Istrian-Italian Travel was started by Christy Irvin and Richie Swann in 2017. One year earlier, the couple discovered the serious food culture of Istria and wondered why it wasn't on most Americans' radar. Christy, with her background in hospitality and business growth consulting, saw an opportunity to bring guests to the region to learn about olive oil, sample local cheese, wine and pršut, and hunt for truffles in Croatia's version of Tuscany. With Richie's experience working for publications such as Garden & Gun, Southern Living and Gravy (Southern Foodways Alliance), the duo are able to package bespoke itineraries for affluent travelers and food enthusiasts. Luxury Meets Local is a tagline they coined to sum up the experiences they aim to deliver.