Born in Sassari and raised between Rome — where she studied psychology — and her native island, Alessandra is a true daughter of Sardinia who eventually returned home for good. As a passionate storyteller and slow-travel advocate, she has dedicated her life to sharing the untamed beauty and rich heritage of her homeland.
With a background in digital strategy and a deep expertise in the food and travel sectors, Alessandra has always been a trailblazer for community connection. In 2012, she founded Instagramers Sardegna, creating immersive “social tours” that brought people together to explore and share the island from unique, authentic perspectives. A year later, she launched Italia in Tavola, a pioneering project dedicated to celebrating Italy’s profound gastronomic heritage.
Food and wine are at the heart of Alessandra’s work, but her passion goes much deeper. Her approach perfectly mirrors our own philosophy here at La Via Gaia: championing small-scale makers, venturing far off the beaten tourist path, and uncovering the hidden stories that only someone who knows the island from the inside out can find. Through her Sardinia Like a Local platform, she designs itineraries rooted in authentic experiences and local producers, proving her beloved territory has so much more to offer than just its spectacular coastline.
Today, based in Cagliari, she continues to promote the vibrant culture of her hometown of Sassari and the island at large. Above all, Alessandra loves to cook, foster genuine human connections, and listen to podcasts. She is deeply drawn to the sea in all its moods — even during wild winter storms — and if she could, she would happily live on a sailboat.
Travel With Alessandra Polo