Travel has always been a feature of my life. I grew up on a remote farm in the Cordoba hills of Argentina and had to journey through many villages to get to school each day. I then moved to England as a teenager, and this was the start of a profound passion for understanding diverse cultures and for traveling. My multicultural background has enhanced my curiosity for languages and civilisation.
History of art was an early passion and later I pursued an anthropology degree at the University of Exeter, gaining new perspectives on humanity and the European culture.
With an interest in both classical and contemporary art I traveled widely in Europe. So today with a focus on Greece and Italy, Audley provides the perfect framework to deepen my knowledge and understanding of what this huge and fascinating area has to offer.
Q&A with Lily
What鈥檚 your most vivid travel moment?
After a couple of years studying art history, I was desperate to visit Florence. My best friend and I finally made it there, and we spent five incredible days soaking up every bit of culture: wandering through museums, exploring gardens, and marvelling at ornate churches. One afternoon, we stumbled across the convent of San Marco where we came across Fran Angelico鈥檚, Annunciation fresco. I'd only ever seen it on a small page in a textbook, but there it was, larger than life. The colors were more vivid and the angel's wings seemed to shimmer with light. I was completely mesmerized by this unexpected masterpiece, a moment and feeling I鈥檒l never forget.
Where would you love to travel next?
I鈥檓 eager to visit Grottaglie, a charming town in the province of Taranto in southern Italy. Otherwise known as the 鈥楥ity of Ceramics,鈥� Grottaglie is renowned for its deeply rooted artisanal heritage. Ever since I heard about its pottery workshops, boutique stores, and vibrant displays I鈥檝e been itching to go.
Your best piece of travel advice?
When I travel to a new destination, I try to immerse myself in the local way of life and what better way to do this than to make time to speak with the locals.