Our interview with Almost Fiorentina

Exploring the city with content creator Lisa-Marie Proteau

How did you end up in Italy?

When I was 19, I needed a change of scenery. I grew up in Montreal, Canada, but after a couple of major life events, I decided to start over in Florence. I fell in love with the people and the atmosphere of the city, and that hasn’t changed since.

What persuaded you to stay here?

I feel at home here; I’m grateful to the city for welcoming me and helping me write an important new chapter of my life.

How did your social media career begin?

Having spent a lot of time learning the Florentine dialect, during the pandemic I thought it might be funny and ironic if a Canadian ‘taught’ it to others. I noticed that my videos were being shared quite a bit, so I kept with it. These days, my TikTok account is a diary of my everyday life in Florence.

How did you become an ambassador for Visit Tuscany?

The Visit Tuscany team saw my bilingual content on TikTok and contacted me, and we started collaborating. It’s been really great. Who would’ve thought that exploring Tuscany could become my job!

Your favourite places in Florence?

I have two particular favourites: the garden of Villa Strozzi - the sunsets from there are truly magnificent - and the Porte Sante cemetery. It may seem a little dark, but for me it’s a wonderful dive into the city’s past.

Three foodie destinations you’d recommend?

Pasticceria Giulia on Via Toselli for Sunday sweet treats, Ravvin for a low-cost evening of wine and ravioli, and Forno Becagli for the world’s best mini-pizzas!