Featured Interview With Ilene & Gary Modica
Tell us a little about yourself. Where were you raised? Where do you live now?
Both born and raised in New York, Gary was born and raised in Maspeth, Queens while Ilene on Long Island. They celebrated 40-years of marriage in November 2020. Their blended family all live in Arizona, about 30-miles from one another. Along with these four children, they enjoy nine grandchildren ranging in age from two years to seventeen. We do not currently have any pets due to our travel schedule.
At what age did you realize your fascination with books? When did you start writing?
Ilene has always enjoyed reading while Gary is a bit more selective with his reading material. It was in Rome, at the beginning of our 2019 adventure, we decided to document our journey. Writing as we traveled through various towns we stayed and explored, we share our trials and tribulations, as well as the laughter in this lighthearted book.
Who are your favorite authors to read? What is your favorite genre to read. Who Inspires you in your writings?
Ilene’s favorite author is David Baldacci although, I really enjoy all types of books. Gary is more into history books. Our journey is what inspired our writing our first book, as well as our blog subscribers who are always full of questions about Italy and our travels.
Tell us a little about your latest book?
Can you imagine living in Italy for one full year? This was the dream. That was the promise.
After a rollercoaster ride of three years to obtain Italian citizenship, Ilene and Gary achieved their goal. During 2019, they packed up leaving family and friends to live this dream in Italy.
This is their travel memoir and personal adventure, which has changed their lives forever. In Our Italian Journey, you will discover and share their desire for a genuine experience with an Italian family and how this dream came true. Enjoy their stories and witty insights about new Italian friendships, reconnecting with old friends, meeting up with subscribers to their blog, and the countless experiences through the various towns they stayed and explored.
In Our Italian Journey, Ilene and Gary provide you with an entertaining look at life in Italy. A journey with a bit of history, tradition, and culture that is written from their hearts. Experience and appreciate Italy’s charm and appeal while joining in the laughter as they also divulge the trials and tribulations they encountered along the way. Through this journey, they eat and drink their year through Italy visiting 8 regions and 46 cities; include Sicilia and—Licodia Eubea, their new Italian birthplace. They picked up their Italian birth and marriage certificates during the adventure in Sicily.
Their debut, writing this book together as their journey unfolded in 2019, was a step outside of their comfort zone and a new venture for them. Ilene and Gary invite you to take a glimpse of Italy through the eyes of locals and their pride as new Italian citizens.
Connect with the Author on their Websites and Social media profiles
Ilene & Gary Modica’s Website