Living the Dream

After spending decades in Manhattan and New Jersey, a US couple, Charles “Chuck” H. Stevens and Berardino “Ben” Di Rienzo, decided to make a significant change in their lives. Feeling the weight of their work-centric lifestyles, the couple sought a new beginning. Despite not having spent much time in Italy, they felt a strong connection to the country after visiting Di Rienzo’s family. The couple, married for 12 years and together for 37, decided to start enjoying the lives they had worked hard to afford.

When the global pandemic hit in 2020 and they lost a friend to Covid-19, the couple realized the importance of living life to the fullest. They made the decision to start looking for a property in Italy, with the intention of spending more time in Europe than in the United States.

Although initially considering properties throughout Italy, they eventually focused on the town of Vinchiaturo Molise in southern Italy’s Molise, known as the “forgotten region,” where Di Rienzo’s family originates. The couple found a listing for a property in an older section of the town, with breathtaking views of the Apennine mountains and the valley below, which immediately captured their hearts.

Charles Stevens, a former creative director, and Ben Di Rienzo, a former business office manager, were drawn to the idea of living six months in the United States and six months in Italy. Their decision to settle in the “forgotten region” of Italy reflects a desire for a simpler, more fulfilling lifestyle.

The couple’s story is a testament to the pursuit of a more meaningful life, one that prioritizes experiences over material possessions. Their journey serves as an inspiration for others seeking a change and a reminder that it’s never too late to pursue one’s dreams.