The Solo Traveller
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Departures
Founded by Sandy Colombo, Aussie2Italia is all about making our dream trip to Italy a reality. Photographer: Sandralee Photography.
Shaping Italy’s countless wonders into an ideal solo traveller itinerary
Briefly …
Italy offers more choices than any solo traveller can possibly fit into one trip. Founded by seasoned traveller and guide Sandy Colombo, Aussie2Italia blends expert planning, on-the-ground support in Italy, and small, thoughtful tours to ensure every traveller experiences the Italy that suits their pace, interests and dreams.
Italy asks us to make an almost impossible decision – where do we begin when every captivating corner feels like the unmissable headline act? Travelling solo with our world of choices only sharpens the dilemma, with Italy’s astonishing history, magnificent coastlines, famous cities, rural regions and villages, sights and culture all calling at once.
Planning a trip to Italy really needs to become a key part of the adventure, which begins with a gentle reminder that where Italy is concerned, there’s no wrong turn, just the version of the journey we’re ready for, and who we should trust to show her to us. Founded by Sandy Colombo, Aussie2Italia is all about making our dream trip to Italy a reality. Sandy is a passionate traveller and seasoned guide, whose tours are designed to offer unique and immersive experiences.
“We want each of our guest’s trips to Italy to be relaxed and enjoyable, and we are all over pacing trips for individual needs,” Sandy tells The Solo Traveller”. “While our office is in Melbourne, Australia, our Italian operator’s office is in Rome, Italy, and this ensures that we are with you every step of the way – from planning your dream Italian getaway to being on the ground with you in local time in Italy.”
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‘Fori Imperiali’ (Imperial Fora) is an archaeological complex in Rome consisting of a series of monumental public squares, built between 46 BC and 113 AD, that served as the centre of political, religious, and economic life in ancient Rome. Photographer: Massimo Virgilio.
“Many clients come to us for planning support simply because the sheer amount of information online can be overwhelming. There’s also a lot of inaccurate advice out there, and it’s easy to feel unsure about what questions you should even be asking. Facebook groups can be especially misleading, as many people present themselves as experts without truly understanding the complexities of travel planning.”
“Many clients come to us for planning support simply because the sheer amount of information online can be overwhelming.”
“A major trap we’ve seen recently, particularly among younger solo travellers, is booking a one-way ticket. Not only is it usually more expensive, but it can actually prevent you from travelling. Most countries require proof that you can support yourself and that you have a confirmed plan to leave the country. Visa rules also change quickly and a new requirement entering Europe has started with the introduction of European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS). Even though it is online, it can take up to 96 hours for approval.”
“With Aussie2Italia, you’ll uncover Italy’s hidden gems, savour authentic local cuisine, and connect with like-minded adventurers while enjoying the perfect balance of guided discovery and free time. Whether it’s your first time or a long-awaited return, we handle all the details so you can relax, soak up the culture, and fall in love with Italy the way it’s meant to be experienced.”
Venice. Photographer: Julia Boiun.
“Our groups are small, and we like to travel the way Italians do (often by fast train), which is a more traditional and relaxed way. We do not do 6.00am starts and we do not travel with 40 people on a coach. This is a holiday, not work, so we ensure there is always time on our group tours for you to see what interests you at your own pace as well as the ‘must see’ sights and destinations.”
“Our Blockbuster Tour in September takes in Venice, Florence, Orvieto (a small regional town experience) and Rome. We travel by train and we have time in each place to explore and do what you want. There is enough structure for the first timers to Italy, but also enough time to explore your own way, and this always delights our solo travellers in particular.”
Completed in 100 BC, the Ponte Pietra is a Roman arch bridge crossing the Adige River in Verona. Photographer: Henrique Ferreira.
“Our Food, Wine and Riccardo tour also in September is an immersive journey into the heart of Italian cuisine and culture. Beginning in Rome, this experience takes you to regions and little-known towns that many travellers have yet to discover. Beyond the exceptional food, wine, and of course Riccardo (Riccardo Schirru, an Italian-Australian writer with a deep passion for Italy), the tour features a stay in a beautiful Tuscan villa and visits to iconic gastronomic destinations such as Parma – the birthplace of Parmigiano Reggiano cheese and prosciutto, Modena – famed for its traditional balsamic vinegar, and Bologna – a culinary powerhouse (and home of my Italian family), before finishing in Verona, the home of William Shakespeare’s legendary Romeo and Juliet.”
“For individually planned solo trips, we provide guidance in creating the perfect itinerary, and once in Italy, our trusted local partners are only a call or text message away – and yes, they speak fluent English! This level of support transforms a trip into an amazing experience, and one that becomes a lifelong memory, and we are proud to make that possible.”
Tuscany. Photographer: Sterling Lanier.
“We recently received a particularly special Google review from Katy Brooks, one of our solo travellers, who loved her trip and especially appreciated the way we paced it. Katy wrote: ‘The tour of Southern Italy was absolutely unforgettable! From start to finish, the experience was well organised, relaxed, and full of authentic charm. All the guides were exceptional – knowledgeable, friendly, and full of stories that brought each destination to life. It never felt rushed, yet we managed to see so much – from historic sites to hidden local gems. The accommodations were impressive – comfortable, clean, and full of character. This tour exceeded all expectations. If you’re looking for a perfect mix of culture, scenery, history, and authentic Italian hospitality, this Southern Italy tour is an absolute must.’”
Trattoria Terranova in Sorrento. Photographer: Andy Holmes.
“Pacing is incredibly important and something many people don’t consider during the excitement of planning. When you are imagining your dream trip to Italy from home, it’s easy to want to pack everything in. But once you arrive, the reality can feel very different. We put a great deal of thought and care into designing our tours and working with our clients, so they experience plenty without ever feeling rushed. As a tour guide and itinerary tour writer for many years, I know the importance of pacing as it is really important to get it right.”
“The best times to visit Italy are Spring or Autumn when it is less crowded and the weather is cooler. It’s especially important to avoid August, as it’s very hot and also the month when many Italians take their holidays. This means destinations are busier, but more local businesses are closed. September is the ideal time to travel, as earlier in the year you also have Easter, which is a particularly busy and often more expensive due to the celebrations throughout the country.”
Sandy’s top 3 tips for solo travelling success …
1: Be open and be prepared to do things differently. Say ‘Yes’ to things (within reason) and stay safe.
2: Book your last night’s accommodation in the place you are flying out of when flying internationally. No one wants to miss that flight and rebooking may take a long time (and be very costly).
3. Get expert advice on the destination you are travelling to from a trusted and reviewed source. Know your requirements – such as terms and conditions and your entry visa requirements. I know it may be boring, but you do not want hidden surprises that can be costly.
Are you ready to plan your very own dream adventure to Italy? Feel free to connect with Sandy via her Aussie2Italia website here.
In related news …
For decades, travellers from around the world have been accustomed to flashing a passport at Europe’s borders and breezing through with a stamp. But that familiar ritual is changing. The European Union (EU) is introducing a new Entry/Exit System (EES), designed to modernise and secure travel into ‘the Schengen Zone’, which is the vast area of Europe where border control between countries has largely disappeared.