American Family Finds Peace in Italy: A Journey from California to Bologna
In a poignant reflection of the challenges faced by many American families, Clara Hogan and Brian Hogan Stewart have shared their transformative experience of relocating from California to Bologna, Italy. The couple, along with their two daughters, made the significant decision to move abroad in August 2024, seeking a life free from the anxieties that had begun to overshadow their daily existence in the United States.
A Leap of Faith Amidst Rising Tensions
The decision to leave their home in San Pablo, California, was not made lightly. Clara, a content strategist originally from Iowa, and Brian, who was accepted into a prestigious MBA program in Italy, felt increasingly burdened by the rising political tensions and escalating living costs in their home state. The couple had long harbored dreams of living abroad, but the urgency of their situation propelled them to act.
“We had been living in San Pablo for eight years, and while we loved it, the financial strain was becoming unbearable, especially after having kids,” Clara explained. The couple sold their house, cars, and most of their belongings, embarking on a journey that would change their lives forever.
A New Beginning in Bologna
Upon arriving in Bologna, the family experienced a mix of excitement and trepidation. Clara admitted that the initial months were overwhelming, filled with moments of uncertainty as they navigated a new culture and language. “I remember crying often during those first few months,” she recalled. However, as time passed, they began to build a community that provided the support they had missed in the Bay Area.
The couple’s decision to move was also influenced by the prospect of Donald Trump potentially running for president again, a thought that added to their anxiety about raising children in the U.S. “We had a sneaking suspicion that Trump would win again, which was a scary possibility,” Clara said. Their previous travels to Italy had left a lasting impression, making the decision to relocate feel like a natural fit.
A Sense of Security
One of the most significant changes the family has experienced is the newfound sense of security regarding their children’s safety at school. Clara expressed a profound relief each morning as she sends her six-year-old daughter off to primary school and her three-year-old to kindergarten. “I feel this massive wave of relief come over me when she goes to primary school,” she said. “But a big feeling of grief also follows because I can’t help but think about my friends in the States.”
In stark contrast to their experiences in California, where concerns about school safety loomed large, Clara noted that such worries were absent in Italy. “I noticed I wasn’t thinking the things I used to think when looking at prospective schools in the States,” she explained. “Safety in that sense wasn’t even mentioned in the meeting with the teacher, because they just don’t need to worry about it.”
Financial Relief and Lifestyle Changes
The financial implications of their move have also been overwhelmingly positive. Despite transitioning from a dual-income household to a single-income one, the family is saving significantly. Clara reported that they are saving approximately $1,281 a month on rent, $3,015 a month on daycare, and their weekly grocery costs have been cut in half.
The couple’s previous mortgage in the U.S. was around $3,700 for a three-bedroom home, while their rent in Bologna for a two-bedroom apartment is just $2,000. “It’s been amazing to be able to relax about finances,” Clara said. “We moved to a smaller space but are still spending just $2,000 a month down from our U.S. mortgage.”
Cultural Adjustments and Community Building
As the family settled into their new life, Clara found that the cultural differences extended beyond financial aspects. The Italian lifestyle, characterized by a slower pace and a strong sense of community, has allowed them to forge connections that were lacking in their previous environment. “I feel like I have grown more of a community here in nine months than we ever had back in the Bay Area,” she noted.
Despite the challenges of adapting to a new language and culture, the family has embraced their new surroundings. Clara remarked on the joy of being able to walk everywhere, eliminating the need for a car and further reducing their monthly expenses. “We no longer have or use our cars as everything is so walkable here,” she said, highlighting the stark contrast to their previous life in California.
The Emotional Toll of Expat Life
While the family is thriving in Italy, Clara acknowledges the emotional toll of being away from family and friends back in the U.S. “It’s still difficult being away from family, so there are things we definitely miss,” she admitted. The longing for familiar comforts, such as good Mexican food, is a constant reminder of their roots.
However, the couple has managed to maintain connections with their loved ones, having visited Clara’s family in Iowa over the summer. “Seeing Trump get re-elected and everything that has happened since does not make it easy,” she reflected, underscoring the political climate that influenced their decision to leave.
Conclusion: A New Chapter
The Hogan family’s journey from California to Italy serves as a testament to the resilience and adaptability of individuals seeking a better life for their families. While they have faced challenges in their new environment, the overwhelming sense of security, financial relief, and community support has made their decision worthwhile. As they continue to navigate their new life, Clara and Brian remain uncertain about returning to the U.S., but they are finding a level of peace in Italy that they never had back home. Their story resonates with many families grappling with similar concerns, highlighting the profound impact of environment on well-being and family life.
