Life in Italy is a love-hate thing. I admit to being seduced by Tuscany’s magical golden light, besotted by the Renaissance, tantalized by Sicily’s sensuous pastry shops, charmed by the Italian language and then quickly disenchanted by the brutal reality of getting almost anything done. I’ve suffered heartless years of waiting for an insurance claim, submitted to diabolical rules for getting a driving license, and wept broken-hearted sobs when the plumber never called back. The tempting dream to live in Italy may sound like a romantic endeavor, but it helps to be nuts.
Posted In: Hiking & Walking Trails in Italy, Stories of Life in Tuscany & Sicily
The most beautiful olive trees in Italy are the oldest ones, and they can be found in Apulia and in Sicily.
Continue Reading »Posted In: Stories of Life in Tuscany & Sicily, Understanding the Culture & Customs of Italy
The most important thing to keep in mind when learning Italian as an adult is to keep your sense of humor, even when everyone is laughing at you.
Continue Reading »Posted In: Interesting Festivals & Events in Italy, Stories of Life in Tuscany & Sicily
Huge sweet onions are on sale at the Giarratana Onion Festival in Sicily, where you can join the celebration with Italian families feasting on onion-based dishes.
Continue Reading »Posted In: Hip Trip Tips for Travel in Italy, Stories of Life in Tuscany & Sicily
Taking the train in Sicily means slow but scenic travel.
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Wildflowers in Italy vary with the season and location, so if you want to see wildflowers blooming in winter come to Sicily.
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When you go to the bank in Italy, don’t be in a hurry. And don’t expect cash.
Continue Reading »Posted In: Stories of Life in Tuscany & Sicily, Understanding the Culture & Customs of Italy
According to an Italian legend, blackbirds were once white, and the coldest days of the year in Italy are known as the “3 days of the blackbird.” Find out more about the “tre giorni della merla.”
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Walking and hiking in Italy mean different things to different people. Some people hike with a compass, others with a grill. True stories from walking in Florence and Chianti in Tuscany
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Finding that dream job in Italy can be a nightmare when the want ad loses something in translation.
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Houses for sale in Sicily for just one Euro may sound great, but be prepared for a slow bargain.
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