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Living In Italy: Hilarious Expat Adventures - How To Survive The Good Life
Would you dare to follow your dream and move or retire to Italy? Stef & Nico did, although their dog Sara had her doubts. Now from your comfortable armchair you can share in the hilarious & horrendous adventures they experienced when they moved to Italy to start a bed and breakfast.
For lovers of amusing travelogue memoirs who like a good laugh. And for those interested in practical advice on how to buy a house in Italy there is useful information along the way, pleasantly presented within the short stories.
Glossary of Italian words and expressions included!
Recognition:
Reader Views 2016/17 Literary Awards Winner
Readers Favorite 2017 Award Winner Travel category
Eric Hoffer Award Finalist
2017 ELIT Award Winner Travel category
New York & Amsterdam Book Festival Honourable Mentions
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ 4.4 Average Amazon Customer Review (100+ reviews)!
Ever thought about moving to Italy? Think again. And do it anyway.
Read about the hilarious and horrendous adventures of two Dutchmen and their dog who took the plunge and nearly drowned ...
Did you like "Under the Tuscan Sun" by Frances Mayes? Then this another great read for you. The story is situated in the beautiful but unknown Oltrepò Pavese wine region south of Milan. With its smooth hills, medieval castles, ancient villages and endless vineyards it is called the Tuscany of the North of Italy. Read the stories and discover another hidden gem of Italy!
Readers' Favorite 5 stars review:
"A thoroughly entertaining read and a unique introduction to ‘the Italian way’!"
In 2008 the author emigrated to Italy, bringing husband and dog along, to start Bed & Breakfast Villa I Due Padroni. But a lot of hurdles had to be taken before the first guests could be accommodated.
In this book Stef reports about his adventures in buying and reconstructing the house, obtaining a tax number and a bank account, registering at the commune and at the national health service, importing their car and a range of other things that led to a myriad of bureaucratic troubles. These problems were always resolved in a truly Italian fashion, leading to raised Dutch eyebrows and hilarious scenes.
About mafiose real estate agents, Mussolini-type builders, lousy plumbers, Italian neighbours and much more!
As a reader you will encounter a range of characteristic Italians, from sympathetic to villainous, from moving to shameless. Real Italians of flesh and blood, sometimes cliché, sometimes surprisingly original. But always worth encountering.
Readers' Favorite:
"a comical, often downright hilarious account"
"Stef writes in a style all his own that keeps you riveted and thoroughly entertained."
"the true essence of the Italian people without falling into the usual stereotypes"
For lovers of amusing travelogue memoirs who like a good laugh. And for those interested in practical advice on how to buy a house in Italy there is useful information along the way, pleasantly presented within the short stories.
Glossary of Italian words and expressions included!
Recognition:
Reader Views 2016/17 Literary Awards Winner
Readers Favorite 2017 Award Winner Travel category
Eric Hoffer Award Finalist
2017 ELIT Award Winner Travel category
New York & Amsterdam Book Festival Honourable Mentions
☀️☀️☀️☀️☀️ 4.4 Average Amazon Customer Review (100+ reviews)!
Ever thought about moving to Italy? Think again. And do it anyway.
Read about the hilarious and horrendous adventures of two Dutchmen and their dog who took the plunge and nearly drowned ...
Did you like "Under the Tuscan Sun" by Frances Mayes? Then this another great read for you. The story is situated in the beautiful but unknown Oltrepò Pavese wine region south of Milan. With its smooth hills, medieval castles, ancient villages and endless vineyards it is called the Tuscany of the North of Italy. Read the stories and discover another hidden gem of Italy!
Readers' Favorite 5 stars review:
"A thoroughly entertaining read and a unique introduction to ‘the Italian way’!"
In 2008 the author emigrated to Italy, bringing husband and dog along, to start Bed & Breakfast Villa I Due Padroni. But a lot of hurdles had to be taken before the first guests could be accommodated.
In this book Stef reports about his adventures in buying and reconstructing the house, obtaining a tax number and a bank account, registering at the commune and at the national health service, importing their car and a range of other things that led to a myriad of bureaucratic troubles. These problems were always resolved in a truly Italian fashion, leading to raised Dutch eyebrows and hilarious scenes.
About mafiose real estate agents, Mussolini-type builders, lousy plumbers, Italian neighbours and much more!
As a reader you will encounter a range of characteristic Italians, from sympathetic to villainous, from moving to shameless. Real Italians of flesh and blood, sometimes cliché, sometimes surprisingly original. But always worth encountering.
Readers' Favorite:
"a comical, often downright hilarious account"
"Stef writes in a style all his own that keeps you riveted and thoroughly entertained."
"the true essence of the Italian people without falling into the usual stereotypes"
280 pages, Paperback
First published January 1, 2014
415 people are currently reading
1642 people want to read
About the author
Stef Smulders
80 books119 followersDutchman who moved to Italy in 2008 to live the good life wih husband and dog, welcoming guests in their Villa I Due Padroni B&B in the beautiful wine region Oltrepò Pavese, south of Milan.
Author of the Award winning book "Living in Italy: the Real Deal" with hilarious expat adventures.
Now available in German translation: Auf nach Italien!
Author of the Award winning book "Living in Italy: the Real Deal" with hilarious expat adventures.
Now available in German translation: Auf nach Italien!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 104 reviews
May 13, 2017
Wow, what an adventure that was! I actually felt like it was me who bought a house in the beautiful wine region of Oltrepo in Italy and developed it into a Bed and Breakfast! I felt so involved in all the stages of the intricate procedures and building activities! "Living in Italy - The Real Dream" written by Stef Smulders is a self told book about two Dutchmen and their dog, who wish to emigrate to Italy to buy a house with the intentions of turning it into a B and B.
I loved the way this interesting story was told with humour, showing how Stef and his partner were able to keep their sanity during probably the most tense and worrisome times of their lives. I really can't imagine staying that calm and stress free myself!
The author has a brilliant way of describing each of the complicated stages from choosing the house to finally completing their dream venture in full and colourful detail. So many complicated Italian regulations, bureaucracy, procedures, language barriers and culture changes to take into account when you undertake a project like this is quite unbelievable. The amount of obstacles that was faced but overcome just showed how strong and determined Stef and Nico were in ensuring everything still went to plan whilst staying so passionate towards their adopted country.
This is a really charming book to read, fully enjoyable and very interesting. So many quirky chapters that will have you laughing to yourself. I particularly thought the library and the toilet chapters very funny and their crazy contractor....well, you need to read the book to find out!
I highly recommend "Living The Dream", I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and hope you will too. It's light and easy, full of fun and truly entertaining.
5 stars.
I loved the way this interesting story was told with humour, showing how Stef and his partner were able to keep their sanity during probably the most tense and worrisome times of their lives. I really can't imagine staying that calm and stress free myself!
The author has a brilliant way of describing each of the complicated stages from choosing the house to finally completing their dream venture in full and colourful detail. So many complicated Italian regulations, bureaucracy, procedures, language barriers and culture changes to take into account when you undertake a project like this is quite unbelievable. The amount of obstacles that was faced but overcome just showed how strong and determined Stef and Nico were in ensuring everything still went to plan whilst staying so passionate towards their adopted country.
This is a really charming book to read, fully enjoyable and very interesting. So many quirky chapters that will have you laughing to yourself. I particularly thought the library and the toilet chapters very funny and their crazy contractor....well, you need to read the book to find out!
I highly recommend "Living The Dream", I thoroughly enjoyed reading it and hope you will too. It's light and easy, full of fun and truly entertaining.
5 stars.
May 18, 2017
Well, if I ever get to the Lombardy region of Italy, this is where I'll stay.
Great views, great food, friendly innkeepers, one of whom is the author of this book. Stef and his husband Nico go to Italy for 6 months so Stef can get his master's degree at the University of Pravia. They fall in love with the area, buy a fixer-upper to renovate into a B&B, and you can guess the rest! Figuring out a new country, learning a new language, living in a home that is under renovation, going to school, day to day coping with new neighbors, all that is pretty nerve wracking, but Stef not only kept his sense of humor, he wrote a charming book about the experience.
There's a laugh on every page, and the "thank God it's them, not me" reaction all through the book. But I think that if I ever get to go there, it will be more "I wish I had the courage to do this.". But reading this book is a good alternative until that day comes.
Great views, great food, friendly innkeepers, one of whom is the author of this book. Stef and his husband Nico go to Italy for 6 months so Stef can get his master's degree at the University of Pravia. They fall in love with the area, buy a fixer-upper to renovate into a B&B, and you can guess the rest! Figuring out a new country, learning a new language, living in a home that is under renovation, going to school, day to day coping with new neighbors, all that is pretty nerve wracking, but Stef not only kept his sense of humor, he wrote a charming book about the experience.
There's a laugh on every page, and the "thank God it's them, not me" reaction all through the book. But I think that if I ever get to go there, it will be more "I wish I had the courage to do this.". But reading this book is a good alternative until that day comes.
January 2, 2018
I am enamored with Italy. I enjoyed reading about the adventures of the author, Stef Smulders, and his partner, Nico, in opening a bed and breakfast in Italy. I have read a few other books that detail the challenges of moving to this beautiful country. This one provided delightful evidence that it would be best to just visit rather than make a permanent move. I do think a visit to this enchanting bed and breakfast should be added to my bucket list.
April 27, 2019
Living in Italy is the story of a Dutch couple who pack up their life in the Netherlands to renovate and develop a bed and breakfast in a small town in Northern Italy. The idea sounds very romantic. How difficult could it be? What follows is a series of tales and stories outlining the many trials, tribulations and successes they experienced while turning their dream into reality. The anecdotes are told with humour and warmth, even those that chide tradesmen's antics and Italy's infamous bureaucracy. A delightful story that makes me want to visit the region, meet the couple and perhaps enjoy their hospitality for a week or two.
August 18, 2017
The author has written a very humorous account of he and his partner's purchase of a property in Italy, and the development of it into a bed and breakfast. I laughed out loud several times while reading it, and marveled at the patience they had dealing with the Italian bureaucracy, neighbors, and especially their crazy contractor.
This is not your typical "dreamer/lost soul/jilted lover buys a rundown house in the Italian/French/etc countryside" and it's usual accompanying finding romance/true purpose in life story. It's much better. Instead, Smulder's describes in detail the steps and pitfalls in the process. And makes it interesting. Especially the aforementioned crazy contractor, holy smokes!
I have to admit, I had a vested interest in this book. My wife and I, thanks to being "adopted" by our Italian exchange student and her family, have strongly considered buying our own home in Italy. While we are still strongly considering it, this book has shown us some of what we might expect. It will not be as easy and painless as we thought, or as simple as buying a vacation home here in the U.S. Maybe just an extended vacation there this year, and maybe we can sneak down to the author's B & B on a side visit.
One more vested interest. The author is from the Netherlands. Our next exchange student, arriving this August, is also from the Netherlands. The author's writing from a Dutch perspective gave me a look into the Dutch mindset/culture. Several times in the book, he described things (mechanical, etc) using descriptors that did not register with my American mind. I had to research a bit to find out what he was talking about. While it was somewhat confusing, it has helped prepare me better for seeing things from my new student's perspective.
All in all, this is a very enjoyable book. I can highly recommend it to anyone with a travel bug, or anyone who wishes to experience a different culture written by someone from another different culture. It was fun!
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
This is not your typical "dreamer/lost soul/jilted lover buys a rundown house in the Italian/French/etc countryside" and it's usual accompanying finding romance/true purpose in life story. It's much better. Instead, Smulder's describes in detail the steps and pitfalls in the process. And makes it interesting. Especially the aforementioned crazy contractor, holy smokes!
I have to admit, I had a vested interest in this book. My wife and I, thanks to being "adopted" by our Italian exchange student and her family, have strongly considered buying our own home in Italy. While we are still strongly considering it, this book has shown us some of what we might expect. It will not be as easy and painless as we thought, or as simple as buying a vacation home here in the U.S. Maybe just an extended vacation there this year, and maybe we can sneak down to the author's B & B on a side visit.
One more vested interest. The author is from the Netherlands. Our next exchange student, arriving this August, is also from the Netherlands. The author's writing from a Dutch perspective gave me a look into the Dutch mindset/culture. Several times in the book, he described things (mechanical, etc) using descriptors that did not register with my American mind. I had to research a bit to find out what he was talking about. While it was somewhat confusing, it has helped prepare me better for seeing things from my new student's perspective.
All in all, this is a very enjoyable book. I can highly recommend it to anyone with a travel bug, or anyone who wishes to experience a different culture written by someone from another different culture. It was fun!
I received this book from the author in exchange for an honest review.
October 4, 2017
This is a well written journal style non-fiction tale of a couple of Dutch ex-pats, Stef and Nico, who decide to take the plunge and buy a run down house in what sounds like a beautiful part of Italy and create their new life as B&B owners. With a smattering knowledge of the language they negotiate their way through the bureaucracy, endless delays, and exasperation with the local characters who populate their new reality which makes for a series of pretty funny episodes. And yes-Virginia- There is a Villa I Due Padroni that you can visit today!!
The food sounds fantastic,the scenery beautiful and the people -so Italian and lovely. Good luck with your writing Stef and the B&B-Buonissimo*.
*Thanks to the glossary in the back of the book-I learned a few words.
The food sounds fantastic,the scenery beautiful and the people -so Italian and lovely. Good luck with your writing Stef and the B&B-Buonissimo*.
*Thanks to the glossary in the back of the book-I learned a few words.
November 13, 2017
I was curious when I read the synopsis, of how Stef and Nico left The Netherlands to live in Italy running a B&B. I had resisted the temptation to visit the website to see the before and after pictures, though I had seen a glimpse of them. I wanted to read this book and build up my own image, from the descriptions Stef was going to describe on the pages of his book.
What started in 2007 with looking for a property to the end result of a beautiful home is remarkable, especially as you read all the hoops these two men went through to get to their dream. All the rules and regulations seem to have been a minefield, with a lot of travelling between departments, authorities, bureaus, then there are the estate agent, owners, contractors and so many others.
2008/09 saw them in the property and as Italian residents, builders with extra unforeseen costs, weather, ground water and they still continued. How Stef and Nico managed to remain calm and sane is remarkable. Their patience was pushed to the limit, but they remained focused on their end goal. They also started to build up a relationship with locals, going to see various attractions in the area. They wanted to include a lists of places for their guests to visit.
I really liked this book, Stef has created a really great book of his experiences. He has the high points and the low points of the venture they embarked upon. He has included a lot of Italian phrases and a very in-depth glossary, though as you read the phrases he has included meanings, it is very useful doing it this way as it saves flitting between glossary and story. This is written in a very readable way, it kept me captivated from the beginning. It is an account that is humorous at times and at others made me feel their anguish as they dealt with all the trials they went through.
So when I had finished the book I then went to look at their website, and it is a beautiful house. Did the descriptions I had read in the book match what I saw in the site ? Well yes they did actually, and I lost myself for a while looking and reading through the site. I admit to being a little bit envious of their house, it is beautiful and in a gorgeous location.
I would recommend this book to readers who like to read about other people’s adventures in life, a non fiction, educational, reference guide to living in a different country. It is well written, with great content and some weird and wonderful observations from Stef.
What started in 2007 with looking for a property to the end result of a beautiful home is remarkable, especially as you read all the hoops these two men went through to get to their dream. All the rules and regulations seem to have been a minefield, with a lot of travelling between departments, authorities, bureaus, then there are the estate agent, owners, contractors and so many others.
2008/09 saw them in the property and as Italian residents, builders with extra unforeseen costs, weather, ground water and they still continued. How Stef and Nico managed to remain calm and sane is remarkable. Their patience was pushed to the limit, but they remained focused on their end goal. They also started to build up a relationship with locals, going to see various attractions in the area. They wanted to include a lists of places for their guests to visit.
I really liked this book, Stef has created a really great book of his experiences. He has the high points and the low points of the venture they embarked upon. He has included a lot of Italian phrases and a very in-depth glossary, though as you read the phrases he has included meanings, it is very useful doing it this way as it saves flitting between glossary and story. This is written in a very readable way, it kept me captivated from the beginning. It is an account that is humorous at times and at others made me feel their anguish as they dealt with all the trials they went through.
So when I had finished the book I then went to look at their website, and it is a beautiful house. Did the descriptions I had read in the book match what I saw in the site ? Well yes they did actually, and I lost myself for a while looking and reading through the site. I admit to being a little bit envious of their house, it is beautiful and in a gorgeous location.
I would recommend this book to readers who like to read about other people’s adventures in life, a non fiction, educational, reference guide to living in a different country. It is well written, with great content and some weird and wonderful observations from Stef.
September 24, 2017
What a delight! Stef Smulders keeps his wits about him in the middle of his escapade of turning a house in the countryside into a beautiful bed and breakfast. Stef's humor seemed to help. This is definitely an entertaining look at a couple who decides to go after their dream with everything they have, and battling contractors, language barriers and bureaucracy along the way. Their home and new business is complete, and the after photos are amazing!
On a side note, we are going to Italy (here, she screams with joy!!). Stef's writing interspersed Italian throughout, but most notably with the translation. I hate having to stop and look these things up. Stef, you have inspired me to learn Italian before our trip. Having tried this once before, my hope is to learn enough to at least not embarrass myself.
Buona fortuno, Stef!
On a side note, we are going to Italy (here, she screams with joy!!). Stef's writing interspersed Italian throughout, but most notably with the translation. I hate having to stop and look these things up. Stef, you have inspired me to learn Italian before our trip. Having tried this once before, my hope is to learn enough to at least not embarrass myself.
Buona fortuno, Stef!
March 11, 2018
Non ci sono problemi!
!!!
XD
!!!
XD
November 1, 2022
of course I like my own book! 🤣
February 27, 2017
Ever since Under the Tuscan Sun, I have thought that is my other life, my intended life. But after reading this book, I don't think I want to purchase an old house in Italy that needs work. This book made me realize that Italy is what I always thought it was, a relaxed, easy going culture where everything is no problem but can take 10 times longer to get done. Well written. If I'm ever back in Italy, I might have to find this B&B and stay a few nights.
I received this book from Stef Smulders for my honest review.
I received this book from Stef Smulders for my honest review.
December 14, 2018
Can’t wait to go!
Living in a beautiful foreign country, even vicariously through books, is a wonderful opportunity to grow. I especially appreciated the use of Italian phrases heading each chapter which added to my vocabulary and dreams of living in Italy. A nice option to pulling up my stakes entirely, would be to schedule a visit to I Due Padroni! Perche no?
Living in a beautiful foreign country, even vicariously through books, is a wonderful opportunity to grow. I especially appreciated the use of Italian phrases heading each chapter which added to my vocabulary and dreams of living in Italy. A nice option to pulling up my stakes entirely, would be to schedule a visit to I Due Padroni! Perche no?
March 26, 2017
It is not exactly ‘La Dolce Vita,’ if you want to relocate to a different country and open a B&B. This is what Dutch author Stef Smulders and his partner found out and wrote a book about it. The couple faced more complications than expected during their move from the Netherlands to northern Italy. For anyone who has this in mind, the book will be an eye-opener.
As I have moved several times in my life to new cultures and idyllic places, I could fully relate to the problems they faced and found them often quite funny. So, ‘Living in Italy; the Real deal,’ I found an entertaining account of how they dealt with the many obstacles such as buying property, renovations, bureaucracy and finance.
At times, the tales had me laughing as they were so typical and reminded me of many similarities with life in Mexico. On one side it must have been an enthralling experience to live in Italy, on the other side, it must have been very frustrating to keep the momentum going and finally opening their place to guests from the north.
It is not a ‘How to’ book, and the English translation has a few hick-ups. (but who is perfect?) It is always a joy to read about Italy, wine, and food as this is all part of this well laid out book which even comes with an extensive glossary at the end
As I have moved several times in my life to new cultures and idyllic places, I could fully relate to the problems they faced and found them often quite funny. So, ‘Living in Italy; the Real deal,’ I found an entertaining account of how they dealt with the many obstacles such as buying property, renovations, bureaucracy and finance.
At times, the tales had me laughing as they were so typical and reminded me of many similarities with life in Mexico. On one side it must have been an enthralling experience to live in Italy, on the other side, it must have been very frustrating to keep the momentum going and finally opening their place to guests from the north.
It is not a ‘How to’ book, and the English translation has a few hick-ups. (but who is perfect?) It is always a joy to read about Italy, wine, and food as this is all part of this well laid out book which even comes with an extensive glossary at the end
June 11, 2017
Entertaining and informative story about living in another country. Chapters made me laugh out loud while others made me sad for the author. Wow, what abundant patience the author had to cope with the all the red tape. A must read before embarking on the idea of living abroad.
Thank you to librarything.com and the author for a copy of this book.
Thank you to librarything.com and the author for a copy of this book.
June 2, 2019
Very entertaining collection of their stories in trying to get established in Italy. I sincerely admire their tenacity! And to read something like this always makes you think your own struggles in accomplishing what you want will pay off!
December 16, 2016
“Non ci sono problemi!”
Netherlands author Stef Smulders is a Dutch expat who moved to Italy in 2008, accompanied by his husband Nico and dog Saar, to start their bed and breakfast Villa I Due Padroni in the Oltrepo Pavese wine region, just south of Milan. Originally published in Dutch in 2014, Emese Mayhew has translated this fresh version into English.
As Stef explained in an Interview, ‘I moved from The Netherlands to Italy in 2008, originally for what was supposed to become a 6 month study period at the University of Pavia for me and a sabbatical for Nico, my husband. But we had another, more or less secret, plan: to find a beautiful house and start a bed & breakfast! What happened was that within two months we came across a perfect house, meeting all, I mean ALL, our requirements, located in a beautiful region on a panoramic position. At that point we had to decide: do we take this chance or not? If not, we might just as well forget about the whole idea of emigrating, as we certainly would not find a better house than this one. Better sorry than safe, we said and jumped blindfoldedly into the dark. From the start we kept a blog about all our adventures (finding the house, buying it, reconstructing it, dealing with the real estate man, the builder, the notary et cetera). After having settled for a few years I decided to convert these stories into a book.’ And there is no better synopsis than that!
What is placed before the reader in this deliciously entertaining book is a series of vignettes of the shared experiences between Stef and Nico and the Italians, stories (or former blogs) that are not only entertaining and filed to the brim with robust humor, sly innuendoes, and some practical struggles in adapting to a new country and people, but it also is an education we all could use in making life changes - the dos and don’ts.
It is the flavor of Stef’s writing that makes this little book musical – ‘For the last few weeks, we had lived in the quiet, historical, university town of Pavia. In the next 6 months, I was going to continue with my MA in Medieval Culture, and my husband, Nico would enjoy his well-earned sabbatical. He was going to hoover, do the shopping and cook, whilst I could immerse myself in times gone by. But there was this secret, unspoken wish that didn’t leave us alone: could we…, what if we..., imagine if...? And already, just a couple of weeks into our stay in Pavia, we started looking at properties, with the intention of permanently settling down and setting up
a B&B!’
There is more of the flavor of Italy in this book than in its close cousin, Frances Mayes’ ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ – aspects of the Italian manner of speech, actions, dealings, and passion that are irresistible in Stef’s practiced hands. He even leaves a glossary of Italian words and terms for us to explore. Highly Recommended.
Netherlands author Stef Smulders is a Dutch expat who moved to Italy in 2008, accompanied by his husband Nico and dog Saar, to start their bed and breakfast Villa I Due Padroni in the Oltrepo Pavese wine region, just south of Milan. Originally published in Dutch in 2014, Emese Mayhew has translated this fresh version into English.
As Stef explained in an Interview, ‘I moved from The Netherlands to Italy in 2008, originally for what was supposed to become a 6 month study period at the University of Pavia for me and a sabbatical for Nico, my husband. But we had another, more or less secret, plan: to find a beautiful house and start a bed & breakfast! What happened was that within two months we came across a perfect house, meeting all, I mean ALL, our requirements, located in a beautiful region on a panoramic position. At that point we had to decide: do we take this chance or not? If not, we might just as well forget about the whole idea of emigrating, as we certainly would not find a better house than this one. Better sorry than safe, we said and jumped blindfoldedly into the dark. From the start we kept a blog about all our adventures (finding the house, buying it, reconstructing it, dealing with the real estate man, the builder, the notary et cetera). After having settled for a few years I decided to convert these stories into a book.’ And there is no better synopsis than that!
What is placed before the reader in this deliciously entertaining book is a series of vignettes of the shared experiences between Stef and Nico and the Italians, stories (or former blogs) that are not only entertaining and filed to the brim with robust humor, sly innuendoes, and some practical struggles in adapting to a new country and people, but it also is an education we all could use in making life changes - the dos and don’ts.
It is the flavor of Stef’s writing that makes this little book musical – ‘For the last few weeks, we had lived in the quiet, historical, university town of Pavia. In the next 6 months, I was going to continue with my MA in Medieval Culture, and my husband, Nico would enjoy his well-earned sabbatical. He was going to hoover, do the shopping and cook, whilst I could immerse myself in times gone by. But there was this secret, unspoken wish that didn’t leave us alone: could we…, what if we..., imagine if...? And already, just a couple of weeks into our stay in Pavia, we started looking at properties, with the intention of permanently settling down and setting up
a B&B!’
There is more of the flavor of Italy in this book than in its close cousin, Frances Mayes’ ‘Under the Tuscan Sun’ – aspects of the Italian manner of speech, actions, dealings, and passion that are irresistible in Stef’s practiced hands. He even leaves a glossary of Italian words and terms for us to explore. Highly Recommended.
September 4, 2018
An easy amusing read!
The stories are told as short chapters which would make this a good holiday read ! Amusing and sometimes hilarious these 2 men set up a bed & breakfast facility in a country where they barely can put together two words of the language. Little do they know of the fearsome ton of paperwork entailed In buying a house in Italy, let alone what is demanded in terms of rebuilding or altering said house! Then there are the contractors and labourers from very diverse cultures with quite extreme opinions on how the projects should be done! Not to mention eccentric neighbours, retailers and more red tape!! Wait til you try to import a car from the Netherlands!! We begin to explore the area, live through trips to the first aid station and meet other dog owners! Live the day....
The stories are told as short chapters which would make this a good holiday read ! Amusing and sometimes hilarious these 2 men set up a bed & breakfast facility in a country where they barely can put together two words of the language. Little do they know of the fearsome ton of paperwork entailed In buying a house in Italy, let alone what is demanded in terms of rebuilding or altering said house! Then there are the contractors and labourers from very diverse cultures with quite extreme opinions on how the projects should be done! Not to mention eccentric neighbours, retailers and more red tape!! Wait til you try to import a car from the Netherlands!! We begin to explore the area, live through trips to the first aid station and meet other dog owners! Live the day....
November 11, 2016
I was sent this book by the author after he read a review of another book that I had written. He did not ask for a review. He guessed right about my tastes. I really enjoyed it. It fits neatly into the "people emigrate to a new country to set up a new business and what befalls them" category. This time it is two Dutchmen moving to Italy to create a b & b. What befalls them is a stream of bureaucracy and form filling and. most critically, a builder called Tordi. I was amazed at their patience with him. The book is essentially episodic but he paints great pictures of even minor characters and it is very easy to read. They succeeded in their ambition eventually and I looked up their website. It looks a great place for a holiday!
July 2, 2020
Since I was in Italy, probably even before, I wanted to move there. I'd heard it was a daunting task but this explains just how hard. Annoying and yet leaves a story to tell after.
July 24, 2022
Was this book terrible? No. Was it good? Also no. I think maybe I was disillusioned by the title and summary, since I was expecting more cute adventures around Italy, or maybe some more personal anecdotes that weren't just: house reno is stressful and Italians are stressful.
I don't know where the comedy of this book is. Instead it just reads as incredibly petty . It was also condescendingly nationalistic? Everything was "Us [positive adverb] Dutch" (sober Dutch, rational Dutch, thrifty Dutch etc.) versus the "Silly Italians". Like a kid watching an ant colony or something. I wasn't a fan.
Oh and
The ending was nice, wish more of the book was about positive encounters like that.
TL;DR petty thoughts during a stressful time made into a book and probably only funny to fellow Dutchmen. Has a decent turnaround, but would not recommend.
I don't know where the comedy of this book is. Instead it just reads as incredibly petty . It was also condescendingly nationalistic? Everything was "Us [positive adverb] Dutch" (sober Dutch, rational Dutch, thrifty Dutch etc.) versus the "Silly Italians". Like a kid watching an ant colony or something. I wasn't a fan.
Oh and
The ending was nice, wish more of the book was about positive encounters like that.
TL;DR petty thoughts during a stressful time made into a book and probably only funny to fellow Dutchmen. Has a decent turnaround, but would not recommend.
January 4, 2018
I know moving to another country has many challenges, but these two unflappable fellows give new meaning to the word grit. I read this book because I love Italy and have designs on possibly moving there someday (or maybe England?). I had to put it down for long periods at a time because I was getting so deflated with all the difficulties the Italians put in your way, but I had to finish it to get to the happy ending. I am really impressed by the life they've made for themselves, and maybe if I had a partner I'd take that leap too. But for now, life as an ex pat is still a dream...
November 27, 2022
What an amazing story about two men who decide to create and open a B&B in the area of Italy south of Rome. This is a good contrast story to "Under the Tuscan Sun" which is told from a female point of view. I loved learning Italian phrases that have to do with building and construction, but my favorite phrase was "la tela Penelope" for the never-ending story. When you finish the book, make sure to look up the website so you can see how all the labors worked out from the terrace to the balcony to that just right orange color.
March 13, 2017
'How to' should be 'How we'. It wasn't a terrible read but a bit too: this, then this, then this. BUT if anyone is dreaming of romantic renovation and carefree adventures in Italian home ownership, this should cure them of it.
March 11, 2018
Triials of Italion Nesting
What a delightful tale of establishing a new life and business in Italy. So well written that you could easily see the characters and the changes in the property in your mind. You will definitely want to visit!
What a delightful tale of establishing a new life and business in Italy. So well written that you could easily see the characters and the changes in the property in your mind. You will definitely want to visit!
July 22, 2018
Hilarious and informative
This book makes me want to comeback to a region of Italy the I have not visited. Would not have the patience to take on the task of buying and renovating a home. Because I am of Italian heritage I understand some of the temperament. Really enjoyed the book
This book makes me want to comeback to a region of Italy the I have not visited. Would not have the patience to take on the task of buying and renovating a home. Because I am of Italian heritage I understand some of the temperament. Really enjoyed the book
April 20, 2017
Excellent book. I will never make it to Italy, so to be able to read someone's experiences is awesome.
March 10, 2017
As someone who has also crossed (it seems) infinite cultural bridges to move to another country, I could more than empathise with Stef, the author of "Living in Italy." It's a captivating book, in that if you've ever traveled abroad for longer than a normal vacation-acceptable period - you know exactly what he's going through. Red tape and bureaucracy aren't traits of moving just unique to Germany - it's those little irritating moments that exist no matter where you move. I found myself smiling as yet another barrier came up, and the happy resolutions of them. Expats everywhere know the feeling of being so incredibly frustrated, that they sometimes forget how lucky they are to be living in the country of their dreams.
Part of what I liked so much about the book was how straight-forward each experience is depicted. There is no sugar-coating. As a guide for moving to Italy (or pick the country of your good life), directness is more than necessary. Each sentence had me smiling or shaking my head in consternation. If I ever wanted to move to Italy, I would more than have my work cut out for me. Luckily I'm not, and even if I did: I would have this lovely book to guide me. Do yourself a favor and go read it :)
Part of what I liked so much about the book was how straight-forward each experience is depicted. There is no sugar-coating. As a guide for moving to Italy (or pick the country of your good life), directness is more than necessary. Each sentence had me smiling or shaking my head in consternation. If I ever wanted to move to Italy, I would more than have my work cut out for me. Luckily I'm not, and even if I did: I would have this lovely book to guide me. Do yourself a favor and go read it :)
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September 8, 2019Great Read
A very good book to read. Dealing with contractors and getting everyone on the right path to get things done. Starting out a new life and career is a lot of work but in the end very pleasing. This book took you through the ups and downs with working with language barriers and getting it all worked out in the end. Very easy and pleasant to read.
A very good book to read. Dealing with contractors and getting everyone on the right path to get things done. Starting out a new life and career is a lot of work but in the end very pleasing. This book took you through the ups and downs with working with language barriers and getting it all worked out in the end. Very easy and pleasant to read.
December 14, 2016
Reviewed by Susan Violante for Reader Views (12/16)
Article first published as Book Review: ‘Living in Italy: The Real Deal – How to Survive the Good Life’ by Stef Smulders on Blogcritics.
“Living in Italy: The Real Deal – How to Survive the Good Life” by Stef Smulders is the sensational story about a couple’s emigration to Italy to start a new life. Readers witness first-hand the vicissitudes of moving to a new country and adjusting to the local bureaucratic officials, systems, and customs.
When Stef Smulders and his husband Nico set out for Italy, it was not without a plan. Stef was going to continue studies for his Master of Arts in Medieval Culture while Nico enjoyed a six-month sabbatical. Very early into their stay however, wooed by the countryside of Northern Italy and driven by a secret wish, they found themselves looking at properties with the intention to stay permanently! And so the journey begins. Smulders storytelling artistry is wildly entertaining. His lively telling of events such as buying and renovating a house (that is to become their dream bed & breakfast), establishing residency, making new friends, and various other adventures, provide distinct pictures of learning by doing, and how to truly “survive” the ordeals one might find on the road to the good life.
Crisp, concise chapters take the form of short stories and weave together seamlessly to create a whimsical, light-hearted, and refreshing memoire of the author’s complete Italian experience. The chapter titles, all formatted in Italian, set the tone for each story, often consisting of common phrases or topics of concern, such as non ci sono problemi (no problem), di fiducia (trustworthy), or é piccolo il mondo (it’s a small world), among others. The author’s casual style of mixing the Italian and English languages into the narrative made me feel right at home as the daughter of Italian immigrants, which translated into an immediate connection and a sense of being at home.
The characters are delightful and I laughed aloud throughout the reading at some of the obvious stereotypical characteristics of Italians, like the obsession with their health, their fashion sense, and the overall chaos that surrounds the average person (not that anyone would ever admit to anything of the sort).
At the end of the writing, the author entices readers with an invitation to visit him and Nico at their bed & breakfast, the Villa I Due Padroni. Be sure to check out the gorgeous villa on the website referenced in the book. A quick glance of my own left me longing to take them up on that proposal.
Overall, I found “Living in Italy: The Real Deal – How to Survive the Good Life” by Stef Smulders to be a greatly entertaining story. Fans of short stories, humor, travel, and different cultures will all find something endearing to take away from this impressive five-star read.
Article first published as Book Review: ‘Living in Italy: The Real Deal – How to Survive the Good Life’ by Stef Smulders on Blogcritics.
“Living in Italy: The Real Deal – How to Survive the Good Life” by Stef Smulders is the sensational story about a couple’s emigration to Italy to start a new life. Readers witness first-hand the vicissitudes of moving to a new country and adjusting to the local bureaucratic officials, systems, and customs.
When Stef Smulders and his husband Nico set out for Italy, it was not without a plan. Stef was going to continue studies for his Master of Arts in Medieval Culture while Nico enjoyed a six-month sabbatical. Very early into their stay however, wooed by the countryside of Northern Italy and driven by a secret wish, they found themselves looking at properties with the intention to stay permanently! And so the journey begins. Smulders storytelling artistry is wildly entertaining. His lively telling of events such as buying and renovating a house (that is to become their dream bed & breakfast), establishing residency, making new friends, and various other adventures, provide distinct pictures of learning by doing, and how to truly “survive” the ordeals one might find on the road to the good life.
Crisp, concise chapters take the form of short stories and weave together seamlessly to create a whimsical, light-hearted, and refreshing memoire of the author’s complete Italian experience. The chapter titles, all formatted in Italian, set the tone for each story, often consisting of common phrases or topics of concern, such as non ci sono problemi (no problem), di fiducia (trustworthy), or é piccolo il mondo (it’s a small world), among others. The author’s casual style of mixing the Italian and English languages into the narrative made me feel right at home as the daughter of Italian immigrants, which translated into an immediate connection and a sense of being at home.
The characters are delightful and I laughed aloud throughout the reading at some of the obvious stereotypical characteristics of Italians, like the obsession with their health, their fashion sense, and the overall chaos that surrounds the average person (not that anyone would ever admit to anything of the sort).
At the end of the writing, the author entices readers with an invitation to visit him and Nico at their bed & breakfast, the Villa I Due Padroni. Be sure to check out the gorgeous villa on the website referenced in the book. A quick glance of my own left me longing to take them up on that proposal.
Overall, I found “Living in Italy: The Real Deal – How to Survive the Good Life” by Stef Smulders to be a greatly entertaining story. Fans of short stories, humor, travel, and different cultures will all find something endearing to take away from this impressive five-star read.
November 24, 2016
The ex-pats in this memoirs about moving to Italy come from The Netherlands. The couple purchased a property and renovated it into their new home, and two rental properties to provide an income in their adopted land. European Union legislation makes their move to Italy simpler than it would be for non-EU residents, but in Italy that is not saying much!
Their stories about finding and buying the property, and then renovating it, show that things that may be very straight forward in some countries can be anything but in Italy. Besides odd customs, unhelpful business hours, and unprofessional conduct by some so-called professionals, the stories also demonstrate how in-comers to Italy may find it very difficult to integrate with Italians.
This is a translation from the original Dutch text, and it is an excellent translation. The charming accounts of life in Italy are never mean-spirited but they do convey the frustration Italian bureaucracy can generate. They also convey the joy the writer and his partner find in Italy's culture and rural landscape in the Pavia area, south of the Po River.
Sometimes when reading memoirs about people moving to Italy, I have an overwhelming urge to force-feed the books to Italians so they can see how the outside world views them. Perhaps if they saw that most of the rest of the developed world functions more efficiently than they do, it might speed up improvements in the service sector, both public and private, is my thinking. If that would help, I really don't know. Just know that if you move there, you must be ready for worst-case scenarios.
The author keeps his cool throughout everything, and offers the reader some insightful views on life in Italy.
“Like every coin, Italy seems to have two sides: manic and depressed.”
The story ends successfully for the couple, and now, five years on from the events in the book, their rentals are generally booked up by fellow Dutch and Belgians, who help the couple see Italy continually with fresh eyes, keeping their love affair with the country fresh.
“The Italians with the funny ways and the fantastic food.”
I received a review-copy of the book. This is my honest review. The illustrated review is at Italophile Book Reviews.
Their stories about finding and buying the property, and then renovating it, show that things that may be very straight forward in some countries can be anything but in Italy. Besides odd customs, unhelpful business hours, and unprofessional conduct by some so-called professionals, the stories also demonstrate how in-comers to Italy may find it very difficult to integrate with Italians.
This is a translation from the original Dutch text, and it is an excellent translation. The charming accounts of life in Italy are never mean-spirited but they do convey the frustration Italian bureaucracy can generate. They also convey the joy the writer and his partner find in Italy's culture and rural landscape in the Pavia area, south of the Po River.
Sometimes when reading memoirs about people moving to Italy, I have an overwhelming urge to force-feed the books to Italians so they can see how the outside world views them. Perhaps if they saw that most of the rest of the developed world functions more efficiently than they do, it might speed up improvements in the service sector, both public and private, is my thinking. If that would help, I really don't know. Just know that if you move there, you must be ready for worst-case scenarios.
The author keeps his cool throughout everything, and offers the reader some insightful views on life in Italy.
“Like every coin, Italy seems to have two sides: manic and depressed.”
The story ends successfully for the couple, and now, five years on from the events in the book, their rentals are generally booked up by fellow Dutch and Belgians, who help the couple see Italy continually with fresh eyes, keeping their love affair with the country fresh.
“The Italians with the funny ways and the fantastic food.”
I received a review-copy of the book. This is my honest review. The illustrated review is at Italophile Book Reviews.
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