Sometimes a single journey can completely change your life. That’s what happened to Tony and Francine, a couple from New York, who traveled to Italy to celebrate their golden wedding anniversary and unexpectedly decided to stay there for good. They chose Scalea—a small town on the Calabrian coast—where an unhurried pace and affordable cost of living allowed them to feel truly free for the first time in years.
In the US, their days were scheduled down to the minute: bills, obligations, a constant race for security. But in Italy, they discovered a completely different reality. Here, no one is rushing—each morning starts with a stroll along the beach and a strong cup of coffee. For the first time in a long while, the couple felt they could not only dream but actually live the way they wanted.
No Regrets About Moving
Their decision to relocate wasn’t impulsive, but it didn’t require endless deliberation either. It all started with a simple melody they heard in a Venetian square. Memories of childhood, family traditions, and their roots prompted Tony to realize it was time for a change. Together with Francine, he headed south, where they found a home of about 139 square meters. The cost of buying and renovating turned out to be much lower than property prices in coastal regions of the US.
In Scalea, the couple quickly settled in: they renovated the kitchen, replaced the plumbing, and installed new electrical wiring. The total investment pleasantly surprised them — for that amount in New York, you could only hope for a tiny apartment without an ocean view. Here, they gained space, light, and the chance to greet the sunrise by the sea.
Financial freedom
The most noticeable change for Toni and Francine was their monthly budget. While their expenses in America reached up to 5,000 euros, in Italy they spend no more than 1,200. This covers everything: utilities, internet, mobile phones, even regular dinners out. It turned out that saving money isn’t just about the finances, but also about a sense of inner peace.
Now the couple doesn’t count every penny, they don’t save for vacations for years, and they don’t worry about rising prices. They can afford to travel across the country, discover new cities, and enjoy local cuisine and wine. All this became possible thanks to one simple but bold decision — to change their country and way of life.
A new reality
Moving to Italy brought Toni and Francine not only financial stability, but new meaning to life. Each day is filled with small joys: walks along the promenade, meeting neighbors, leisurely conversations over a glass of wine. Here, no one chases status, and happiness is measured not by how much you’ve accumulated, but by your ability to enjoy each moment.
The couple admits that their lives have become simpler and more vibrant. They no longer feel trapped by circumstances or live just to pay bills. Instead, they enjoy freedom, ease, and the sense that the most exciting things are just beginning. Their story is an example of how sometimes a single step is enough to change everything.
