The decision to relocate to Italy began after the family learned of how they could get homes that are already inhabitable for reasonable prices. But, for Nadine Dawkins, it was also an opportunity to connect to her ancestry.
She learned that her great-great-grandfather was Italian and came to America in the 19th century. While the Dawkins family – Nadine, 59, and her husband, Kim, 61, and their children, Lorenzo, 29, and DeNaei, 27, saw the move as an opportunity to realize their dreams, it was more than that for Nadine. Despite not knowing the exact ancestral origin, Nadine sees buying a cost-effective home in Latronico as a way to connect with her roots.
They were tired of the systemic racism. The death of George Floyd capped the decision to relocate in 2020. They bought a pleasant home in the town of Latronico. The town is situated in southern Basilicata, with a population of 4,000, and is within the untouched Pollino National Park surrounded by natural hot springs, according to CNN Travel.
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The family cited police brutality, domestic terrorism, and pervasive hatred as reasons for their departure from the United States. The decision was prompted by a CNN story that led them to contact the deputy mayor, Vincenzo Castellano. Following a video call and a virtual tour of the selected house, they purchased the property without physically visiting Italy.
Their new house in Latronico’s historic area needed minimal renovation to suit their requirements, while the exterior was repainted. The three-story home, previously owned by an elegantly decorated individual, still held antique furniture and various items like beds, a wardrobe, and porcelain cups.
The Dawkins family has embraced the unhurried way of life in Latronico, relishing moments like observing passersby and the quiet lanes during their visits. Their plan now is to spend six months a year in Italy following the 90 days in every 180 days regulation for non-EU citizens. They will then pursue a permanent elective residency visa, which necessitates a specific annual passive income. Their long-term goal is to obtain Italian citizenship.
