TRAVEL ADVISOR
As a self-proclaimed Italophile, Carrie Zilbauer Mason is a dedicated Travel Advisor at Italy With Bella, taking true delight in crafting detailed, thoughtful, and unforgettable journeys across Italy. Hailing from the Tampa Bay area, Carrie made the heartfelt decision to step away from a 12-year career in physical therapy to follow her deepest passion—Italy. She remains forever grateful for her physical therapy background; it was an eight-week clinical internship in Umbria back in 2014 that first captured her heart and soul. In 2022, she returned for another eight marvelous weeks in Il Cuore della Sicilia, immersing herself in rich food culture and the warm rhythms of farm-to-table living. Since then, she has been learning the Italian language with a wonderful private tutor based in Bologna. Italy holds a magical, magnetic pull for Carrie, drawing her back time and again, leaving a new piece of joy in her heart with every visit. Naturally, she has loved playing the unofficial, joyful guide, translator, and trip planner for her husband, dear friends, and family on their Italian adventures.
Now as a Travel Advisor with Italy With Bella, Carrie warmly creates and nurtures custom itineraries for every corner of the Bel Paese—welcoming solo travelers, couples, multigenerational families, and groups with open arms. Drawing on her physical therapy background, she takes special care in designing fully accessible journeys for those with physical disabilities, making sure everyone experiences the magic of travel seamlessly. Every single trip is lovingly hand-crafted just like fresh homemade pasta in nonna's cozy kitchen, tailored with rich detail and meant to be savored slowly, comfortably, and deeply.
Carrie’s love for Italy blossoms continuously through her frequent visits, exploring the culture, language, vibrant people, cozy wines, and breathtaking landscapes. She shares a deep affection for Umbria, Sicily, and Trentino-Alto Adige, happily guiding travelers both to beloved highlights and hidden gems off the beaten path. Her favorite cities—Palermo, Cefalù, Arco, Bolzano, Bologna, and Assisi—feel like old friends. An avid hiker and climber, she loves connecting fellow adventure-seekers with stunning outdoor havens. Above all, she delights in introducing travelers to welcoming family-run trattorias that have cooked with love for generations, passionate local artisans, and secret mountain trails where the views will simply sweep you off your feet.
For Carrie, embracing life piano, piano (slowly, slowly) is the heart of living well, and it is her absolute joy to share this spirit with you as you embark on your own journey through this incredible country. Italy has a wonderful way of welcoming you with open arms, weaving its vibrant culture, warmth, and lifestyle into your heart so deeply that you can't help but bring a piece of it home with you. Built on the sweet art of slow living, Italy reminds us that every meal is a celebration, every cobblestone street has a story, and the pace of life invites us to truly connect. Italy isn't just a place you visit, it's a feeling meant to be shared, cherished, and warmly embraced.
