Americans have a massive crush on Italy, with plenty of us aspiring to Eat Pray Love, Under the Tuscan Sun. With its stunning countryside, massive coastline, and vibrant (if grimy) cities, the European peninsula offers something for everyone. You can’t mention the country without mentioning the food and wine. You could spend years just traveling from bite to sumptuous bite.

Retirees often mention the high quality and low cost of healthcare, but people of working age complain about bureaucracy and difficulties finding employment. Both groups note that you should start working on your Italian if you want to make friends and fit in.

Thea Duncan is the founder of Doing Italy, a company that helps individuals and families create their unique version of la dolce vita. Their clients receive personalized assistance purchasing property and/or understanding the intricacies of moving to Italy with ease, all while avoiding many of the pitfalls that negatively affect Americans abroad. When you schedule a consultation, Thea will help you create a personalized strategy for your move and/or answer questions you may have about Italian real estate.