Today, I’m thrilled to share the captivating story of Zeneba Bowers and Matt Walker, classical musicians turned travel enthusiasts. Originally from the United States, this dynamic duo traded their established careers for a new life in Italy, specifically in the quaint town of Soriano nel Cimino near Viterbo. Their journey is not only inspiring but also packed with practical insights for anyone dreaming of a similar adventure.
From Symphony Orchestras to Italian Visas
Zeneba and Matt, neither of whom have Italian heritage, made their move through sheer determination and their impressive credentials as classical musicians. They secured work visas by demonstrating their ability to self-employ as concert organizers and performers, leveraging their decades of experience in symphony orchestras and chamber music.
The process wasn’t easy. They had to prove their financial stability and reapply annually for their residence permits. The couple's journey began in earnest when they decided to consult an immigration lawyer in Italy. Initially, they thought their travel writing credentials would be their ticket in, given their four published guidebooks, numerous articles and travel itineraries in Italy. However, it was their music careers that opened the door.
Life in Italy: The Move and the Reality
Moving to Italy was a whirlwind. Zeneba and Matt bought an apartment in Soriano for €26,000, a decision made during a trip intended for affordable travel research. Their story of relocating with four cats, navigating Italian bureaucracy, and adapting to a new culture is as challenging as it is heartwarming.
Their move coincided with the onset of the COVID-19 pandemic. Within three months of settling in, Italy went into lockdown. This unexpected twist made their initial months in Italy even more challenging. However, their resilience shone through, particularly with their balcony concerts. These daily performances not only uplifted their spirits but also connected them with their new community in Soriano, eventually catching the attention of CBS Sunday Morning.
Building a New Life: Music and Travel Itineraries Italy
Zeneba and Matt’s musical talents continue to play a significant role in their lives. They perform in various venues, forming lasting relationships with local businesses and vineyards. Despite the challenges, they have successfully integrated into the local culture, enriching it with their music.
Their travel itineraries in Italy business, Little Roads Europe, flourished as they began crafting personalized itineraries for tourists. Their expertise in uncovering hidden gems in Italy’s small towns became their unique selling point. They focused on areas often overlooked by mainstream tourism, offering travelers a chance to experience the authentic Italian lifestyle.
The restaurant where you'll find this delicious dish is from Tuscany, Italy: Small-town Itineraries for the Foodie Traveler.
Travel Itineraries Italy - Their Guidebooks and Travel Tips
Zeneba and Matt have authored four guidebooks covering Tuscany, Emilia-Romagna, Italy’s Alpine lakes, and even Ireland. Their books are beloved for steering travelers away from tourist traps and towards immersive experiences in less frequented locales. They emphasize the importance of exploring small towns to truly grasp the essence of a place.
Emilia-Romagna is know as an Italian food haven so you may want to check out Emilia-Romagna, Italy: A Personal Guide to Little-known Places Foodies Will Love.
While Zeneba and Matt haven’t published a new guidebook recently, they continue to assist travelers with bespoke travel itineraries in Italy. Their upcoming plans may include a focus on the Tuscia, an area rich in history and culture, and not yet well-documented in travel literature.
The Italian Charm: Community and Kindness
One of the most endearing aspects of their story is the generosity and warmth they’ve experienced from the locals. From neighbors tending to their plants to spontaneous acts of kindness, Zeneba and Matt have found a second home in Soriano. Their memoir, which details these experiences along with their tumultuous yet rewarding move, offers a deeper look into their lives and the Italian way of living.
Embracing the Italian Dream
Zeneba and Matt’s story shares the power of following one's passion, embracing change, and finding beauty in the unexpected. Their journey from Nashville to Soriano is filled with challenges, but also with joy, music, and a deep appreciation for the Italian lifestyle. Whether you’re a travel enthusiast, a music lover, or someone dreaming of a life abroad, their story is inspirational.
For those interested in their guidebooks or personalized travel itineraries Italy, you can find more information on their website. And if you’re ever in Italy, keep an eye out for their concerts – it’s an experience you won’t want to miss!
More travel itineraries in Italy to check out
Best of Bologna day trip
Insider's guide to Italy's undiscovered Piedmont region
Spannocchia, a 13th century Tuscan estate
A cooking class in Puglia, in beautiful Lecce
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