My name is Caterina, and I am a Travel Designer at Your Custom Journey.
I was born in a small village in Calabria, located in the southern region of Italy. At the age of 19, I moved to Pisa, Tuscany, where I graduated in Foreign Languages. Throughout my journey, I have had the opportunity to work and live in some of Italy’s most iconic cities, including Pisa, Florence, and Venice, and I finally settled in the Roman countryside in 2020.
As a traveler, I am filled with enthusiasm and curiosity. I love to explore new cultures and experiences, immersing myself in their unique art, traditions, colors, smells, and flavors.
During my travels, I enjoy connecting with locals to discover hidden gems, traditions, curiosities, local crafts, and, of course, the local cuisine and wine. I consider myself a foodie!
Every journey leaves me with additional "baggage"—not physical baggage to check in, but a collection of unforgettable experiences, memories, and new knowledge that enrich my soul and heart. Each adventure makes me feel like a child again.
I would love to be your local Italian friend and share my passion for travel, especially for my beloved country. Italy, with its rich art, diverse cultures, and various traditions, is a place waiting to be discovered from South to North.
Your trip to Italy will be an immersion in a vibrant canvas filled with countless shades. My primary goal will be to provide you with the right palette of colors to paint it beautifully.
Caterina's favorite itineraries and travel advice
Top itineraries and travel advice
Enjoy a tour of Florence, hitting all the major sites, including Michelangelo's David at the Accademia, the monuments and statues of Piazza Signoria, Ponte Vecchio, Duomo Square, and Giotto's Belltower. You'll also stop to visit the Vasari Corridor, the Baptistery and Gates of Paradise by...
Discover the world-famous wine region of Chianti, filled with tidy rows of vines, picturesque medieval villages, and stunning castles. Explore the hills between Siena and Florence, a landscape dotted with wineries and full of history. You’ll tour medieval castles, such as Brolio and Meleto, visit...
Follow a guide around Rome and explore all of the city's impressive highlights in one day. You’ll enjoy a visit to the Vatican, view the Sistine Chapel, admire the Colosseum, and discover the twisting streets in the heart of Rome. Get an early start and visit the Vatican Museums and the Sistine...
Enjoy a unique perspective of bustling Venice with a walking tour in the Dorsoduro district. You’ll discover the famous floating city by following off-the-beaten-path routes, passing through hidden alleyways, and visiting unknown sites. Wander through local neighborhoods, enjoy stunning palaces...
Over 100 feet (40 m) below the characteristic and lively streets of Naples is a totally different world. The city’s underground is unexplored and isolated by time but deeply connected with the world above. It’s the heart of Naples and the place where the town was born! Take a trip into the past...
Recent trip reviews for Caterina
We had the most amazing trip organised by Cat...
Italy
|
May 26 - Jun 16, 2026
Darren C.
Australia
| Reviewed on Jun 18, 2026
We had the most amazing trip organised by Caterina and the KimKim team, highlights were Lake Garda, Bologna and Sorrento, however the entire trip was fantastic.
Read more
We had the most amazing trip organised by Caterina and the KimKim team, highlights were Lake Garda, Bologna and Sorrento, however the entire trip was fantastic.
Hotel Reviews
Hotel Caesius Thermae & Spa Resort
Bardolino
Great location and really lovely Hotel, the staff were helpful and friendly, and had great ammentities.
Cleanliness & Comfort
Exceptional clean and great size rooms.
Very helpful staff and only a short stroll to town, and nicely renovated.
Very upmarket Hotel and quote luxurious, on the main street and a short walk to the sqaure.
Neat and tidy Hotel, staff weren't as friendly as all other stops and not as helpful, and the breakfast was just ok.
Location
Good location out of the hussle and bussle and only a couple minute walk to the centre of town.
Really clean and comfortable with a great outdoor garden area to relax in.
Location
Central to the main attractions and the resturant district.
Activity Reviews
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Half day foodie tour in Bologna
Italy
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private excursion to Lucca and Pisa - access to the Leaning Tower included
Florence
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Self explore Bardolino
Italy
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Pizza and Gelato making Class (group tour)
Italy
This was ok, the quality of the pizzas were just ok, it is obviously hard to make dough and have it cure in the short time we were there, so maybe they could teach how to make the dough and go through the process however have some other bases there that were made the day before to make the end eating experience a bit better.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Private e-bike tour in Florence with Gelato
Florence
Fantastic trip and the guide was sensational, a lovely family business.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Cycle the Appian Way - Bike or e-Bike tour
Rome
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Debra was amazing
Italy
|
May 28 - Jun 4, 2026
Darlena M.
Flagami, FL
| Reviewed on Jun 05, 2026
Debra was amazing
Hotel Reviews
Villa Maria Hotel
Ravello
beautiful hotel in Ravello
Cleanliness & Comfort
Restaurant was good but a little overpriced
Art Hotel Pasitea
Positano
Staff was very friendly and helpful
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Jun 17, 2026
Ciao Darlena,
Thank you so much for your wonderful feedback!
I'm delighted to hear that Debra took such great care of you and helped make your trip memorable.
I also truly appreciate your kind words about the hotels. I put a lot of thought into selecting them, so it's very rewarding to know they meet your expectations.
Thank you again for trusting me with your travels.
I hope to help plan another amazing adventure for you in the future! 😊
Warm regards,
Caterina
I honestly cannot say enough positive things ...
Italy
|
May 19 - Jun 3, 2026
Christine Louise D.
Watertown, MA, USA
| Reviewed on Jun 04, 2026
I honestly cannot say enough positive things about the service I received from Caterina and Anna at KimKim. I am disabled and they were incredibly thoughtful and forward-thinking about how to make my trip, and especially all of the transitions, remarkably stress-free. They truly went the extra mile for me and their kindness and professionalism made a positive impact on my experience! They partnered with Venice tour services provider, Your Custom Journey, which was truly the best and most...
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I honestly cannot say enough positive things about the service I received from Caterina and Anna at KimKim. I am disabled and they were incredibly thoughtful and forward-thinking about how to make my trip, and especially all of the transitions, remarkably stress-free. They truly went the extra mile for me and their kindness and professionalism made a positive impact on my experience! They partnered with Venice tour services provider, Your Custom Journey, which was truly the best and most knowledgeable tour support services I have every had. This trip was extremely important to me as I am becoming progressively disabled and so needed to take this trip at this time of my life and make the very best of it. They succeeded on ALL levels! I highly recommend them!
Hotel Reviews
Hotel Firenze in Venice was my absolute favorite! The deep soaking tub was a blessing for my chronic pain—allowing me to do much more after soaking. The location was perfect for easy access to come back and relax, and then head out again. The staff were over-the-top friendly, providing chocolates and biscuits and making the stay fantastic!
Hotel Ocelle Thermae & Spa
Sirmione
Staying at Hotel Ocelle Thermae & Spa was absolutely wonderful. The service was excellent and the Spa provided such a relaxing environment. Every aspect of my stay there helped to keep my stress levels down, which was incredibly important given my health conditions. Everything went seamlessly from arrival, and the staff were always attentive and considerate.
Activity Reviews
Murano Glass experience - Visit to a Glass Factory with blowing demonstration
Venice
The Murano Glass experience was incredible. I participated in glass blowing, and Angela even made a video for me, which was such a special touch. The demonstration was fascinating, and it was even more enjoyable with the company of a great guide who seemed to know everyone in the area.
Private walking guided tour of Sirmione highlights
Italy
The private walking guided tour of Sirmione highlights was fantastic. My tour guide was knowledgeable, friendly, and created such an enjoyable experience, even working on her own birthday! We even got out on the boat, which made me immensely happy as I love being on water.
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Jun 10, 2026
Dearest Christine,
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your beautiful words; they truly touched me. It was an absolute pleasure and a privilege to assist you in bringing this trip to life. And meeting you in person only confirmed the warmth and authenticity I sensed from our conversations, and it helped me appreciate the deep significance this journey held for you.
I am sure your suitcase has come back home filled not just with items, but with cherished memories, connections with...
Read more
Dearest Christine,
I want to express my heartfelt gratitude for your beautiful words; they truly touched me. It was an absolute pleasure and a privilege to assist you in bringing this trip to life. And meeting you in person only confirmed the warmth and authenticity I sensed from our conversations, and it helped me appreciate the deep significance this journey held for you.
I am sure your suitcase has come back home filled not just with items, but with cherished memories, connections with people, delightful flavors and scents, and moments of genuine laughter 😁.
May these experiences create an everlasting bond between you, us, and our country.
Sending you a big hug from both Anna and me.
Warmest regards
Caterina
Great trip with the best and most personable staff.
Italy
|
May 19 - May 28, 2026
Allison V.
Newark, NJ
| Reviewed on May 31, 2026
Caterina and our main guide/check in person Christine were wonderful. If we had a concern or question, Christine immediately responded and solved the issue, if any. We were so impressed with how on time and great all of our guides or transport people were that were all set up by KimKim. Thanks for everything! Can’t wait to do a follow up trip!
Read more
Caterina and our main guide/check in person Christine were wonderful. If we had a concern or question, Christine immediately responded and solved the issue, if any. We were so impressed with how on time and great all of our guides or transport people were that were all set up by KimKim. Thanks for everything! Can’t wait to do a follow up trip!
Hotel Reviews
Grand Hotel De La Ville
Sorrento
The staff were very nice and attentive. The location was perfect as it was right across from the lemon/limoncello factory. Beautiful ocean views and a very nice balcony with every room.
Authenticity & Character
The balcony and the view
Very good stay. The staff in the restaurant were especially great.
Hotel Berchielli
Florence
Great location, staff were very good, and the breakfast was great.
Palazzo San Lorenzo
Venice
Great location and good staff. Breakfast was great.
Location
Walking distance from everything but it still felt like a getaway.
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Jun 04, 2026
Hey Allison!!
I just wanted to say a huge thank you for your sweet words! It was an absolute joy to help you plan your trip, and I’m thrilled to hear everything went so smoothly. Cristina will be over the moon to hear your feedback! It really means the world to us that you trusted us with your journey, and I'm so happy you had a fantastic experience.
Whenever you're ready to plan your next Italian adventure, I’d love to help out again!
Sending big hugs to all of you! 🤗
Caterina
Rome, Venice & Florence
Italy
|
May 10 - May 22, 2025
Maribeth K.
Denver, CO
| Reviewed on Jan 15, 2026
Catering was amazing! She was extremely helpful, always available and attentive in every way!
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Jan 16, 2026
Ciao Maribeth!!Grazie mille for your kind words! It was a pleasure to assist you, and I’m delighted to hear that you felt supported throughout the process🥰. Your appreciation means a lot to me, and it was wonderful to work with you every step of the way. I sincerely look forward to welcoming you back to Italy soon!
First time users and had outstanding experience and service!
Italy
|
Sep 27 - Oct 16, 2025
Gary T.
Ashburn, VA
| Reviewed on Nov 03, 2025
We contacted KimKim about a year ago to begin planning a 3 week trip through Tuscany. Caterina worked with us and developed several options after listening to our likes/dislikes and we finally agreed on a final trip plan. We are both experienced travelers but out trip was made so much better by the planning and support we received through out the trip. Beginning with Lucia meeting us at the airport and escorting us to our hotel in Florence, meeting us to pickup and return our rental car and...
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We contacted KimKim about a year ago to begin planning a 3 week trip through Tuscany. Caterina worked with us and developed several options after listening to our likes/dislikes and we finally agreed on a final trip plan. We are both experienced travelers but out trip was made so much better by the planning and support we received through out the trip. Beginning with Lucia meeting us at the airport and escorting us to our hotel in Florence, meeting us to pickup and return our rental car and the daily checkins and reminders of what was planned for the next day. Also great service from Stella in Bologna and Beatrice in Venice. Now for the trip, wonderful accommodations in all locations. The drivers who met us or drove us on day trips were excellent along with the guides at each location. Overall, it was all very easy and relaxing as well as first class service throughout the trip. I will be using KimKim in the future because being retired, we have the flexibility to arrive for cruises early or stay later and this will be perfect for planning extra days to enjoy those trips
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Nov 04, 2025
Ciao Gary,
Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a real pleasure to help plan your journey through Tuscany and the rest of Italy. Knowing that you felt welcomed and supported by my entire team, Lucia, Stella, and Beatrice, is the greatest reward.
I also want to thank you for sharing your wonderful photos with me. Seeing your smiles and the moments you experienced makes everything even more special.
I’m thrilled that the experience was relaxing, well-curated, and met your...
Read more
Ciao Gary,
Thank you so much for your kind words! It was a real pleasure to help plan your journey through Tuscany and the rest of Italy. Knowing that you felt welcomed and supported by my entire team, Lucia, Stella, and Beatrice, is the greatest reward.
I also want to thank you for sharing your wonderful photos with me. Seeing your smiles and the moments you experienced makes everything even more special.
I’m thrilled that the experience was relaxing, well-curated, and met your expectations.
Whenever you’d like to plan extra days before or after your cruises, we’ll be here and would be happy to help.
Sending a big hug to you and Joan,
Caterina🌻
Catrina and Beatrice are Travel Goddesses
Italy
|
Sep 29 - Oct 10, 2025
Joe O.
Southport, NC
| Reviewed on Oct 11, 2025
This was by far the best vacation my wife and I have ever taken. And it was all due to the detailed planning by Catrina and the exceptional on sight concierge service provided by Beatrice. Every single detail was planned and executed to perfection. Every lodging, travel, and activity were spot on and fit our expectations exactly. I can not stress enough how much the up front planning and the on ground communication during the trip made a difference. Fantastico!!
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Oct 17, 2025
Dear Joe,
Thank you so much for sharing these kind words!
Beatrice and I are both deeply grateful 🥰for your appreciation. Knowing that every detail came together perfectly and that you felt supported during your travels is exactly what we aim for.
"Grazie di cuore," and we look forward to helping you plan your next "fantastica" adventure!
Caterina
We had a wonderful time in Italy. Beginning w...
Italy
|
Aug 9 - Aug 16, 2025
Maureen A.
Newark, NJ
| Reviewed on Aug 22, 2025
We had a wonderful time in Italy. Beginning with our Personal Concierge (Ms. Beatrice Carrafelli), and drivers that made the transportation easy. All of our guides were terrific. We enjoyed Ms. Martina especially with her dedication in explaining Florence. Both the Aleph Rome Hotel and Grand Hotel Villa Cora were great. We love to return someday.
Special thanks to Caterina who prepared our itinerary. Thanks for all your planning.
The Angelastro’s
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Oct 16, 2025
Dear Angelastro Family,
What a joy to read your message 🥰
Thank you so much! I’m truly delighted to know that your Italian journey was everything you hoped for.
Beatrice, Martina, and the rest of our team will be so happy to hear your kind words.
It was such a pleasure to plan this itinerary for your wonderful family and we’ll be waiting to welcome you back to Italy whenever you’re ready for another adventure.
With warmest regards,
Caterina
Fabulous family vacation in Rome, Florence & Venice
Italy
|
Jul 26 - Aug 2, 2025
Beth K.
Los Angeles, CA
| Reviewed on Aug 04, 2025
What a fabulous vacation in Rome, Florence & Venice. Catarina took care of every detail from when we arrived until we departed. Beatrice, our onsite contact was outstanding. The local guides were fabulous and our tours outstanding. The hotels were in great locations.
Read more
What a fabulous vacation in Rome, Florence & Venice. Catarina took care of every detail from when we arrived until we departed. Beatrice, our onsite contact was outstanding. The local guides were fabulous and our tours outstanding. The hotels were in great locations.
Hotel Reviews
Palazzo Veneziano Venice
Venice
Brunelleschi Hotel
Florence
Fabulous hotel, outstanding service. Wonderful central location.
Hotel Della Conciliazione
Rome
Fabulous location. Rooms were a bit on the smaller side with no drawers to store clothes. Amenities were nice as well as the breakfast.
Staff
We were 3 people but towels were only provided for 2. And didn’t replenish to thr correct amount on the second cleaning either. Otherwise, everything else was fine.
Activity Reviews
St Mark’s and Doge’s Palace Tour - Small group tour
Venice
The mosaics here made this church and palace different than what we saw previously. Also, since Doge had a prison, it gave us something more to see
Guides, Drivers and Staff
ACTV 2 days Transport VENEZIA 48H PASS
Venice
It was nice to have access to the waterway bus line as Venice is made up of hundreds of islands and transport is needed
Venice Gondola Ride
Venice
A nice gondola ride around Venice. Not sure how this service would be different than others available.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Didn’t interact with us very much. Would have been nice to be told what we were passing
Admission tickets - Uffizi Gallery - skip the line
Florence
Wanna be Italiano - Florence cooking class and market tour
Italy
One of the highlights of our trip and the only one that wasn’t a tour or a museum or church. Love Italian food and seeing the Grand Market and learning how to make our own pasta was a fun time for all.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Florence and Accademia City Tour
Italy
Loved the private tour with Martina. She was friendly, personable and added so much knowledge to our visit.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Small group tour of Vatican City , Sistine Chapel & saint Peter's Basilica
Rome
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Small Group tour of Colosseum underground, Palatine Hill, and Roman Forum ( max 6 people)
Rome
Loved small group tour. Guide was very knowledgeable.
Guides, Drivers and Staff
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Aug 13, 2025
Dear Beth,
Thank you for your wonderful feedback🥰! I’m thrilled to hear you enjoyed your family vacation in Italy. It was a pleasure handling every detail for you and your beautiful family, and I’m glad Beatrice and our local guides enhanced your experience.
I also hope you enjoyed the local cuisine and the culinary tips I shared 😊
Tasting each city's flavors is such an important part of the experience!
I’m delighted you enjoyed your trip, and I hope the memories last a long time!
Warm regards,
Caterina
I couldn’t have asked for a more well thought...
Italy
|
May 25 - Jun 4, 2025
Erin J.
Okolona, KY
| Reviewed on Jun 12, 2025
I couldn’t have asked for a more well thought out itinerary! Caterina took care in planning both where we stayed, as well as what was planned each day, making the trip pretty perfect. We were able to soak up every moment thanks to the intentional planning of Caterina and the whole KimKim team. Shout out to Francesco for greeting us with a big smile upon arrival and for being available with helpful info when needed!
Read more
I couldn’t have asked for a more well thought out itinerary! Caterina took care in planning both where we stayed, as well as what was planned each day, making the trip pretty perfect. We were able to soak up every moment thanks to the intentional planning of Caterina and the whole KimKim team. Shout out to Francesco for greeting us with a big smile upon arrival and for being available with helpful info when needed!
Hotel Reviews
Hotel Cerretani Mgallery Collection
Florence
Central location. Clean, welcoming, and charming.
Location
Centrally located to historic Florence
Grand Hotel Villa Balbi
Sestri Levante
Gorgeous. Knowledgeable staff. Friendly. .
Local specialist: Caterina Belvedere
Caterina Belvedere
Local specialist in Arsoli (Rome)
| Replied on Jun 16, 2025
Dear Erin,
I'm truly overwhelmed with gratitude for your kind words.
It means everything to me that the itinerary not only met your expectations but also helped create such special memories.
Planning this journey for four amazing women like you was an absolute pleasure.
Thank you for embracing every moment with so much enthusiasm and openness. Your energy made all the difference!
Francesco also sends his warmest hugs to all of you.
I hope this is just the beginning of many more adventures together.
With all my affection,
Caterina 🌷🌷