160. Pioneers of a Tuscan Fixer Upper!

Kimberly's Italy

In this humorous episode of “Kimberly’s Italy,” hosts Kimberly and Tommaso sit down with Janice to discuss her fascinating journey of purchasing and renovating a dilapidated house in Lunigiana, Tuscany, over two decades ago. The episode delves into the ups and downs of transforming a neglected property into a cherished home, set against the backdrop of one of Italy’s most picturesque regions.

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Key Highlights:

Meeting and Friendship:

• Kimberly recounts meeting Janice in Manhattan, where their shared passion for Italy laid the foundation for a lasting friendship.

Choosing Lunigiana:

• Janice, originally from England, chose Lunigiana for its stunning landscapes and affordable real estate, marking the beginning of her Italian adventure.

Renovation Challenges:

• Janice discusses the various hurdles she and Richard faced, such as language barriers and navigating local regulations. The importance of finding a geometra, a local expert in managing building tasks, is emphasized.

Community Support:

• Janice shares stories of the welcoming locals, particularly neighbors Enzo and Rosetta, who provided invaluable support. The rural lifestyle, steeped in traditional farming practices, presented a stark contrast to their urban backgrounds.

Cultural Enrichment:

• The expertise of the local villagers in gardening and cooking greatly enriched Janice and Richard’s experience, even though it sometimes made them feel out of their depth. The high quality of local produce and the dedication of residents to sourcing the best ingredients were highlights of their new life.

Modernization and Social Media:

• Over the years, technological advancements have brought modern conveniences to the village while preserving its charm. Social media has played a role in strengthening community bonds and enhancing participation in local events.

Affordable Real Estate and Community Life:

• The episode touches on the allure of affordable homes in other regions like Calabria or Sicily. Janice’s anecdotes illustrate the importance of community support, and the creativity needed to solve everyday problems.

Celebrating Two Decades in Vezzanello:

• After more than 20 years in their renovated home, Janice reflects on the strong community ties and friendships formed with both locals and fellow expatriates and the blend of urban and rural lifestyles

Join Kimberly for this engaging and informative conversation with Janice, as they celebrate the joys and challenges of making a home in beautiful Lunigiana, Tuscany.

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