I was so kindly asked by social media friend (and one I hope to meet IRL someday) Jasmine, to be a part of her ‘Ciao for Now’ series on her blog where she interviews re-pats on their time spent in Italy. Talking about Italy is one of my favorite topics, so of course I accepted.

I recently returned to the states 5 months ago and have been slowly acclimating myself back to living in the U, S of A- although a completely different state now, so it still feels as if I’m in a different country sometimes. Check out my full Q & A with Jasmine below on life in and after Italy.

1. Introduce yourself

My name is Estrella. I’m a first generation Salvadorian-American raised in the south, also lived in Miami for 4 years before taking the leap abroad and spending almost 2 years in Italy. I currently live in Los Angeles, CA. I come from a large family of 8 siblings (including myself) and have a toy poodle back home named Marley, who I adore.

2. When and where did you live in Italy?

I lived in Italy from 2016-2018 with a short stint back home the summer of 2017. I lived in Rome the entire time.

3. What brought you there?

I went for the love of travel and Italian culture. My partner and I vacationed in Italy for a week a year prior to moving there. We completely fell enamored with everything and it was during that 8 day vacation that we decided we wanted to live there.

4. What made you leave?

We found it difficult to imagine a life there long term as our financial situation wasn’t the most sustainable there. We also were English teachers in Italy and wanted to go back to working in our respective fields pre-Italy, which are marketing and finance.

5. Where are you now?

I just relocated to LA a little over a month ago!

6. Any regrets?

Not one. Moving to Italy has been one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.

7. Do you think you’d ever return to Italy?

Absolutely! Given the right time and circumstance, I would in a heartbeat.

8. What do you miss most about Italy?

I could go on about what I miss there but to name a few it would have to be the delicious food & drinks, the language, and general laid-back lifestyle of the Italians.

9. What advice would you give someone contemplating leaving Italy?

Leaving a place you love and wish to stay in forever is a very personal decision and only one you can make for yourself. You can’t compare your journey with someone else’s as everyone has their unique circumstance. Ultimately you want to do what is best for you and follow your intuition.