‘We wanted to try something new’: This US family moved to Italy sight unseen nine years ago and never looked back

American Family Discovers New Life in Italy Without Prior Visit

From San Diego to a Hilltop Haven

We wanted to try something new - Jason Salesberry arrived in Italy during October 2017 with no previous experience on Italian soil. Nearly a decade later, he resides in a charming hilltop community where he tends to his two-acre olive tree plantation and anticipates the upcoming harvest season. Since that initial journey to Naples without prior knowledge of the destination, the family's existence has evolved into an exciting European odyssey. Their experiences range from paragliding adventures across Swiss landscapes to underwater explorations in Greek waters, alongside leisurely afternoons at nearby beaches sampling authentic Neapolitan gelato.

"Living in the heart of Europe has unlocked a world of adventure for our family," Jason shared with CNN Travel during a recent conversation. This transformed reality represents something the American military veteran never anticipated for himself. Having spent his childhood in San Diego, California, and completed military assignments in both Puerto Rico and Japan, Jason's trajectory seemed predetermined. Yet his fascination with Italian traditions and customs had always lingered in the background of his mind.

A Decision Rooted in Safety and Adventure

After connecting with Sherry, another US Navy veteran whose origins trace back to Trinidad and Tobago, the couple established roots and began building their family. This milestone transformed Jason's abstract dream into a concrete plan. "I never imagined my life's path would lead to a hilltop town in southern Italy," he reflected. "It really was just an adventure. We wanted to try something new."

Practical considerations also influenced their choice. Having resided in Chesapeake, Virginia since 2009, Jason grew increasingly worried about escalating violent crime statistics in their community. He sought a more secure setting for his young daughter's upbringing. "When I compared European crime rates to those in the US, the decision became clear," he explained. His application for a role at a military installation near Naples received approval shortly thereafter.

Sherry's Conditions for the Move

While Jason embraced uncertainty with enthusiasm, convincing Sherry required considerable effort. "I pretty much protested on coming here," Sherry acknowledged candidly. She ultimately consented to relocate under one firm requirement: the family would remain for merely three years. "I'm an only child, and my mom did not want me to come."

Viewing their relocation as a temporary arrangement, they maintained ownership of their three-bedroom Virginia residence instead of selling it. Packing lightly due to uncertainty about Italian housing conditions, the family departed for Naples in October 2017 alongside their daughter and canine companion. Initial anxiety dominated their early days, with frequent questions about whether they had chosen wisely.

Navigating Italian Life

Jason remembers their inaugural evening in Italy clearly, when overwhelming unfamiliarity reduced Sherry to tears. Eventually securing a rental property on the US Navy installation in Pozzuoli—a historic settlement positioned atop a volcanic caldera—they enjoyed spectacular vistas yet found themselves somewhat disconnected from authentic local experiences, living "in an American bubble."

Gradually, the family developed affection for Naples' culinary offerings and unhurried lifestyle. "Back home in the US, everyone's busy," Sherry observed. "You have your nine to five, then you have to prepare to go to school and work the next day. It's not like that here." She humorously noted their adjustment to dining customs where meals extend for two or three hours. "We had to learn the art of slowing down," Jason added. "Yet, the benefits have far outweighed the adjustments."

As the birthplace of pizza, Naples provided endless gastronomic opportunities. The family delighted in exploring neighborhood restaurants, appreciating how each establishment put its unique spin on traditional pasta and pizza dishes. However, local timing presented challenges. Dining establishments seldom opened for evening service before 7 PM—when the family typically relaxed. Complicating matters further, Sherry, employed by a financial institution, maintained American working hours alongside Jason.

Overcoming Cultural Hurdles

Naples' aggressive driving patterns initially terrified Sherry, requiring eight months before she felt confident operating a vehicle. "I still can't get used to it," she confessed, describing local motorists as highly unpredictable. "In America, you know what the other driver is doing. Here, they do whatever they want." She maintains constant awareness of her surroundings while navigating local roads.

Waste disposal presented additional complications, with residents required to sort garbage into five distinct categories according to neighborhood-specific regulations. Financially, however, the family discovered their American currency purchased considerably more in Italy than it had in Virginia, particularly regarding fresh produce and daily necessities.

"We wanted to try something new."

"I pretty much protested on coming here."

"I never imagined my life's path would lead to a hilltop town in southern Italy."