by Fay SplettTo most people in Canada, Debbie Travis is a household name. We were first introduced to her through her instructional painting videos, books and a hit television series called Debbie Travis’ Painted House, which won her two Gemini Awards.Additional series, guest appearances and creative projects followed, and it’s here in Canada that she runs her production company. However, with homes in Tuscany and in London, her time is now stretched between the two continents.
Photo By: Max Rosenstein
Travis’ Tuscan retreats aren’t all about food and wine. With her flair for design, she’s created an exquisite setting where people can come to relax in an environment that’s free from work-related schedules and personal obligations – where people can reflect on their lives and next chapters. “That’s what makes me happy – giving people an experience on a one-to-one basis. Giving them a leg up to have the courage to follow their dreams and, in doing so, being a part of their lives forever.”Following my return to Canada, as we chatted on Skype, Travis tossed another log on the fire at her villa in Tuscany and was enjoying a glass of wine, while I was sitting in Toronto. We talked about the ability to work remotely in this technical day and age. She had just popped down from her home in London, only two hours away by air. “I can work anywhere,” she said. “I am choosing to do what I love and it makes me happy. I am living my dream.”
Travis’ Tuscan retreats aren’t all about food and wine. With her flair for design, she’s created an exquisite setting where people can come to relax in an environment that’s free from work-related schedules and personal obligations – where people can reflect on their lives and next chapters. “That’s what makes me happy – giving people an experience on a one-to-one basis. Giving them a leg up to have the courage to follow their dreams and, in doing so, being a part of their lives forever.”Following my return to Canada, as we chatted on Skype, Travis tossed another log on the fire at her villa in Tuscany and was enjoying a glass of wine, while I was sitting in Toronto. We talked about the ability to work remotely in this technical day and age. She had just popped down from her home in London, only two hours away by air. “I can work anywhere,” she said. “I am choosing to do what I love and it makes me happy. I am living my dream.”