Italian: Anna Bakalian, A.A.

AnnaMaria is proud of and passionate about her Italian heritage, always ready and enthusiastic to share the culture, food and “la dolce vita” with everyone. AnnaMaria has lived in the United States for 21 years and the last 11 years in Charlottesville. Having made the transition from Italian culture to life in the U.S., AnnaMaria is very knowledgeable about the cultural issues in learning Italian to speak and live as an Italian. Anna Maria worked for 10 years as a corporate travel agent and 5 years in Milano for a Foreign Consulate. This helped her to become meticulous, detail oriented and customer service focused with tact and diplomacy. She enjoys making homemade pasta for her family and the “crostata” for her friends. In addition to receiving a Certificate in Early Childhood Education and an Associates Degree from PVCC, Anna is a graduate from a Savona, Italy professional school for travel agents and tour guides.