“Spending time outdoors every single day makes a big difference. And the way we gather around food — slowly, with intention, together — is something the world should embrace.” – Olimpia
For Olimpia, the Mediterranean lifestyle is more than a set of habits, it’s a way of approaching life itself. It’s time spent under the open sky, a deep breath of fresh air, the long embrace of a shared meal, and the irreplaceable joy of being surrounded by loved ones.
Here, she shares the rituals, places, scents, and flavors that shape her Italy, and her philosophy for living beautifully.
The Foundation: Connection & Nature
Olimpia believes that wellbeing begins in nature and is nurtured through connection.
“Spending time outdoors every single day, being in the open air, makes a big difference,” she says. “And the way we gather around food… it’s not just about what we eat, but how we eat it — slowly, with intention, together. And of course, the importance of family. Taking time to connect with loved ones is essential.”
Her go-to dish for bringing people together: Pasta alle Vongole: a simple, briny, perfect taste of summer.
Ritual Over Routine
Olimpia’s philosophy is simple: care for yourself consistently and with intention.
“Good sleep is non-negotiable. I try to move my body daily: long walks, some exercise when I can. I’m very consistent with my skincare, both morning and night. After every shower, I take a moment for body care too. These small acts of self-care really add up and help me feel grounded and more relaxed.”
Her favourite Irene Forte Skincare product: Pistachio Body Oil, always applied to damp skin after a shower. “Its scent of jasmine instantly brings me back to warm summer evenings. It's one of the reasons I love it so much.”
Italy, Bottled
If she could bottle the Mediterranean:
“Figs, ripe at the end of summer. A drizzle of olive oil. A pinch of sea salt. The echo of laughter. Maybe a few sun-warmed tomatoes. And wine!”
What she loves most about Italy:
“Honestly, everything. The food, the weather, the culture, the people with their warmth and passion. There’s a certain spontaneity of life which I really miss when I’m not there.”
Favourite Italian holiday spot:
"Capalbio, in the very south of Maremma, Tuscany — where I've been going since birth and holds countless memories. Also, sailing around the Aeolian Islands in Sicily is always the best time.”
Favourite Italian words:
Dai: a tiny word that can mean “Come on!” or offer encouragement, and Boh, wonderfully casual, meaning “I don’t know” or “Who cares?”.
Scent of summer: Jasmine.
Soundtrack: La Canzone del Sole by Lucio Battisti and almost anything by Jovanotti.
For Olimpia, the Mediterranean way of life is an art: a balance of nature, connection, and daily rituals that nourish both body and spirit. It’s a reminder to slow down, to savour, and to live each day with presence and joy.
