PART 27: It might be interesting to share how we pulled off living in Italy for part of the year. I will post some steps we took.
We are in Puglia for three months during the summer and then back again in the winter.
Step 1: The idea of living in Italy came to us about six years ago when my partner asked, out of the blue, "What do you think about us living in Europe once you retire?" This comment initiated research, exploratory trips, and choices.
We finally stepped out to realize our dream, taking one step at a time. We are preparing for our 2nd three-month sojourn in Italy in a few weeks, following the 90 days in/90 out model.
Step 2: I have documented some of our discoveries, choices, and insights in this Blog. I hope these posts are helpful for those on the same path and those who may think impossible what is, rather, very possible.
Step 3: Readers Voice. This blog post is dedicated to readers' voice.
I want to reach out to those reading this Blog and ask what topics readers are interested in exploring here. If I have experience in the area suggested, I am happy to share it. If I don't, then I won't fake it.
Step 4: Ongoing. Our journey of living in Italy is ongoing, so we are learning along the way. We don't have all the answers, but we have experiences helping us embrace our life here.
Step 5: So this space is for you. Please post a comment, send me a message, contact me through my Blog or however you want, and I will gather your suggestions and create future blog posts from them.
Thank you. Let me hear from you! (If you would like to leave me a message without joining the blog, just go to the homepage on this site and press "contact". Thanks!)
Watch for my book coming around the 1st of the year: "Stories from Puglia: Two Californians in Southern Italy." https://www.bookdepository.com/Stories-from-Puglia-Mark-Tedesco/9781913680640?ref=grid-view&qid=1673813710715&sr=1-1.
More next time.
How did you find your apartment in Puglia? Through friends, online or through an agent? Did you sign a long term lease or just for the months that you spend in Puglia? With the 90 days in/ 90 days out ... is your apartment in Italy rented out to other "short term" tenants or does it stay vacant while you're in CA? Were there any difficulties or unexpected local rules and regulations dealing with your landlord in Italy? Are electricity and water bills included in the rent or do those companies charge your account directly? Did you get to know your neighbors yet (if you have neighbors in the building or nearby)? Are there any extra costs/expenditures (apartment or livi…