About this Episode
In this soulful episode of Hotel Voices, Nikolina Christo sits down with Cesare Cacciapuoti, Co-Founder of Italy Segreta — the cultural platform redefining what Italian luxury means through storytelling, emotion, and authenticity.
Having lived and studied in Florence for years — in the heart of Borgo San Frediano — and later working in Milan, Nikolina shares a personal connection with Italy that makes this conversation feel like coming home. With family and lifelong friends still there, her love for the country adds an intimate layer to this dialogue on identity, culture, and the evolution of hospitality.
Together, they explore how Italy Segreta is transforming how the world experiences Italy — not through status or perfection, but through real stories, local passion, and the artistry of everyday life. Cesare opens up about:
How authentic storytelling can redefine the perception of luxury.
Why the next generation of Italians are returning home to rebuild and elevate their country.
The power of visual storytelling and emotional design in hospitality.
The importance of preserving Italy’s identity while embracing innovation.
The exciting next chapter for Italy Segreta — from editorial storytelling to a 2026 coffee-table book and beyond.
This episode is a love letter to Italy — its people, its culture, and its timeless ability to inspire. Whether you’ve walked the cobblestone streets of Florence or dream of exploring them one day, this conversation captures the soul of a country forever balancing elegance and authenticity.
Live on Youtube
Episode Transcript:
Key Takeaways
1. Authenticity Over Aesthetics:
Italy Segreta reminds us that the most powerful storytelling doesn’t need to be invented — it’s already there. The real luxury lies in truth, emotion, and a deep respect for place and culture.
2. The Return Home Movement:
Across Italy, a new generation of creatives, hoteliers, and entrepreneurs who once lived abroad are returning home — blending international experience with local authenticity to elevate Italy from within.
3. Storytelling as Strategy:
Boutique hotels and cultural brands thrive when they tell stories that go beyond rooms and views. By highlighting the people, history, and soul of a place, they build lasting emotional connections with guests.
4. Conscious Luxury:
The new definition of Italian luxury is slow, intentional, and emotionally intelligent — grounded in craftsmanship, sustainability, and personal connection rather than perfection or excess.
5. The Future of Italy Segreta:
From editorial storytelling to podcasts, video, and a 2026 coffee-table book, Italy Segreta continues to evolve as a voice for authentic Italian culture — preserving heritage while inviting the world to see Italy anew.
This episode is a love letter to Italy — its landscapes, its culture, and its storytellers.
It’s for everyone who believes that luxury is not about how something looks, but how it makes you feel.
