For some travelers, Italy is about art, food, or iconic landmarks. For JoAnn and Ron, it was all of that—and a celebration of a lifetime together. Married for more than 50 years and newly retired, their first trip to Italy was inspired by family heritage, a love of nature, and the desire for a more personal, small-group travel experience.
Living in North Carolina with two grown sons and a granddaughter, JoAnn and Ron had long dreamed of visiting the country their grandparents left behind. When they finally traveled to Italy in October 2021, their journey became far more than a vacation—it was a deeply meaningful milestone filled with connection, laughter, and a vow renewal they will cherish forever.
Q: First of all, tell us a little bit about yourselves, please.
A: “We’re both retired and have been married for 55 years. We live in North Carolina, have two grown sons, and one granddaughter.”
From the beginning, JoAnn and Ron’s story reflects partnership, family, and a shared love for meaningful experiences—values that shaped how they approached travel as well.
Q: Was this your first Nada’s Italy tour? How did you find out about Nada’s Italy?
A: “We were looking for a small tour group, and Nada’s had the places we wanted to go. This was our first tour.”
Like many travelers, JoAnn and Ron were searching for an alternative to large bus tours—something more intimate, thoughtfully paced, and well suited to travelers who value quality over crowds.
Q: What surprised you about traveling in a small-group tour?
A: “We weren’t sure about a tour since my husband doesn’t like being around a lot of people, but the way Nada’s put together the group was amazing. Not all couples, not all the same age—and we all got along so well. It felt like we had known everyone for a long time.”
What began with a bit of hesitation quickly turned into one of the trip’s greatest joys: genuine connections and shared experiences with fellow travelers who soon felt like friends.
Q: Why did you want to go to Italy, and why did you choose Northern Italy?
A: “We had always wanted to go, as both of our grandparents came from Italy. This was our first time in Italy. Our grandparents were from the Naples and Campania regions and immigrated to America through Ellis Island. For our first trip, we chose Northern Italy because we love the mountains and quieter areas.”
While their heritage traces back to southern Italy, JoAnn and Ron felt especially drawn to the peaceful landscapes of the north—its alpine scenery, peaceful lakes, and slower pace, an ideal setting for reflection, celebration, and slow travel.
Q: Tell us a little bit about the tour you were on.
A: “We went to Lake Como, which was the best part. Our group was amazing, and our guide, Daniella, was incredible.”
Set against the serene beauty of Lake Como, the tour blended breathtaking scenery with meaningful moments—made even more special by the sense of community within the group.
Q: A memorable moment—was there an experience that truly stood out?
A: “Renewing our vows was number one.”
Originally planned to celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary, the trip was postponed due to COVID. When JoAnn and Ron finally arrived in Italy, they marked 51 years of marriage with a deeply moving vow renewal arranged entirely by their Journey Director, Daniella.
Their Journey Director, Daniella, worked tirelessly to make it happen. While the rest of the group enjoyed a boat excursion, JoAnn and Ron were driven to a small, historic church dating back to the 14th or 15th century.
“The church was small and ornate inside. The priest was so proud of the church,” JoAnn shared. “He showed us the old baptismal bowl and explained its history. He spoke some English, which helped since we don’t speak Italian.”
A printed program included both their original wedding date and their renewal date, and a certificate commemorated the occasion. Daniella even arranged for photos to be taken, ensuring they would have beautiful keepsakes from the day.
After a quiet dinner for two, they rejoined their group for wine, laughter, and celebration—ending the day surrounded by people who now felt like old friends.
Q: Was there an experience that truly resonated with you?
A: “The cooking class we all took—it was one of the group’s birthdays, and we sang and celebrated. My husband barely knows where the kitchen is, and he was making homemade pasta!”
The lively cooking class quickly became a favorite memory—and Ron returned home with newfound culinary confidence. He now proudly considers himself JoAnn’s sous chef—proof that some souvenirs are skills (and stories) you carry with you!
Q: Was there a moment when your Journey Director went above and beyond?
A: “Daniella was amazing in every single way. She made sure my husband’s food had no tomatoes due to an allergy, and the restaurants and wine she picked couldn’t have been better.”
From dietary needs to once-in-a-lifetime celebrations, Nada’s Italy Journey Directors’ care and attention ensured every detail felt personal.
Q: Was there anything that surprised you about Italy?
A: “We were there right after COVID, and even though we had to wear masks in public places, people were so accommodating. We were also surprised by how beautiful northern Italy was.”
Even during a transitional time, Italy’s warmth, hospitality, and natural beauty left a lasting impression.
For JoAnn and Ron, their first trip to Italy was far more than sightseeing. It was a celebration of love, heritage, and a life shared—set against the tranquil beauty of Northern Italy and enriched by thoughtful small-group travel.
With Nada’s Italy, journeys are designed to feel personal. Carefully curated itineraries, truly small groups, and dedicated Journey Directors create space for meaningful moments—whether that’s reconnecting with family roots, celebrating a milestone anniversary, or simply savoring Italy at a slower pace.
👉 Discover the Lake Como & Piemonte itinerary that inspired JoAnn and Ron’s unforgettable journey
👉 Learn more about Heritage Travel and how Nada’s Italy helps travelers reconnect with their Italian roots through deeply personal experiences
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