Maria Pasquale

Maria Pasquale is an Italian-Australian food and travel journalist, author, and communications strategist based in Rome. Born in Melbourne to Italian parents, she cultivated an early connection to Italian culture, moving to Rome in 2011 to immerse herself in the city's unique way of life. With a formal background in political science, policy, and history, she later shifted her career to writing and communications, establishing her own PR and event management company. Pasquale created the lifestyle blog "HeartRome," which provides insights into life in the Eternal City and beyond. The blog explores food, wine, dining, luxury travel, lifestyle, and the arts, reaching an international readership in over one hundred countries and maintaining a strong social media presence. It received early recognition as a Top 100 Traveler to Follow on Social Media and Best Italy Travel Blog by Italy Magazine. She is also the author of several books, including "I Heart Rome," "How to Be Italian," "The Eternal City," and "MANGIA: How to Eat Throughout Italy." As a freelance writer, she contributes regularly to international outlets such as USA Today, CNN, Condé Nast, The Telegraph, and Fodor's Travel. Her work emphasizes authentic experiences, culinary traditions, and the nuanced Italian lifestyle.