Change is an inevitable part of life, and sometimes it presents us with an opportunity to embark on a new adventure that combines excitement and nervousness in equal measure. For me, that time has arrived as I prepare to bid farewell to the sun-kissed shores of Australia and embrace the rustic charm of Italy in just over three months. The decision to move to Italy has been driven by a desire to connect with my heritage, lead a more relaxed lifestyle, and step out of my comfort zone in pursuit of personal growth and new experiences. As the days draw closer, a rollercoaster of emotions engulfs me - excitement, anticipation, and a touch of apprehension - all blending into an enchanting journey of self-discovery.

Italy has always been an integral part of my family's history, with my Nonni hailing from this captivating Mediterranean nation. As a child, I would listen to their dialect over family gatherings, watch my Nonna, Zia Maria and my Mum cooking in the kitchen, observe my Nonno enjoying a small glass of wine with meals and his usual apple afterwards, and be enthralled by the lively chatter over the dining table. To me this was all normal and when we were all together, are some of the best memories of my childhood. Moving to Italy is my way of honoring my Nonni and immersing myself in the roots of my heritage. From learning the language to delving into the country's rich history, every step I take will be an ode to my family's past, forging a stronger connection to my identity and ancestry.

Australia, with its increasingly fast-paced life, is undoubtedly invigorating, but it can also be overwhelming at times. The allure of Italy lies in its laid-back lifestyle, where moments are cherished, and the art of living is celebrated. The idea of savouring long lunches with new friends, travelling to new regions, and losing myself in the pages of a novel in the piazza on weekends off fills me with equal eagerness and unease. Adjusting to a slower pace of life might require some adaptation, but it is precisely this change that promises a newfound sense of inner peace and contentment.

Leaving the familiar behind and embracing the unknown is undoubtedly daunting. For years, I have cocooned myself in the safety of my comfort zone, but deep down, I have always yearned for something more - an adventure that pushes me to grow beyond my limits. Moving to Italy represents that bold step towards self-discovery and personal growth. From navigating the complexities of a new language to building a network of friends and acquaintances from diverse cultures, this experience will undoubtedly be a transformative one, igniting a fire within me to embrace change fearlessly in other aspects of life.

Italy is a treasure trove of cultural wonders and breathtaking landscapes, offering a myriad of experiences waiting to be discovered. From the iconic Colosseum in Rome to the magical waterways of Venice, the vibrant art scene in Florence to the enchanting Amalfi Coast, every corner of this enchanting country beckons with excitement and anticipation. Venturing into the unknown, with every day offering a new opportunity for exploration, will undoubtedly keep my heart racing and my mind open to the beauty that surrounds me. While the prospect of living in Italy is exciting, it also comes with the challenge of adapting to a new language and culture. Italian, with its melodic tones and passionate expressions, is a beautiful language to learn, but mastering it will require patience and dedication. Whilst I can understand more than I can put together in a sentence, overcoming the language barrier will not only enable me to communicate effectively but allow me to fully embrace the nuances of Italian culture. Learning the language of the new country you are living in as a foreigner, I believe is the ultimate respect. Whilst I am fully prepared to say everything incorrect most of the time, I believe that trying to converse in Italian every day will allow me to foster deeper connections with the people I meet along the way and allow me to feel more part of local life.

As my departure date approaches, it's only natural for nervousness to creep in. Leaving behind the familiar comforts, friends, and family can evoke feelings of doubt and anxiety. The key lies in acknowledging these emotions and viewing them as stepping stones to growth. Reminding myself of the reasons why I chose this path - to embrace my heritage, live a more relaxed lifestyle, and challenge myself - serves as a source of motivation during times of uncertainty. Facing the unknown is less intimidating when surrounded by a strong support system. While I may be moving to Italy alone, maintaining connections with loved ones back in Australia and forging new friendships in Italy will be crucial in navigating the ups and downs of this transformative journey. Thanks to technology, staying connected with family and friends across borders is easier than ever, and I intend to cherish these relationships while also being open to forming meaningful connections with locals and fellow expats.

Moving to a new country requires flexibility and adaptability as unexpected challenges are bound to arise. I am hoping that by approaching these hurdles with an open mind and a willingness to learn, I will not only develop resilience but also cultivate an appreciation for the beauty of change. Plus, given that I have not decided where to live long term after my first month in Florence has ended, nor do I have a job when I arrive, flexibility will hopefully allow for spontaneous adventures and the chance to embrace the unforeseen opportunities that life presents. My fingers (and toes) are crossed that those unforeseen opportunities also come with a job and a place to live.

In three months and four days (to be exact), I will embark on a life-changing adventure - leaving the comforts of home behind to embrace the rustic charm of Italy. The emotions are a whirlwind of excitement and nervousness, blending into an enchanting journey of self-discovery and personal growth. Reconnecting with my heritage, living a more relaxed lifestyle, and stepping out of my comfort zone are the driving forces behind this decision. The allure of exploring unfamiliar territories, savouring Italian cuisine, and navigating the intricacies of language and culture is both exhilarating and challenging. While the path ahead may be uncertain, I am ready to embrace change fearlessly, eager to embrace the beauty and magic that life in Italy has to offer. This journey will not only be about exploring a new way of life, but also about rediscovering myself and nurturing a spirit of resilience and adaptability. As I bid adieu to one chapter and embrace the next, I am excited to seize the opportunities that lie ahead and make Italy a place where my heart finds a home.