About Us

Rem Malloy - Owner

Early Life and Heritage

Rem Malloy was born in Winston-Salem, North Carolina, into a family with a rich Italian heritage tracing back to Cava di Terreni, a small town near Italy’s Amalfi Coast. His early life was steeped in stories of his family’s Italian roots, sparking a lifelong passion for exploring Italian culture, history, and landscapes. Growing up, Rem developed an adventurous spirit, and he was always drawn to new experiences. This curiosity about the world around him would set the stage for a dynamic career in the travel industry.

Education and Professional Beginnings

Rem attended UNC Chapel Hill and later the University of Tampa, focusing on international business and tourism. But Rem’s talents and interests extended far beyond academics. His early career was a blend of unique roles that would later add depth to his work in travel and tourism. He worked as part of the marketing team for Nintendo of America, where he was involved in the promotion of the iconic Nintendo 64 gaming console. This experience honed his skills in branding, customer engagement, and innovation—qualities that would serve him well when he eventually launched Italy4Real.

In addition to his role in marketing, Rem explored the world of acting and modeling, where he took on a range of assignments that enriched his skills in communication and adaptability. He also worked as a personal trainer, demonstrating his commitment to health, wellness, and connecting with people from diverse backgrounds.

Passions and Unique Experiences

Rem’s diverse experiences are a testament to his adventurous spirit. He’s an accomplished rescue scuba diver, a skill he developed through his love of the ocean and his desire to push his limits. His proficiency in scuba diving not only reflects his adaptability but also his willingness to delve deeply into new challenges. He also holds a lifelong fascination with history, particularly World War II, and he has shared his knowledge as a historian on the Travel Channel’s Mysteries at the Museum. His expertise added historical depth to Italy4Real’s itineraries, particularly in areas of Italy that played pivotal roles during the war, offering travelers a unique perspective.

Italy4Real: Turning a Family Vision into Reality

In the early 1990s, Rem’s mother traveled to Italy, sparking an idea that would bring their shared love for Italy to life. Rem recognized a gap in the market for truly personalized, immersive Italian travel experiences that went beyond conventional tourist stops. Together, they launched Italy4Real, with the goal of creating tailored tours that would offer travelers an authentic taste of Italy.

Rem’s hands-on approach shaped Italy4Real’s focus on customization and authenticity. He personally scouted local accommodations, restaurants, and hidden attractions to ensure that every itinerary offered a genuine Italian experience. Italy4Real quickly became known for its high level of service and attention to detail, transforming from a small family operation into a respected name in the travel industry.

Guiding Tours Across Europe

Italy remained the heart of the company, but Rem expanded Italy4Real’s offerings to include other European destinations, reflecting his belief that travelers could experience Italy’s charm in a variety of settings across Europe. He led the expansion into France, Spain, Greece, and beyond, using his local knowledge and passion for the region to bring travelers deeper connections to the cultures they were exploring.

Today, Rem personally guides tours across multiple European countries, bringing his expertise in European history, food, and culture to life for Italy4Real clients. His passion for authentic experiences ensures that travelers enjoy a genuine journey, filled with memorable moments and a true sense of the destination.

Sustainability and Giving Back

Throughout his career, Rem has championed sustainable and responsible tourism. Italy4Real prioritizes partnerships with local, eco-conscious vendors and promotes small group sizes to minimize environmental impact. Through these efforts, Rem ensures that Italy4Real’s tours contribute positively to the communities they visit. By focusing on local artisans, farmers, and family-run establishments, the company not only supports local economies but also gives travelers a more immersive experience.

Commitment to Excellence and Industry Recognition

With his unique blend of experiences and skills, Rem has crafted a travel company that combines adventure, culture, and a deep respect for local traditions. Italy4Real’s exceptional service has led to high client retention, with many travelers returning for new experiences and recommending the company to others. Italy4Real has earned accolades for its high standards and personalized approach, while Rem himself is a respected figure in the travel industry.

Rem Malloy Today and Looking Ahead

Today, Rem continues to lead Italy4Real from his home base in Seattle, Washington. He divides his time between guiding tours, managing operations, and nurturing relationships with local partners across Europe. His commitment to creating meaningful travel experiences remains at the heart of Italy4Real’s mission, ensuring that each tour reflects his dedication to quality, authenticity, and personal connection.

As Rem looks to the future, he is excited about mentoring the next generation within Italy4Real, sharing his passion for creating unforgettable travel experiences that go beyond the ordinary. Rem’s story, marked by his diverse career and deep love for Italian culture, serves as an inspiration, ensuring that Italy4Real will continue to offer travelers a rich and authentic way to experience Italy and Europe for years to come.

In Loving Memory of Deborah de Maio: A Legacy of Family, Passion, and Travel

Deborah de Maio was a woman whose heart and vision transformed countless lives, leaving an indelible mark on her family, friends, and the travel community she helped create. Known for her warm presence, generous spirit, and unwavering devotion to those she loved, Deborah’s life story is one of dedication, resilience, and boundless love.

Early Life and Love for Italian Heritage

Born into a family with rich Italian roots, Deborah embraced her heritage wholeheartedly. Her connection to Italian culture was a central part of her identity and something she shared with those around her. The values she learned from her family—loyalty, hospitality, and a love for life—shaped her deeply. She brought these traditions into her own family, passing along her passion for Italian culture, history, and community.

Founding Italy4Real with Her Son

Deborah’s love of travel and her belief in the power of human connection took on new meaning when she partnered with her son, Rem Malloy, to create Italy4Real. Together, they founded the company in the 1990s, driven by a shared vision of offering meaningful, immersive travel experiences. Italy4Real grew from Deborah’s passion for Italy and Rem’s vision for authentic travel, expanding from humble beginnings into a beloved tour company known for its personal touch and commitment to true cultural engagement. Deborah’s presence and influence were felt throughout Italy4Real, as she infused the business with her nurturing spirit, deep knowledge of Italian culture, and dedication to creating unforgettable experiences for their clients.

Career and Dedication to Service

Deborah’s professional journey was grounded in her commitment to helping others, a calling she fulfilled with grace and kindness. Her work, especially in travel, wasn’t merely a profession; it was a way to connect with people and share her deep appreciation for culture and human connection. Her presence made a lasting impression on those she worked with, and her compassionate approach resonated with clients, family, and friends alike. She believed in going above and beyond, ensuring that those around her felt valued, respected, and cared for.

Cherished Mother and Devoted Friend

At the heart of Deborah’s life was her role as a mother, a role she cherished above all others. Her love and pride for her son, Rem, were boundless, and together they created memories and a shared legacy that enriched both of their lives. Deborah’s devotion to her family extended to her friendships, where she was a trusted confidant and unwavering support. Those who knew her describe her as a true friend whose kindness and sincerity created bonds that lasted a lifetime.

Passing and Legacy

Deborah’s passing in 2022 was a profound loss to those who knew her. She left behind a legacy of warmth, generosity, and the belief that travel can be a path to understanding and connecting with others. Her spirit lives on in Italy4Real, the company she and her son built together, and in the countless lives she touched. Her memory continues to inspire those who knew her to live with the same compassion and joy that she embodied.

Deborah de Maio will be remembered as a beloved mother, friend, and visionary whose life was a testament to the power of love, family, and a passion for discovery. Her light remains, guiding those who follow in her footsteps.

Our Dedicated Team

At Italy4Real, we take immense pride in our team, whose commitment to crafting authentic, personalized travel experiences is at the heart of everything we do. Each team member shares a profound passion for Italy and Western Europe, bringing hands-on experience that goes beyond standard travel knowledge.

Genuine Expertise through Immersive Travel

To ensure we offer the most knowledgeable and tailored service, every team member is sent to Italy to explore each destination firsthand. This immersive approach allows them to gain a deep understanding of every region, accommodation, and service, empowering us to create itineraries that are as informed as they are personal.

Bringing Italy to Life

With this expertise, our team brings an insider’s perspective to every trip. Italy4Real’s clients enjoy an experience that feels genuinely authentic, as our team members’ local insights ensure that each journey is unforgettable, crafted from the knowledge gained by truly experiencing the beauty and culture of Italy and Western Europe firsthand.

Carole Lang - Travel Expert

Carole’s journey began in Edmonds, Washington, where she grew up and still lives with her husband, two kids, and a cat. She’s always been an adventurer at heart, curious about people and cultures, which led her to backpack around Europe for three transformative months in 1989 with a childhood friend. Before her travels in 1989, Carole had worked as a Recreational Therapist at a Head Injury Clinic and with Seattle Parks and Recreation, supporting Special Olympics, seniors, and diverse community groups.

The European trip changed everything. Inspired, Carole returned home, went to travel school, and took on jobs with a local ski company and Princess Cruises, then joined a new European tour company setting up shop locally. From overseeing Virgin Vacations’ group travel to managing hiking and biking adventures, she traveled frequently, deepening her love for Europe—especially Italy, with its vibrant diversity, beauty, and traditions. She enjoyed a 17-year career there and is proud to say she grew with and helped the company grow. Today at Italy4Real, Carole’s passion and expertise shine as she helps others bring their travel dreams to life.

With a degree in Recreation from Western Washington University in Bellingham, Carole blends her passion for travel and her genuine desire to help others, creating personal connections with each of our clients. She listens attentively to travelers’ Italian dreams, working alongside our team to design tailor-made itineraries that bring their visions to life. Carolefollows each journey from start to finish, sharing in the excitement and making sure every detail is seamless. Outside of planning unforgettable holidays, she loves exploring and traveling with friends and family, staying active with biking, walking, and jogging, and uncovering hidden gems close to home. Recently, she’s even taken up pickleball, adding a fun, active twist to her daily routine when she’s not busy planning incredible adventures!

Carole’s journey with Italy4Real began in 2012 when she spotted a flyer and reached out to Rem about joining the team. Since then, she has been a dedicated, valuable part of our team, driven by her passion for Italy and her expertise in travel. Carole enjoys collaborating with Italy4Real’s travel experts and suppliers, finding joy in turning travelers’ Italian dreams into reality.