Italian grandmother puts her best foot forward

"Each new journey brings me fresh experiences and memories," Cammarota says.

To date, she has visited many countries and regions in Asia, Europe, South America and Africa.

"I don't have a particularly favorite destination because every country or city has offered me something valuable," she says.

Cammarota admits she sometimes found herself mired in moments when she wanted to give up everything and go home.

"There have been times when I couldn't find anyone to give me advice, provide information about places to visit, guide me through border crossings, or even help with lodging. In those moments, I felt frustrated and discouraged. Fortunately, those feelings never last long and I always find a way to work through them," she says.

In her time of need, she has often received kindness and hospitality from strangers.

Her concerns about language barriers were addressed through body language, which she says is quite effective.

"There have been many kindhearted friends who have helped me, making my journey more enjoyable and fulfilling," she says. "In unfamiliar countries, I not only learned the basics of the local language but also gained a deep understanding of cultural diversity."

She adds that going through those moments solidifies her determination to see her trip through.

Starting from Kashgar, Cammarota will embark on a 15-month cultural journey across China and explore over 30 cities in 17 provinces and autonomous regions, including Gansu, Shaanxi, Fujian and Guangdong provinces, and Beijing. Her journey will culminate in Beijing to mark the 750th anniversary of Marco Polo's arrival in China.

She began studying The Travels of Marco Polo in 2000 and planned to retrace Marco Polo's route along the Silk Road. Her goal is to experience the profound cultural heritage of Chinese civilization, witness the development and achievements of modern China, and call for global harmony and inclusiveness by bringing into modern view the Silk Road history and spirit to boost dialogue and understanding between the East and the West.