Melanie McDougall credits the year she spent in Italy for really helping her understand what life-work balance could feel like. It’s a message she’s hoping to spread to other women – and couples – this International Women’s Day.
The Mount Martha mum and businesswoman recently launched her new business, Verde Italia, to give other people a taste of slow travel in Italy’s ‘green heart’, Umbria. When you meet Melanie, you know she’s a people person, fun and thoughtful.
“We keep our travel groups small, well-paced and luxurious,” Melanie said. “You’ll see the main sites and the less-known ones. You’ll meet real locals and have time to breathe and relax, too. We want the tours to feel like a group of friends travelling together, experiencing an authentic journey; not a typical tourist.
“I’m such a foodie, so naturally that’s also important,” she laughed.
After a successful career in fashion and event management, Melanie, her husband Anthony, and their young son Ari headed for a year in Italy to experience life in a hilltop village.
“There was such joy in that slower way of life, where the neighbours were welcoming and our in-season fresh food often came from our own garden and orchard,” she said. “We also discovered how much we enjoyed taking our frequent visitors from home on impromptu tours and sharing our deepening passion for Umbria and Italy.
“It was even better than we’d hoped. We came home with the idea that grew into Verde Italia, taking small groups of people on personalised tours each May and September-October, the best times to visit for mild weather.
“I believed I had another business in me so I blended my passions – Italy, travel, food and people – with a manageable lifestyle and created Verde Italia. I’m very excited to share ‘my’ patch of Italy with people who want to savour Umbria, the magic hilltop villages, stunning scenery, deep history and memorable experiences such as a private cooking class, dinner in a local’s home, truffle hunting, yet with time out for some pampering.
“Besides our regular tours, we also create custom trips in Umbria for small groups of six or more. So what special celebration do you have coming up?”
For more information, contact founder and tour leader Melanie McDougall on 1300 853 103 or visit www.verdeitalia.com.au
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