Italy Travel Review
The heart of the Roman Empire, Italy provides an insight into a civilization that was the foundation of today's political, architectural, artistic, religious and culinary standards. Well known movies like Ben Hur and Spartacus provide an entertaining glimpse of Roman times, but we cannot conceive their true impact until we stand in the Colloseum and realize....this place ACTUALLY EXISTS!
Although there are many great cities to visit, we recommend starting in Rome. You do not need (nor do you want) a car. The city is quite walkable and many of the most famous historical sites are nearby. The 'must see' locations include the Colosseum, Forum, Pantheon, Vatican, Trevi Fountain and Spanish Steps. Where to eat is simple because there is no bad food. Italian cooking is much lighter than our versions and always fresh. The wines seem less potent and can be consumed with all meals without feeling tipsy (ok, maybe not breakfast). And for those between site rests, we recommend sitting at any outdoor cafe and partaking of a hot cup of cappuccino. Art is everywhere, and although we find most of ours in museums, the best place to see great art is in the churches...any church...as all are magnificent. You should set aside three or four days of your trip to Italy for visiting Rome.
Where to go after Rome is a toss up. You can visit the major cities like Florence or Venice by train, or you can rent a car at the Rome airport and drive through the country side and stop at little towns in Tuscany. A few recommended stops include the fortress town of Siena, the Etruscan countryside containing the Necropolis where you can climb down into the tombs from 9 BC, and the seaside city of Portofino.
One of my favorite places outside of Rome is Venice ....perhaps the most romantic city in the world. There is something sensual about standing at your hotel window and hearing the songs of the gondolas as they traverse the canals containing star-struck lovers. A favorite spot for shopping and relaxation at outdoor cafes is St. Marks Square (San Marco). Venice is known for its Murano glass, hand made lace and gold jewelry. You can actually visit the small nearby islands that produce these wonders by taking the Murano-Burano-Torcello boat excursions that are called out all day at St Marks water edge. Spend a day just walking the small streets and crossing the many canals. Each turn provides a new delight and you will find yourself repeating one of Indiana Jones' lines "Awe....Venice".
A trip to Italy can be easily made by yourself and does not require a tour group or any special preparation. Most people speak English, drugstores and clothing stores are available, and travel is relatively safe and simple. Some differences are eating times...most Italians eat dinner late, starting around 8pm, so restaurants will be closed or empty before then. Many rural gas stations close during lunch, so if driving, plan to stop and eat lunch around noon with everyone else. Roads are not marked well and often do not have names or numbers. Turns are posted with town names, so map these out first.
When in Rome...do as the Romans....ENJOY....the food...the art...the wine...and the history!!!