Welcome to our Tuscany adventure! We're Rob and Andrea, a couple from Los Angeles who decided to take a leap of faith and start a new life in Italy.
Recently, we fulfilled our dream of purchasing a stunning abandoned Italian villa along the Tuscany seaside. Join us as we share our renovation journey, from uncovering antique treasures to transforming this old villa into a modern haven. Along the way, we'll explore hidden gems in the Tuscan countryside and share the joys and challenges of living in this beautiful country.
Get ready to be captivated by the essence of our enchanting Tuscany life. Hit that 'Subscribe' button and embark on this unforgettable adventure with us!
Oh yeah... I renovated my much smaller house and it's def been stressful. And expensive. Very. There's always things you didn't plan for. The insidious part is that normally, you're in control of the big ticket items, but what really gets you is all the small stuff you didn't think of. It really does add up. I stopped when I hit my budget threshold so we don't have the custom cabinet in the main bathroom (yet), the wood fired oven that isn't essential has to wait, I built the wardrobe myself which is quite apparent, and I'm very busy with my shovel doing all the landscaping at snails pace 😂 It happens.
😩 ugh renovations! I’m sure we’ll LOVE it when it’s all over😅I’m in agreement with you 100%! It’s all the little things that add up and get ya. You’ll definitely get there and I’m sure you’ll appreciate all those new things even more when they do come. I know we certainly will! 🤣 I’m all for taking your time and doing what you can yourself. Keep up the amazing work 💪 and thanks for the support and kind words 💗
You need to publish a few time-lapses video with before/after to attract more subscribers. You have good videos and it should be helpful for your channel. Cheers from Ukraine 💛💙
So good to see you three! Loved hearing little Robbie laugh❤……thank you for the video. I really enjoy the restaurants that you visit and seeing the food of the region
😘🥰 Robbie’s personality is really coming through now and his laugh is music to my ears! He loves meeting new people, playing with dad, and cuddling with mom. Thanks for your suggestions!! We will make sure to continue to do that and get out and explore more of Italy! 🇮🇹
So nice to hear the background story and how the community is very aware of what you have achieved - this community will be the village who can help you raise your family
❤️ we were totally blown away by the sisters’ interest in what we’ve been doing. They can’t believe the transformation. It really picked us up when we were feeling so frustrated
I admire you both for all you have achieved....get quotes in writing always ..dont be too nice ....they work for you....not the other way round ...im saying this from years of experience
Agrinascente shop in Fidenza is a MUST visit! Also don't forget to Sign Up to our newsletter to be the first to know when the shop is live maps.app.goo.gl/EJYkPj5vLb5Cuq8h6
we’re definitely trying!!! 😅I used to be so focused on being productive each and every single day but now I’m learning to go with the flow. So glad we’re making time to make memories! 📸
Thank you!! We are great, trying to get other important life things done while construction is on hold. Hopefully in the coming weeks we'll be able to enjoy more of Summer 😊
How exciting for you both and lots of juggling going on but it will be worthwhile! I can't wait to see your online store! You have such wonderful taste, so I'm sure it'll be gorgeous! Best wishes and happy "shooting" 🥰😍🤗😘
Thank you for the very sweet comment! Things are very exciting and we couldn't be happier with our products. Hopefully we'll be lunching in the coming weeks 🤩 ❤️
Another good video. I think the blending of local markets, shops and a slice of routine Tuscan life outside the home will broaden the interest and get you more views and subs. You guys deserve more views and to be monetized. I would reach out to Nikki Positiano on YT since she is in Tuscany now. I've noticed subs go way up after getting exposure and like in the genre. I have travelled extensively throughout Italy and Europe. The area you choose is awesome for IMHO. I cant wait to see baby old enough to ride the electric toy cars in that beachfront park in South of Livorno.
What town did you stop for lunch. The views were amazing!! So happy you are living forward w your products. Sooo excited for you. What a fun rich Italian life🎉. - #blessed
That town was quaint but cute, the name is Artimino, it really had some beautiful views 🤩 It as been a lot of hard work but we are sooo happy with the outcome. We absolutely cannot wait to share more soon 😍❤️
Omg you know exactly what I’m talking about!! You must be tough! 🤣 I’ve definitely become resilient to bumps in the road like never before but I wouldn’t trade it for anything. It makes the highs all that much better
@@CasaArdor i know you are both very smart but..... dont pay up front ....get in writing what they are being paid for and dont fall for the '" he's a really nice guy""....at the end of the job 'il saldo' ....
This resonates with me too 🤦🏻♀️ Been renovating a “casale” in Tuscany since 2019. We paid the first contractor upfront (because we were told that’s the way it’s done here) and that didn’t end well. 2nd contractor tripled the original quote with the “justified” excuse of Covid and Ukraine war. Now, because we can’t trust anyone anymore and they practically dried our funds, we’re trying to do most of the stuff ourselves while repeating to myself - when the going gets tough, the tough gets going 😅 You’ve done a lot and I admire you. Hang in there and keep enjoying the journey 😉 Wishing you all the very best.
Appreciate your honesty over the difficulties with your workers, and how you're taking a minute to reasses and go over the budget. Must be frustrating but onwards! P.S. Those MEAAAAAAATS!!!
🤣🤣🤣🤣 I think Robbie was drooling in the background 🤤impromptu lunches are the best in Tuscany! Uff 🫠it’s rough and frustrating but I have faith that everything will get resolved. We’re always looking at the bright side-having this break allows us to free our minds and enjoy the beautiful summer!
Oh those first two years of a renovation!!! You are so right to prioritize. Bottom line is you were lucky to get so much done before Robbie was born which allowed for you to have what you absolutely need right now. Meanwhile look how much little dude has grown in such a short time. I'm like does he look like Dad, does he look like Mom🤔 either way he's one cutey and Dad is having the best time with his new little buddy. Even with the pressures it all looks like so much fun! ... And gosh is that countryside beautiful...a vacation scene everyday! Productive few weeks, bravo! ♥️🇨🇦
Oh the pain 😭 Sometimes it feels like we’re moving at a snails pace BUT I have to say, we are very comfortable living on the bottom floor in the meantime! New windows, air conditioning, a new functioning kitchen and lots of space is like heaven ✨ especially compared to before 🤣 We are having the time of our lives these days thanks to our little guy. He’s almost tripled since he was born! 😳 Something can go wrong (like extra costs) but seeing him giggling and smiling puts it all into perspective 💗 sending you a big hug from all of us!!
Big fan of you guys and the vlog. I am planning to retire in Tuscany from Atlanta, GA- appreciating and learning from all your experiences. Congrats on Robbie.
Ciao! What a lovely comment ❤ It seems like you have an adventure of your own just about to begin. What area of Tuscany are you thinking? If there is one strong piece of advice I could give you it is to Not Give Up!! It isn't easy and once you get there people love telling you it isn't possible but stay strong and continue to push. Wonderful things always work out in the end. Rightnow I am on Daddy duty, watching TdF, and Robbie is fed and going crazy next to me. Andrea is working on TODAY'S VIDEO so keep an eye out! Thanks again for your wonderful comment!
Very nice, what area are you guys looking? Are you looking in person or through online? Tuscany can be a pricey but its a wonderful place to call home.
@@CasaArdor Since we fly alot, were currently looking at Piedmonte, but were super flexible! Combination of in person and online. Our biggest fears are like zoning issues and work permit stuff. How has that been for you guys?
@@Sam-gl6bm Piedmonte is a beautiful region. Haven't really explored much of but have driven through it many times. Alessandria is a BEAUTIFUL area. I wish I could help more with the work permit stuff but we moved here in 2017 and at that time digital nomad wasn't a thing. I know laws and regulations on that stuff is changing all the time. We actually hired a lawyer to help us obtain our residency and work permits, but even at that time it was stressful and seemed impossible. My biggest tip is never take No as the definitive answer haha It's much easier to tell someone No or it wont work than it is to try and find a way (trust us we hear it all the time) but here you have to stay head strong and just figure out a way 💪
@@CasaArdor Thank you for the response! I guess i should have clarified that it want about work or digital nomad visa, but moreso about permits and authorizations to do work to the house? Obviously excluding historically relevant properties, how annoying/extensive (permit-wise) is doing work to your property? Were looking at detached farmhouse style but we´d like to do alot of the work ourselves but dont want to be at the mercy of insane permit regulations for every little desire/project. Any clarity on this would be insanely appreciated.
❤😢 Your sister is crying with every memory and wants to book her next flight. I love all three of you dearly. Your garden likes beautiful, great job keeping it alive. Until our next adventure!
😭😭😭we miss you!!! Robbie misses your cuddles🥰 so happy we got to take you around and enjoy some delicious food! I always think of you when I see the garden 💗Robbie loooves his adorable outfits! He was wearing his sloths 🦥 today 🥹 sending so much love!!
Thanks!!! It was so hard to find something we both liked and could adapt. We bought it from Westwing 😉 it was a loooong wait but really happy we went with it! I originally wanted green but thankfully we ordered swatches and it shifted everything. The blue just worked so well when we put it up to the kitchen cabinets and brass
Loved the video Andrea! It was so nice to meet more family and see new places. Thank you for taking us along. Robbie Is sooo cute! He looks a lot like his momma. Bev in Colorado
Hey Bev!! 🤗 awww thank you!! it was so incredible to have family here. They showered us with love and got to spend some quality time with our little guy. Robbie has such a personality now, always laughing and chatting-he must take after me! 🤣🤣🤣
Some wonderful family experiences.. The place in Chianti where you enjoyed Bistecca alla Fiorentina looked fabulous. We're heading down that way soon, can you share the name? Many thx M&R
It was really a beautiful time with my Mom and Sister here. Hopefully they will be back soon as there is still so much to show them ☺ Absolutely, the restaurant is called: Le Pietre Vive. I highly recommend the Bitter Greens as a side, for me they were the highlight ⭐If you go, you'll have to let us know what you think!!
Ciao friends! So happy for you to have spent some lovely quality time with family! Little Robbie is doing so well and such a great little traveller. Everything is coming along so beautifully and your little herb garden 🪴 is a great addition which I’m sure you’ll use a lot in the future. Have a great week ahead 🩵🌞🥰🪴
Ciao!! How are you doing?? Yes, it was so welcomed! We felt showered with love and support when we needed it 🥰 Robbie is such a great little sidekick. It’s amazing to see his personality grow! He’s paying attention to everything around him and so cuddly with us. We’re loving these special moments 💕 we hope you are doing well 🤗
@@CasaArdor oh thank you! I’m doing much better and doing a lot of thermal pool treatments! I’m so happy for you guys as you’re such a lovely family! You just keep enjoying these wonderful moments 🥰♥️😘
Worth the wait, this was a beautiful video episode! You guys have such a nice vibe. You’re so fortunate to have this experience! Thanks for sharing with us!
Thank you for the very kind comment 😊 It's our pleasure bringing you all along with us on these adventures. We love to show real life here in Italy and we really do appreciate our followers, this community really touches us and we want to get back to making regular weekly videos. Robbie just has our full attention at the moment 😍😋
Delightful video. Ristorante La Fattoria near Tavanelle and Sienna area is one of our favorites. We live in the states and I have returned here 4 times.
We have actually never been there but know that area very well. We actually lived in Greve in Chianti for a couple years during covid. It was a very beautiful time and have many friends in the area ❤We were thinking of doing a episode of some of are favorite places in the Chianti area 🤔 Maybe we'll have to get this going haha 😋😁
Andrea, where are you guys from in Cali? I'm from San Gabriel Valley in SoCal. It was always my dream to move to italy. It makes me happy to see others make it happen. I wish you all the best!
🥰😘 I’m from Los Angeles 👋 It was a real dream to move over here and start a new life- everyone thought we would be back in a couple of years. It’s been tough but somehow we’ve managed to make it happen! It’s surreal now that we have our son and I have to say it’s been worth it. Never give up on your dreams 😊💪
Marble has been the toughest part of the design! I can’t wait to have more than one bathroom! It’s a dream to see Baby Robbie take his first bath in his own tub 🐣🛁💗
Oh gosh I think we went for a walk right near you, without even knowing it! We were on the way home from Lucca and decided to follow the coast home. It was gorgeous, so we can understand how happy you must be there! Great for walks with Robbie for sure! So glad to see your Lacanche getting used by you mamma and her scones looked yummy! Best wishes with everything Marisa 🥰🤗😘
💗💗💗💗 oh! It would’ve been so great to see you!! We’re finally starting to feel human again and getting sleep through the night🤣 The coast is soooo gorgeous! Just running around town today, we saw everyone is sunburnt from the weekend! There are so many amazing seafood restaurants out here and lots of great places for cocktails. I can already start to see visitors from all around ready for the summer season. Sending a big hug from us 🤗💗
@@CasaArdor well next time we think we are headed that way, l’ll let you know! I can imagine how the vibe must be changing now and soon you’ll have little Robbie in a swimsuit! How fun! What a great area to grow up in for a little one! He’ll be an Italian surfer boy! 😍🌊☀️🏄♂️
In my country in Africa we Build houses from scratch. We build when we get money slowly.(We don't get loans) So we are used to it. We start with all the important staffs (The need) Then we finish with the wants. We are building family house now 2 floors,5 bedrooms all with bathrooms. We are not in hurry. We do some stuff ourselves like gardening and planting flowers. This is how we do. My advice finish the necessary and taje it slowly. Dont stress much . Projects take take.
You’re right! Slow but steady is the right way to do it!! It’s such a huge project that involves a huge amount of time, money, and lots of patience for problem solving! We have learned so much about ourselves and each other in the last year working on our home. Now we are excited to finish the major things and take our time with all the little projects
It took us 3 months after delivery to finally be able to use it 😵💫 the power company dragged their feet but it was so worth the wait! It’s unreal how amazing all my baking turns out! I can’t wait to make Robbie some cupcakes in it once he’s old enough ☺️🧁 My mom was so amazing to come out here and help us with the house! We got to focus on the baby and that was so special 💗
The oven is the star of the kitchen! My mom and Rob are afraid to get it dirty 🤣 I absolutely love it!! It’s such an upgrade from anything I’ve ever cooked with before. Baby Robbie is such a sweetie! He is always wanting to be cuddled but I have no complaints!! 😊
Great minds think alike 😘 Wait ‘til you see Robbie’s bathroom mood board 😝 I had such a fun time with the shapes and color! It took us MONTHS to find the perfect tile that gave a 60s/70s vibe
Hi there!! Fun!! Where are you headed? There’s so many amazing places throughout Italy but Tuscany has my heart 😊 Rob and I designed our kitchen from the ground up and had our carpenter build it. It took us months to plan and figure out where we wanted to place everything and to find the right materials 😅 we started with a list of must haves and the appliances. Our carpenter did such an amazing job executing our vision!
