My passion for travel centres around authentic experiences and connecting with local people to uncover the beating heart of a place. This interest for cultural discovery is what inspired me to study Modern Languages at Exeter University.
My degree in Italian and Spanish opened my eyes to the beauty of the Mediterranean as I was given the opportunity to work abroad as an au pair in Málaga in the Costa del Sol, and study at the University of Padua in northern Italy. It was during my year living in Italy that I completely fell in love with the country, and it’s what brings me to the travel industry and Audley today.
Italy’s unshakeable spirit is what makes it my all-time favourite destination. For me, there's nothing I love more than embracing the Italian dolce vita, enjoying an aperitivo in the sunshine, wandering down little side streets, eating freshly cooked pasta in a local trattoria, or chatting with a friendly passer-by. Simply indulging in Italy’s distinctive charm is what makes it so uniquely special.
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Q&A with Emilia
What’s the best local dish you’ve tasted?
The best gelato I’ve ever tasted is from one of the oldest gelateria’s in Rome called ‘Giolitti.’ I have never seen so many flavours of gelato in such a vivid array of colours; from creamy pistachio to sharp lemon, rich espresso to tangy kiwi — this place is an absolute must-try when visiting Rome. Whenever I’m in Italy, one of my favourite things to do is to take a ‘passeggiata’ or evening stroll to a gelateria after dinner and try a new flavour.
What’s your most vivid travel moment?
It has to be seeing Venice for the first time. I can still remember stepping out from the hot train station and being instantly greeted by the brilliant blue of the Grand Canal, a flurry of gondolas, and the huge turquoise domes of the churches. The city is one of those unique places that really is like something out of a picture book, and to this day holds a special place in my memory. Of course, getting lost in Venice is inevitable — I’ve visited countless times now and it never ceases to amaze me how locals know their way around.
Your best piece of travel advice?
Embrace ‘il dolce far niente,’ which in Italian means, ‘the sweetness of doing nothing.’ There’s so much to see and do in a country like Italy, and I think this can sometimes become a little overwhelming. For me, the beauty of travel so often lies in the smaller moments: taking your time over dinner, stopping to marvel at a work of art, having a conversation with a local. Instead of rushing around and trying to see everything, simply soak up the feeling of being in a new place, and enjoy experiencing a different pace of life to your own.