"You may have the universe if I may have Italy." This quote from Italian composer Giuseppe Verdi perfectly captures how I feel about Italy. I was fortunate to live in Italy during college, where I studied Italian history, art, and gastronomy. Despite traveling widely across Europe and parts of Asia, Italy remains my favorite destination.
Italy is boundless in what it offers. It’s a country brimming with history, emotion, art, and food. You feel it in the piazzas that come alive with families and friends enjoying the evening. You taste it in the bowl of pasta from a family trattoria that changes your perception of Italian cuisine. You see it in Renaissance art and the homemade shrines hidden in quiet alleyways.
It’s a privilege to use my passion for travel to help clients experience all the magic that Italy has to offer, which is often found in the most unassuming moments.
Q&A with Lauren
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
My most vivid travel memory was standing in the kitchen of an Italian woman’s home as she taught me the secrets of traditional Italian cooking. During a research trip to Italy, I had the opportunity to join a special excursion called Casa Lauras, where Laura welcomed us into her home, showing us family photos and sharing her wealth of culinary knowledge. I vividly remember her lifting a pot of olive oil, fresh garlic, and tomato puree off the stove, telling me that you can tell when the sauce is ready simply by the smell. I never imagined that just three ingredients could produce such depth of flavor and aroma — and it’s a scent I’ll never forget.
Where would you love to travel next?
I’ve always wanted to visit Iceland for its dramatic landscapes — volcanic craters, waterfalls, and glaciers. The northern lights are a huge draw, too. Plus, it’s a perfect stopover when flying between the UK and the US, offering a chance to explore somewhere completely unique on the way.
Your best piece of travel advice?
One of my best travel tips for Italy is to embrace the art of slowing down. Italians have a term for it: lo struscio, which refers to more than just a stroll — it’s a time to walk through piazzas, meet family and friends, and enjoy the moment. To truly experience Italy, find a quiet piazza, order a glass of wine, and savor the atmosphere. It’s this sense of connection and appreciation for life that makes Italy so special.