Julia Buckley

Julia Buckley is a journalist who's been writing about Italy for more than 15 years. A fluent Italian speaker, she travels the length and breadth of the country in search of the real Italy beyond the stereotypes. As a journalist, she edited the travel sections of national publications in the U.K., from The Independent and the i newspaper to the Evening Standard, before moving to Italy where she works as a freelance writer and editor. Now based in Venice, she writes about Italy for publications in the U.S. and U.K., as well as building her own site, The Real Venice, to show visitors the lesser-known side of her hometown.

Having learned how to brew the perfect cappuccino and make gelato while working in a bar in the Marche region, she’s passionate about Italian food and drink, as well as centuries-old artisan trades, ancient communities, and off-the-beaten-track experiences. She also advocates for accessibility in travel and culture, working with the likes of Florence's Uffizi Galleries to make visits easier for travelers with disabilities.

• 15+ years of experience as an editor and journalist
• Author of health-focused travel memoir "Heal Me"
• Specialist in Italy and accessible travel