“My experience as a local guide and host” Anna Maria from Perugia (61)

Anna Maria lives in the beautiful Italian town of Perugia, central Italy. She’s been a host for a number of years having previously worked in an Italian language school. Anna Maria also enjoys being a local guide for her guests and offering the best in class cultural and historical insights about the city. It’s safe to say Anna Maria knows the life of a host and local guide pretty well. We sat down with her to hear about her experiences with Freebird Club and its members:

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About me:

“My name is Anna Maria but I am Anna for everybody. I’ve lived in Perugia since 1982. Maybe most of you will not know this town, but I guarantee, as you will come and visit it, you will not forget it! I live in the historic district of the town, the most beautiful and amazing part of the city. I was working until 2011, in a school teaching Italian to foreigners, and I had the opportunity to meet a lot of people from different countries and cultures. Since 2033 I anaged a B&B and student accommodation, and apartments for tourists, visitors, and people coming for work. II love hosting people and this has become more than a job for me. It allowed me to open my mind and my boundaries, and make so many friends all over the world. In the house where I live, I have a room where I usually accommodate people interested in the local culture and language, especially the practise of the Italian language. I can be also available, a part of my time, to help in the italian conversation andor grammar, or to have a walk tour in the city together.”

What did you first think of Freebird Club when you discovered it?

“I found it easy to understand and felt encouraged to travel and to host from the website. The fact that you’re a similar age is good, as you’re more likely to get on and share similar interests, way of life and needs.”

What kind of activities do you like doing with visitors?

“I enjoy dancing and seeing movies, and excursions into the countryside with guests. Some of my regular guests have become friends such as one lady from Puerto Rico, who I do local things with when she’s around. I also organise an international dinner locally where everyone from different cultures prepares a dish and eats together. I also like to practise my English with guests.”

What do you like about showing people your local area?

“I mostly like to let my guests discover the lesser known itineraries, walking with them around the old district, meeting people and taking part to local events  (parties, international dinners, dancing, concerts, trekking in the countryside..)”

How did you find connecting with people online?

“I try to do my best to present myself as I really am and to make the person feel comfortable. Usually I can have a good or bad impression at first sight!”

Any particular memorable / funny moments?

“A trip to Sardinia for a wine tour with one of my best friends who was a guest. I also experienced a traditional Indian birthday celebration together with a Finnish one!”

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