Under the Tuscan Sun
In an insightful revelation, celebrity chef Rachael Ray joins a cohort of stars who are finding solace away from the States. Her sanctuary? The idyllic hills of Tuscany, Italy.
A Fresh Italian Air
Rachael Ray’s bond with her Tuscan retreat tells a story of fulfillment and love for nature. In contrast to the bustling streets of New York City, Ray’s villa offers the tranquility and vast space that petrify her New York days. This includes a vast 66-hectare expanse for her furry friend, Bella, to roam freely, making it a haven for both.
From Rubble to Refuge
The journey to create her dream abode began amidst a calamity. After her Lake Luzerne home was consumed by flames in 2020, Ray seized the opportunity to build something unique from two dilapidated structures in Tuscany. Alongside her husband of two decades, John Cusimano, who affectionately referred to the property as a war zone, the couple envisioned and built a stunning escape from the frenzy of city life.
Love and Life Balance
Rachael explains that her husband, who still enjoys the hustle of New York, is welcome to visit as frequently as he’d like. For Ray, however, Italy’s charm is irrevocable. Each return to New York is tied to work commitments, emphasizing her preference for the serene lifestyle Tuscany offers.
Following a Global Trend
Ray’s decision mirrors a growing pattern among celebrities who cherish the calm of living abroad. Comedians Rosie O’Donnell and Ellen Degeneres, along with actress Eva Longoria, have also sought new beginnings in foreign lands. Reasons range from personal preferences to political climates that inspire change, as happened with Degeneres and O’Donnell following political shifts in the U.S.
Though Ray may miss certain aspects of American life, her posts radiate a joy and contentment deeply embedded in the Italian countryside, portraying a narrative many celebrities have started to follow. As stated in The Daily Beast, Ray’s story may soon become the norm rather than the exception.