Italy
« Pasta & Dolce Vita »
Popes and Priests, Pasta and Pizza, Poets and Palm trees, Personalities and Paparazzi, … How do I describe my ‘Bel Paese’ in just a few sentences?
Nearly 30% of the cultural patrimony on earth is found in Italy, my history teacher tells me. No need to verify that figure. 3000 years of history, 8000 kilometres of coastline, innumerable cities, parks, churches and monuments, the next one even more beautiful than the last. That’s what la Bella Italia has to offer the world. An eternal caress for the eyes and for the senses.
In the north, I enjoy the Transalpine Dolomites. Fashion and design in Milan. And the tingle of a kiss in Venice or Verona.
In the middle of Italy, I admire the idyllic landscapes of Tuscany. And feel the peacefulness. Further on, I discover the city of Rome, at least 2000 years old. Crossing the city is travelling through history.
And the south? There, I gaze at the spectacle of volcanoes and the charm of Naples and Sicily. And everywhere, from north to south, there is the sun that warms me, beauty that enchants me. ‘La Dolce Vita’ that charms me.
It’s just too bad that too many aggressive youths are running around in the large cities, and unfriendly shopkeepers that are only out for profit or a tip. And pity that my figure isn’t more voluptuous in the trattorias (but my wardrobe certainly is, thanks to the numerous boutiques). Still, I’m sorry to have to head home. Burning with desire to come back … Italy is like a beautiful woman: you adore her forever.
Eating and Drinking
Each region takes pride in its own specialities. It is recommended to travel into the hinterland, away from tourist resorts in order to taste all the different foods. In restaurants, you have to generally order a full course menu. For snacks, a trattoria, or pizzeria can fulfil your appetite. Lunch is served between 12 noon and 2 pm, dinner from 7:30 pm. Service is included in the bill, but it is common practice to leave a supplementary tip. When leaving the restaurant, you should keep the bill and receipt for up to 500 m from the restaurant, or else in case of a police control for fraud, you are liable to a fine of up to EUR 1,000.
Travelling by Car
The motorways are toll roads. On entering the country, at the border, you can purchase a pre-payment card that can be used at all the tollbooths. This will save you from constantly looking for small change. The speed limit is 130 km/h on motorways, 110 km/h on the ”superstrada” (fast lanes), and 90 km/h on departmental roads. Seat belts are obligatory. The alcohol limit is 0.5 pro mille. Any violation of the law will entail a heavy fine.
