0:00:02 > 0:00:05Welcome to Escape To The Continent. The historical hill town behind me
0:00:05 > 0:00:08that shines out against the surrounding lush countryside is,
0:00:08 > 0:00:14understandably, known as Citta Bianca, the White City.
0:00:14 > 0:00:18But where is it? And why was the whole town painted white?
0:00:18 > 0:00:20Find out in just a moment.
0:00:39 > 0:00:42Coming up, we meet a husband and wife venturing to
0:00:42 > 0:00:45uncharted territory, where they find a world
0:00:45 > 0:00:47of novel bricks and mortar.
0:00:47 > 0:00:49- Cosy?- Cosy.
0:00:49 > 0:00:53- Thinking of all those words apart from small.- Small, yeah.
0:00:53 > 0:00:57But soon, the adventure opens out into a rather hands-on experience.
0:00:57 > 0:01:00- Oh, he hasn't done that before. - No, he hasn't.
0:01:00 > 0:01:02We haven't had a stroking moment.
0:01:07 > 0:01:10Today, I'm in southern Italy, in the Puglia region,
0:01:10 > 0:01:13and this is the hilltop town of Ostuni.
0:01:13 > 0:01:16It is believed the whitewashing of the whole town is
0:01:16 > 0:01:20a result of the plague during the 17th century.
0:01:20 > 0:01:23In an attempt to prevent the disease from spreading,
0:01:23 > 0:01:27homes of infected residents were singled out and painted white,
0:01:27 > 0:01:29using a mixture of limestone,
0:01:29 > 0:01:32dust and water to deter people from entering.
0:01:32 > 0:01:36Soon locals began to notice there seem to be less illness
0:01:36 > 0:01:40around these white homes and promptly put it down to a miracle,
0:01:40 > 0:01:42although in truth, it is more likely
0:01:42 > 0:01:45the calcium carbonate in the limewash
0:01:45 > 0:01:50acting as a natural disinfectant which helped save the townspeople.
0:01:50 > 0:01:53Today, Ostuni is still painted white
0:01:53 > 0:01:56and stands as testament to its rather lucky escape.
0:01:56 > 0:02:01But this stunning town is certainly not all Puglia has to offer.
0:02:03 > 0:02:07Just under a three-hour flight from London, Puglia encompasses
0:02:07 > 0:02:10the long strip of land that makes up the heel of the Italian boot.
0:02:10 > 0:02:14As such, the area benefits from the longest coastline of any
0:02:14 > 0:02:16mainland region in Italy,
0:02:16 > 0:02:21lapped by the waters of both the Adriatic and Ionian Seas.
0:02:21 > 0:02:24This strategic coastal position has had a lengthy influence
0:02:24 > 0:02:25on Puglia's history.
0:02:25 > 0:02:29And the area features many fortified towns carved into the cliffs.
0:02:29 > 0:02:34One gem is Gallipoli, an important trading port during the 17th
0:02:34 > 0:02:36and 18th centuries for lamp oil,
0:02:36 > 0:02:38produced from the abundance of olive trees.
0:02:38 > 0:02:41In fact, the region is carpeted by olive groves
0:02:41 > 0:02:45and has the highest concentration in all of Italy.
0:02:45 > 0:02:46Well-known for its cuisine,
0:02:46 > 0:02:4980% of the nation's pasta is produced here.
0:02:49 > 0:02:52And Puglia's signature orecchiette shape is still
0:02:52 > 0:02:56handmade by artisans in the region's capital of Bari.
0:02:56 > 0:03:01But what really gives this place its identity must be its architecture.
0:03:01 > 0:03:03And this is the home of the trulli,
0:03:03 > 0:03:07which are distinct cone-topped cottages unique to Puglia.
0:03:07 > 0:03:10The first trulli date back to the 16th century
0:03:10 > 0:03:13and were originally mortarless constructions.
0:03:13 > 0:03:17Today, these rural dwellings are getting snapped up by foreign
0:03:17 > 0:03:21buyers who have transformed them into wonderful individual houses,
0:03:21 > 0:03:25so much so that British expats living here now affectionately refer
0:03:25 > 0:03:28to the region as Trullishire.
0:03:31 > 0:03:35With a warm, dry climate and a plentiful supply of historic
0:03:35 > 0:03:39Italian homes, it is no wonder that in the last ten years,
0:03:39 > 0:03:42Puglia has become a bit of a hotspot for British buyers.
0:03:42 > 0:03:47What's more, the region's house prices are very appealing too,
0:03:47 > 0:03:51particularly as they can be up to 60% cheaper than back home.
0:03:51 > 0:03:54The average cost of a modern three-bedroom villa
0:03:54 > 0:03:57starts at about £100,000,
0:03:57 > 0:04:01whereas a traditional farmhouse that has been renovated will
0:04:01 > 0:04:04set you back around £200,000.
0:04:04 > 0:04:07Now, that is approximately half the amount
0:04:07 > 0:04:10you would pay for the equivalent property in the pricier
0:04:10 > 0:04:14Italian regions of Umbria and Tuscany.
0:04:14 > 0:04:18So what type of home are today's buyers looking for here in Puglia?
0:04:18 > 0:04:20Well, let's meet them and find out.
0:04:20 > 0:04:22Devoted husband and wife Malcolm
0:04:22 > 0:04:26and Julie have just celebrated their 30-year wedding anniversary.
0:04:26 > 0:04:30And for the last two decades, they have lived in a 300-year-old
0:04:30 > 0:04:33three-bedroom cottage in the Kent village of Bridge.
0:04:33 > 0:04:37But after holidaying in Tuscany a few times, they now have ideas
0:04:37 > 0:04:41on a more Continental adventure for the next chapter of their lives.
0:04:41 > 0:04:44This isn't like that old cliche, you know, you go on holiday
0:04:44 > 0:04:46- and you fall in love with the place. - It went deeper than that.
0:04:46 > 0:04:49- There was something else. You can't really put your finger on it.- No.
0:04:49 > 0:04:51So we love the place. We really do.
0:04:51 > 0:04:53Love the lifestyle as well.
0:04:53 > 0:04:55The first thing that strikes you as soon as you drive through
0:04:55 > 0:05:00Italy is just the scenery, the landscape, the climate.
0:05:00 > 0:05:02And then obviously, once you are settling in there,
0:05:02 > 0:05:06I just love the restaurant life, the cafe culture.
0:05:06 > 0:05:08I love the wine. I absolutely adore the wine.
0:05:08 > 0:05:12Malcolm is now retired after a career spent as a zoo keeper
0:05:12 > 0:05:14for Howletts Wild Animal Park.
0:05:14 > 0:05:18And Julie now works part-time at the local doctor's surgery after
0:05:18 > 0:05:20a career in pharmaceuticals.
0:05:20 > 0:05:23But they both hope the new Italian lifestyle will enable them
0:05:23 > 0:05:25to focus more on their hobbies.
0:05:25 > 0:05:28I love my cookery. And I think when you are in the country, it is
0:05:28 > 0:05:31the best place to actually learn to cook properly.
0:05:31 > 0:05:34Hopefully, I'll learn, you know, by visiting places
0:05:34 > 0:05:35and seeing other people cooking.
0:05:35 > 0:05:38We both love antiques as well, so...
0:05:38 > 0:05:41And out there, they have the most amazing architectural,
0:05:41 > 0:05:43agricultural...
0:05:43 > 0:05:46I don't want to call it bric-a-brac, but we just love going around and
0:05:46 > 0:05:49we just imagine filling our house with all these beautiful things.
0:05:49 > 0:05:51One of the things I really enjoy is painting,
0:05:51 > 0:05:54which I haven't done for years and years.
0:05:54 > 0:05:56Now I've retired, I'm getting back into it.
0:05:56 > 0:05:59So I am still at the learning stage at the moment.
0:05:59 > 0:06:03But, no, I really enjoy. I really do enjoy it.
0:06:03 > 0:06:04Malcolm built himself an art studio
0:06:04 > 0:06:07at the bottom of their prize-winning garden and the couple
0:06:07 > 0:06:09have spent a lot of time
0:06:09 > 0:06:12beautifully renovating their listed period property.
0:06:12 > 0:06:14In fact, another historic
0:06:14 > 0:06:17and characterful home is high on the agenda when they move,
0:06:17 > 0:06:20as well as getting to grips with the local lingo.
0:06:20 > 0:06:22Italian is something I've always loved.
0:06:22 > 0:06:23I think it is quite critical, really,
0:06:23 > 0:06:26for me particularly, to be able to get a handle
0:06:26 > 0:06:27on the Italian language,
0:06:27 > 0:06:29as Malcolm...it's not really his second nature to speak
0:06:29 > 0:06:31a second language.
0:06:31 > 0:06:33I've already sort of tried to learn whenever we've been abroad.
0:06:33 > 0:06:37Once I am normally immersed in the place I stay,
0:06:37 > 0:06:40I have a very uncanny way of picking up a language,
0:06:40 > 0:06:42as long as there is the old couple of glasses of wine available.
0:06:42 > 0:06:45SHE CHUCKLES
0:06:45 > 0:06:49Despite spending their whole lives in Kent, the decision to swap
0:06:49 > 0:06:52the UK for Italy on a permanent basis was prompted
0:06:52 > 0:06:56by a serious illness Malcolm suffered just a few years ago.
0:06:56 > 0:06:59And now he's been given the all clear,
0:06:59 > 0:07:02the experience has brought about a renewed zest for life.
0:07:02 > 0:07:05When you hear the C word, you do think, you know,
0:07:05 > 0:07:07you haven't got a lot longer.
0:07:07 > 0:07:09And it is quite scary. So
0:07:09 > 0:07:12as long as I've got a few more years,
0:07:12 > 0:07:15I want to do it somewhere else.
0:07:15 > 0:07:19I think it's going to actually generate a healthier lifestyle
0:07:19 > 0:07:22for us that will help us, you know, keep us both fit and healthy
0:07:22 > 0:07:23for a bit longer at least.
0:07:23 > 0:07:27It really makes you sort of appreciate your mortality.
0:07:27 > 0:07:30I think we both thought, you know, if we don't do it, we never will.
0:07:30 > 0:07:33We never will, right. So we've got to do it.
0:07:33 > 0:07:34Got to do it.
0:07:37 > 0:07:40Julie and Malcolm have set their hearts on moving to Italy
0:07:40 > 0:07:44but are looking for the best value for money, so have decided to try
0:07:44 > 0:07:47Puglia, which is a region they have never previously visited.
0:07:47 > 0:07:51We'll be exploring the area between Bari and Brindisi
0:07:51 > 0:07:52at the top of the heel,
0:07:52 > 0:07:55near the beautiful landscape of the Itria Valley, which is
0:07:55 > 0:07:59a particularly popular part of Puglia with foreign buyers.
0:07:59 > 0:08:02And now our couple have arrived here in Italy, we are all meeting
0:08:02 > 0:08:06up to discuss the specifics of their planned relocation.
0:08:06 > 0:08:09So, Malcolm and Julie, welcome to Puglia.
0:08:09 > 0:08:12- Cos you're big fans of Italy, aren't you?- We are.
0:08:12 > 0:08:13Absolutely love it. We love it.
0:08:13 > 0:08:16And hopefully, this country is going to be your future home.
0:08:16 > 0:08:20But why Puglia? Why have you decided you want to explore this region?
0:08:20 > 0:08:22We've already explored Tuscany and Umbria,
0:08:22 > 0:08:25and we thought we'd come down this way to see what this was like.
0:08:25 > 0:08:27That is the reason why we're here.
0:08:27 > 0:08:31And what is it about the Italian lifestyle that so appeals
0:08:31 > 0:08:32to you both?
0:08:32 > 0:08:37I think it's a completely different culture - more family orientated,
0:08:37 > 0:08:40more social. I mean, the food and the wine just goes without saying.
0:08:40 > 0:08:43And then you are surrounded by fabulous scenery to boot.
0:08:43 > 0:08:46- It's exciting, cos you don't know this region at all.- No.- No.
0:08:46 > 0:08:49- Not at all.- So it's going to be interesting to see what you think.
0:08:49 > 0:08:52So describe to me your ideal property. What does it look like?
0:08:52 > 0:08:55Well, we've certainly looked at the trullis,
0:08:55 > 0:08:56which I think are just so quaint.
0:08:56 > 0:08:59And it is something we have never stayed in or looked at.
0:08:59 > 0:09:01So it is a real... Sort of quite exciting to see
0:09:01 > 0:09:04something that is a little bit different from the traditional
0:09:04 > 0:09:09sort of...I suppose Italian idea of a country house.
0:09:09 > 0:09:13- We don't want a big house. - No?- Two, three bedrooms.
0:09:13 > 0:09:16And a small piece of ground, really.
0:09:16 > 0:09:19- Enough room for the dogs? - Oh, yes, absolutely.
0:09:19 > 0:09:21- And you are both passionate about your gardening.- Yes, we do.
0:09:21 > 0:09:26Now, you have won awards in the UK for your wonderful garden.
0:09:26 > 0:09:28So it is going to be interesting moving here - we are seeing Puglia
0:09:28 > 0:09:30out of season.
0:09:30 > 0:09:33But we know in the summer, it gets extremely hot.
0:09:33 > 0:09:35- So, different challenges.- Yeah.
0:09:35 > 0:09:36I mean, that, in terms of gardening,
0:09:36 > 0:09:39opens up a different opportunity for different types of plants.
0:09:39 > 0:09:41At home, I struggle with growing vegetables.
0:09:41 > 0:09:44I spent more money putting the stuff in the ground than
0:09:44 > 0:09:46I got out of it. So I'm really looking forward...
0:09:46 > 0:09:48I might be able to grow stuff that actually works!
0:09:48 > 0:09:51So remind us of this budget. How much have we got to spend?
0:09:51 > 0:09:53£300,000.
0:09:53 > 0:09:55And does that include the taxes as well?
0:09:55 > 0:09:58Yes. Having sort of done a little bit of research,
0:09:58 > 0:10:00I know that we have got to think of what we've got to spend
0:10:00 > 0:10:02on top to actually secure the properties.
0:10:02 > 0:10:06So, I mean, I am assuming that is going to work out roughly about...
0:10:06 > 0:10:08It is about 8%.
0:10:08 > 0:10:09- OK.- Roughly 8%.
0:10:09 > 0:10:13So the actual value of the house we're looking at is about 280,000.
0:10:13 > 0:10:15- Pounds, not euros.- Yes.
0:10:15 > 0:10:18And with this budget, do you think you are realistic?
0:10:18 > 0:10:20Are we going to find what you want for your money?
0:10:20 > 0:10:22- I think so.- I think so, yes.
0:10:22 > 0:10:25Having had sort of a bit of research in other parts of Italy
0:10:25 > 0:10:27but not knowing this area, I think we are going to find
0:10:27 > 0:10:29something pretty spectacular.
0:10:29 > 0:10:32- Well, I think we should get started, don't you?- Fantastic, yes. Let's go.
0:10:35 > 0:10:37On a budget of £280,000,
0:10:37 > 0:10:39our buyers are hoping to find
0:10:39 > 0:10:41a characterful, traditional home
0:10:41 > 0:10:42with at least two bedrooms
0:10:42 > 0:10:44and enough outdoor space
0:10:44 > 0:10:45for their two dogs,
0:10:45 > 0:10:48gardening as well as veg growing.
0:10:48 > 0:10:50Malcolm's keen to find somewhere
0:10:50 > 0:10:51to indulge his love of painting
0:10:51 > 0:10:54and inspiring beautiful views
0:10:54 > 0:10:56would be a bonus for both of them.
0:10:56 > 0:10:59We found a range of particularly distinct Puglia homes to
0:10:59 > 0:11:03tempt our couple, but I'll be keeping the prices a guessing
0:11:03 > 0:11:05game until the end of each tour.
0:11:05 > 0:11:08And we'll be ending our property journey at the mystery house,
0:11:08 > 0:11:11which is a somewhat unconventional offering in the context
0:11:11 > 0:11:14of the regional standard.
0:11:14 > 0:11:16Julie and Malcolm are completely new to the area,
0:11:16 > 0:11:18so we'll be presenting them
0:11:18 > 0:11:20with an out-of-season experience to give them
0:11:20 > 0:11:23a better understanding of what everyday Italian life is
0:11:23 > 0:11:28like in the winter before they make a permanent commitment to this move.
0:11:35 > 0:11:38We are starting the search in the heart of the Itria Valley,
0:11:38 > 0:11:41heading for the small town of Cisternino.
0:11:41 > 0:11:45Full of whitewashed houses lining its narrow streets,
0:11:45 > 0:11:48the historic town of Cisternino has a charming market square
0:11:48 > 0:11:52and many amenities including shops and restaurants.
0:11:52 > 0:11:54And about two miles outside of the town,
0:11:54 > 0:11:58is the rather unique house we have lined up to kick off.
0:11:59 > 0:12:04- So, this is rather exciting because it is...- Wow.- ..our first property.
0:12:04 > 0:12:08- Love this.- Amazing.- I love it. - Absolutely beautiful.
0:12:08 > 0:12:11- Wow. - So, the exciting adventure starts.
0:12:11 > 0:12:13You said you loved trulli houses, well,
0:12:13 > 0:12:17how about owning your own trullo property?
0:12:17 > 0:12:20- It's beautiful.- How old is it? - This dates back to the 17th century.
0:12:20 > 0:12:23- Does it really?- Yes. It is actually one property.
0:12:23 > 0:12:27So you have got the main house. You can see there's three cones.
0:12:27 > 0:12:29- Yes. - And then this is an outbuilding,
0:12:29 > 0:12:33- ripe for conversion.- Oh, I see. - That's up your street.
0:12:33 > 0:12:36- I can't wait to get inside, really. - Let's start.
0:12:36 > 0:12:40Built from local limestone, this unusual collection of buildings
0:12:40 > 0:12:44was renovated and turned into a holiday home three years ago.
0:12:44 > 0:12:45We are entering the middle trullo,
0:12:45 > 0:12:48and the front door leads straight into a living area.
0:12:48 > 0:12:51Your voyage of discovery...
0:12:51 > 0:12:53- starts here.- Oh, wow.
0:12:53 > 0:12:54Oh, wow!
0:12:56 > 0:12:59- You're kid... Oh, my.- This is amazing.- It really is amazing.
0:12:59 > 0:13:03- A bit like a hobbit's house. - It is.- It is.
0:13:03 > 0:13:06So a little bit of the history about these properties.
0:13:06 > 0:13:10It is believed that when tax came in on properties, the farmers,
0:13:10 > 0:13:14rather than paying tax, they built these temporary homes.
0:13:14 > 0:13:17And that is the keystone just behind us.
0:13:17 > 0:13:19So when the men came round to collect the taxes,
0:13:19 > 0:13:22the farmer literally pulled out the keystone,
0:13:22 > 0:13:26the whole thing would have come to the floor, just a pile of stones,
0:13:26 > 0:13:27wouldn't have had to pay any tax.
0:13:27 > 0:13:31When the king's men went, started to build it again.
0:13:31 > 0:13:32- Ah.- And that was the whole idea.
0:13:32 > 0:13:35So originally, they wouldn't have had any cement, any mortar.
0:13:35 > 0:13:37It literally... It was just
0:13:37 > 0:13:41very cleverly, all done by hand, put together.
0:13:41 > 0:13:44I love it. It's great.
0:13:44 > 0:13:49- So this is your sitting room. - Oh, it is?!- Right, OK.
0:13:49 > 0:13:50- Yeah.- Oh, well, um...
0:13:50 > 0:13:52- So...tidy, compact?- Bijou, yes.
0:13:52 > 0:13:54We'll have to sell some furniture, won't we?
0:13:54 > 0:13:56SHE LAUGHS All of it.
0:13:56 > 0:13:58There's only two of us.
0:13:58 > 0:14:00- Next door, you've got the family shower room.- OK.
0:14:00 > 0:14:03And a little bit of storage in there as well.
0:14:03 > 0:14:05You've got a bedroom through there.
0:14:05 > 0:14:08But let's wander through, and I'll show you the kitchen.
0:14:08 > 0:14:09Oh, wow.
0:14:09 > 0:14:12The kitchen is found beyond a small seating area and
0:14:12 > 0:14:14occupies its own trullo.
0:14:16 > 0:14:17Oh, wow.
0:14:18 > 0:14:20- Oh, amazing.- Oh, wow.
0:14:20 > 0:14:24- Oh, I love this. Plenty of space.- Yeah.
0:14:24 > 0:14:26So, how much are we challenging you?
0:14:26 > 0:14:28Because, let's be honest,
0:14:28 > 0:14:31- this isn't your run-of-the-mill property, is it?- It's not, no.
0:14:31 > 0:14:36You couldn't get any more different than this, can you? To be honest.
0:14:36 > 0:14:38Does Kent seem a long way away?
0:14:38 > 0:14:42It does. It seems like a for... Well, we are in a foreign land, but...
0:14:42 > 0:14:45I don't know, it almost seems biblical inside as well.
0:14:45 > 0:14:48- Doesn't it? - That's a good description.- Yeah.
0:14:48 > 0:14:52- Well, shall we continue?- Yes.- The master bedroom is next door.- OK.
0:14:55 > 0:14:59- Well, it's this way. It's a decent size, isn't it?- Gosh, it is, yeah.
0:14:59 > 0:15:04Another hole up there. Is that where put your husbands when they snore?
0:15:04 > 0:15:06- Is it large enough for the two of you?- Oh, yes.
0:15:06 > 0:15:09Probably big enough, yeah. It's only the two of us.
0:15:09 > 0:15:13Well, we do have an en-suite, and it is a generous size en-suite as well.
0:15:13 > 0:15:15Fabulous, fabulous.
0:15:15 > 0:15:18Everywhere you look, it is just bright, light, airy...
0:15:18 > 0:15:20- It's beautiful.- Yeah, I love it.
0:15:20 > 0:15:24I couldn't be more thrilled with Julie and Malcolm's reactions
0:15:24 > 0:15:25to our first property.
0:15:25 > 0:15:28And I think they'll also love the fact that it comes
0:15:28 > 0:15:31with 3.5 acres of land,
0:15:31 > 0:15:34giving Julie plenty of scope to put her green fingers to good use.
0:15:34 > 0:15:35Oh, wow.
0:15:39 > 0:15:43- It is something else, isn't it? - Beautiful, absolutely stunning.
0:15:43 > 0:15:48- It's amazing.- So now, we are going to have to discuss finances.
0:15:48 > 0:15:51Are you going to have a stab? What do we think it is on the market for?
0:15:51 > 0:15:52I think...
0:15:53 > 0:15:55260.
0:15:55 > 0:16:00- OK.- I was roughly around that, about 250 I was thinking.
0:16:00 > 0:16:03But I don't know. I have nothing to measure it against.
0:16:03 > 0:16:06It's really hard, so...about 250, 260.
0:16:06 > 0:16:09Asking price for this, our first home -
0:16:09 > 0:16:11275.
0:16:11 > 0:16:13- Is it?- Oh, wow.
0:16:13 > 0:16:16- £275,000.- Mm-hm.
0:16:16 > 0:16:18- You were both pretty close, weren't you?- Yeah.
0:16:18 > 0:16:21- I think you should have another look around on your own this time.- OK.
0:16:21 > 0:16:24- Why don't you?- That would be brilliant.- See you in a minute.
0:16:24 > 0:16:25- Thanks.- Thanks.
0:16:27 > 0:16:29What a fantastic start. But what a property!
0:16:29 > 0:16:32This one has really set the bar high.
0:16:35 > 0:16:37This unique and historic home
0:16:37 > 0:16:41comes in at £5,000 under Julie and Malcolm's budget.
0:16:41 > 0:16:43And with one trullo not yet converted,
0:16:43 > 0:16:47there's the opportunity for Malcolm to create his very own art studio.
0:16:47 > 0:16:50The property is full of the rustic charm they're after
0:16:50 > 0:16:52and features two bedrooms,
0:16:52 > 0:16:53two bathrooms,
0:16:53 > 0:16:54as well as a substantial
0:16:54 > 0:16:56plot of land that could be perfect
0:16:56 > 0:16:59for both dogs and gardening.
0:16:59 > 0:17:02Absolutely beautiful. Everywhere you look.
0:17:02 > 0:17:04Here is a bit of a doer-upper, Malc.
0:17:04 > 0:17:07Yeah, it is, isn't it? Dark in here, though, isn't it?
0:17:07 > 0:17:09You can see what this was like before they actually started
0:17:09 > 0:17:13- doing anything.- Yeah.- So would you have to strip it all back and...?
0:17:13 > 0:17:16It really wants doing properly, doesn't it?
0:17:16 > 0:17:18It's the surprise when you get inside.
0:17:18 > 0:17:22You know, they're more spacious than you think they are.
0:17:22 > 0:17:23And light and airy.
0:17:23 > 0:17:27And I just think they're great little houses, they really are.
0:17:27 > 0:17:29I could see myself living here. I really could.
0:17:29 > 0:17:32It's the first time I've ever been inside a trullo
0:17:32 > 0:17:35and it was nothing like I was expecting.
0:17:35 > 0:17:38Very individual, very beautifully done.
0:17:38 > 0:17:41You know, at home, we've got an old, quirky house.
0:17:41 > 0:17:44If we move to Italy, we'd have an old, quirky house here,
0:17:44 > 0:17:46wouldn't we? So it'd be all right.
0:17:49 > 0:17:53- Happy?- Absolutely wonderful.- It is an extraordinary property, isn't it?
0:17:53 > 0:17:55What a way to start off our house search.
0:17:55 > 0:17:59- And that's only the first one. Ready to go?- Yes.- Yep.
0:18:05 > 0:18:08With spirits high, we are keeping up the momentum
0:18:08 > 0:18:11and travelling straight to our next property.
0:18:11 > 0:18:14We are heading west, and the destination is Martina Franca,
0:18:14 > 0:18:17staying within the picturesque Itria Valley.
0:18:17 > 0:18:21A fair-sized town, Martina Franca is full of history,
0:18:21 > 0:18:25featuring grand architecture and a mix of Baroque influences,
0:18:25 > 0:18:29nowhere more so than the heavily sculpted Basilica, where many operas
0:18:29 > 0:18:32and classical music concerts are performed
0:18:32 > 0:18:33throughout the summer months.
0:18:33 > 0:18:36At the heart of the town is an elegant paved square
0:18:36 > 0:18:39and there is a good selection of shops and facilities to hand.
0:18:39 > 0:18:42The next house is just three miles away.
0:18:42 > 0:18:46And after a great response from both parties to the trulli home
0:18:46 > 0:18:49this morning, we have lined up another one.
0:18:49 > 0:18:53So, continuing your love affair with trulli houses...
0:18:53 > 0:18:55- take a look at this. - Oh, wow, different.
0:18:55 > 0:18:58- Very different. - It is, isn't it? Nice.
0:18:58 > 0:19:02So there is your original trullo property, around 18th century.
0:19:02 > 0:19:04It has got three cones.
0:19:04 > 0:19:06And you always get the steps to the side,
0:19:06 > 0:19:08so it is easy access to maintain the roof.
0:19:08 > 0:19:11You'll always see that. But you've actually got an extension,
0:19:11 > 0:19:13a more modern extension, on the side,
0:19:13 > 0:19:16which gives you a lot more space.
0:19:16 > 0:19:17Right, OK.
0:19:17 > 0:19:20It looks good from the outside.
0:19:20 > 0:19:22- Shall we step inside?- Yes, let's.
0:19:23 > 0:19:25This majestic property marries old
0:19:25 > 0:19:29and new with its traditional trulli and modern adjoining villa.
0:19:29 > 0:19:31We're starting off in the oldest part of the property,
0:19:31 > 0:19:35where the door leads into a living/dining room.
0:19:35 > 0:19:36Step inside.
0:19:38 > 0:19:40Oh, wow.
0:19:40 > 0:19:43- This is different.- It's different.
0:19:43 > 0:19:46- Yeah.- Impactful, isn't it? Not what you expect.- No.
0:19:46 > 0:19:48Actually, I quite like it.
0:19:48 > 0:19:51- In a way, it has been divided into three parts.- Yep.
0:19:51 > 0:19:55Because here are your three cones. So you've got a seated area here.
0:19:55 > 0:19:57Then you've got your dining area.
0:19:57 > 0:20:00And at the far end, you've got a wonderful fire
0:20:00 > 0:20:02and another little sitting room
0:20:02 > 0:20:05- with access to the garden. - Perfect.- Excellent.
0:20:05 > 0:20:09Well, we know the extension was done relatively recently.
0:20:09 > 0:20:11- Let's see what you make of this.- OK.
0:20:16 > 0:20:20- So, we present to you a tiled Italian kitchen.- Oh, right.
0:20:20 > 0:20:22- Gosh, that is a contrast.- It is.
0:20:22 > 0:20:26- I wasn't expecting that at all, actually. I like this.- I'm confused.
0:20:26 > 0:20:29- Are you?- Yeah, entirely confused. - Why does it confuse you, Malcolm?
0:20:29 > 0:20:35You see a trulli and you don't expect to see a modern extension on it.
0:20:35 > 0:20:38I am open-minded. It is warming on me.
0:20:38 > 0:20:41- Let's continue.- Yes. - On that note.- Right.
0:20:43 > 0:20:46A narrow corridor leads along the extension.
0:20:46 > 0:20:48And next door to the kitchen is a shower room.
0:20:48 > 0:20:51At the other end is a large and bright spare bedroom
0:20:51 > 0:20:54and in the middle is the master.
0:20:54 > 0:20:56- This has its own en-suite.- Right.
0:20:56 > 0:20:59Something we've never had the luxury of at home
0:20:59 > 0:21:01because of the age of the house.
0:21:01 > 0:21:04This is actually a nice size, a very nice size.
0:21:04 > 0:21:07Julie and Malcolm do seem to be pretty receptive
0:21:07 > 0:21:10to our properties so far, which is great.
0:21:10 > 0:21:12I can't wait to show them the grounds here.
0:21:12 > 0:21:16Leading out from the extension is a pleasant patio. But that's not all.
0:21:18 > 0:21:19Oh, beautiful.
0:21:21 > 0:21:23Oh, wow.
0:21:23 > 0:21:25- Gosh, that's a surprise. - So, what do you think?
0:21:25 > 0:21:27- Fantastic.- Oh, yeah.
0:21:27 > 0:21:29What a view.
0:21:29 > 0:21:30And what a pool!
0:21:32 > 0:21:35- You can cook outside, you've got an oven there.- I'm liking that.
0:21:35 > 0:21:39- So regarding the land, it's quite large, over two acres.- Wow.
0:21:39 > 0:21:43But the good news is, the local farmer takes care of it for you.
0:21:43 > 0:21:44All this strip,
0:21:44 > 0:21:46he grows animal feed - looks after it,
0:21:46 > 0:21:49takes care of it, you don't have to do anything.
0:21:49 > 0:21:52But it means it is all yours, but you don't have to do the hard work.
0:21:52 > 0:21:53I like the sound of that.
0:21:53 > 0:21:56Right. And... (It's quiet.)
0:21:56 > 0:21:59- It's really quiet.- So peaceful.
0:21:59 > 0:22:02I realise it is an awful lot to take in.
0:22:02 > 0:22:06But we are going to now have to try and put a price on this property.
0:22:06 > 0:22:09- I think it is going to be at least on or maybe above.- 300.
0:22:09 > 0:22:12- Do you think?- I think so. - 300, Malcolm?- Yeah.
0:22:12 > 0:22:15290, I was thinking. 295.
0:22:15 > 0:22:17The asking price
0:22:17 > 0:22:22- is around £358,000.- Wow.
0:22:22 > 0:22:25- That's a lot more than I thought. - Well, I don't want to scare you.
0:22:25 > 0:22:28- OK.- I'm going to give you another price.- OK.
0:22:28 > 0:22:30The owner will accept
0:22:30 > 0:22:34- £280,000.- Really? My God!
0:22:34 > 0:22:38- Yeah.- Really?- Yep. I think you need another look around.- I do, yeah.
0:22:38 > 0:22:41- Off you go.- OK. - See you in a minute.
0:22:42 > 0:22:45The benefits of property shopping here out of the tourist
0:22:45 > 0:22:48season is that there are fewer buyers to compete with,
0:22:48 > 0:22:52therefore potentially more bargains to be had.
0:22:52 > 0:22:56So although this updated trulli is on the market for £78,000
0:22:56 > 0:22:58over Julie and Malcolm's budget,
0:22:58 > 0:23:03the owner is willing to accept exactly what they have got to spend.
0:23:03 > 0:23:07The property has two bedrooms with the added bonus of an en-suite.
0:23:07 > 0:23:10And outside, the two-acre garden comes with a large patio
0:23:10 > 0:23:12and a swimming pool.
0:23:12 > 0:23:17The property is a combination of the two styles - traditional and modern.
0:23:17 > 0:23:19And so when you first came in, it was quite a lot to
0:23:19 > 0:23:24take in in one go and get a sort of an immediate positive, I think.
0:23:24 > 0:23:26But having had the chance to walk around it, you can
0:23:26 > 0:23:30see how the traditional side has worked really well and is very cosy.
0:23:30 > 0:23:32And then obviously, moving into the modern side,
0:23:32 > 0:23:35what you'd be able to add on to it.
0:23:35 > 0:23:37I can see the benefits of the modern part, obviously,
0:23:37 > 0:23:38because you have the newer rooms,
0:23:38 > 0:23:41a bit more space in the total unit size,
0:23:41 > 0:23:44but I think it lost what I loved in the first property -
0:23:44 > 0:23:49that real traditional, sort of country, cosy feel.
0:23:49 > 0:23:52Pleasantly surprised at what you can do with one of these.
0:23:52 > 0:23:57The layout is very good. The grounds are ideal, really.
0:23:57 > 0:24:00But I don't think it is the house for us.
0:24:00 > 0:24:03Have I given you both enough time to have a good look around?
0:24:03 > 0:24:07- Yes, yes, you have.- It is not your usual house search here, is it?
0:24:07 > 0:24:09- No.- Absolutely not.
0:24:09 > 0:24:11- Kept you on your toes?- Yes.- Yeah?
0:24:11 > 0:24:14Given us lots to think about, lots to think about.
0:24:14 > 0:24:16Good. Well, that is it as far as the houses go for today,
0:24:16 > 0:24:18because, as you can see, it is getting dark,
0:24:18 > 0:24:21but I do have one final thing to show you.
0:24:21 > 0:24:23- Let's jump in the car.- OK.- Right.
0:24:30 > 0:24:33As the night draws in, we've travelled back to Cisternino,
0:24:33 > 0:24:38where Julie and Malcolm's taste of the real Puglia can really begin...
0:24:38 > 0:24:39Follow me.
0:24:39 > 0:24:42..as we have arranged for them to stay in a self-catering apartment
0:24:42 > 0:24:44in the centre of the small town.
0:24:50 > 0:24:53Step inside.
0:24:54 > 0:24:57Because this is where you are going to be staying for the next
0:24:57 > 0:25:01- few nights.- Wonderful.- Fantastic.
0:25:01 > 0:25:03So, we have brought you to the town of Cisternino, which is
0:25:03 > 0:25:07- a beautiful old medieval town. - Excellent.- Excellent.
0:25:07 > 0:25:10You don't want to stay in a generic hotel when you could be
0:25:10 > 0:25:14in the heart of the town, experiencing all things Italian.
0:25:14 > 0:25:17- So there is the key.- Thank you. - Make yourselves at home.
0:25:17 > 0:25:21Your cases are already in. There is food in the fridge.
0:25:21 > 0:25:24Feel free to explore tonight, have a wander.
0:25:24 > 0:25:27Do get some rest because tomorrow I have got some more properties
0:25:27 > 0:25:31- to show you.- Brilliant.- Yeah? Enjoy.- Lovely.- Thank you.- See you.
0:25:37 > 0:25:39Amazing, huh?
0:25:39 > 0:25:40- Yeah.- Get the kettle on.
0:25:42 > 0:25:46That's it. I hope they get a good night's sleep.
0:25:53 > 0:25:56It is the dawn of a new day for our property search
0:25:56 > 0:26:00in the beautiful Italian region of Puglia, where, unlike the long,
0:26:00 > 0:26:02sunny days of the summer, we are limited to just
0:26:02 > 0:26:06nine hours of daylight, and today we have got a lot to get through.
0:26:08 > 0:26:11Well, a rather pleasant surprise start of our house search
0:26:11 > 0:26:14here in Puglia with Malcolm and Julie.
0:26:14 > 0:26:17The first property we showed them was a trulli house,
0:26:17 > 0:26:20or if they are on their own, it is called a trullo.
0:26:20 > 0:26:25Now, this one was rustic, quite remote and, guess what,
0:26:25 > 0:26:26they both seemed to love it.
0:26:26 > 0:26:29I thought it might be a step too far to start off with,
0:26:29 > 0:26:31but, no, they embraced it.
0:26:31 > 0:26:35So let's see how we get on today with the next property.
0:26:36 > 0:26:40Ah! Well, hello. This is where you are hiding.
0:26:40 > 0:26:43- Did you have a good night last night?- Yes.- Lovely, thank you.
0:26:43 > 0:26:45How was the accommodation?
0:26:45 > 0:26:47- Perfect.- Great.- Beautiful.
0:26:47 > 0:26:50You managed to put houses out of your mind for a little bit, I hope.
0:26:50 > 0:26:53- Just a little bit. - Ready for the next challenge.
0:26:53 > 0:26:56Really? And what about the town? This is a beautiful spot.
0:26:56 > 0:26:57I love the square.
0:26:57 > 0:27:01Yes, we had a little wander around. Beautiful little streets.
0:27:01 > 0:27:03It is a very pretty little place.
0:27:03 > 0:27:07- How is the Italian? Have you tried?- Not.
0:27:07 > 0:27:09- JULIE LAUGHS - Come on, Malcolm!
0:27:09 > 0:27:12- Little bit of the lingo? - No...
0:27:12 > 0:27:14- You've not got it, have you? - No, I haven't got it.
0:27:14 > 0:27:17- You ordered a coffee, so you've got something.- Julie done that.
0:27:17 > 0:27:19THEY LAUGH
0:27:19 > 0:27:21So, if you want to finish your drinks, then off we'll go.
0:27:21 > 0:27:24- All right.- Brilliant.- Come on, then.
0:27:32 > 0:27:35Before we get back to the business of house hunting,
0:27:35 > 0:27:37I want to introduce Julie and Malcolm to a couple
0:27:37 > 0:27:39who've already made the move to this region.
0:27:39 > 0:27:44We've come to the small town of Alberobello, where we are meeting
0:27:44 > 0:27:47expats Sue and Klaus Derigs at the local market.
0:27:47 > 0:27:49Sue and Klaus, great to meet you.
0:27:49 > 0:27:53- Thank you for inviting us here this morning.- Lovely to meet you.
0:27:53 > 0:27:56And I'd love to introduce you to Julie and Malcolm,
0:27:56 > 0:27:59who are hoping to follow in your footsteps, because you have
0:27:59 > 0:28:02made a very successful new life for yourselves out here.
0:28:02 > 0:28:04I mean, you are practically local, aren't you?
0:28:04 > 0:28:05- They're hoping to do the same. - We are, yep.
0:28:05 > 0:28:08I think I might go and have a coffee and leave you guys to it,
0:28:08 > 0:28:09- how does that sound?- Yep.
0:28:09 > 0:28:11- Sounds good.- We'll sort it out, yes.
0:28:11 > 0:28:13Thank you. See you later.
0:28:13 > 0:28:15- OK. Bye. Shall we go over this way? - Yes.
0:28:15 > 0:28:18The lads and ladies are splitting up,
0:28:18 > 0:28:22so no prizes for guessing where Julie and Sue are heading first.
0:28:22 > 0:28:24- The shoes are down this way. - Oh, brilliant.- So we'll go down.
0:28:24 > 0:28:26My favourite department store.
0:28:26 > 0:28:29They are rather nice. Lots of them.
0:28:29 > 0:28:30Do you find generally clothes
0:28:30 > 0:28:34and shoes or just generally things a lot cheaper out here?
0:28:34 > 0:28:37- On the market stalls, they're very cheap.- Yeah.
0:28:37 > 0:28:38Scusi.
0:28:39 > 0:28:41Grazie.
0:28:42 > 0:28:45- See, that is the type of thing I wear.- Oh, you like these type.- Yeah.
0:28:45 > 0:28:49- There are gorgeous. Is that 79? - 79 euros. Cos they are leather,
0:28:49 > 0:28:52they're quite expensive. They are not your ten euro...
0:28:53 > 0:28:55Kilo.
0:28:55 > 0:28:59On the other side of the market, Malcolm and Klaus are picking up
0:28:59 > 0:29:00provisions for lunch.
0:29:00 > 0:29:03Originally from Germany, Klaus spent 30 years
0:29:03 > 0:29:07working in the UK, which is where he met his wife, Sue.
0:29:07 > 0:29:09- OK?- OK, grazie.
0:29:10 > 0:29:11So, grapes we need.
0:29:11 > 0:29:14The cost of living is generally lower here
0:29:14 > 0:29:17in the south of Italy than the wealthier northern regions.
0:29:17 > 0:29:18And on average,
0:29:18 > 0:29:21groceries in Puglia are about 30% cheaper than the UK.
0:29:21 > 0:29:23- Kilo.- Kilo.
0:29:23 > 0:29:27The weekly markets are great places to find the best bargains,
0:29:27 > 0:29:29particularly fresh fruit and vegetables,
0:29:29 > 0:29:31much of which is grown locally.
0:29:31 > 0:29:33- There you go.- OK.
0:29:33 > 0:29:35Un euro, cinquanta.
0:29:37 > 0:29:40- Was that 1.50?- 1.50 a kilo.
0:29:41 > 0:29:46God, we get the small boxes like this at home for about two or three quid.
0:29:46 > 0:29:48As well as the fantastic market,
0:29:48 > 0:29:50Alberobello also boasts
0:29:50 > 0:29:53the highest concentration of trulli in the world.
0:29:53 > 0:29:56With over 1,000 of the quaint limestone buildings lining
0:29:56 > 0:30:00the streets, the town has been recognised as a World Heritage Site.
0:30:00 > 0:30:03And when Sue and Klaus visited Puglia,
0:30:03 > 0:30:04they decided the trulli life
0:30:04 > 0:30:07was the way forward for their retirement.
0:30:07 > 0:30:11After a few years of challenging renovation work, they finally moved
0:30:11 > 0:30:15into their property eight years ago, where we have all come for lunch.
0:30:15 > 0:30:19How easy is the whole buying process, in your opinion,
0:30:19 > 0:30:20out here in Italy?
0:30:20 > 0:30:23- It was quite simple, really.- I think if you have good support...
0:30:23 > 0:30:26In that sense, I think we've been quite lucky.
0:30:26 > 0:30:30Can I ask, things like water, electricity, gas, I mean,
0:30:30 > 0:30:32are they expensive over here?
0:30:32 > 0:30:35Energy costs in Italy are the highest in Europe.
0:30:35 > 0:30:37I mean, we have central heating system,
0:30:37 > 0:30:39which was the biggest mistake we ever made.
0:30:39 > 0:30:44When we first came here, it was 60 cents a litre for gas.
0:30:44 > 0:30:46And it is now 97 cents.
0:30:46 > 0:30:50In the first year, I spent 4,000 euros
0:30:50 > 0:30:51and I wasn't even warm.
0:30:51 > 0:30:57- Really, 4,000?!- So that's why we reverted to a wood burner.
0:30:57 > 0:31:00And how many months of the winter would you say you rely on that?
0:31:00 > 0:31:04- Definitely...- There is a very honest answer which may surprise you.
0:31:04 > 0:31:09- November...- You have to heat from about late October to March, April.
0:31:09 > 0:31:11- Right, OK. - Just like in the UK.- OK.
0:31:11 > 0:31:15The idea that there is permanent sunshine and warmth, just forget it.
0:31:15 > 0:31:17What about water over here?
0:31:17 > 0:31:21Because some properties aren't on mains water, it has to be delivered.
0:31:21 > 0:31:25You learn to appreciate water. You don't waste it.
0:31:25 > 0:31:27If you have a shower...
0:31:27 > 0:31:30I turn the water off in-between... Sort of wetting my hair,
0:31:30 > 0:31:34turn the water off, shampoo, turn it back on again...
0:31:34 > 0:31:37You have done a wonderful job here, it is a beautiful home.
0:31:37 > 0:31:40I mean, trulli, specifically trullos,
0:31:40 > 0:31:42we have seen a few now,
0:31:42 > 0:31:45and I just wonder what the realities are of actually living in one.
0:31:45 > 0:31:49Most trullos have got quite small kitchens.
0:31:49 > 0:31:54And also they can be quite dark because you've got the small windows,
0:31:54 > 0:31:59whereas we were lucky. Because the back of the house was all
0:31:59 > 0:32:03extended, we could put in great big windows, which in the trullo,
0:32:03 > 0:32:07you can't normally, because sometimes it is just the one door in and out.
0:32:07 > 0:32:09Malcolm, have you been surprised
0:32:09 > 0:32:10how many trullis there are in this region?
0:32:10 > 0:32:13I didn't... I just thought there'd be a couple hundred.
0:32:13 > 0:32:15I thought it was quite rare.
0:32:15 > 0:32:17I didn't realise there'd be thousands of them.
0:32:17 > 0:32:20They're all right. Julie loves them better than I do.
0:32:20 > 0:32:24Well, listen, it has been so insightful. Thank you both.
0:32:24 > 0:32:26And hopefully, we've brought Malcolm
0:32:26 > 0:32:31and Julie a big step closer to making that big decision.
0:32:31 > 0:32:34- Thank you very much.- Thank you. - I hope we haven't discouraged you.
0:32:34 > 0:32:37- No, you didn't. There's plenty to think about.- Yes.
0:32:37 > 0:32:39- Thank you.- Thank you.
0:32:39 > 0:32:43If Julie and Malcolm do take the plunge and move to Puglia,
0:32:43 > 0:32:46there are a few things they need to bear in mind.
0:32:46 > 0:32:49On average, it is wise to factor in an extra 8% to 10%
0:32:49 > 0:32:53of the overall purchase price to buy a property in Italy,
0:32:53 > 0:32:54which is to cover taxes and fees.
0:32:54 > 0:32:57It is also best to confirm the percentage that your agent
0:32:57 > 0:33:00charges before you begin your property search.
0:33:00 > 0:33:03And if you want to buy a trullo, remember that
0:33:03 > 0:33:05they are protected buildings,
0:33:05 > 0:33:07much like listed properties back home,
0:33:07 > 0:33:10and so have strict regulations when it comes to renovations.
0:33:10 > 0:33:14Hopefully, Sue and Klaus's vital information will better
0:33:14 > 0:33:18prepare Julie and Malcolm about the practicalities of life in Puglia.
0:33:18 > 0:33:22But we have still got houses to see, so it is back to the property hunt.
0:33:29 > 0:33:32The house we have lined up today is towards the north of the region,
0:33:32 > 0:33:35around four miles from Castellana Grotte,
0:33:35 > 0:33:38which is about a 20 minutes' drive to the sea.
0:33:40 > 0:33:42Castellana Grotte is a small
0:33:42 > 0:33:46but well-serviced town with all the essential shops and amenities.
0:33:46 > 0:33:50The next property is set in a centuries-old olive grove
0:33:50 > 0:33:52that covers around three acres.
0:33:52 > 0:33:56And when it comes to the design, we're sticking to the regional style
0:33:56 > 0:33:58but this time with a twist.
0:33:58 > 0:34:00So you may have gathered, there is a little bit of a theme
0:34:00 > 0:34:03going on with your house hunt here in Puglia, isn't there?
0:34:03 > 0:34:05Another lovely trulli.
0:34:05 > 0:34:07Now, this one is a little bit different
0:34:07 > 0:34:12because it is not one but there's two properties.
0:34:12 > 0:34:13Oh, wow.
0:34:13 > 0:34:16There are two properties, but I don't want to confuse you too much.
0:34:16 > 0:34:18So this is the one that we're looking at, but we
0:34:18 > 0:34:22will cast our eye on the other one, because that is for sale as well.
0:34:22 > 0:34:24- Really?- Yes.
0:34:24 > 0:34:26- Interesting.- Stunning.
0:34:26 > 0:34:30- Yeah.- Just take a look around us, just in this garden alone.
0:34:30 > 0:34:33You're not going to have blood in your veins, you're going
0:34:33 > 0:34:35to have olive oil if you buy this property.
0:34:35 > 0:34:37- Shall we start the tour?- Yes.- Yeah.
0:34:37 > 0:34:42This delightful trulli was renovated around seven years ago using
0:34:42 > 0:34:45traditional methods to retain its rustic and authentic look.
0:34:45 > 0:34:49Nestled against a striking olive green backdrop,
0:34:49 > 0:34:52the original limestone walls are fitted with handmade windows,
0:34:52 > 0:34:55shutters and inviting front door.
0:34:55 > 0:34:58Welcome to your trullo house.
0:34:58 > 0:35:02- This is very twee, isn't it? Very cute.- It is, isn't it? It is.
0:35:02 > 0:35:04We all did the same thing as we stepped through the door -
0:35:04 > 0:35:06we looked up.
0:35:06 > 0:35:09- Yeah.- Because you just do, don't you?
0:35:09 > 0:35:10You can't help it, actually.
0:35:10 > 0:35:13If you had a cat, you couldn't swing it, could you?
0:35:13 > 0:35:15JULIE LAUGHS
0:35:15 > 0:35:19- Intimate?- Yes, very.- Cosy.- Cosy...
0:35:19 > 0:35:23- Thinking of all of those words apart from small.- Small, yeah.
0:35:25 > 0:35:28- However, it is not lacking in character and style...- No.
0:35:28 > 0:35:30..as you will see as we continue, she says hopefully.
0:35:30 > 0:35:32Yeah.
0:35:35 > 0:35:40- Because this, actually, is rather large in comparison.- Oh, wow.
0:35:40 > 0:35:43- Actually, it is.- This is lovely. This is amazing.- Yeah.
0:35:43 > 0:35:46Actually, it is a nice kitchen. Yeah, very nice.
0:35:46 > 0:35:50- I like this a lot.- You've got a bathroom behind you.- Oh, yeah.
0:35:50 > 0:35:54- All right.- A beautiful walk-in shower, to be fair.
0:35:54 > 0:35:57All tiled, all done. You've got a bedroom here.
0:35:57 > 0:35:58That could be your hobby room.
0:35:58 > 0:36:01That could be a very small sitting room, if you wanted to.
0:36:01 > 0:36:05- Because this property has three bedrooms.- Oh, wow.
0:36:05 > 0:36:07So let's look at the master.
0:36:11 > 0:36:16- Oh, gosh, this is a good size.- Oh, yeah. I like the sloping ceilings.
0:36:16 > 0:36:17- Yeah.- Yeah. That's different.
0:36:17 > 0:36:20Actually, we are quite surprised that it is so big.
0:36:20 > 0:36:21Yeah, I like it.
0:36:21 > 0:36:25The other one is a good size as well, just across the corridor.
0:36:25 > 0:36:28- You also have the master en-suite. - Excellent.
0:36:28 > 0:36:30Again, beautifully tiled throughout.
0:36:30 > 0:36:32It wouldn't need anything doing to it.
0:36:32 > 0:36:35So although this house was converted in 2007,
0:36:35 > 0:36:37it does look like it is a brand-new conversion.
0:36:37 > 0:36:39- It does, yeah. - I must admit, it does.
0:36:39 > 0:36:42- So, do you love it? - I do. I am warming.
0:36:42 > 0:36:46As we are moving in, I am warming to it.
0:36:46 > 0:36:49The initial bit, when you walk into the front door, you think,
0:36:49 > 0:36:51"Oh, blimey, this is a bit bijou."
0:36:51 > 0:36:53- We are trying to avoid the SMALL word.- Yeah.
0:36:53 > 0:36:57And then you think the rest of the house is going to be like that,
0:36:57 > 0:36:59- you know.- And it's not.- No.
0:36:59 > 0:37:03This house may be full surprises, but it is not alone.
0:37:03 > 0:37:06Outside, the property comes with a huge swimming pool
0:37:06 > 0:37:09and its share of the land that equates to about an acre.
0:37:09 > 0:37:12The other two acres belong to its neighbour at the far
0:37:12 > 0:37:16end of the drive, which is equally eye-catching and enchanting.
0:37:16 > 0:37:19This is lovely, absolutely beautiful.
0:37:19 > 0:37:20Look at this.
0:37:21 > 0:37:22Oh, wow.
0:37:25 > 0:37:27So...
0:37:27 > 0:37:30- Your second trullo.- I think this is nicer, actually.
0:37:30 > 0:37:34- Yeah, I love this entrance.- Yeah. - This, a little bit more generous.
0:37:34 > 0:37:36- Yeah.- Which isn't a bad thing.- No.
0:37:36 > 0:37:40But basically, the layout for the rest of the property is the same.
0:37:40 > 0:37:43The only difference is, you have actually got archways through here.
0:37:43 > 0:37:45- It has got, I would say, more character.- I like that.- Yeah, I do.
0:37:45 > 0:37:47Immediate reaction, more character.
0:37:47 > 0:37:52Like its neighbour, this striking trulli also has three bedrooms -
0:37:52 > 0:37:54a small single and a spacious twin room,
0:37:54 > 0:37:58which are both served by a good-sized tiled shower room,
0:37:58 > 0:37:59then there is another bright
0:37:59 > 0:38:02and sunny double that comes complete with an en-suite.
0:38:02 > 0:38:05- I prefer this one, to be honest. - Do you?- Because of the size. Yeah.
0:38:05 > 0:38:07Oh, interesting.
0:38:07 > 0:38:09I'm not going to give too much away
0:38:09 > 0:38:11cos we're going to head back outside.
0:38:11 > 0:38:13Malcolm, if you wouldn't mind...
0:38:15 > 0:38:17As we are out of season here in Puglia,
0:38:17 > 0:38:19the night is creeping up on us again,
0:38:19 > 0:38:23but we still need to talk money back at the first trulli conversion,
0:38:23 > 0:38:26which is the one we had earmarked for our couple.
0:38:26 > 0:38:29So let's see if we can guess the price for this property.
0:38:29 > 0:38:34Now, this one comes with the pool and about an acre of land.
0:38:34 > 0:38:37I think it is probably on the money, at 280.
0:38:37 > 0:38:40I thought... About 290, 300, I was thinking.
0:38:40 > 0:38:42This is where I get really excited.
0:38:43 > 0:38:46Because it is way under.
0:38:46 > 0:38:47- Oh, wow.- Yeah.
0:38:47 > 0:38:51Asking price - £200,000.
0:38:51 > 0:38:56- Really?- This property, this part of the land and the pool.
0:38:56 > 0:39:01- Oh, my God!- Now, I'm going to add one more thing to the mix.
0:39:01 > 0:39:04I know you didn't come out here wanting to have a rental
0:39:04 > 0:39:09property, however if you buy both of them together,
0:39:09 > 0:39:13you get in total three acres of land, you get a revenue of roughly
0:39:13 > 0:39:18£20,000 a year on that property, and you can buy them both
0:39:18 > 0:39:21for £320,000.
0:39:21 > 0:39:22Oh, my God.
0:39:23 > 0:39:25Have another look around.
0:39:25 > 0:39:27- Be careful, because it is now rather dark.- OK.
0:39:27 > 0:39:31- And then we'll leave when you're ready.- Brilliant.- Go on. Thank you.
0:39:31 > 0:39:33OK.
0:39:34 > 0:39:36- No tripping up now.- No, no, try not.
0:39:40 > 0:39:43Well, this Puglian proposition has certainly given
0:39:43 > 0:39:45Julie and Malcolm food for thought.
0:39:45 > 0:39:48Here they have the choice of one property £80,000
0:39:48 > 0:39:52under their budget or two for £40,000 over.
0:39:52 > 0:39:55But they could make that back in a few years
0:39:55 > 0:39:58and then have a nice little annual earner on their hands.
0:39:58 > 0:40:01Both trulli come with wonderful original features
0:40:01 > 0:40:03and three bedrooms each,
0:40:03 > 0:40:05one which could become Malcolm's art room.
0:40:05 > 0:40:08And whichever way they buy, they'd have beautiful grounds
0:40:08 > 0:40:11ideal for gardening as well as their dogs,
0:40:11 > 0:40:13plus a fantastic pool too.
0:40:13 > 0:40:16That does surprise me that there's two on offer here,
0:40:16 > 0:40:18and the swimming pool, which is great.
0:40:18 > 0:40:21And for the potential of a business of B&B,
0:40:21 > 0:40:24which is something we never actually thought about.
0:40:24 > 0:40:26There are cute. They are cute.
0:40:26 > 0:40:30I feel they are a bit too small to actually live in. So...
0:40:30 > 0:40:32That is my personal opinion, anyway.
0:40:32 > 0:40:36Seeing the trullis now has become quite infectious.
0:40:36 > 0:40:38I'm actually beginning to sort of fall in love with them
0:40:38 > 0:40:40in a way that I didn't expect to.
0:40:40 > 0:40:42They've got something quite magical about them.
0:40:42 > 0:40:46But I hope tomorrow we will see something completely different.
0:40:46 > 0:40:48Please!
0:40:48 > 0:40:50Now, I am trulli'd out.
0:40:50 > 0:40:51I am.
0:40:53 > 0:40:56- How are we?- Well.- Very impressed. - Yeah?- Wonderful.
0:40:56 > 0:41:00Well, the sun has definitely set. It is pitch-black.
0:41:00 > 0:41:02- You can tell we are in the country, can't you?- Yes.
0:41:02 > 0:41:06- Have you seen enough, though?- Yes. - In all seriousness.- We have.- Has he?
0:41:06 > 0:41:09- Very, very.- Oh, you two have so much to think and talk about, don't you?
0:41:09 > 0:41:11I know. I don't even know where to start.
0:41:11 > 0:41:14- I'm going to take you home now, come on.- OK.
0:41:20 > 0:41:23It is the final day of house hunting in Italy, where we are helping
0:41:23 > 0:41:25Kent-based couple Malcolm
0:41:25 > 0:41:28and Julie find their own little patch of Puglia
0:41:28 > 0:41:31on a £280,000 budget.
0:41:31 > 0:41:33They are staying in an apartment within the historic
0:41:33 > 0:41:35walls of Cisternino,
0:41:35 > 0:41:38where they are starting their day with breakfast on the balcony
0:41:38 > 0:41:40whilst practising their language skills.
0:41:40 > 0:41:43How do you say... "How are you?"
0:41:43 > 0:41:46- Come sar?- Come sta?- Come sta?
0:41:46 > 0:41:48And...
0:41:48 > 0:41:49"Very well."
0:41:49 > 0:41:51Sto bene.
0:41:51 > 0:41:53Oh, that's right, yeah. Yeah.
0:41:53 > 0:41:56- It's quiet, isn't it?- Very quiet. I was surprised at that.
0:41:56 > 0:42:00- The locals are nice, though. - Lots of help. Thank goodness.
0:42:00 > 0:42:03I don't think I'd have been able to find the wine shop.
0:42:04 > 0:42:08- Does this compare to your expectations, like, in Tuscany?- No.
0:42:08 > 0:42:10- No?- No.
0:42:10 > 0:42:12- It's very different.- Mm-hm.
0:42:12 > 0:42:16Seems like Malcolm is developing reservations about Puglia.
0:42:16 > 0:42:19Perhaps some retail therapy will help.
0:42:20 > 0:42:22Well, this is interesting.
0:42:22 > 0:42:25- Mind if I went and had a look? - No, go and look.
0:42:26 > 0:42:28Bongiorno.
0:42:28 > 0:42:29Bongiorno.
0:42:29 > 0:42:33- See that bag?- Oh, right. Ask to have a look at it.- Signora.
0:42:33 > 0:42:35E possibile vedere?
0:42:35 > 0:42:36Grazie mille.
0:42:42 > 0:42:44Oh, grazie.
0:42:44 > 0:42:48- Yeah, I like that. This is ostrich, isn't it?- Hmm, yeah.- Yeah, get it.
0:42:48 > 0:42:50Grazie, signora.
0:42:55 > 0:42:59So we're drawing to the end of our property search here in Puglia,
0:42:59 > 0:43:02but I am getting the impression that Malcolm isn't TRULLI
0:43:02 > 0:43:05sold on moving to Italy.
0:43:05 > 0:43:06But we are not giving up yet
0:43:06 > 0:43:10because we still have the mystery house up our sleeve,
0:43:10 > 0:43:14and I'm hoping that this property is the one that convinces them both.
0:43:16 > 0:43:20The search for our final home takes us closest to the water's edge,
0:43:20 > 0:43:23around five miles from the coastal town of Monopoli.
0:43:23 > 0:43:27The historic centre of Monopoli has the feel of a cosmopolitan city
0:43:27 > 0:43:31and is a lively and energetic place throughout the year.
0:43:31 > 0:43:34In amongst its fascinating architecture is a baroque
0:43:34 > 0:43:38cathedral as well as all the shops, bars and restaurants you could want.
0:43:38 > 0:43:42But hidden away high in the hills and looking out towards the sea
0:43:42 > 0:43:46over acres of olive trees is the property we've saved until last.
0:43:46 > 0:43:51So, our final offering, of course, it is the mystery house.
0:43:51 > 0:43:52Any ideas why?
0:43:52 > 0:43:56- Well, it is a mystery because it is not a trulli.- Ta-da!
0:43:56 > 0:44:01- Malcolm, you got it in one. It is actually an old farmhouse.- Oh, wow.
0:44:01 > 0:44:04- Wow.- It dates back to around 1817.
0:44:04 > 0:44:08But you will be pleased to know it has been renovated in the '90s.
0:44:08 > 0:44:12- It looks all right, doesn't it?- Yeah, excellent.- Shall we?- Yes, please.
0:44:12 > 0:44:15- For the final time?- Yes.- Come on.
0:44:15 > 0:44:19This converted farmhouse may look very different to our first
0:44:19 > 0:44:23three trulli properties, but at 200 years old, it is
0:44:23 > 0:44:25still full of features and charm.
0:44:25 > 0:44:28And we're starting off our tour in the kitchen.
0:44:28 > 0:44:31- Bijou.- Yes.
0:44:31 > 0:44:34- Yeah, it is.- Not huge. Probably a standard size.
0:44:34 > 0:44:37- For an Italian kitchen, yeah.- I just want to point this out for you.
0:44:37 > 0:44:40- You have got like a larder here. - Oh, I see.
0:44:40 > 0:44:43- But also steps leading up to the roof terrace.- Oh, right.
0:44:43 > 0:44:46- A secret entrance. - Oh, intriguing.- Yeah.
0:44:46 > 0:44:51So you can prepare the food and then straight upstairs to enjoy
0:44:51 > 0:44:54the sunset with a little cheeky glass of something in the evenings.
0:44:54 > 0:44:56No, we don't do things like that(!)
0:44:56 > 0:44:59That has made us all smile, so we'll continue.
0:45:02 > 0:45:04Here is your sitting room.
0:45:05 > 0:45:08Now that's more like it. I like this.
0:45:08 > 0:45:11- Do you?- Mm-hm.- Is this more you, do you think, Malcolm?- I think so.
0:45:11 > 0:45:13- Yeah.- Yeah.
0:45:15 > 0:45:17- Oh, he hasn't done that before. - No, he hasn't.- Gosh, no.
0:45:17 > 0:45:19No, we haven't had a stroking wall moment.
0:45:19 > 0:45:21We haven't had a stroking wall.
0:45:21 > 0:45:24- That's a good sign, Julie.- It is. He has made contact.- Yeah.
0:45:24 > 0:45:27- He is connecting.- No, I love it. I really do.- Excellent.
0:45:27 > 0:45:30It has got a nice feel as soon as you walk in, actually.
0:45:30 > 0:45:33Well, I hope this continues as we go through.
0:45:33 > 0:45:36I'm pleased to say that this spacious home has definitely
0:45:36 > 0:45:38awoken something in Malcolm.
0:45:38 > 0:45:40The stone floor is a feature throughout the house,
0:45:40 > 0:45:42where everything is on ground level.
0:45:42 > 0:45:45The accommodation also includes a study area,
0:45:45 > 0:45:49a large, fully-tiled family bathroom and three bedrooms,
0:45:49 > 0:45:52including a bright twin, a good-sized double
0:45:52 > 0:45:56and the one that could be for Julie and Malcolm.
0:45:56 > 0:46:01- This is the master. Complete with dressing room next door.- Oh, wow.
0:46:01 > 0:46:05- And en-suite.- Oh, fantastic.
0:46:05 > 0:46:08- So, Julie's all right. What about you, Malcolm?- I like this.
0:46:08 > 0:46:11And then in the winter, you have got a little fireplace.
0:46:11 > 0:46:12- It actually works?- Yes.
0:46:12 > 0:46:16- This is amazing. A complete shock. - Excellent.- Exciting.
0:46:16 > 0:46:17You've done well.
0:46:19 > 0:46:22- Shall we head outside?- OK.
0:46:22 > 0:46:25There is around half an acre of grounds that come with our mystery
0:46:25 > 0:46:29house, and the best way to see them in all their glory is from above.
0:46:29 > 0:46:33So we have come up to the roof terrace with some serious views.
0:46:33 > 0:46:38So we have to finish the tour up here, don't we?
0:46:39 > 0:46:42Now, look at this as a roof terrace.
0:46:42 > 0:46:44And just take a look.
0:46:44 > 0:46:48- Julie, Malcolm, over there.- The sea. - Oh, my goodness!- Look at that.
0:46:48 > 0:46:53- That is amazing.- Look at that. - That is beautiful. Beautiful.
0:46:53 > 0:46:55You have got your own olive grove.
0:46:55 > 0:47:01And if that wasn't enough, a large pool, plus, separate from this
0:47:01 > 0:47:04building, you can just see the roof, is a storage room.
0:47:04 > 0:47:09It's rather large. Malcolm, I'm thinking art workshop?
0:47:09 > 0:47:11Workshop for art...
0:47:11 > 0:47:13So, I wonder what is going through your mind,
0:47:13 > 0:47:14because I have got to ask you,
0:47:14 > 0:47:16what is the asking price on this property?
0:47:16 > 0:47:18- It has got to be... - I think it is 350.
0:47:20 > 0:47:22- At least 350.- I am with you on that. - Yeah.
0:47:22 > 0:47:25Well, you are out by £4,000.
0:47:25 > 0:47:30- The asking price is £346,000.- Right.
0:47:31 > 0:47:35- I thought it would be.- I thought it would be, yeah. I did.- However...
0:47:35 > 0:47:38We couldn't do that to you, could we?
0:47:38 > 0:47:42We have spoken to the owners and they are aware of your top budget.
0:47:42 > 0:47:44They will accept...
0:47:44 > 0:47:46£278,000.
0:47:46 > 0:47:50- Oh, my God!- Really?- A smidge under the top of your budget.
0:47:50 > 0:47:52JULIE LAUGHS
0:47:52 > 0:47:56- Don't get too excited.- Why not?
0:47:56 > 0:47:59- So have another look.- We will, yeah. - Wander around.- Another talk.
0:47:59 > 0:48:04- Have a talk. Be my guest. And I will see you a bit later.- OK. Thanks.
0:48:07 > 0:48:11This former farmhouse may be on the market at £66,000 over Julie
0:48:11 > 0:48:14and Malcolm's budget, but the owner is willing to accept
0:48:14 > 0:48:17£2,000 under it.
0:48:17 > 0:48:20The house has three bedrooms as well as an outhouse
0:48:20 > 0:48:22that could be a studio for Malcolm.
0:48:22 > 0:48:25There's also a half-acre garden that features a swimming pool,
0:48:25 > 0:48:28and not forgetting an enormous roof terrace with panoramic
0:48:28 > 0:48:30views to the coast.
0:48:30 > 0:48:33Although we had sort of fallen in love with the trullis,
0:48:33 > 0:48:36or I had fallen in love with the trullis, this really
0:48:36 > 0:48:38just had the wow factor.
0:48:38 > 0:48:43The land, the house, the whole layout. Just amazing, really.
0:48:43 > 0:48:45Bit by bit, I felt myself growing into it.
0:48:45 > 0:48:48Every room I felt I could live in.
0:48:48 > 0:48:50My head is now spinning.
0:48:50 > 0:48:52I wasn't expecting anything like this.
0:48:52 > 0:48:55Well, you know, from what we have seen,
0:48:55 > 0:48:58I was expecting another trulli. HE SNIGGERS
0:49:00 > 0:49:03Now, am looking forward to seeing your faces.
0:49:03 > 0:49:05Cos hopefully I am going to try to read you.
0:49:05 > 0:49:08- A successful second viewing on your own this time?- Yes.
0:49:08 > 0:49:13- It's beautiful.- Yes.- Cos that's it. - I know.- The final house.
0:49:13 > 0:49:16So let's go somewhere. You two need a bit of time together,
0:49:16 > 0:49:18collect your thoughts,
0:49:18 > 0:49:21and then we're going to find out what your next move is going to be.
0:49:21 > 0:49:24- Is it going to be out here? That is the question.- That is the question.
0:49:24 > 0:49:27- Come on, we're going to hit the road.- Lovely.
0:49:37 > 0:49:40In Cilento, to the south of Puglia, sits the city of Lecce,
0:49:40 > 0:49:44famed for its stunning baroque limestone architecture.
0:49:44 > 0:49:50I have come to meet Cinzia Rascazzo here at the Palazzo dei Celestini.
0:49:50 > 0:49:52Cinzia is a certified olive oil taster
0:49:52 > 0:49:56and has kindly agreed to give me a whistle-stop tour to demonstrate
0:49:56 > 0:50:00why olives are the centuries-old jewel in Puglia's crown.
0:50:00 > 0:50:03When you turn around and admire these buildings, the one
0:50:03 > 0:50:07thing it speaks to me of is wealth, serious wealth over the centuries.
0:50:07 > 0:50:09- Is that right?- Yes.
0:50:09 > 0:50:10You are totally right.
0:50:10 > 0:50:12During the 1600s, the 1700s,
0:50:12 > 0:50:17until 1800s, here it was a super wealthy area.
0:50:17 > 0:50:19But where did it come from?
0:50:19 > 0:50:24- All this money was coming from olive oil.- Olive oil?- Yes.
0:50:24 > 0:50:27But at that time, olive oil was not used for food,
0:50:27 > 0:50:30so we were making lamp olive oil.
0:50:30 > 0:50:32- So it was fuel.- Yes.
0:50:32 > 0:50:37Before petroleum was discovered, olive oil was the way
0:50:37 > 0:50:40we were lighting the streets all over Europe.
0:50:40 > 0:50:41So both the Church people
0:50:41 > 0:50:46and the noble people were making all this money thanks to the olive oil.
0:50:46 > 0:50:48From the end of the 16th century,
0:50:48 > 0:50:53Puglian olive oil was made in limestone caves using stone presses.
0:50:53 > 0:50:57Many have been preserved, including this one in Vernole.
0:50:57 > 0:51:01These old stone steps are leading us around four metres below ground,
0:51:01 > 0:51:03where the ancient presses are still intact.
0:51:04 > 0:51:08To produce olive for fuel, un-ripened olives were used,
0:51:08 > 0:51:10which were left to ferment before they were pressed,
0:51:10 > 0:51:14a process that took around six months and gave the oil
0:51:14 > 0:51:17a high acidity level, which was perfect for burning.
0:51:17 > 0:51:21So how many people would be working here underground at one time?
0:51:21 > 0:51:25So there were about eight to nine workers and two donkeys.
0:51:25 > 0:51:29But there were people here living for six months.
0:51:29 > 0:51:33They were not allowed to leave because olives were like gold,
0:51:33 > 0:51:35so the owner of this place was afraid
0:51:35 > 0:51:37that they would steal the olives.
0:51:37 > 0:51:40It must have had a few huge effect on the region, on its wealth,
0:51:40 > 0:51:42when suddenly, in the, what, 18th,
0:51:42 > 0:51:4619th century a different fuel source is discovered.
0:51:46 > 0:51:49Now olive oil is used as a food condiment.
0:51:49 > 0:51:52We are still a big producer of olive oil.
0:51:52 > 0:51:56Puglia produces a hefty 40% of Italy's olive oil,
0:51:56 > 0:52:00around 200,000 tonnes a year.
0:52:00 > 0:52:03We have come to an olive grove in the Vernole countryside to see
0:52:03 > 0:52:06where the region's liquid gold stems from.
0:52:06 > 0:52:09Now, this is a remarkable olive tree.
0:52:09 > 0:52:13- I don't think I've ever seen one quite so wide.- Yes.
0:52:13 > 0:52:18This is 2,075 years old.
0:52:18 > 0:52:21- And it is still producing olives? - It is.
0:52:21 > 0:52:23It is still producing olives.
0:52:23 > 0:52:26Why is the oil here so special?
0:52:26 > 0:52:30First, look at how much space there is between trees,
0:52:30 > 0:52:35so the roots, they grow horizontally and they can get enough nutrients.
0:52:35 > 0:52:38Then just look at the age of our trees.
0:52:38 > 0:52:43So they have had centuries to get adjusted to our climate.
0:52:43 > 0:52:45Aren't olive trees indigenous to Italy?
0:52:45 > 0:52:48Because you do see them everywhere.
0:52:48 > 0:52:52Actually, olive tree was brought here by the Greeks.
0:52:52 > 0:52:55When the Greeks arrived, more than 2,000 years ago, they brought
0:52:55 > 0:52:59the olive tree and we still have some of the trees they brought.
0:52:59 > 0:53:02The same trees may have been around for millennia,
0:53:02 > 0:53:05but the process of extracting the olive oil from them has
0:53:05 > 0:53:07changed dramatically over the years.
0:53:07 > 0:53:11Today, of course, the olives are pressed by machinery.
0:53:11 > 0:53:13And Cinzia has brought me to a factory
0:53:13 > 0:53:16so I can experience this local delicacy myself.
0:53:17 > 0:53:19We are having it with frizelle,
0:53:19 > 0:53:21a special kind of bread that the underground workers
0:53:21 > 0:53:25would have eaten with their olive oil all those years ago.
0:53:25 > 0:53:28So, the difference between this bread and regular bread
0:53:28 > 0:53:32is that this has been baked twice, so this is very dry
0:53:32 > 0:53:34and it lasts for a year.
0:53:34 > 0:53:37- But how does it taste?- Fantastic. Let's prepare it first.- OK.
0:53:37 > 0:53:41The bread is dipped in water and topped with tomatoes
0:53:41 > 0:53:43and wild oregano.
0:53:43 > 0:53:46And then the secret - extra virgin olive oil.
0:53:47 > 0:53:50So this is very peppery.
0:53:50 > 0:53:52Very intense.
0:53:54 > 0:53:56Here we go.
0:54:01 > 0:54:04That is good. And can I just say?
0:54:04 > 0:54:06I know I shouldn't speak with my mouth full, but you'd
0:54:06 > 0:54:09never think that bread was a year old with that olive oil on it.
0:54:09 > 0:54:11Buonissimo, Nicki.
0:54:11 > 0:54:14- Buonissimo. - CINZIA GIGGLES
0:54:14 > 0:54:17- Thank you so much. - You're very welcome.
0:54:17 > 0:54:21I've just sampled a real taste of Puglia.
0:54:21 > 0:54:24And it is incredible that what was once considered fuel is now
0:54:24 > 0:54:27a staple in kitchens throughout the world.
0:54:32 > 0:54:35Back in Cisternino, whilst our buyers Malcolm
0:54:35 > 0:54:36and Julie are getting ready to leave,
0:54:36 > 0:54:40they are also reflecting on their very first experience in Puglia.
0:54:40 > 0:54:45- We need to check all the cupboards. Just get your stuff out.- Oh, right.
0:54:45 > 0:54:46Hang on.
0:54:46 > 0:54:51I just can't believe we are off again now and back home.
0:54:51 > 0:54:54- We have got so much to think about now.- I know.
0:54:54 > 0:54:57I don't know about you, but I am a bit confused.
0:54:57 > 0:55:00When we first came here, I loved those old trullis, but...
0:55:00 > 0:55:02I know you did.
0:55:02 > 0:55:06- I must admit...- To live in, it just wouldn't work. Not for us, anyway.
0:55:06 > 0:55:07It has made me think twice.
0:55:07 > 0:55:10- I think we're about done now, my darling.- OK.
0:55:10 > 0:55:11See if you can get it zipped up.
0:55:12 > 0:55:14OK, pull it round.
0:55:16 > 0:55:19Having shown Malcolm and Julie our properties here in Puglia,
0:55:19 > 0:55:23I'm not sure just how committed they are to living abroad.
0:55:23 > 0:55:28Perhaps I'm wrong, perhaps they will surprise me. Let's ask them.
0:55:28 > 0:55:29Find out.
0:55:35 > 0:55:38So, Julie and Malcolm, at the beginning of the week,
0:55:38 > 0:55:41it was your first time in Puglia, everything was new,
0:55:41 > 0:55:44everything was fresh, everything was very exciting,
0:55:44 > 0:55:49but I wonder how we have got on when it comes to finding you a new home.
0:55:49 > 0:55:52- I still prefer Tuscany.- Do you?- Yep.
0:55:52 > 0:55:56It wasn't what I was expecting. The olive trees.
0:55:56 > 0:55:58I mean, there are millions of them, you know.
0:55:58 > 0:56:03It does take to you, they are lovely, but there is a lot of them.
0:56:03 > 0:56:06- Reputedly, 63 million.- Yeah.
0:56:06 > 0:56:08- That's a lot of trees. - That doesn't surprise me.
0:56:08 > 0:56:09Let me ask you a question,
0:56:09 > 0:56:13was Tuscany a holiday or was it a proper house search?
0:56:13 > 0:56:14It was a holiday.
0:56:14 > 0:56:18I just think this whole sort of venture really has
0:56:18 > 0:56:20opened my eyes up to a lot of things.
0:56:20 > 0:56:22It has made me even question about what we are actually doing,
0:56:22 > 0:56:24is it what we really want?
0:56:24 > 0:56:27- Has the region won you over? - To some degree.
0:56:27 > 0:56:29I'd have to come back and feel it again
0:56:29 > 0:56:31and have a longer time to experience it
0:56:31 > 0:56:35rather than coming out for the typical, you know, 14-day holiday.
0:56:35 > 0:56:38And perhaps come back and actually rent somewhere long-term
0:56:38 > 0:56:40in different areas again
0:56:40 > 0:56:44but actually sort of almost like pretend we're living here
0:56:44 > 0:56:46and try it out for real.
0:56:46 > 0:56:50And bring the dogs with us so that we can really, really try it out.
0:56:50 > 0:56:52- Yeah.- Before we make that final setting down our roots.
0:56:52 > 0:56:54That's probably what we're frightened of.
0:56:54 > 0:56:55That was our original plan.
0:56:55 > 0:56:59- That was.- That was the one thing I was going to say, cos I don't
0:56:59 > 0:57:04think in your head you've decided 100% that you want to live abroad.
0:57:04 > 0:57:07And once you get that, then hopefully,
0:57:07 > 0:57:10- the rest will fall into place. - We know we want to move.
0:57:10 > 0:57:12We know who want to change.
0:57:12 > 0:57:15I think it is because we haven't done it for so long now.
0:57:15 > 0:57:17I mean, we've lived in our current house now for over 20 years,
0:57:17 > 0:57:18which we adore.
0:57:18 > 0:57:21But there is something in us that is giving us itchy feet.
0:57:21 > 0:57:24And it's how that translates now, I just don't know.
0:57:24 > 0:57:25Well, let us know how you get on.
0:57:25 > 0:57:28I wonder, in 12 months' time, whether you're going to be
0:57:28 > 0:57:30living in the coast, say near Bournemouth,
0:57:30 > 0:57:33or whether you are going to be in Europe.
0:57:33 > 0:57:35Sorry it hasn't quite hit the right notes.
0:57:35 > 0:57:39- Trulli, it...- Ooooh!
0:57:39 > 0:57:42You had to get that in. Trulli obsessed.
0:57:42 > 0:57:45Well I am TRULLI obsessed with the two of you. Thank you very much.
0:57:45 > 0:57:47- Thank you.- And you, Nicki, thank you.
0:57:53 > 0:57:58Well, an interesting end to our time in Puglia, which, sadly,
0:57:58 > 0:58:00as a region, isn't for Malcolm,
0:58:00 > 0:58:04although I still think Julie has fallen in love not only
0:58:04 > 0:58:08with his beautiful countryside but those famous trulli properties.
0:58:08 > 0:58:11However, having said that, when I pushed our couple about their
0:58:11 > 0:58:16commitment living abroad, they are not 100% committed.
0:58:16 > 0:58:20Time will tell whether they remain in the UK, or will another
0:58:20 > 0:58:24Italian region be enough to entice them to escape to the Continent?
0:58:24 > 0:58:27We're just going to have to wait and see.
0:58:27 > 0:58:28Bye for now.