Che la bella sera di progettare una vacanza italiana!  (What a beautiful evening to be planning an Italian vacation!)  Can you believe another week has passed and it’s time to talk about Italy again?  This time we’ll talk about a couple of things that go hand-in-hand:

      1.       Factors that motivate travelers to pick Italy as their vacation destination
        2.       Possible fears and misgivings/misconceptions that might tend to unmotivated them

Let’s consider the more motivating assets of an Italy excursion first.  Within Europe, you really can’t find a country with a more ancient background.  Cave drawings have been found dating back to 8,000BC.  Old castles, cathedrals, and villas dot the countryside making the landscape panoramic splendor.  Then there’s the food…Ooo-La-La…just thinking about the pasta, pizza, and wine makes the mouth water.

If you’re on a religious quest, and you happen to be catholic, Italy is considered the mecca for Christian pilgrimages.  And the art: the beauty and history of the paintings that reside there, such as Bernini sculptures, works by Michelangelo, and so many more, are unsurpassed. 

There’s the Italian Rivera in the south with its great beaches and snow skiing in the winter in the north.  There’s unbelievable shopping.  Italian leather and jewelry are world renown.  Some of the finest resorts can be found in Italy.  And who knows, maybe you can look up your long-lost cousin Guido as many Americans can trace their roots back to Italy.

After all that, who could have misgivings about heading off to somewhere Italian?  Well, some travelers do have concerns, but most are unfounded or are just outdated notions.  For example:  some think there’s a lot of crime; but most are small time things and you can protect yourself by taking normal precautions.  Some think it’s too hot; not in the autumn and spring.  Some say, “The drivers in major cities are crazy.”  Don’t drive. In Italy, you will be the crazy driver.  Public transportation is very good and accessible.

And lastly, some people worry that it’s too expensive.  Hellllooooo…it’s Italy!  Of course it’s expensive but it’s so worth it.  Pre-planned group tours and selected cruises can bring the cost down some.  But, it’s important to remember that vacationing in Italy can be the experience of a lifetime.  As for me, I say, “Go big or stay home!” 

Arrivederci per ora.  (Goodbye for now.)