INTERVIEW: Author Isabetta Andolini
Explore author Isabetta Andolini’s fictional dreamscape with her real-life travel recommendations
By Eva Grunburg
Anyone lucky enough to live in Santa Barbara is familiar with its beauty, but few have been able to put it into words like author Isabetta Andolini. In her latest novel, Sounds of Feeling, the Euro- and California-based author explores the most enchanting and enthralling corners of the world, making a pit stop in our beloved Santa Barbara.
Along with captivatingly authentic characters, the locations Isabetta depicts in her writing make her stories come to life. Equipped with a background in creative marketing for luxury hotels, a love for the Californian lifestyle, and her words to live by, “curiosity, compassion, and courage,” Isabetta’s novels encapsulate the depth of the human experience while showcasing the world’s most stunning sites.
I caught up with Isabetta for some insights on her latest work and for her expert travel recommendations from scenes in her novels: Italian Lessons, Kiss My Jagged Face, and Sounds of Feeling. Whether you’re a local reader or an avid traveler, Isabetta’s stories offer an immersive experience that transports your mind to mesmerizing scenes—and with her recommendations, you can visit them, too!
THE SOUNDS OF FEELING GUIDE
“Sounds of Feeling traverses a few seasons, but it’s summer that really glitters, in my opinion,” Isabetta shares about her latest work, Sounds of Feeling. Her recommendations, based on the areas graced by characters Ava and her Carpinterian fling, Nate, are sure to make any Santa Barbara day glitter.
Isabetta shared that one of her favorite activities in Santa Barbara is a walk along the glistening water and blooming flowers at Montecito’s Butterfly Beach. A lover of the outdoors, Isabetta also noted her fondness for hiking at Buena Vista in Montecito or at Cold Springs, then heading toward the gorgeous Tangerine Falls. Post-hike, she suggests paying a visit to Merci Montecito for a bite or Red Kettle Coffee for her favorite espresso to reinvigorate the day.
For Isabetta’s readers (or anyone who’s met a Santa Barbara man), Nate—surfer, investment banker, and Ava’s flame—may sound all too familiar. If you’re interested in adopting his lifestyle next time you find yourself near the water or in need of a mental escape, Isabetta recommends heading to Surf Happens, Santa Barbara’s premier surf school, for an idyllic, classically Californian learning experience.
Moving north from Santa Barbara, Carmel is home to some of Isabetta’s favorite places and activities—she's called Carmel her “happy place” since she was a young girl. Some of her favorite treats when in town include the “best” peanut butter cookie at Elroy’s Fine Foods and the chocolate croissant or babka at Bee’s Knees Bakery.
Continuing up the coast to Marin, where Isabetta currently resides, she gushes over the county’s natural beauty. “Every day, I’m spoiled for choice for a walk, run, or hike,” she says. Particularly at sunrise, Isabetta’s favorite hiking trails are Tennessee Valley and Blackie’s Pasture. She also visits a farmer’s market every day, noting she is always “first in line” at the Larkspur market for Anna’s seafood, and she adores the San Rafael market on Sundays.
THE ITALIAN LESSONS GUIDE
Isabetta’s debut novel, self-described as a “20-something growing pains book,” examines more than the plethora of emotions that come with growing up—it explores a multitude of regions across Italy, one of Isabetta’s favorite countries, where she lived for many years. In Italian Lessons, readers can visit Isabetta's favorite places in Milan and Liguria alongside the main character, Margherita.
Starting off with coffee, Isabetta recommends Marchesi in Milan for “the best people watching” and chic caffeination. A timeless cafe, Marchesi offers a stylish escape from the city. The next stop she recommends is a cozy and elevated lunch in the enchanting garden at the Bulgari Hotel Milano. The garden’s ambiance, combined with intricate details like Ginori 1735 dinnerware, make for an unforgettable experience. No trip to Milan is complete without a dinner at Langosteria Cafe for an elegant dinner, with dishes like its signature Orecchiette composed of the finest ingredients from around the world.
Just a train ride away from Milan is Liguria, another prominent location in Italian Lessons. In Liguria, Paraggi is home to the “world’s best beach club,” Bagni Fiore, offering glistening waters and a relaxing respite. Isabetta also suggests keeping a lookout for other hidden gems in the beach towns of Santa Margherita Ligure and Portofino.
THE KISS MY JAGGED FACE GUIDE
In this prequel to Italian Lessons, Isabetta dives into the backstory of Francine, Margherita’s mother. Amidst familial and mental struggles, Francine’s story graces London and New York hotspots.
In London, the Beaumont Hotel in Mayfair is one of Isabetta’s favorite places to stay or just to relax and listen to the piano. With vibrant clientele and art deco style, it encapsulates the city’s classic atmosphere. When in need of a comforting, homestyle takeaway meal, she says that The Ginger Pig always provides. Isabetta also loves to spend an evening at the Royal Albert Hall for a Royal Ballet performance, also featured in Sounds of Feeling.
Across the pond, New York is home to some of Isabetta’s favorite restaurants. Frenchette, a “quintessential” NYC spot, is a must-visit for drinks or dinner. For a more intimate experience, Il Buco offers fine dining and a charming atmosphere, in addition to a cozy, romantic bar. Estela, another favorite, impresses with its inventive cuisine and unbeatable ambiance, thanks to its talented bartenders and great music.
NEXT FROM ISABETTA
If you haven’t gotten enough of Isabetta’s writing or want to fully immerse yourself in the world she’s created, be sure to keep up with her latest venture. She is designing three retreats for kindred spirits to come together and experience a more local version of three areas, taking place respectively in Paraggi, Southern Tuscany, and Milan. Her retreats are an extension of the goal of her writing: to connect people.
“I like to connect people. I like to show someone, look, there’s someone just like you, or look, you’re not alone,” she says.
Connect and keep up with Isabetta’s latest adventures @isabettaandolini or on her website.
