Christina and Pete Sobolev’s decision to relocate from San Jose, California, to the picturesque hilltop village of Santa Domenica Talao in Calabria, Italy, was not just a geographical shift but a pivotal life change aimed at rejuvenating their marriage. The couple, in their sixties, found their once-vibrant relationship waning as they approached retirement. The allure of Italian life, combined with the challenge of renovating a historic property, presented a new shared goal that Christina hoped would rekindle their connection and enthusiasm for life.
Their Italian journey began with the purchase of a dilapidated house in 2011. The initial visit to Santa Domenica Talao had left a lasting impression, and they were drawn back to this village of serene beauty and historic charm. Christina Sobolev, reflecting on their move, stated, "It was then that the plan formed to purchase a home in another country with another language, another culture, and a completely different look at life." Over the next several years, the Sobolevs poured their efforts into transforming the two-bedroom ruin into a welcoming home, a process that tested and ultimately strengthened their partnership.
In 2015, they expanded their vision by founding Super Savvy Travelers, a business that evolved from a travel agency into a comprehensive service for prospective property buyers in Calabria. Their business model leveraged their experience in real estate and renovation, providing a crucial bridge for Americans and other expats seeking to invest in Italian property. This venture was not just a business but a means to foster a community, contributing to the village’s revival and creating a thriving Italian-American enclave.
Their success story is most vividly exemplified by the transformation of Santa Domenica Talao. Once a village marked by abandoned homes and neglect, it has blossomed into a vibrant expat community thanks to the Sobolevs’ efforts. “Santa Domenica was initially a town with many abandoned houses falling into disrepair,” Christina explained. “It now has a vibrant expat community that has been warmly welcomed into the arms and hearts of the locals, creating a beautiful experience and salvaging a stunning hill town.”
The Sobolevs’ impact extends beyond mere property sales. They have built a network of professionals, including estate agents, relocation experts, and builders, to streamline the process for new residents. Their work has led to the renovation and sale of approximately 35 homes in Santa Domenica Talao alone, with the revitalization attracting expats seeking a tranquil yet engaging lifestyle. The Sobolevs have also diversified their efforts, opening Casa Cristina, a boutique hotel, in 2023. This former village school was transformed into a high-end B&B, further contributing to the area’s economic and cultural enrichment.
Navigating the complexities of Italian bureaucracy and property law has presented its challenges. Christina detailed some of the hurdles they faced, including issues with unclear property titles and local bureaucratic inefficiencies. Despite these obstacles, they have managed to build a successful business model that addresses these challenges head-on, ensuring that their clients can smoothly transition into their new lives in Italy.
The Sobolevs’ commitment to their adopted community goes beyond real estate. They are actively involved in local festivals, cooking classes, and cultural tours, further integrating into the fabric of village life. Their efforts to breathe new life into depopulated towns in Calabria, such as Aieta, Papasidero, and Tortora, underscore their dedication to preserving and enhancing the region’s heritage. Their work has not only provided opportunities for themselves and other expats but also for local residents, helping to retain the younger generation in their hometowns.
In reflecting on their journey, Christina and Pete Sobolev have found that their move to Italy has indeed achieved its intended goal. Christina proudly asserts, “With our business and the goals that we have working with the communities here, we have some really huge projects that we’re working on together as a couple and as co-business owners. We are definitely happy here.” This relocation has not only revived their marriage but also contributed to the cultural and economic revitalization of a cherished corner of Italy.
