Times are difficult right now. Between the constant rush of daily responsibilities, stressful news cycles, and the uncertainty of our modern world, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed. I don’t know about you, but I turn on the TV, turn on the news, and I want to go and hide somewhere. Anywhere. Although that place is usually Italy. Don’t get me wrong, the news in Italy isn’t all that much better. But there are other aspects about life in Italy that make everyday life more tolerable. The beauty in itself, and its cuisine is enough for me!

But even in challenging times, there’s a way to bring balance, joy, and a sense of calm into your life. Without necessarily getting on a plane. (Although that is always my preferred M.O.)

The Italian concept of la dolce vita—literally “the sweet life”—is all about finding beauty and pleasure in simple, everyday moments. It’s not about luxury or extravagance, or even avoidance. Instead, it’s a mindset: slowing down, savoring what you have, and focusing on the things that truly matter.

You don’t need to be in Rome or Florence to experience la dolce vita. With a few small shifts in perspective and habits, you can bring a little bit of la dolce vita into your daily routine—no matter where you are or what’s happening around you.

Here’s how to embrace this timeless philosophy and live more fully, even during life’s most stressful seasons.

1. Savor the Art of Slow Living

Modern life often feels like a race—a never-ending to-do list, emails piling up, and constant notifications. Italians, on the other hand, are masters of slowing down. They understand that rushing through life means missing its most beautiful moments.

How to apply this:

• Start your morning without your phone. Instead, make a real cup of coffee, preferably a good, strong espresso, and sit by a window or on your balcony while you drink it. Or just quietly at your table!
• Practice the Italian ritual of passeggiata—an evening stroll after dinner, even if it’s just around your block. Rather than in the evening, I have my passeggiata in the morning, strolling with my dog Trixie with no goal in sight. Just allowing her to sniff and stop anywhere she wants to.
• Schedule unstructured time each week. No plans, no agenda—just space to breathe and recharge. I love my Sundays for this!

La dolce vita isn’t about doing nothing—it’s about doing things with intention and pleasure.

2. Make Every Meal an Occasion

Food is at the heart of Italian culture, but it’s not just about what they eat—it’s about how they eat. Meals aren’t rushed pit stops; they’re experiences meant to be savored with good company and conversation.

Tips to eat like an Italian:

• Cook simple, quality meals. You don’t need 20 ingredients. In fact, I have written an entire cookbook on creating delicious meals without the need for extra ingredients! A perfect pasta al pomodoro can be made with just tomatoes, garlic, olive oil, and fresh herbs.
• Use fresh, seasonal ingredients. Visit a local farmers market or grow your own basil and tomatoes at home.
• Set the table. Even if you’re dining solo, use a real plate, light a candle, and pour your drink into a proper glass.
• Dine mindfully. Turn off the TV, put away your phone, and focus on the flavors and textures of your food.

When you treat every meal as a celebration, even an ordinary weeknight night can feel extraordinary!

3. Embrace Beauty in the Everyday

Italians have a deep appreciation for beauty—this is called la bella figura, the idea of presenting oneself and one’s surroundings with elegance. This doesn’t mean being materialistic or extravagant. It’s about elevating the ordinary.

Ways to bring beauty into your day:

• Wear your favorite clothes, even if you’re just going to the grocery store. No more ‘saving‘ those outfits for special occasions.
• Add fresh flowers to your home or workspace.
• Take five minutes to enjoy the sunset instead of rushing past it.
• Savor small luxuries, like a beautifully wrapped bar of soap, luscious hand lotion, or a handwritten note.

A life filled with beauty doesn’t require a big budget, just mindfulness and a sense of style.

4. Prioritize Connection and Relationships

One of the pillars of la dolce vita is community. Italians thrive on spending time with friends and family. Meals are shared, conversations are unhurried, and relationships are nurtured with care.

How to cultivate meaningful connections:

• Schedule regular dinners with friends or loved ones, even if it’s just once a month.
• Pick up the phone and call a friend instead of texting them.
• Host a casual aperitivo night—think Italian appetizers, sparkling wine, and easy conversation.
• Be present during conversations. Listen deeply and engage fully without distractions.

When you invest in relationships, you’re investing in a sweeter, richer life.

5. Practice the Joy of Indulgence—In Moderation

Italians have mastered the art of balance. They enjoy pizza, pasta, wine, and gelato, but rarely to excess. La dolce vita is about savoring pleasures without guilt or overindulgence.

Simple ways to indulge:

• Treat yourself to a small piece of high-quality chocolate instead of a cheap candy bar with little to no real ingredients.
• Enjoy a leisurely glass of wine, or cappuccino slowly, noticing its aroma and flavor.
• Allow yourself one indulgent ritual a week—maybe a long bath, a lazy afternoon with a book, or a pastry from your favorite bakery.

The key is moderation. Indulgence feels special when it’s intentional and occasional.

6. Cultivate Curiosity and Passion

Part of what makes Italian culture so vibrant is its deep love for art, history, music, and craftsmanship. Italians often pursue hobbies and passions with the same devotion they bring to their work.

Ways to embrace this spirit:

• Visit museums or art galleries, now you can even visit them virtually!
• Learn a new skill just for fun—painting, baking, dancing, or learning Italian phrases in preparation for your upcoming culinary tour with us!
• Read about topics that fascinate you, whether it’s Italian history or Renaissance art.
• Support local artisans and appreciate handmade goods.

A life filled with curiosity keeps the mind engaged and the heart fulfilled.

7. Simplify and Declutter

Contrary to the image of overflowing plates of pasta and bustling piazzas, la dolce vita isn’t about excess. Italians often value quality over quantity. They focus on fewer, better things—whether it’s clothing, food, or furniture.

How to simplify:

• Edit your wardrobe to include timeless, versatile pieces you love.
• Buy one excellent bottle of olive oil instead of three mediocre ones. Or better yet, visit an olive oil producer on one of our tours and have the oil delivered to your door!
• Declutter your home regularly and keep only items that serve a purpose. This has been my theme this past year, as I prepare to live life between Boston and Cortona, I am donating a lot of items that no longer bring me joy. Or that simply no longer fit!

Simplicity creates space for enjoyment and helps you focus on what truly matters.

8. Travel Like an Italian—Even at Home

You don’t have to fly to Italy to travel with an Italian mindset. La dolce vita can be experienced wherever you explore.

How to travel intentionally:

• Plan a day trip to a nearby town or natural area you’ve never visited.
• Savor the journey—whether it’s by train, car, or on foot.
• Try a local specialty dish or product from the region you visit.
• Travel slowly. Instead of packing your schedule, leave room for spontaneity.

Traveling like an Italian means focusing on depth rather than speed—immersing yourself in the present moment. Join us next year to truly practice traveling like an Italian!

Final Thoughts: Living La Dolce Vita Every Day

La dolce vita isn’t about perfection or luxury. It’s about finding sweetness in ordinary moments and living life with intention, pleasure, and gratitude.

You don’t need to move to a Tuscan villa or drink espresso in a Roman café to experience it. Start small: cook a beautiful meal, take a walk at sunset, call a friend, or simply slow down and notice the beauty around you.

When you embrace the spirit of la dolce vita, every day becomes a little sweeter.