Catalin Varela is the founder of The Celiac in Italy and Celiacs in Europe, the first consultation-based platforms dedicated exclusively to helping people with celiac disease travel safely and confidently across Europe. Based in Florence, Italy, Catalin has spent the past several years building deep expertise in the European gluten free landscape through hands on consulting, industry partnerships, and close collaboration with national celiac organizations.
Diagnosed with celiac disease over a decade ago and holding a degree in Medical Anthropology, Catalin combines personal experience with professional expertise to guide travelers through the complexities of eating and navigating safely while abroad. She works directly with clients from around the world to plan celiac safe trips, offering guidance on dining, accommodations, communication, and navigating unfamiliar food systems.
With the expansion of Celiacs in Europe, Catalin now leads a team of five specialist consultants based in Italy, France, Spain, Greece, and the United Kingdom.
Through her platforms, Catalin has helped thousands of gluten free travellers enjoy authentic European experiences without fear, combining practical strategy with on the ground insight from living and working in Europe. Her work bridges the gap between medical necessity and joyful travel, empowering people to explore confidently while managing a strict gluten free diet.