About Manuela
A lifelong traveller with a deep curiosity for culture, food, and how people live.
Ciao, I'm Manu!
I was born and raised in Milan, Italy, to Sicilian parents, and I grew up surrounded by art, creativity, and a deep appreciation for culture.
In 2006, I moved to Sydney, Australia, which I now proudly call home.
I am a naturalised Australian and feel incredibly fortunate to live here, while still carrying Italy very much with me.
Travel has always been part of my life. Growing up in Europe meant borders were close and cultures changed quickly.
Long before affordable flights were common, my family and I travelled extensively by car across Europe, discovering new places slowly and intentionally. Those early experiences shaped how I travel to this day.
I haven’t been everywhere, but it is on my list.
Favourite Places For...
Food
Italy (Palermo, markets and street food), Japan (Fukuoka, street food), India (Mumbai, street food)
Culture
Palermo (Italy) and Kyoto (Japan)
History
Guatemala and the south of Mexico
Adventure
Argentina, South Africa (safari), Hawaii, and Australia
Markets and Shopping
Chichicastenango (Guatemala), Tahiti (French Polynesia)
Road Trips
Patagonia (Chile and Argentina), the South Island of New Zealand, Australia (Sydney to Melbourne and the Great Ocean Road)
Relaxation
Fakarava (French Polynesia), the Tuscan countryside (Italy), Torres del Paine National Park (Chile)
Photography
Patagonia (Chile and Argentina), Kyoto and Miyajima (Japan), South Africa (safari)
Girls’ Trips and Getaways
Japan, Hawaii, Italy, France, Australia
A Lifelong Love of Travel
Living in Milan offered endless opportunities to explore. Within a few hours, you could find yourself in a completely different country, language, or tradition.
If there is one thing I miss about living in Europe, it is the ease of experiencing such diversity within short distances.
As an adult, my travels have expanded well beyond Europe. Over the years, I have explored destinations across Asia, Central and South America, Africa, Oceania, and beyond.
Each journey has deepened my understanding of how culture, history, landscape, and daily life come together to define a place.
My Favourite Travel Essentials
