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87. How Italy Expert Livia Hengel Turned Her Passion for Travel into a Global Career

That Was Delicious

Release Date: 05/12/2025

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In this inspiring and wanderlust-filled episode, Brooke chats with Rome-based food and travel writer Livia Hengel. From a childhood spent across continents to building a career spotlighting Italy’s culinary and cultural gems, Livia shares her serendipitous journey into travel writing and the creation of her digital magazine The Italy Edit. Listeners will gain an inside look into Italian culture, hidden gems across the country, Livia’s top recommendations for off-the-beaten-path Rome, and why she believes solo travel can be transformational. Whether you’re dreaming of Italy or planning your next big trip, this episode is packed with rich insights and practical inspiration.

 

Key Takeaways

  • [01:05] A Diplomatic Childhood: Livia grew up globally due to her diplomat father and Italian mother, sparking her lifelong love for travel and food.

  • [04:00] The Accidental Italy Expert: After college, Livia moved back to Rome unexpectedly and began documenting her experiences—eventually leading to a career in travel writing and photography.

  • [9:10] Founding The Italy Edit: Launched in 2020, The Italy Edit grew organically into a robust digital magazine with over 60 contributors covering all corners of Italy.

  • [22:40] Underrated Gem: Naples: Naples surprised Livia and became one of her favorite cities for its raw beauty, culture, and unparalleled pizza scene.

  • [27:45] Global Wanderer: Livia explains her passion for solo travel across Asia and North Africa, emphasizing the transformative power of pushing beyond your comfort zone.

  • [35:25] Rome, Past & Present: Livia shares her ideal "off-the-grid" day in Rome, complete with coffee among statues, row boats in Villa Borghese, and a visit to the aqueducts.

  • [41:17] The Power of a Solo Meal: Her most memorable meal? A solo Michelin-star experience in Hong Kong, where solitude heightened her awareness and joy.

 

Notable Quotes

  • (14:08) “I live my life because I don’t want to have any regrets on my deathbed.”

  • (19:30) “Italy nourishes the soul, but I do miss the forward motion and innovation of the U.S.”

  • (28:02) “You grow the most at the edge of your comfort zone.”

  • (41:40) “A solo meal can be one of the most enriching experiences—you taste every bite more deeply.”

 

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