By Kelsey Gibson

"My idea of heaven still is to drive the gravel farm roads of Umbria and Tuscany, very pleasantly lost. "

-Frances Mayes

Tuscany seems to have a magic power that consumes your whole being. It has the power to completely change your view on life and help you find your true self. There are a countless number of books and movies that are based in the Tuscan hills because this region of Italy is truly a fairytale. It seems too good to be true, but maybe it’s that beautiful truth that sets you free.

Tuscany has changed my life for the better and I can say with confidence that I am addicted to it. A huge chunk of my heart is here in Florence, Tuscany’s capital, and I can speak for most people that spend time here…it gets harder to leave each time.

Here are some of our reasons why we think traveling throughout Tuscany has the power to change your life for the better:

"Beauty: the aggregate of qualities that gives pleasure to the senses or pleasurably exalts the mind or spirit"

1. The Natural Beauty

Tuscany, and every part within it, perfectly depicts the definition of beauty. It pleases each and every one of your senses from the sight of the hills, trees and medieval architecture, the smell and taste of the fresh olives and grapes, and the sound and feeling of the peacefulness.

Once you arrive, you will realize the beauty in the big picture of your surroundings and you will start seeing the beauty in the simple things around you in your life. It will make you a more observant and attentive person to the details that make up the sweetest moments.

You will no longer wait for the big adventures, but rather really enjoy the small things that make each day more unique and beautiful than the day before.

"The most important aspects of Italian culture are food and community."

2. Quality over quantity

Throughout your travels, you will find yourself in food comas often because you will not be able to resist the authentic and vibrant flavors in everything you taste.

You will quickly realize that tomatoes are not bland, olive oil actually tastes like olives and differs from one another, and wine is an art that is meant to be appreciated with each sip. You will appreciate quality of the products and ingredients rather than the convenience and quantity of the goods.

This goes with more than just food too…you will gain a sense of quality within your relationships and friendships as well.

3. Serenity

The hills have a sense of peacefulness and serenity that will make you realize simplicity is the key to happiness. You will be able to take a step back and unavoidably let go of the little worries and problems that prevent you from seeking the joy in your life.

Whether you are sitting in the hills enjoying some wine or walking through a Tuscan town, you can clear your head easily with the lack of chaos, the subtle live street music, and simply losing yourself in the loveliness around you. You can sit back and think in the tranquility while watching the world continue on.

When you return home and the worries start to resurface, you will have a new perspective on how to conquer the and turn your problems calmly into solutions. Serenity will come more natural than before and you will want to share this bliss with those around you!

“When you travel you become invisible if you want. I do want. I like to be the observer.”

What have you learned from your time traveling Italy? We would love to hear from you below!

Who would not want to live and travel under the Tuscan sun and through the streets of Tuscan towns filled with gelato, wine, cheese, and passion?!

Come with us on our Tuscan Women’s Tour to realize all of this for yourself and more!

A Walk Through a Vineyard in Naples Italy

3 Life-Changing Lessons I learned from Tuscany