Ilene and Gary Modica, the husband-and-wife duo behind Our Italian Journey, are renowned figures in the world of travel and memoir writing, offering readers a unique, insider’s perspective on Italy. Living in the historic town of Lucca in Tuscany, the Modicas have earned their place as influential authors, bloggers, and advocates for Italy’s cultural heritage. Their personal connection to the country and its people has transformed their lives and inspired a global audience to explore Italy’s lesser-known treasures. Through their work, the Modicas emphasize the importance of human connections, meaningful experiences, and a life well-lived.
Our Italian Journey is more than just a travel blog; it is a gateway to exploring Italy’s beauty and authenticity through the eyes of two passionate travelers who have made Italy their second home. The Modicas’ blog is celebrated for its meticulous storytelling, which brings Italy’s charming towns, vibrant festivals, and stunning landscapes to life. Their insights go beyond the typical tourist attractions, focusing on the hidden gems and local experiences that make Italy so distinctive. Each article blends personal anecdotes, practical advice, a bit of history, and cultural reflections, giving readers an authentic glimpse into Italian life.
In addition to their blog, Ilene and Gary are the authors of three books that chronicle their journey in Italy. Their first memoir, Our Italian Journey, offers readers a heartfelt narrative of discovering the Italian way of life while searching for their “perfect Italian town” to call home. As part of their journey, they have shared their adventures through 42 towns in Italy, immersing readers in their experiences. Some readers have described the book as more of a travel guidebook than a memoir. Their second book, When Your Heart Finds Its Home, narrates their quest to make Tuscany their permanent home, revealing how the pandemic, while disruptive, did not hinder their dream of calling Tuscany home. This book also offers insights into many of the towns they explored, providing readers with a personal narrative and a sense of the local life they encountered along the way.
Their latest book, Tuscany Treasures: A Journey Through 31 Towns, is an insightful guidebook that combines personal reflections with helpful travel tips. Unlike traditional guidebooks, Tuscany Treasures provides readers with an insider’s look at the region, blending practical advice with rich storytelling. The Modicas’ connection to each town they explore is evident in their writing, offering a deeper narrative about Tuscany’s food, wine, festivals, and traditions. Currently, they are working on a sequel that focuses on the region of Umbria, continuing their exploration of Italy’s hidden gems.
In response to growing demand for alternative formats, Ilene and Gary have ventured into the audiobook realm. Our Italian Journey has been transformed into an audiobook, narrated by the Modicas themselves. This addition provides an immersive experience for listeners, allowing them to connect with the authors in a more personal and intimate way.
Their motto, “The best part of this journey is the people we meet along the way,” encapsulates their approach to travel and life. They take immense pleasure in engaging with their readers, many of whom have become lifelong friends. Whether through email correspondence, phone calls, or casual meet-ups over coffee or wine, the Modicas are dedicated to fostering genuine connections with those who share their love for Italy. They are also committed to helping others navigate their own journeys, whether it be planning a trip to Italy, pursuing Italian citizenship, or simply seeking inspiration for their next adventure.
Gary and Ilene’s journey to obtain Italian citizenship through the Jure Sanguinis (right of blood) and Jure Matrimonii (right of marriage) process holds great significance. After three years of navigating the complex bureaucracy through the Los Angeles consulate, they successfully obtained dual citizenship, a deeply personal accomplishment that resonates with many of their readers. Their deep love for Italy and its people is evident in their travels, which have taken them to 126 towns across the country, so far. Each visit has enriched their understanding of Italy’s diverse regions and cultures, and they share these insights with their readers through their blog and books. For the Modicas, their travel advice goes beyond simple recommendations; they aim to inspire others to connect with the places they visit on a deeper level. Their stories offer a sense of belonging to a community that values exploration, connection, and the pursuit of dreams.
Ilene and Gary’s contributions to travel and memoir writing have not gone unnoticed. Their blog, Our Italian Journey, has been recognized as one of the top 15 Italy travel blogs by FeedSpot and ranked among the top 4 Italy travel blogs by Vidalingua. They have also received the prestigious “Couples Travel Blog of the Year” award for four consecutive years from AI Acquisition International. In addition, their books have acquired several accolades, including the Author Shout “Recommend Read” Award for both Our Italian Journey and When Your Heart Finds Its Home. Our Italian Journey has also won Author Shout’s Top Pick 2025 award.
The Modicas’ story is of perseverance, passion, and the profound power of following one’s heart. Through their books, blogs, and personal interactions with their readers, they invite others to experience the beauty and richness of Italy in a genuine and personal way. As they continue to share their journey with the world, they remain committed to helping others find their own sense of home, whether in Italy or elsewhere. For more information about Ilene and Gary Modica and their journey, visit their website at Our Italian Journey. Follow them on social media at Instagram, Facebook, Pinterest, Twitter, and YouTube.