I don't regret leaving New York City for a small Italian village — but I've had to adjust to some big lifestyle changes
A former New York City resident shares her experience moving to a small Sicilian village. She highlights the shift toward a hyper-local, seasonal food system and the importance of community relationships in daily life.
Why it matters
It reflects the growing trend of 'slow living' and the cultural adjustments required for expatriates moving from urban centers to rural international locations.
I've found that in my Italian village, building relationships can help you get tasks done. Camellia Phillips About three years ago, I moved from New York City to a small Sicilian village . Grocery shopping and running errands are very different here. However, I've grown to appreciate many of the ways my lifestyle has changed. I recently walked into the macelleria in our Sicilian village — a combo butcher, deli, and corner store — and started babbling excitedly that my favorite cheese was back in stock. One of the owners joked in Italian that "Camellia moved here just for the food." She wasn't completely wrong. After 20 years in New York City, my husband and I moved to a small town in Italy for some of the more classic reasons: quality food, a slower pace of life, and community-oriented culture.
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