My name is Lori, I live and work in Torino, in the north west of Italy. I studied languages at University and then won a post graduation course to become an interpreter.
Now I work as interpreter and translator for companies and agencies, and I also teach English.
When I started travelling to study, I immediately had to face all the cliché Italy is wrapped with. We were the land of fashion, pizza and melodic music. I remember school mates asking me to sing l’Italiano by Toto Cutugno, and I also remember their face after my answer: “sorry, I do not know the words”.
Yes, Italian music is not just Toto Cutugno or Laura Pausini (even if I’m pretty good at singing some of Laura’s songs). And food is not just Pizza.
After finishing studying, I started working for my city tourist board. And I was surprised that I had to explain foreigners that yes, if you are in a bar at 6pm and the counter is full of appetizers, you can have an aperitif, pay for your drink and then taste everything is displayed without extra charges.
As a student first and a free lancer after starting working, I’ve always had to deal with limited money when shopping, visiting museums or travelling. And so, I have developed great skills in finding discounts, or even free things to do.
I opened this blog several years ago because I wanted to explain that Italy is not just Pizza or music played with the mandolin. I wanted to give space to non-conventional places or food or people. And I also wanted to share all the tricks to enjoy a holiday at a low budget.
After years without finding the proper way to work on this blog, I’ve decided to re-start from the beginning.
So basically here is what you will find: tips to visit this country to save money, if you need to, or to enjoy those places attended by those who live in that spot. But if you have special requests, or questions, please leave a comment and I’ll be glad to help you.
I test everything you find here at my own expenses. Any collaboration or requests from companies and associations will be declared.
Follow me on social networks and subscribe my mailing list to receive all the updates. I will only send an e-mail once a week. Don’t worry, my real job and laziness will not allow me to spam you.
Thank you Daniele, my first web master, who opened this blog with me. And welcome Roberto, my current web master, who will try to win my laziness. Hey, we have a mission, present an unusual and on a budget country to the rest of the world.