“We Fell in Love with the Food, People, and Warm Atmosphere of the City”
Why Two New Yorkers Chose Puglia Over Anywhere Else
BARI – While many retirees look to Portugal or Spain, Janice Haeger and Nanette Castellani Neidhardt made an unconventional choice: they left New York to start a brand-new life in Bari, Puglia. Their decision to move wasn’t just about affordability—it was about embracing a lifestyle filled with culture, community, and exceptional food.
Their journey perfectly represents the growing trend of Americans moving to Puglia from the USA, drawn by the region’s low cost of living, breathtaking landscapes, and welcoming atmosphere.
How Their Puglia Journey Began
Both Janice and Nanette had successful careers in the U.S.:
- Janice worked in human resources, recruiting top talent for companies like Pepsi.
- Nanette was a corporate lawyer for Wendy’s International and general consultant for Scioto Properties.
After retiring four years ago, they started researching the best places to retire in Europe. That’s when they stumbled upon Puglia—a hidden gem that quickly stole their hearts.
“We started looking for a European destination that balanced affordability, beauty, and culture,” they recall. “Then we discovered Puglia, and after just 10 days in Bari, we knew this was home.”
Why Moving to Puglia from the USA Was the Perfect Choice
While many retirees choose southern Spain or the Algarve, Janice and Nanette were drawn to Puglia for a variety of reasons:
- Cost of Living: “We can live comfortably on much less than in New York.”
- Community and Culture: “The people are incredibly welcoming—it feels like home.”
- Food & Wine: “Every meal here is a culinary delight!”
- Strategic Location: “Bari gives us easy access to all of Italy, plus Greece, Croatia, and Montenegro.”
If you’re considering a move to Puglia from the USA, you’ll find that the region offers affordable real estate, high-quality healthcare, and a relaxed Mediterranean lifestyle—all major reasons why more Americans are choosing to relocate here.
For more insights on choosing the perfect place to live in Italy, check out this guide.
How They Made Their Move Possible
During their first visit, Janice and Nanette stayed in a local B&B, where they met Filippo Tarantino, who helped them navigate the process of relocating to Puglia. Thanks to his guidance, they found an apartment in Bari Palese in April, making their dream a reality.
If you’re thinking about moving to Puglia from the USA, it’s important to:
? Research visa and residency requirements.
? Understand the cost of living and tax implications.
? Connect with expat communities for support.
For a stress-free relocation, check out these essential planning tips.
Puglia: A Place to Call Home
For Janice and Nanette, Puglia isn’t just a new home—it’s a place to embrace a new way of life. The sea breeze, historic streets, and welcoming locals have made their transition seamless, proving that moving abroad can be one of the most rewarding decisions of a lifetime.
And if Puglia can inspire two lifelong friends to start fresh, why not choose it for your wedding?
Thinking About Getting Married in Puglia?
Let us help you plan the perfect wedding in one of Italy’s most breathtaking regions. ? Contact Us