by InTrieste
In an era where remote work has become a new norm, Alexandra and Gabriel Rodriguez have embraced the freedom to redefine their lives across borders. Their year-long adventure through Italy is a testament to the allure of exploration and the quest for a place to call home.
In 2022, as the world began to emerge from the shadows of lockdowns, the Rodriguezes found themselves at a crossroads. Both had transitioned to remote work while living in Berlin, and the couple decided to trade their stable lives for the unpredictability of a nomadic existence. “We were craving a change, a new chapter,” Alexandra recalls. “With both of our jobs going remote, it felt like the perfect time to hit the road.”
Their destination: Italy. Gabriel’s roots trace back to the Croatian town of Fiume (now Rijeka) and Calabria, making this journey a unique opportunity to reconnect with his heritage. The couple mapped out a plan to traverse the country, spending 1-2 months in each city, aiming to experience Italy’s varied landscapes and cultures. “We didn’t overthink the itinerary,” Alexandra says. “Our main criteria were good weather, decent WiFi, and a sense of adventure.”
Their journey was as varied as Italy itself. From a rented room in a Piemonte castle to the vibrant chaos of Palermo, Alexandra and Gabriel embraced the diversity of their surroundings. They wandered the serene shores of Lake Como and marveled at the rugged beauty of Sardegna, each location offering its own distinctive charm.
Yet, it was Trieste, a city nestled along the Adriatic coast, that captured their hearts. Arriving in May 2023, Alexandra and Gabriel were immediately struck by Trieste’s picturesque allure. “Driving in over the Karst plateau, with the bay unfolding before us, was like stepping into a romantic film,” Alexandra says. The city’s combination of historic architecture and modern vibrancy made it stand out. “Trieste feels youthful and alive, yet it retains a deep connection to its past.”
However, it was the community that truly made Trieste feel like home. Alexandra and Gabriel, who place a high value on their Christian evangelical faith, quickly found a welcoming church community that felt like family. Additionally, the expat scene in Trieste proved to be both active and intimate. “In larger cities, being an expat can feel commonplace. But in Trieste, it’s a bit more special,” Alexandra explains. “Here, people genuinely seek out each other and build connections.”
Their new life in Trieste has brought its own set of challenges and rewards. The transition from nomadic life to settling down has involved navigating bureaucratic hurdles, such as registering, importing their car, and securing housing. “We initially planned to rent, but the market was more favorable for buying,” Alexandra notes. They are now focused on purchasing and renovating their new home, which promises to offer a tranquil retreat amid the city’s charm.
Working remotely in Trieste has its own rhythm. Alexandra and Gabriel enjoy the flexibility of their schedules, with the ability to work from cafes or take breaks along the scenic Barcola waterfront. “Trieste has everything we need for a balanced life,” Alexandra says. “Good WiFi, inspiring spaces to work, and a vibrant social scene.”
One poignant moment solidified their decision to settle in Trieste. As they prepared to leave for their next destination during their year-long adventure, the familiar strains of their departure song triggered an unexpected wave of emotion. “I found myself crying,” Alexandra admits. “I didn’t want to leave. There was something deeply compelling about Trieste that made me want to stay.”
For those considering a similar adventure, Alexandra offers this advice: “Starting over is never easy. It’s about stepping out of your comfort zone and accepting the challenges. Remember that you’re not alone in feeling overwhelmed or out of place. Connecting with others, being open to new experiences, and embracing the discomfort can make a strange city start to feel like home.”
As Alexandra and Gabriel look forward to their new life in Trieste, they do so with a sense of fulfillment and anticipation. Their journey from Berlin to the Adriatic has not only redefined their concept of home but also reaffirmed the beauty of embracing the unknown.
