Living in Italy: 10 Years in Calabria!

So today is a pretty important day for me! I’ve been living in Italy for 10 years. That’s right, 10 years ago, I got on a plane heading to southern Italy.

10 years

I still think it’s probably one of the most insane things I’ve ever done. With two enormous (and heavy) suitcases, I flew halfway across the world with no real idea of what I was doing. But, I was ready for a change – the life-changing kind!

It doesn’t matter where you live, life is a slowly unfolding series of ups and downs with a few forks in the road to shake things up.

So, with each decision we make, life turns the page to new challenges and new experiences. And all these moments, big or small, enrich our lives becoming part of the beautiful details of our incredibly amazing life story.

That’s the remarkable beauty of life, we are constantly changing our vocabulary and writing new chapters. And 10 years ago, I started a new chapter, one that involved moving to a small city in Calabria.

Was moving to Italy difficult? At times it wasn’t easy!

Did moving to Italy change me? Definitely!

So many people say life is what happens outside your comfort zone and I whole-heartedly believe that. Living in Italy these last 10 years, I’ve faced so many things that have made me take a closer look at myself, at who I am, and who I want to be.

Have I got it all figured out yet? Absolutely not!

But, that’s okay! I don’t think we ever stop growing. This past decade has taught me so much, but, there are still a few things I need to be reminded of. I like to think that I’m a “work in progress”.

Remember Patience

I have a feeling patience is one of those things that I’ll be trying to “perfect” for a lifetime. I’m a pretty impatient person, by nature. Italians, on the other hand, love to take their time and do everything “con calma” (relaxed) because, as they see it, “andrà tutto bene” (everything will be okay). They don’t see the need to rush things and, in all honesty, most of the time they aren’t completely wrong. Sure, I still have moments when I have to remind myself to breathe and stay calm, but it seems to happen less and less. Is it possible the laid-back Italian way of thinking may actually be rubbing off on me? Maybe… just a little.

Be Confident

I’m the first to admit that I don’t give myself enough credit. But then I think back to all the things I’ve done up to this moment and I’m like “damn girl you can do anything you put your mind to”! It’s amazing to me how often we forget just how much we are capable of. Not everyone has the courage to move to another country without really knowing the language. But, with a little perseverance, I managed to find a job, learn the language, and make a life for myself here. There have been and will always be moments that aren’t going to be easy, and it’s in those moments that I need to remind myself that I’ve got this. I mean, living in Italy for 10 years is a pretty big accomplishment.

Taranto

Enjoy Life

One of the things I admire about Italians is their desire to just enjoy life. They have problems and worries just like everyone else, but they are so incredibly good at enjoying life to its fullest when the moment arises. It’s like they live for spontaneity, they are open to any interesting adventure that may come their way. I’ve learned to let go and be open to these possibilities. And as soon as you open yourself up it’s unbelievable what adventures find their way to you – like an unexpected day trip to Taranto (Puglia). In the past couple of years, I’ve begun pushing my limits more and trying new experiences. The coronavirus pandemic has put a bit of a snag in things, but I’m choosing to stay optimistic and continue making plans and preparing myself for all the wonderful adventures that I know I have ahead of me.

I don’t think I could have ever imagined that I’d be living in Italy and for this long. And even after all these years, I’m still learning so much about the country, the culture but most importantly, about myself!

I have no idea what twists and turns await me in the yet to be written chapters of my life. So, I guess the best thing to do is hop on and try to enjoy the ride for as long as I can! I know there will be challenges, heartbreak, and disappointment, but I also know there will be immense joy and unforgettable moments.

Stay tuned!

If you want to find out what I’m up to here in Calabria, you can keep up with my daily life and musings over on the Calabrisella Mia Facebook Page and Instagram!

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LuLu

Originally from Toronto but currently living in Calabria, blogging about my life and love for all things Italian!

Katia
March 14, 2021 at 11:15 am

Credo che mollare tutto per trasferirsi dall’altra parte del mondo sia una scelta forte. Scegliere di trasferirmi in un paese straniero nel mio caso è stato frutto di decisioni poco ragionate e fatte d’istinto ed è per questo che mi ritrovo nella tua frase: I still think it’s probably one of the most insane things I’ve ever done. Ma col senno di poi sono state le scelte migliori perché ho imparato tanto e sono cambiata tanto: non cambierei quelle esperienze con altro!
1. LuLu
  March 18, 2021 at 7:44 am
  
  Più tempo che passa penso che le cose che si fanno senza “se” e senza “ma” alle fine sono le cose che ti cambiano la vita nel modo più profondo. Ed e’ davvero bello incontrare altre persone con lo stesso pensiero – non siamo soli nelle nostre scelte un po’ “pazzesche”. Un bacione cara!
Ishita Sood
July 17, 2020 at 8:02 am

What a feat!! 10 years!! Congratulations Lulu. Keep striving to be better. Hope to see you in Calabria one day!
1. LuLu
  July 22, 2020 at 8:54 am
  
  Thanks, hope you can come to Calabria soon, it’s a beautiful region!
Debra Roberts
June 29, 2020 at 3:34 pm

I’ve been to Italy twice (twice to Venice and once to Mezzacorona–my great-grandparent’s birthplace). My husband and I are currently teaching ourselves Italian (he’s more dedicated than I at it and is doing very well). We have discussed going there to live for 6 months once we either retire or be able to work from home, so it will be interesting to see what happens! I’m jealous you’ve gotten to live there 10 years! That’s so awesome kudos to you!
1. LuLu
  June 30, 2020 at 5:05 pm
  
  Italy is a great place to retire and live “la dolce vita”.
Britt K
June 26, 2020 at 1:44 pm

Congratulations! I find that a lot of people have a dream of moving somewhere and chasing their dreams, but few actually follow through on it. While I didn’t move to another country, I did move 6-7 hours away from the area that I grew up in back in 2005 and it was intimidating at first. However, the life that I’ve created here makes it absolutely worth stepping out of my comfort zone. It sounds like the ‘discomfort’ of the unknown was worth it for you as well. I hope that you continue to love the life that you’re building there!
1. LuLu
  June 27, 2020 at 9:45 am
  
  Thanks, Britt! It’s not an easy choice to leave the life you know behind whether its 6-7 hours away or in another country. But, we have to trust our instincts…if there is a pull, we need to figure out why. Nothing needs to be permanent, so why not give it a try! 🙂
Erica (The Prepping Wife)
June 26, 2020 at 10:33 am

I think some of the most insane choices turn out to be the best ones! I’m so glad that was the case for you and living in Italy has been amazing. One of my favorite quotes is “life is hard for two reasons: because you’re leaving your comfort zone, or you’re staying in it.” You are clearly a woman who isn’t afraid to jump outside of your comfort zone, and that is awesome! I can’t wait to see what the next ten years has in store for you!
1. LuLu
  June 27, 2020 at 9:43 am
  
  Thank you, Erica! I want to always remember to take opportunities when they come because you never know when they will come again! I’m ready for some new adventures and can’t wait to share them! 🙂
Smitaq
June 25, 2020 at 4:29 pm

Kudos LuLu – it really is a wonderful achievement! I like the idea of thinking of oneself as a ‘work in progress’ – would be good to be a reminder to not be so hard on ourselves.
1. LuLu
  June 27, 2020 at 9:40 am
  
  Thank you so much! I think we are often our worst critics and we have to always remember that we are constantly changing and evolving! 🙂
Kat
June 25, 2020 at 10:20 am

Awesome, congrats on 10 years! I have been living in England for 2.5 years. It feels like the time has just flown by and I remember those first few months when I was just trying to figure out how to even open a bank account.
Wishing you many more amazing years in your chosen home.
1. LuLu
  June 27, 2020 at 9:39 am
  
  It’s true, time does fly! When I think I’ve been here 10 years, it still surprises me. Thanks so much, Kat! 🙂
Cristina
June 24, 2020 at 5:45 pm

Auguri 🎉! What a milestone. Here’s to many more adventures for the next 10 🥂 Ciao, Cristina
1. LuLu
  June 26, 2020 at 6:13 pm
  
  Grazie mille, Cristina! 💗
Melanie williams
June 24, 2020 at 2:00 pm

Looks like you love Italy for sure. We feel the same about the UK we love living here and have so many rural places to visit x
Lyosha
June 24, 2020 at 7:27 am

that is wonderful! Italy seams totally pleasing to stay. I have many Italian friends because of my sports and I always enjoy visiting the country. I think living there is even better
Nicole Anderson | Camping for Women
June 24, 2020 at 5:05 am

Congratulations on achieving a decade of life in Italy, Lulu! That is a fabulous achievement living and learning over there and the way things are done in Europe more broadly. It certainly sounds like you are really enjoying life and no one could expect more than that. More power to you!
1. LuLu
  June 26, 2020 at 6:12 pm
  
  Thanks, Nicole! I’m grateful for this experience.
Tracy @ Cleland Clan
June 23, 2020 at 7:26 pm

It seems like this was a great decision for you and that you really enjoy living in Italy. Your reminders are good for everyone now matter what stage of life they are in!
1. LuLu
  June 26, 2020 at 6:12 pm
  
  Thanks, Tracy. It’s true…when you break them down, they are just life lessons!
Tony Staffaroni
June 20, 2020 at 1:28 pm

I don’t qualify on my father’s side, my great-grandfather naturalized a year before my grandfather was born unfortunately. Still exploring on my mother’s side, but having a hard time finding documents. I should hire a lawyer, I would love to qualify and obtain dual citizenship! It would make things that much easier!
1. LuLu
  June 26, 2020 at 6:10 pm
  
  It would definitely make things easier! And they would know more about how to navigate the options. I realize I was very lucky in my situation!
lucy and kelly
June 20, 2020 at 5:11 am

We admire you so much for this. It’s amazing! Congratulations on 10 years there! 🙂
Love, Lucy and Kelly xx
http://www.theblossomtwins.com
1. LuLu
  June 20, 2020 at 9:59 am
  
  Thank you, Lucy and Kelly! Living here has opened up a whole new world to me, including the opportunity to meet wonderful people like you both! Un bacione!
Luke
June 18, 2020 at 7:27 pm

Congratulations and yes…you have much to be proud of these last ten years. Here is to the next ten!
1. LuLu
  June 20, 2020 at 9:57 am
  
  Grazie mille, Luke! Stay well and hope to one day grab drinks with you in Torino!
Image Earth Travel
June 18, 2020 at 3:45 am

Congratulations on your 10 years in Calabria!
My almost 4 years in Calabria has taught me many things with patience being at the forefront of lessons.
We’re lucky to be experiencing this gorgeous region in Italy and to be able to connect with relatives that perhaps once were strangers or that we didn’t realise we had.
For me, it’s opened up a love of writing about not-so-traversed Calabria and introducing other travellers to this marvellous region, which was my father’s birthplace. 🙂
1. LuLu
  June 20, 2020 at 9:55 am
  
  I couldn’t agree with you more. You know very well the challenges that one has to face living here, but when you look passed all of it, there are so many incredible things that you can gain from living here! We really are lucky!
KareninCalabria
June 17, 2020 at 6:02 pm

Congratulations! You look great, which is a good indication as to how you’ve overcome the challenges and are enjoying life. Auguri!
1. LuLu
  June 20, 2020 at 9:53 am
  
  Thank you so much Karen, that means a lot. There are always challenges, but I think that’s the case everywhere! And when I’m not sure how I’ll push through, there are always the Italians there to remind me – “andra’ tutto bene!” 🙂
Patrick Castagna
June 17, 2020 at 1:17 pm

Yes, we are all works in progress. Keep searching. Enjoy the dolce vita.
1. LuLu
  June 20, 2020 at 9:50 am
  
  Thanks, Patrick, there is still so much to explore and learn – and I’ll do my best to enjoy the process! 🙂
Tony Staffaroni
June 17, 2020 at 11:58 am

Complementi! That’s awesome, and I hope to someday live in the bel paese and also celebrate a milestone like yours. Just curious, how did you get the “permission” to make the move without a job beforehand?
1. LuLu
  June 20, 2020 at 9:49 am
  
  Grazie mille, Tony! I think if your dream is to live in Italy someday, then you should do whatever you can to make it happen! 🙂 I didn’t need “permission” because I am fortunate enough to have dual-citizenship so I am living in this country as an Italian citizen. Do you know if you are eligible for dual-citizenship?