by InTrieste
all photographs courtesy of Erin McKinney
In the heart of the enchanting city of Trieste, a growing community of expats has found a place to call home. Among the diverse array of international residents are couples who have chosen this picturesque city and its surroundings as the backdrop for their love stories. From chance meetings during global travels to shared passions that brought them together, these expats share not only a deep connection with each other but also a profound appreciation for their adopted home.
Sara and Harry
How did you meet, and what brought you together?
“We met during a cold winter under strict Covid restrictions in Budapest,” recalls Sara. “Even with bars and venues closed, fate had other plans. On a quiet Sunday afternoon, we were walking along the Danube when mutual friends introduced us.”
Both expats—Sara from Monfalcone and Harry with English and Greek roots—they quickly bonded over a shared love for travel and culture. “But what truly brought us together,” Harry adds, “was our shared dream of building a family.”
Why Trieste?
“Trieste felt like the perfect blend of our past and future,” says Sara. “Its architecture reminded us of Budapest, while its seaside location offered the comfort we longed for.” Though they initially planned to settle in Trieste, the couple found their home in nearby Ronchi dei Legionari, drawn by its proximity to vineyards, mountains, and the Adriatic coast.
Challenges and lessons learned?
“Adapting to small-town life wasn’t easy after Budapest,” Harry admits. “But FVG taught us to appreciate life’s simple pleasures and to embrace the region’s natural beauty. And yes, learning Italian—and the local dialect—was an adventure in itself!”
Peter and Dizzi
How did your story begin?
“It all started with an invitation to dinner at ‘Fabios,’ an Italian restaurant in Vienna,” says Peter. “From the moment we met, sparks flew.”
Trieste became part of their story when Peter, a passionate cook, was inspired by a cookbook about the city’s cuisine. “I surprised Dizzi with a trip to Trieste,” he says. “The Bora wind greeted us, but its dramatic charm sealed the deal.”
What brought you to Trieste?
“Trieste was Peter’s dream,” Dizzi explains. “During the pandemic, we decided to make it our home. We opened Caffè Sacher Trieste, bringing a Viennese coffeehouse tradition to this city that perfectly blends Central European elegance with Mediterranean warmth.”
Advice for newcomers?
“Don’t overthink it—just come and savor life here,” Peter says. “And always make time for an aperitivo at Bagno Sticco!”
Eli and Andreas
Where did it all begin?
“We met at an ‘Expats in Trieste’ aperitivo in January 2024,” Andreas recalls. “One week later, Eli moved in, and we’ve been inseparable ever since.”
Why Trieste and Duino?
Eli’s job brought her to Trieste from Iran, while Andreas, an Austrian, sought a seaside escape. They chose Duino for its fairytale charm—a harbor, castles, and the breathtaking Rilke Trail.
Challenges and discoveries?
“Bureaucracy is an art form here,” Eli laughs. “But the beauty of Trieste and FVG makes it all worthwhile. Over time, we’ve embraced the ‘dolce vita’ and learned to let go of stress.”
On cultural differences:
“Love and trust transcend cultural boundaries,” says Andreas. “And in Trieste, family values reinforce the importance of those fundamentals.”
Laura and Louie
How did you meet?
“In 1985, during a volunteer vacation clearing trails in Maui,” Laura shares. “We kept in touch across the U.S. before finally settling in California together.”
What drew you to Trieste?
“Trieste’s international flavor and Louie’s Friulian roots,” says Laura. After decades abroad, including a teaching stint in the Netherlands, the couple sought a post-retirement haven. “Trieste’s transformation since our first visit in 1991 has been remarkable.”
How has life here shaped your relationship?
“Living here during Covid taught us to appreciate humor in life’s quirks,” Louie says. “Trieste has enriched us with its vibrant, diverse community and deepened our love for the simpler things.”
Eli and Andreas
Where did it all begin?
“We met at an ‘Expats in Trieste’ aperitivo in January 2024,” Andreas recalls. “One week later, Eli moved in, and we’ve been inseparable ever since.”
Why Trieste and Duino?
Eli’s job brought her to Trieste from Iran, while Andreas, an Austrian, sought a seaside escape. They chose Duino for its fairytale charm—a harbor, castles, and the breathtaking Rilke Trail.
Challenges and discoveries?
“Bureaucracy is an art form here,” Eli laughs. “But the beauty of Trieste and FVG makes it all worthwhile. Over time, we’ve embraced the ‘dolce vita’ and learned to let go of stress.”
On cultural differences:
“Love and trust transcend cultural boundaries,” says Andreas. “And in Trieste, family values reinforce the importance of those fundamentals.”
Laura and Louie
How did you meet?
“In 1985, during a volunteer vacation clearing trails in Maui,” Laura shares. “We kept in touch across the U.S. before finally settling in California together.”
What drew you to Trieste?
“Trieste’s international flavor and Louie’s Friulian roots,” says Laura. After decades abroad, including a teaching stint in the Netherlands, the couple sought a post-retirement haven. “Trieste’s transformation since our first visit in 1991 has been remarkable.”
How has life here shaped your relationship?
“Living here during Covid taught us to appreciate humor in life’s quirks,” Louie says. “Trieste has enriched us with its vibrant, diverse community and deepened our love for the simpler things.”
Advice from the couples:
- Embrace the city’s unique mix of cultures.
- Be patient with the bureaucracy—it’s worth it.
- Build a community, whether through local groups or expat gatherings.
- And remember: Never order a cappuccino after lunch!
