, save it for later, share it with someone planning a move, or send it to a friend who worries about healthcare abroad. And if you are listening while sick, this is your reminder to slow down, rest, and trust that you are not missing anything.New episodes every week.www.smartmoveitaly.com Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website APP LinkSentire Media Website

How much does it really cost to move to Italy?In this episode, we break down the real cost of moving to Italy so you can understand what to expect financially and emotionally before making a big decision. Not the Instagram version. Not extreme worst case scenarios you find online. Real numbers, real planning, and the real life behind the move.In the first episode of Season 4 of A New Life in Italy, Samantha Wilson walks you through the true costs of relocating to Italy, including one time moving expenses, ongoing monthly living costs, visa and immigration fees, housing setup, and the hidden cost offsets many people overlook. We also talk honestly about the financial and emotional cost of staying where you are.This episode is not about convincing you to move to Italy or pushing you toward a timeline. It’s about replacing fear and overwhelm with clarity, so you can decide if moving to Italy makes sense for your life, your finances, and your future.If you’ve been dreaming about Italy but feeling stuck in the planning phase, this episode will help you see the full picture and take your next step with confidence.Links and ResourcesDownload the companion workbook for this episode to walk through the numbers calmly and clearly at your own pace. You’re not making decisions today. You’re gathering information so you can move forward with confidence when the time is right.Visit Smart Move Italy Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website APP LinkSentire Media Website APP Link

In this episode, I’m breaking down what’s really happening in Italy’s rental market right now — the good, the bad, and the red flags you need to know before you commit to a property.More people are searching for rentals from outside Italy than ever before, and with that has come a noticeable rise in scams, misleading listings, and contracts that can’t support residency. While there are absolutely excellent properties, owners, and agencies out there, there are also situations where things aren’t what they seem. My goal in this episode is to help you understand the current landscape so you can rent safely and confidently.I walk through the most common issues I’m seeing: listings that look legitimate but don’t exist, owners who aren’t legally authorized to rent, properties that can’t be used for residency, and contracts that fall outside the protections of Italian law. I also explain why certain contract types — like transitorio, 3+2, and 4+4 — offer real legal security, and why anything outside of those structures can put you at risk.I share examples of what’s going wrong for people right now, especially renters searching from abroad who are relying on photos alone, skipping contract registration, or trusting AI tools to review legal documents. These are simple mistakes, but they’re costing people money, time, and in some cases, their ability to secure residency.My goal isn’t to scare you (safe, legal rentals do exist), but to make sure you understand how the market is shifting and what that means for you. With the right steps, you can protect your money, your residency process, and your peace of mind.I also answer listener questions on suitability certificates, converting tourist contracts to long-term leases, and whether short-term rentals can be used for residency.If you’re planning to rent in Italy next year, this episode will give you the clarity and confidence you need to do it the right way.Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website APP LinkSentire Media Website

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I, Samantha Wilson, explain why a visa is much more than just an entry ticket—it’s your first step toward long-term residency, EU rights, and even Italian citizenship.I start by breaking down the role of a visa: it gives you official permission to enter Italy for purposes like retirement, work, study, or family reunification. But a visa is just the first step. Once you arrive, you apply for a permesso di soggiorno (permit to stay), which allows you to legally remain in Italy. After that, you can register your residenza (residency), which is necessary for accessing benefits like healthcare, banking, and other local services.From there, I outline the main paths toward citizenship. Marriage to an Italian citizen can shorten the timeline to as little as two years of residency. For others, changes in the law now allow certain residents with Italian ancestors (either a parent or grandparent) to apply for citizenship after just two years, rather than three. I also cover the five-year milestone, when you can apply for an EU long-term residence permit, giving you rights similar to Italian citizens, including healthcare and work across Europe.Finally, I discuss the long-term path to full Italian citizenship after ten years of continuous residency, including the requirements for language, taxes, and documentation. While it’s a lengthy process, it’s achievable for anyone committed to living in Italy.Throughout the episode, I show how different visa types can be used strategically to move from temporary permission to established life in Italy. I also answer listener questions about working remotely on a tourist visa, the importance of learning Italian, and how buying property can impact your visa and residency status.Listen in to learn how your visa can open the door to stability, community, and the life you’ve been dreaming of in Italy.Resources:Download the Visa GuidebookRate, 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!

In this episode of A New Life in Italy, I’m pulling back the curtain on what really happens after you get your Elective Residency Visa. Everyone celebrates when that visa finally arrives in their passport — and rightfully so. It’s a huge accomplishment. But here’s the thing most people don’t realize: getting the visa is just the beginning. The real adventure (and sometimes, the real frustration) starts once you land in Italy.I talk about that mix of excitement and nerves when you first arrive, ready to start your new Italian life, and then — boom — you’re faced with your first big task: applying for your permesso di soggiorno, the permit of stay. You’ve got just eight calendar days to get that process started, and it’s not exactly straightforward. I walk you through what to do, where to go, what forms to fill out, and how to avoid the common mistakes that slow people down.I also share some of my favorite insider tips, like why you’ll definitely want an Italian SIM card before you start any of this, and why you should keep a copy of absolutely everything. Then there’s the waiting — because once you’ve submitted your application, you’ll likely be in bureaucratic limbo for a while. I explain what that means for travel, residency registration, and access to everyday services while you wait for your appointment at the Questura.When that appointment finally arrives, I prepare you for what to expect — the fingerprinting, the long lines, and the follow-up steps that lead to getting your actual permit card. Patience is key here, and I share a few stories (and lessons learned) from clients who’ve been through it.After you’ve got your permesso di soggiorno, the next step is registering your residency at your local comune. This is what officially makes you a resident of Italy and allows you to do things like access healthcare and open a bank account. I go over what documents you’ll need and what might happen if the local police do a home visit to verify your address.Finally, we dive into Italy’s public healthcare system — how to enroll, what it costs, and how to choose your family doctor. This is one of those moments where it really starts to feel real: you’re not just visiting Italy anymore, you’re living here.Throughout the episode, I share real stories and practical advice from people who’ve walked this same path — the mistakes, the surprises, and the wins. My goal is to help you feel prepared, supported, and a little more patient with the process.So join me for this episode of A New Life in Italy as we explore what truly happens after you get your visa — and how to make sure your first year in Italy goes as smoothly as possible.Resources:Smart Move Italy Residency Assistance 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 LinkSentire Media Website APP LinkSentire Media Website

You don’t have to move to Italy to start living like an Italian.In today’s episode of A New Life in Italy podcast, I’m joined by Amy Lamparelli, travel planner and founder of Away to Italy. Amy has created a step-by-step approach to planning a trip that’s just right for you—one that also embraces the art of slow travel.This topic resonates with countless people, and struggling to put slow travel into practice is completely understandable. For many, Italy is a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and of course you want to see all the famous sights. But whether you’re visiting once, returning many times, or even relocating here, there’s a way to balance must-see places with those priceless, everyday, authentic Italian moments. Amy explains it beautifully and brings over 30 years of experience in Italy. And as you’ll hear in this episode, she even purchased a home in Lucca—sight unseen—after taking a virtual property tour during the pandemic. That’s how deep her love for Italy runs, and it’s the same feeling that brought Away to Italy to life. By the end, you’ll be inspired to rethink your travel strategies and consider how to bring the principles of slow travel into your own Italian adventures. Whether you’re planning your first trip or returning for another, this episode is packed with insights to help you connect more deeply with Italy and the Italian culture. Join us as we explore the art of slow travel and discover how to truly feel Italy, rather than just see it. Don’t forget to check out Amy’s resources via the links below for more tips and inspo on planning your own authentic Italian journey. And stay tuned until the end for answers to listener questions! Alla prossima,Samantha ResourcesAway to Italy WebsiteAway to Italy InstagramDiscover Your Italy Travel Style QuizItaly Unrushed EbookMentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website APP LinkAPP LinkSentire Media Website

Ciao, friend—and welcome back.This week’s episode is a special one, because it follows our biggest event of the year—the Move to Italy Bootcamp. Thousands of you joined me, and let me tell you... reading your stories, your fears, your dreams—it reminded me of something I say all the time: moving to Italy isn’t just about documents and checklists. It’s about creating a life.And if there’s one place where life in Italy truly lives, it’s the kitchen.So in this episode, I want to explore how learning to cook—like a real Italian, with your hands, your heart, and no measuring cups—can actually help you feel more connected to Italy, whether you’re already here or just starting your journey from afar.I’m joined by Teo, co-founder of Cook with Anana, a platform I absolutely adore. He and his partner Blake have been crisscrossing Italy, cooking with real Italian grandmothers—nonne—capturing their stories and their recipes before they disappear. We’re talking about dishes that haven’t changed in 80 years, made in tiny kitchens with no gadgets or gadgets or Instagram filters. Just tradition, heart, and maybe a little flour on your shirt.Teo and I talk about where this idea came from, how food connects us to the past, and why even if you’ve never made pasta from scratch in your life, you can still learn to cook like a nonna.And here’s the best part—if you’re a member of A New Life in Italy, you now get 3 free months inside Cook with Anana. Because starting a new life in Italy? It begins with the stories we carry and the food we share.This episode is soulful, funny, and full of flavor. Let’s dig in.Resources:A New Life in Italy 2025 Join Now! (doors close on September 17, 2025)Cook with Anana Mentioned in this episode:APP LinkSentire Media Website Sentire Media Website APP Link

Ciao a tutti and welcome back to A New Life in Italy podcast! With today’s special topic and guest, it’s only fair that we bring some Italian words (parole) into the mix.Have you ever wondered how to combine travel with language learning? And have you fallen for the myth that there’s an age limit when it comes to effective language learning? Well, keep reading, because in just a moment, you’ll not only gain insight, but also encouragement.After all, learning Italian isn’t about achieving perfection. It’s about making connections!To help us navigate this discussion, Michele from The Intrepid Guide (a travel and language expert) joins us. Michele shares her insights on how to combine travel with language learning, unlocking memorable, authentic experiences. We discuss the importance of learning even basic Italian phrases to enhance your experience in Italy, making you feel more integrated into the community (comunità). Michele also shares her personal story, highlighting her Italian heritage and her journey to learn the language after the passing of her grandfather. She emphasizes that it’s never too late to start learning, and many of her students, who are older adults, find joy (gioia) in the process. We explore practical tips for language learning, including focusing on the essential vocabulary that will be most useful during your travels (viaggi). If you’re finishing up the episode, Michele and I want to remind you that learning Italian is a journey, not a race. You’ll always find something new to learn, even years down the line. Small wins—like introducing yourself or ordering a coffee—can make a big difference in your experience in Italy. In order to explore Michele’s content and courses, we’ve linked them below. Make sure to stay tuned until the end for answers to three listener questions (domande) about renting in Florence, banking for property purchases, and planning for visa applications, providing practical advice for those considering a move to Italy. Join us for this special episode designed to help you embrace the Italian language and culture, making your time in Italy unforgettable—whether you’re here for a week or for good! Links mentioned in the episode:🌐 Website: The Intrepid Guide | Intrepid Italian📸 Instagram: Michele Frolla | Italian Teacher 🎥 Youtube: Intrepid Italian with Michele 📣 Move to Italy Bootcamp📲 Smart Move Italy AppRate, Review, & FollowIf 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 other 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!  Mentioned in this episode:Sentire Media Website APP LinkAPP LinkSentire Media Website