Relocating to Italy with His Husband, Only to Have His Ex-Wife Purchase a Home Nearby

In the 1970s, Randy Allen and Cindy Harding Nannarelli crossed paths in California at the age of 18. Their relationship evolved, leading to marriage at 21. Fast forward five decades, and both couples, including Randy and his husband Steve and Cindy with her husband Sandro, find themselves residing in Italy, specifically in Noto, Sicily. Remarkably, their homes are situated just a short distance apart.

Randy and Cindy’s journey began with a teenage romance that lasted about a year. Despite parting ways, they realized the depth of their connection during a few months apart and decided to marry at the age of 21. While their legal marriage endured for almost three years, the romantic aspect waned, but their friendship endured.

After a period of losing touch, Cindy ventured to Europe in 1978, where she met and married an Italian man named Sandro in Florence. Meanwhile, Randy traversed different paths in his life. The two reconnected in 1996 when Randy visited Florence during a work trip to Germany. This rekindled connection laid the foundation for a lasting friendship between the two couples.

The turning point came in 2016, following the US presidential election results, prompting Randy and Steve to contemplate living elsewhere. Despite considering Mexico or Portugal, Italy, with its sentimental value for Randy, emerged as the preferred destination. An exploratory visit to Noto, Sicily, sealed the deal, as they found it to be an ideal match in terms of climate and lifestyle.

Cindy, now married to Sandro, joined the journey, having developed a fondness for Noto during her earlier visit. In 2018, the couples explored the town together, and Randy and Steve stumbled upon a house they viewed “by accident.” Cindy played the role of a project manager during the subsequent renovation, eventually purchasing a property nearby with Sandro.

In October 2021, Randy and Steve officially relocated to Noto, after selling their Californian home and belongings. Their initial months in Sicily, especially during winter and the Christmas holidays, posed some challenges due to the quiet atmosphere and COVID-19 restrictions. However, the couple remained committed to their decision, embracing the slower pace and adjusting to local traditions.

Concerns about acceptance as a gay couple in a small town were dispelled, as the Noto community proved to be welcoming and inclusive. The cost of living in Sicily, notably property taxes, turned out to be more affordable than in the US, contributing to a comfortable lifestyle for both couples.

Randy and Steve have invested in renovating their home and recently purchased an adjacent apartment for future guests. Despite occasional yearnings for aspects of American life, such as Mexican food, the couple feels content in Sicily, savoring a healthier lifestyle.

As they continue to make Italy their home, Randy and Steve emphasize the importance of learning the language, a key to integration, particularly in Sicily where English is less commonly spoken. With no plans to return to the US, the couple reflects on the enriching experience of their chosen life in Italy, surrounded by dear friends like Cindy and Sandro, who have become their chosen family in this new chapter of their lives.