Fun facts about Italy –

• Italy is the fifth most visited country in the world, welcoming some 46 million foreign visitors annually. It’s also the fifth most populous country in Europe.
• The colors of the Italian flag–green, white, and red–have special meaning. Green represents hope, white represents faith, and red signals charity.
• Italy has more earthquakes than any other European country.
• Almost four-fifths of Italy is either mountainous or hilly.
• In the city of Turin, dog owners must walk their pooch at least three times a day or risk being fined. Woof.
• Unless you want to pay a hefty fine, don’t eat or drink while sitting on church steps or within a church courtyard.
• Italy has hosted the Olympics three times in 1956, 1960, and 2006.

Cultural History

Visitors are charmed by the food, the people, and the culture in every corner of this country. From the Colosseum of Rome, to the vineyards of Florence, there is something for everyone here to experience. Irresistible food, dazzling scenery, and century defining works of art are just some of the possibilities that draw people form across the globe to this boot shaped country. Some may find the options limitless but limited on time. These are the big three every traveler to Italy wants to experience at least once, Rome, Florence, and Venice.
Looking for a Roman holiday? Well, Rome in fact was not built in a day, and should not be rushed to see it all in one either. Take the time to really see the city and all it has to offer. Some photo-worthy places to explore include:

• St. Peter’s Basilica
• The Colosseum
• the 2000-year-old Pantheon
• Trotting up the Spanish Steps
• Toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain

Florence and Tuscany both are full of art, history, and wine. We can not forget the wine.

• Delight in the frescos along the walls
• Ponder Michelangelo’s David
• Shop along the Via de’ Tornabuoni

Idle rural farms and vineyards dot the land and with the rolling hills behind them, they make for the best vacation photos.
Venice is a bewitching city and is one on many traveler’s bucket lists to visit. With more than 400 bridges and 150 canals to visit, Venice enchants and draws in any traveler.

• Glide down the Grand Canal on a gondola
• Explore the Basilica di San Marco
• Shop at the Rialto Market

There is so much more to discover in Italy. Locations like Naples, Pisa, and Pompeii each have unique attractions to visit. Lake Como and Cinque Terre are picturesque and rural in nature to recharge before going back into the cities. Plan your trip today. L'Italia ti sta aspettando.
​

​                Customs and Etiquette in Italy – Day to Day and Dining

• DO – be conscious of how you dress – this is important especially if you are visiting religious sites like cathedrals. Cover those shoulders and knees!
• DON’T – attempt to say ciao right off the bat – this phrase is reserved for close friends and acquaintances; instead say Boun Giorno (good morning) or Boun Sera (good afternoon).
• DO – Remember to look after your belongings! – keep in mind pick pockets are everywhere, make sure you keep all your valuables out of your pockets, and use a bag that zips closed.
• DON’T – forget to learn the basics – Even a few simple phrases in Italian can go a long way in Italy, and the locals appreciate the attempt, even if all you know is ‘where is the bathroom?’
• DO – have fun! – that should be a given. This trip will be more fun if you immerse yourself in the culture and get outside your comfort zone.
• Only drink either wine or water at meals. Italians take food seriously and the best way to enjoy it is not to warp your pallet with various drinks, but exceptions like pizza are enjoyed with a Coke or beer.
• Wait to eat your bread with your meal – do the little shoe is when you use the bread to mop up whatever sauce is left on the plate to enjoy. 

Food and Dining

​What’s not to love about Italian cooking. There is so much flavor packed into every dish, and travelers and locals all love it. Depending on the region you are visiting the food may reflect that area. There are plenty of options to consider there is almost too many if that is possible. True Italian food is meant to be enjoyed by many people, so portions may vary. You are never far from a good meal and entertainment in Italy. There are plenty of delicacies to enjoy, some of which include:

• Pizza (of course)
• Lasagna
• Fiorentina steak - It’s a T-bone steak cut thick (at least 5 centimeters) from the loin of a Chianina cow raised in Tuscany. It’s cooked for 5 to 7 minutes on each side, depending on the thickness, until the outside is cooked, and the inside remains very rare.
• Ribollita - This vegetable soup is thickened with bread instead of meat
• Polenta (Italian grits)
• Carbonara - spaghetti, eggs, pecorino cheese, cured guanciale, and black pepper
• Gelato – A velvety smooth textured ice cream that comes in a variety of flavors.
• Coffee – No not like Starbucks, it comes in shot form most likely and is full of flavor, and this is a very Italian way to calm your stomach after a meal is to have a shot of espresso.
• Tiramisu – coffee and ladyfinger layered dessert