Rome — Travelogue

Off the Beaten Track in Rome – Cinecittà Movie Studios

May 8, 2012 By Guest Post Leave a Comment

If you have time in Rome and want to do something a little off the beaten track, why not visit Cinecittà Movie Studios? Sprawled over 99 acres, Cinecittà translated means “Cinema City” and is affectionately known as “Hollywood on the Tiber.” Cinecittà Movie Studios are the largest film studios in Europe and they do feature tours for visitors.

About Cinecittà Movie Studios and Location

Located just 5.6 miles southeast of the historic district in Rome, Cinecittà Movie Studios is conveniently located to hotels and apartments in Rome, the studios can be reached by taking the Metro A line to the Cinecittà station. It is the only movie studio in the world where it is literally a one-stop movie production and includes pre-production, production and post-production all in one place. Today there are over 300 dressing rooms, 21 make-up areas plus administrative offices here. Two large tents and 22 sound stages are here along with an outdoor 7000 square meter tank which allows for filming of ocean scenes.

History

Since 1937 3000 films have been shot in these studios and of these 83 have received Oscar nominations and 48 have been Academy Award winners. These include: Ben Hur, Cleopatra, La Dolce Vita, The English Patient, The Passion, Roman Holiday, The Pink Panther, The Agony and the Ecstasy and others.

Some of the more accomplished producers and directors have made films at Cinecittà Studios and perhaps Federico Fellini can claim title to the most films here. Other famous directors and producers who have filmed here are Martin Scorsese with Gangs of New York and Francis Ford Coppola, who says that "I really feel at home here in Cinecittà." Franco Zeffirelli directed Romeo and Juliet here and Cinecittà Studios has been home to Roberto Rossellini and Mel Gibson among many others.

Cinecittà Today

This busy studio produces both national and international films today. Besides that videos, commercials, and television productions are shot here plus some photo shoots. Cinecittà Studios is a very busy place. Currently in production is another version of Romeo and Juliet featuring Paul Giamatti.

As a way to provide incentives to filmmakers to shoot in Italy, Italian tax credits are available, as they are in other major movie cities such as New York City.

Studio Tours

At Via Tuscolana, 1055, Cinecittà Studios has tours which are open to the public. Its “Cinecittà Shows Off” has recently become a permanent exhibition where you can tour the back lots of movie sets of ancient Rome in an interactive fun tour. You will see costumes used in Fellini’s movies as well as dresses worn by Sophia Loren and Cameron Diaz in Martin Scorsese’s Gangs of New York.

All aspects of moviemaking are explored as you tour rooms which focus on set designs, directing and sound and all the other aspects of film production. Tours are from 9:30 am to 6:30 pm daily except Tuesdays with slightly shortened hours on the weekends. Ticket prices range from 11 Euros to visit the exhibition to 20 Euros for a guided tour of outdoor sets and a look behind the scenes. Reduced prices are available for seniors and children.

Cinecittà Studios is a excellent way to spend the day when staying for extended stays in Rome apartments and hotels and one is looking for something different.

Guest Post By: Margie Miklas

Follow Margie on her blog at margieinitaly.wordpress.com

Filed Under: Featured, Guest Post, Italy, Margie Miklas, Rome

St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican – Climbing the Cupola

March 16, 2012 By Guest Post Leave a Comment

Guest Post By: Margie Miklas

Visiting St Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican was one of the top places I wanted to visit in Rome and it truly is magnificent. I could spend all day inside and in fact have gone back on a number of visits. The other part of that is climbing to the top of the cupola and seeing St Peter’s from inside the dome.

At the entrance to St Peter’s look for a sign saying “cupola” directing you to the far right. This will take you to where you need to go to locate a kiosk near the elevator which goes up to the dome.

For seven euros you can ride the elevator as far as you can, and then you start walking the 320 steps to the dome. Interestingly there still is a fee of six euros if you choose to walk rather than ride the elevator for the first part of this ascent. No thank you, as the 320 steps were more than enough for me to contemplate when I took on this venture a few years ago.

As you get off the elevator you will find yourself on an inner balcony which is actually at the base of the dome. You can spend as much time as you please here and you are able to take photos looking up to the top of the dome, as well as all the way down into St Peter’s.

From here you can either start climbing the spiral staircase to the top or take the steps down to the roof level. On the roof level you will find restrooms, a water fountain, a gift shop and a newly opened coffee bar, which was not here five years ago when I made this climb.

Once you begin climbing the steps you will find that the staircase curves and is quite narrow. Periodically there are small windows which give you a chance to take a peek out and get a glimpse of what your view from the top will be like. It’s also a good opportunity to take a short rest and catch your breath, as this climb is strenuous and will leave you huffing and puffing even if you are in fairly good condition.

Once at the top though it is all so worth it as the views of Piazza San Pietro and all of Rome are nothing short of spectacular. Now this is the photo opportunity you have been anticipating and you can remain at the top to take it all in just as long as you like.

On your way down you will emerge inside St Peter’s and this is one of the benefits of climbing the cupola prior to visiting St Peter’s Basilica, as you do not have to wait in the line again. Good luck!

Guest Post By: Margie Miklas

Follow Margie on her blog at margieinitaly.wordpress.com

Filed Under: Europe, Featured, Guest Post, Italy, Margie Miklas, Rome

Spend A Day Exploring Vatican City

January 19, 2012 By phagemann Leave a Comment

Vatican City in Rome, Italy, also called the “Holy See,” consists of St. Peter’s Basilica, the Vatican Museums and of course the Sistine Chapel.

There are a few different options for getting around Vatican City. You can hop on a tram, bus or taxi. However, the best way to explore is by foot. You’ll learn shortcuts and see narrow streets that you wouldn’t experience on public transportation.

Join Catholics and shutterbugs alike at the Vatican on Wednesday mornings to try to get a glimpse of the Pope. On certain Wednesdays when the Pope is in Vatican City, he holds a Papal Audience.

Visit the Sistine Chapel to see the frescoes on the ceilings that were painted by Michelangelo. The main scenes depict the stories of creation and Noah. Since the Sistine Chapel is always crowded, get there before it opens at 8:45 a.m.

View Michelangelo’s sculpture work at the Pieta in St. Peter’s Basilica. Enter the Basilica via St. Peter’s Square on the east side of Vatican City or through the doorway that leads from the Sistine Chapel to St. Peter’s.

The inter-connected Vatican Museums displays the sprawling art collection of the Roman Catholic Church. Started in the 1500s by Pope Julius II, the Vatican Museums include the Classical Antiquities of Greek and Rome, the Missionary-Ethnological Museum, the Gregorian Egyptian Museum and the Palace. Plan on spending the better part of a day visiting the Vatican Museums.

From June to September, Vatican City is extremely hot. July and August tend to be humid while the rest of the season is dry. Winters are mild and snow is rare. During November and December, the weather is rainy. The best times of the year to visit Vatican City are March, June, September and October, when the weather is mild.

Dress appropriately when visiting Vatican City so that you don’t get shut out of visiting the Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica. Men and women must cover their shoulders and knees at all times, regardless of the weather.

With all that walking and touring, you’re bound to get hungry. One of Vatican City’s best neighborhood pizza shops is Pizzeria Amalfi. Near the Vatican entrance is the laid back restaurant Il Bar Sotto il Mare. Head to Castroni if you have a huge appetite or Del Frate if you’re dying for a glass of wine.

Filed Under: Featured, Italy, Rome

Bella Roma

January 18, 2012 By phagemann Leave a Comment

Imagine a city overflowing with exquisite art, legendary architecture, savory meals and endless possibilities. Think of a city where a overwhelming sense of wanderlust can be satisfied. A spot where sight-seeing, historical enlightenment and delicious wining and dining can all be done without spending an excessive amount of time going from place to place when one stays in one of the many apartments in Rome that are available. Luckily, one isn't limited to mere imagination. Italy's own capital of Rome exceeds these ideal expectations.

When picturing the fantasy-like city, one generally concocts images of Ancient Rome first. Dreams of towering statues, dome ceilings, and innovative sculptures are also more than likely floating around. Other prominent images may include elongated cobblestone pathways, lavish kingdoms (the Regia) protecting Rome's royalty and a surplus of wine.

The Roman Forum is one of the most famous and desirable places to visit in the entire city, attracting millions of visitors from all across the world each year. It features incredible outdoor engineering and possibly most famously, the Temple of Caesar (or as it is fondly referred to by locals, "Ara di Cesare"). Near this spot is supposedly where the notorious ruler, Julius Caesar was assassinated. The Roman Forum requires consistent maintenance to uphold its current image. In spite of several restorations, when approaching the Roman Forum, one is instantly confronted with a powerful emotion of the past. One can clearly picture the eventful occurrences that took place so long ago. One is surrounded by mental visuals of political up-rise, criminal trials, rebellion, glorified violence among gladiators and acts of ultimate bravery.

The Colosseum, slightly east of the Roman Forum, is another top contender for optimal Roman landmarks. Similarly to the Roman Forums, the Colosseum has endured tremendous events and therefore also needs constant restoration and upkeep. Unlike the constant violent events that happened at the Roman Forum, the Colosseum was only occasionally used to host gladiator duels but primarily geared towards theatrical interpretations and entertainment. This is a place noted for spirituality, as several plays where based off of ancient mythological tales.

After a busy day of soaking up knowledge, before returning to ones Rome apartments, one will undoubtedly build up an appetite and seek to end the day at a lovely restaurant. Thankfully, there are numerous eateries near the ancient battlegrounds. Located right in the center of Rome is a highly popular dining establishment showcasing traditional Italian food, La Teverna dei Fori Imperiali. Here one can eat without feeling completely cleansed of Ancient Rome.

Filed Under: Featured, Italy, Rome

Trevi Fountain – Rome’s Most Famous Fountain

January 8, 2012 By Guest Post Leave a Comment

Guest Post By: Margie Miklas

No matter how many times I have been to Rome, I find myself going back to the Trevi Fountain. Maybe it’s because of the tradition that says if you throw a coin into the fountain you are guaranteed to return to Rome. Whether that’s it or not the Trevi Fountain is one of those places that feel different every time depending on the time of day and the crowds of people.

Not like other typical circular fountains in piazzas, Trevi Fountain is a true work of art and considered to be the most beautiful fountain throughout the world. It is no wonder that it attracts millions of visitors every year and has the distinction of being the most photographed fountain in Rome.

Always crowded the Trevi Fountain is an amazing place. For me there was a feeling of energy, a vibe that went along with being there and hearing the sound of the water cascading downward and feeling the enthusiasm of the crowd. The art sculptures are so awesome particularly since they were built onto the back portion of the ancient Palazzo Poli, making the entire area seem larger and more grandiose.

Trevi Fountain is also called Fontana di Trevi (in Italian) and the name is derived from the Latin word trivium which means the crossing of three streets. Some also believe the Italian origin is tre vie, meaning three roads. Either way Trevi Fountain is situated where three roads meet, Via De’ Crocicchi, Via Poli and Via Delle Muratte.

Completed in 1762 the Trevi Fountain took 30 years to construct and is Rome’s largest fountain, measuring 65 feet across and standing 85 feet high. At night this Baroque fountain is illuminated adding to its magnificence. Featured in the 1954 film “Three Coins in the Fountain” as well as the award-winning Federico Fellini 1960 film, “La Dolce Vita,” the Trevi Fountain has become one of the most famous landmarks in Rome.

It is estimated that the coins tossed into the fountain add up to anywhere from 3000 to 12000 euros a day. I like to believe the stories that say the coins are collected every night and given to charity. Recently however there have been stories in Italian newspapers reporting thieves making off with the coins while police watched.

Situated in the center of the historic district of Rome, close to the Spanish Steps, Trevi Fountain is an easy walk from many of Rome’s popular attractions. Don’t miss this amazing experience during your next trip to the Eternal City.

Guest Post By: Margie Miklas

Filed Under: Featured, Italy, Margie Miklas, Rome

Rome’s Vittorio Emanuele II Monument

December 11, 2011 By Guest Post Leave a Comment

Guest Post By: Margie Miklas

Although it is not the most popular tourist site in Rome, the Vittorio Emanuele II Monument is hard to miss since it is 443 feet in width and practically occupies an entire piazza. Over two million visitors a year stop inside the monument to see the museums, visit the tomb of Italy’s Unknown Soldier and to take advantage of one of the best views of Rome.

Not so popular with the locals, this monstrous building has been nicknamed “The Giant Typewriter” and “The Wedding Cake.” It is in stark contrast to the other ancient buildings in Rome mostly due to its stark white color, gleaming for all to see. It was constructed from Brescian marble which maintains its bright white color through the years, to the dismay of the Italians.

History

The Vittorio Emanuele II monument was designed at the end of the 19 th century and built in the early 20 th century to honor the first king of unified Italy. King Vittorio Emanuele had been the king of Sardinia and when Italy was unified as a country in 1861 he became the first king. Practically every city in Italy has either a monument or a piazza or a street named in his honor.

Architectural Design

The designer of this monument was Giuseppe Sacconi and the monument measures 230 feet high and is 443 feet wide. There are several staircases, colonnades, fountains, an equestrian statue with King Vittorio Emanuele and on the top are two sculptures of the goddess Victoria riding in Quadrigas or chariots with horses.

The grand staircase takes you to the level of the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier and from there are two additional staircases that go to the top level. An eternal flame burns 24 hours a day at the entrance to the tomb with honor guards in attendance day and night.

Visitor Information

In 2007 a glass elevator was constructed, saving you some steps going to the top, although there still are a number steps to reach the level of the elevator entrance. For a cost of seven euros you can ride the Sky Elevator to the top level called the Terrace of the Quadrigas for one of the best panorama views of the city. For those who love to get their daily exercise (although there is no lack of opportunity walking in Rome), it takes about ten minutes to walk up all of the steps from the ground level to the top.

On your next visit to the Eternal City you may be curious enough to take the Sky Elevator and capture some unbelievable vistas from high above the Roman Forum.

Guest Post By: Margie Miklas

Filed Under: Featured, Italy, Margie Miklas, Rome

Michelangelo’s Last Judgment – Have You Helped a Nun Across the Street Today?

November 5, 2011 By Guest Post 1 Comment

Guest Post by: Bridget Staroscik O’Reilly
The Sistine Chapel is first and foremost a church. That’s very easy to forget when it’s packed wall to wall with people, or I suppose I should say tourists. Many churches are full of people and still look like a church. The people in the Sistine Chapel are in various modes of dress, mostly modest enough, in deference to the Vatican’s mores. The voices around speak every language imaginable, slowly they rise in pitch until the Corpo della Gendarmeria dello Stato della Città del Vaticano, demand quiet. This is a church after all.

I understand how that can be hard to believe, pressed in as you are among the masses of humanity. The crowd can also make it hard to appreciate the beauty of the frescos that line the ceiling. As I crane my head to review the painting of God giving life to Adam, for a fleeting moment I wondered what it would be like to be alone in here. Then I looked at The Last Judgment and thought maybe the company wasn’t a bad thing.

Placed directly above where the altar stands when the chapel is in church mode, is the above mentioned The Last Judgment, one of the most powerful pieces of art in the world. As the name suggests, the fresco depicts God’s final judgment on mankind. The face of Mary turned away in resignation at her inability to help the sinners at this point is perhaps one of the scariest aspects of the work since in the Catholic religion it is common to ask Mary, as Jesus’ mother, to intercede on our behalf. Mary’s expression in the piece shows that at that point, the dammed are beyond even her compassion.

That said; I’m a strong believer in the fact that you can literally learn the joy out of something. I think The Last Judgment is a great example of this. If you want to read all about it after you see it, go right ahead, but first see it. Too much knowledge is a dangerous thing and if you’re trying to pick out bits and pieces you read about, you run the risk of missing the whole. And in this case, the whole is pretty powerful. It may also explain why the safest way to cross a street in Rome is next to a nun or a priest. After all, once you’ve viewed the scene of souls being cast into hell, you realize quite quickly that it is not something you want to take part in.

All that aside, if you want to learn more about the Last Judgment after viewing it, they sell postcard and notepaper size reproductions along with books explaining the ins and outs of the piece. These include things like what saint each picture portrays; which of the dammed was actually supposed to be Michelangelo himself, and which depiction was a not at all private shot at one of Michelangelo’s critics of the time. They also sell large posters of The Last Judgment in the many gift shops that are scattered throughout the Vatican museums and the city itself. One of the people I met had bought a large poster of it and was so excited to have it. Said he was going to hang it on his wall. I don’t know about you, but I’m paranoid enough. I don’t need a constant reminder of what the consequences would be if I screw up.

For more info on the Sistine Chapel and the Vatican museum you can visit the Vatican’s office website at www.vatican.va/.

Guest Post by: Bridget Staroscik O’Reilly

Filed Under: Bridget Staroscik O'Reilly, Featured, Italy, Rome

When in Rome, Aubergine is Eggplant

November 5, 2011 By Guest Post Leave a Comment

Guest Post by: Bridget Staroscik O’Reilly

I hadn’t bee in Italy very long when I set out to see St Peters with a fellow traveler I had recently met and we got lost. Getting lost is exhausting, and it also makes you very hungry. After wandering Rome’s streets for a few hours, trying in vain to find the entrance to St. Peters, we decided we wanted to get something to eat.

Not being very familiar with how things went in Italy we passed a few restaurants that seemed too intimidating. Finally we came upon a place sort of across from St. Peter’s Square that had outside seating. It was a beautiful day so we grabbed an open table with menus on it and proceeded to try and figure out what to have for lunch. This is where we ran into a problem. We couldn’t tell what anything was. I eat a fair amount of Italian food at home, but this menu was undecipherable.

Determined not to be bested, I pulled out my Rick Steves phrase book and tried to decode the menu to no avail. It was almost like reading Greek. I felt pretty stupid I mean I couldn’t even find these words in the phrasebook in English or Italian. I had been through the entire ‘’at the restaurant’ section by the time the waitress finally came up to our table. In Italy a meal is an event of sorts and no one seems to be in a hurry, even the wait staff, so we had been there for a bit at that point.

I didn’t say anything at first, completely lost as to what anything was. I was pretty well starving and I didn’t want to end up with something gross so I figured I had no choice but to admit it. The waitress spoke English and it was unlikely I was the first hungry tourist to ask for a menu translation. I was about to ask a question when my fellow traveler spoke.

I assumed she would be asking for help too, since we had been sitting at the table for the last 10 minutes frantically checking our phrasebooks. I assumed wrong. My fellow traveler was apparently determined not to be seen as a tourist, so rather than ask questions, she just ordered something off the menu in the most atrocious Italian accent you’ve ever heard. In fact it was so bad it didn’t even sound like she was speaking Italian words.

I could tell from the look on the servers face that she was struggling not to laugh. Pretending not to notice, I asked her what an aubergine was in my obviously American English. She didn’t answer just looked at me in confusion for a moment and then she reached over and took the menu I was holding and really looked at it for the first time. A moment later her expression cleared and she smiled. “You have a German menu.”

Apparently since it was a tourist spot and it would be impossible for every server to speak all languages, the restaurant solved this problem by issuing menus in various languages. It turns out I could have struggled with my phrasebook for a week if Sunday’s and the only way it would have helped at all was if it has bee in German.

Guest Post by: Bridget Staroscik O’Reilly

Filed Under: Bridget Staroscik O'Reilly, Featured, Italy, Rome

Nettuno, Italy, Day Trip From Rome

October 3, 2011 By phagemann Leave a Comment

OK, you have been visiting in Rome for some time; you think you have seen everything the city has to offer. The Coliseum was awe inspiring, the Vatican took your breath away, yet you are ready for a change, or just would like to explore a little more of Italy. Sitting in your hotel or Rome apartments you pull out your travel book and map and wonder where to next?

The city of Nettuno is a beautiful beachside destination, located along the Tyrrhenian Sea. With a Meditterean climate, a stunning harbor and plenty of attractions, restaurants and shops, it makes the ideal day trip location. A mere 60 kilometers south of Rome means it is easily accessible as well. Here is guide to what to do in Nettuno, and some of the best attractions and recommendations.

Getting There: Nettuno is a very short distance from the capital city of Rome, so it can easily be visited in a day if needed, although there is certainly enough to keep visitors occupied for several days if you have the time. Traveling from Rome is simple. Since it is 60 kilometers away, you will need to purchase a train ticket, which is purchased by distance. Simply ask for a 60 kilometer ticket, and hop on one of the very frequent trains. You can also take a bus, which requires a direct ticket. This is cheaper, but can take a bit longer than the train. Of course, if you are traveling with your car the journey is easily signposted along the way.

Historical Landmarks: Nettuno was founded in the 9th century AD, and has much of the original infrastructure from that time period and early medieval eras as well. Stroll through the Borgo Medievale, the old quarter of town, and enjoy the traditional narrow streets and impressive buildings from centuries past. The Forte Sangallo Castle was built in 1503 and still stands in its entirety today, and can be toured if booked beforehand. Americans might be interested in the Sicily-Rome American Cemetery and Memorial, where nearly 8,000 American soldiers who died in World War II are buried. Walls surround the city, and once acted as protection against invading forces. These can be seen from many places and are fascinating to explore.

Beach and Harbor Attractions: Although the population of Nettuno is only 46,000, there are nearly 1,000 boats that call the harbor their home. It is a focal point of tourism in the town, and certainly worth a visit. The yacht club is impressive and serves delicious local fare, but is exclusive and generally not accessible without a boat or a membership connection. Visitors can relax on the sandy shores and bask in the warmth, or swim in the blue waters, a popular pastime for locals and tourists alike.

Cuisine: It should come as no surprise that nearly every restaurant found in Nettuno serves up Italian cuisine. Many of the restaurants offer al fresco dining with views of the harbor, and seafood is a popular choice on many menus. For a truly special meal, head to favorites like the Satricvm, Cacciatori or Romolo, who all offer formal dining and quality fresh ingredients. More casual fare for offerings like traditional pizzas and pasta can be found dotting the beach, and are welcoming and often provide English menus if necessary.

So if you are in need of getting out of your hotel or apartments in Rome, whether just for the day or the weekend, Nettuno will make for a great destination. Thanks to its beautiful location, historical landmarks and exciting attractions, the town of Nettuno makes an ideal day trip from the nearby capital city of Rome.

Filed Under: Featured, Italy, Nettuno, Rome

Top Tips and Suggestions for Traveling in Italy

July 28, 2011 By Guest Post Leave a Comment

Guest Post By: Karen Mills

Whether traveling in Italy for the first time, or a return visit, there are some important things to remember that can make your travel experience a little less stressful. These things aren’t always easily remembered or recognized if this is your first trip. It is the little differences in processes, procedures, and culture that can make things uncomfortable if you aren’t aware.

1. Learn some Italian words. There are many English speaking Italians, and generally the language barrier is not a problem if you are in the larger cities. Traveling to small towns can prove to be more of a challenge when it comes to language. Italians are friendly, generous, and welcoming so a few words go a long way. Take the time to learn “please, thank you, excuse me, I’m sorry, and Where is the bathroom?” at a minimum.

2. When you go into a bar (this is a coffee shop, sandwich shop or cocktails) in Italy, always pay first before you order. Take your receipt to the counter for ordering. Remember that the prices are different if you sit at a table rather than stand at the bar. It costs more to sit down, even if you order at the bar and take it to a table.

3. Most bars have restrooms, but they are for customers only. Schedule these bathroom breaks around your coffee breaks to insure you are comfortable while you are sightseeing.

4. When using the trains in Italy, Don’t forget to stamp your ticket before boarding the train. There are bright yellow boxes that look like time card stamps located at the front of each track. Insert your ticket to be stamped with the date and time. This is true for all tickets that do not have an assigned seat, so the regional trains.

5. Carry a scarf or shawl in your bag to wrap around your shoulders when you enter the churches. In the summer if you have on shorts, or a short skirt or bare shoulders, entrance might be denied, unless you have something to cover.

6. Remember that service in restaurants in Italy is different than in the USA. It is more relaxed, and you must always ask for the check (Il conto, per favore!). If you are in a hurry, do not go into a sit down restaurant. In Italy, meal time is almost sacred and the kitchens and wait staff are not prepared to accommodate you in a short time frame.

7. Sandwiches can be enjoyed in bars quickly if necessary, but won’t be available on restaurant menus. Italians don’t eat butter with their bread, nor do they pour oil on plates and dip the bread into it……this is an American thing. They will accommodate you if you ask for it, but it is not their custom. Salads are served at the end of the meal. House wines are available in almost all restaurants and are usually much less expensive, but delicious. I recommend you try them! Three courses are customary in Italy, but not required. If you are eating pizza, the three course custom is not expected. If you decide to try the Bistecca Fiorentina while in Florence, expect it to be served rare. This is a very thick cut of meat and is customarily served this way. Don’t be surprised if they are unhappy with your request to cook it longer.

8. The use of ice in soft drinks and water is not customary in Italy. If you want ice, you will need to ask for it. When you do, don’t be surprised if you get only 3-4 cubes. Ice is an ecological drain, because of the water usage and electricity for freezing as well as the space that it takes up.

9. Be “ecologically aware”. In Italy, most lights are on timers, escalators in airports on motion detectors, etc. In hotels, you may need your key to be inserted near the door to work the lights. Many places will not use air conditioning, and at certain times of the year, air conditioning may not be available in your hotel.

10. Make time in your travels to sit in the piazzas and enjoy the culture. Piazzas are one of the most important cultural aspects of Italy. In your busy travels, it might be easy to overlook taking the time for this important activity. Enjoy a beverage or picnic in the square while people watching.

For more information on Florence sites, visit www.anamericaninitaly.com

Karen Mills is an American woman who made the decision to leave her corporate life behind to live “la dolce vita” in Florence, Italy, Read more about her experiences at An American In Italy or contact her at queenkaren0@hotmail.com

Other articles by

Guest Post By: Karen Mills

Have you traveled to Florence? Visited other parts of Italy? Do you have any advice or recommendations for our readers?

Share your feedback in the comment section below