Is there such a thing as a train strike refund? If you travel to Italy often enough—or even just once—you’ll likely run into the infamous Italian rail strike. It’s a thing. And while they’re usually announced in advance, they can …
Retirement Travel in Italy: Valuable Budget Tips and Ideas
Thinking of retirement travel? Retirement might be the best time to travel—and there’s no place more rewarding to explore than Italy. With more flexibility in your schedule and a lifetime of experience behind you, you can slow down and truly …
What’s a Spritz? How It’s Made & Why Italians Love It
What is a Spritz? This popular apéritif found in Italy and popular in the Spring and Summer because of its refreshing taste. It is low in alcohol, aromatic with citrus, and slightly bitter. It is easy to make and perfect for …
Italy’s Tourist Tax: What You Need to Know in 2025
If you’re planning a trip to Italy, be prepared for an extra charge on your accommodation bill—the tourist tax “imposta di soggiorno”. This fee, applied in many cities and towns, helps fund services and infrastructure that benefit locals and visitors. …
Bathrooms in Italy- Guiding Your Way to Their Quirkiness
Bathrooms in Italy are a fascinating blend of practicality and quirkiness. While our previous post tackled the essentials, like bidets and public bathroom costs, there’s still much more to discover and explain. Let’s dive into some unique aspects and surprising …
Not To Be Missed: Scuola del Cuoio (Leather School) Florence
Florence, where art and craftsmanship merge seamlessly, is home to one of its most remarkable treasures—the Scuola del Cuoio. Nestled within the historic Monastery of Santa Croce, this iconic leather school offers a window into the past. Visiting here is …
Do You Know Why Tabaccherias Are Essential In Italy?
Tabaccherias in Italy are like stepping into a slice of Italian culture. These humble establishments, known as tabacchi, are more than just places to buy cigarettes. They are hubs of convenience and tradition, offering a mix of products and services …
Carnivale in Viareggio: Fun and Amazing Artistic Expression
Nestled along Tuscany’s Versilia coastline, Viareggio is a vibrant seaside town known for its stunning beaches, Art Nouveau architecture, and, most famously, its extravagant Carnivale celebrations. Every February, this picturesque town transforms into a sea of color, creativity, and festivities, …
Will Milan’s New Outdoor Smoking Ban Work?
Headline: Milan’s new outdoor smoking ban begins January 1st, 2025. City authorities say the goal is to improve air quality and clamp down on secondhand smoke. We’ve seen Italy try to impose things before… such as the day tax for …
San Miniato Church | Highest Point in Florence, Italy
San Miniato Church San Miniato Church is decorated with green and white marble in geometric patterns. These patterns are similar to the facades of Santa Maria Novella and Santa Croce. A 12th-century mosaic decorates the facade over a central …
Santo Spirito Church | Florence | An Amazing Find
Santo Spirito Church Santo Spirito Church is nestled in the lively Oltrarno district of Florence. The Basilica of Santo Spirito is a masterpiece of Renaissance architecture and a haven of tranquility amidst the city’s artistic hustle and bustle. Designed by …
Roman Aqueducts- Spectacular & Best Ancient Masterpieces
I’m amazed at how the Roman Aqueducts completely changed lives. Imagine a time when running water wasn’t just a turn of a faucet away. Ancient Rome turned this dream into a reality over 2,000 years ago. The Roman Empire, a …