Ciao! I’m Sarah Bolen—an American living in Italy with a passion for language, culture, and meaningful connection.
I’m Sarah Bolen, an educator, writer, and all around creative with a lifelong passion for helping people learn about Italy, about languages, and the pricessless lessons travel affords us. So, I’ve created a community for anyone curious about life in Italia. With over 20 years of experience bridging cultures, I now teach English-speaking travelers who want more than just a vacation—they want connection, meaning, and the kind of deep understanding you can only find through human connection.
Like any good teacher, I’m here to set you up for your own learning journey and offer you support and guidance along the way. I believe that, whether you're exploring your Italian heritage or dreaming of a slow, deeply rooted trip, education and preparation are the keys to getting the most out of the experience. Through education, photography, and strategic storytelling, this community will help you understand Italy before you arrive—so every moment feels richer, every conversation more genuine, and every experience truly yours. Welcome to the Sarah Bolen in Italy community.
-
Education
With a degree in Italian from the University of Pittsburgh, professional teaching license from the USA, and over 20 years of experience teaching students of all ages and levels, I offer personalized, engaging lessons designed to help you speak real, practical Italian with confidence.
Having lived in Italy for years, I don’t just teach “book Italian”—I teach the Italian you’ll actually hear and use in daily life. Whether you're ordering at a café, chatting with locals, or navigating a market, my lessons prepare you for real conversations and authentic cultural experiences.
Learning to speak Italian is a wonderful way to reconnect with your Italian heritage, and I do so by creating a warm and supportive space where language and identity come together. Known for my patience, encouragement, and fun, interactive style, I tailor every lesson to your needs and goals.
-
EBooks
My ebooks are designed to make learning Italian and understanding Italian culture simple, engaging, and practical. Whether you’re a student, teacher, traveler, or culture enthusiast, these resources give you the tools to connect with Italy more deeply.
From the Italian Menu Decoder—your guide to navigating authentic dining experiences—to the Italian Cognate List that helps teachers and students expand vocabulary with ease, each ebook is created to be clear, useful, and rooted in real Italian life.
Explore these guides to build your language skills, boost your cultural confidence, and bring a touch of Italy into your everyday learning.
Ebooks are coming soon!
-
Photography
I specialize in capturing the essence of your most meaningful moments. From family reunifications and study abroad experiences to vacation memories with an Italian backdrop, my photography services preserve your journey. Whether you're reconnecting with loved ones or exploring Italy, I offer tailored photography to reflect your unique story. I also offer fine art photography prints, featuring Italian landscapes and more, to bring a touch of beauty into your home.
-
YouTube
My YouTube channel is a creative space where I share educational, documentary-style videos that bring Italy to life. Blending artistry with insight, each video explores Italian culture, language, traditions, and everyday experiences in a way that is both authentic and inspiring.
This channel is my gift to a community of people who love Italy—not just as a destination, but as a way of living. All content is free and crafted to deepen your understanding of Italian life, while sparking curiosity, connection, and joy.
Subscribe and join our community of Italy lovers to explore new stories every week!
Did you know that 70% of visitors to Italy travel to the same 1% of the country?
Here at Sarah Bolen in Italy, we believe that the road less traveled is the most rewarding and the most ethical. Italy is full of hidden gems waiting to be discovered by YOU. Check out the blog or the YouTube channel and get started on your learning journey!
Contact us.
sarahboleninitaly@gmail.com