Navigating the Cities of Sicily

Palermo

Palermo is situated on the northwestern part of the island of Sicily, and is its capital and largest city. About 855,000 people live in Palermo. It is an old Phoenician-founded city that goes back to the 8th century BC. It has long been a crossroads of different cultures and civilizations, which has had consequences of warfare, as well as a melting-pot heritage. The mafia is known to have historic influence of this city and is still active today. Though problems do exist in Palermo, it is nonetheless a beautiful city full of amazing architecture, monuments and markets. It is also a wonderful place for food and nightlife. People here speak Italian and Sicilian dialects. There are a good deal of historic churches, and Roman Catholicism still plays a big role in this city’s society.

Catania

Catania is the second largest city in Sicily, with a population of about 300,000. It is situated on Sicily’s east coast, facing the Ionian Sea, at the foothills of the volcano, Mount Etna. This city dates back to the 8th century BC, when it was founded by Greek colonizers. It is a place that suffers from natural disasters, and has undergone immense damage from volcanic eruptions and earthquakes in the past. Apart from its history, is known to have a bustling music scene with some indie pop and indie rock bands, as well as some record labels. Catania is also a large technology hub.

Messina

Messina is situated on the northeastern side of Sicily, at the Strait of Messina. It is Sicily’s third largest city, with about 250,000 people living there+. It dates back to the 8th century BC when it was founded by Greeks, and then conquered and ruled by several others. It has suffered greatly in the past from earthquakes. Today, it acts as an important port city. There are many beautiful churches, fountains and other monuments throughout Messina.

Agrigento

Agrigento is a city on the southern coast of Sicily, on a plateau that overlooks the sea, and it is an agricultural center of the surrounding area. It is a small city with a population around 55,000. Many people visit Agrigento because it has some of the best preserved Greek architecture. Unfortunately, it is one of the poorest parts of Sicily and has issues with the local mafia.

Navigating the Cities of Sicily

Palermo

Palermo is situated on the northwestern part of the island of Sicily, and is its capital and largest city. About 855,000 people live in Palermo. It is an old Phoenician-founded city that goes back to the 8th century BC. It has long been a crossroads of different cultures and civilizations, which has had consequences of warfare, as well as a melting-pot heritage. The mafia is known to have historic influence of this city and is still active today. Though problems do exist in Palermo, it is nonetheless a beautiful city full of amazing architecture, monuments and markets. It is also a wonderful place for food and nightlife. People here speak Italian and Sicilian dialects. There are a good deal of historic churches, and Roman Catholicism still plays a big role in this city’s society.

Catania

Catania is the second largest city in Sicily, with a population of about 300,000. It is situated on Sicily’s east coast, facing the Ionian Sea, at the foothills of the volcano, Mount Etna. This city dates back to the 8th century BC, when it was founded by Greek colonizers. It is a place that suffers from natural disasters, and has undergone immense damage from volcanic eruptions and earthquakes in the past. Apart from its history, is known to have a bustling music scene with some indie pop and indie rock bands, as well as some record labels. Catania is also a large technology hub.

Messina

Messina is situated on the northeastern side of Sicily, at the Strait of Messina. It is Sicily’s third largest city, with about 250,000 people living there+. It dates back to the 8th century BC when it was founded by Greeks, and then conquered and ruled by several others. It has suffered greatly in the past from earthquakes. Today, it acts as an important port city. There are many beautiful churches, fountains and other monuments throughout Messina.

Agrigento

Agrigento is a city on the southern coast of Sicily, on a plateau that overlooks the sea, and it is an agricultural center of the surrounding area. It is a small city with a population around 55,000. Many people visit Agrigento because it has some of the best preserved Greek architecture. Unfortunately, it is one of the poorest parts of Sicily and has issues with the local mafia.

The Museums of Milan, Italy

Palazzo Bagatti-Valsecchi

This museum is situated in a grand palace in the heart of Milan, and is known to be one of Europe’s finest museums. It was set up by the Bagatti Valescchi heirs, who donated their 19th century residence and art collections to the public. The rooms have an interesting 19th century design, full of many different materials on display, ranging from paintings, wood carvings, tapestries, ceramic wares, glass wares and other Renaissance and Renaissance-inspired pieces.

Museum of Natural History

Milan’s Museum of Natural History was originally founded in 1838, and the impressive building was constructed in 1893. It is very famous for its collection of birds, holding over 20,000 specimens. There are over two million other specimens, exhibits, plastic skeletons and other materials. It includes materials about the evolution of humans, as well as minerals, dinosaurs, insects and scientific instruments.

Museo Poldi-Pezzoli

This museum is set in north east Milan, and is the house of an old art collector, which has been open to the public since 1881. This collection consists of many Renaissance paintings, as well as some decorative arts like porcelain, textiles, glasses, metalwork, archaeology and jewelery. The museum also hosts some temporary exhibits, usually revolved around the History of Collectionism, and new research regarding the museum’s existing collection.

Science and Technology Museum

In Italian, this museum is referred to as “Museo Nazionale della Scienza e dell Tecnologia ‘Leonardo da Vinci.’” It is located in south west Milan, and was founded in 1953, housed in a former 16th-century monastery. It holds many physical models of machines that Leonardo da Vinci designed in his drawings. There are many exhibits on display, as well as 13 interactive labs, theater animation activities and temporary exhibits. Some new developments at this museum include displays on the lifecycle of products, helicopters and Polymer materials.

Theater Museum

The Theater Museum is referred to as “Museo Teatrale alla Scala” in Italian, part of the La Scala opera house in central Milan. There are many materials that relate to this particular theater, as well as theater in general. On display are several original musical scores, as well as sculptures, ceramics and paintings.

Civic Archaeology Museum

In Italian, this museum is called “Civico Museo Arccheologico,” and it is situated in north west Milan. It has a large collection of materials from the Bronze Age. It also has a wooden plow that dates back 4,000 years.

The Museums of Milan, Italy

Palazzo Bagatti-Valsecchi

This museum is situated in a grand palace in the heart of Milan, and is known to be one of Europe’s finest museums. It was set up by the Bagatti Valescchi heirs, who donated their 19th century residence and art collections to the public. The rooms have an interesting 19th century design, full of many different materials on display, ranging from paintings, wood carvings, tapestries, ceramic wares, glass wares and other Renaissance and Renaissance-inspired pieces.

Museum of Natural History

Milan’s Museum of Natural History was originally founded in 1838, and the impressive building was constructed in 1893. It is very famous for its collection of birds, holding over 20,000 specimens. There are over two million other specimens, exhibits, plastic skeletons and other materials. It includes materials about the evolution of humans, as well as minerals, dinosaurs, insects and scientific instruments.

Museo Poldi-Pezzoli

This museum is set in north east Milan, and is the house of an old art collector, which has been open to the public since 1881. This collection consists of many Renaissance paintings, as well as some decorative arts like porcelain, textiles, glasses, metalwork, archaeology and jewelery. The museum also hosts some temporary exhibits, usually revolved around the History of Collectionism, and new research regarding the museum’s existing collection.

Science and Technology Museum

In Italian, this museum is referred to as “Museo Nazionale della Scienza e dell Tecnologia ‘Leonardo da Vinci.’” It is located in south west Milan, and was founded in 1953, housed in a former 16th-century monastery. It holds many physical models of machines that Leonardo da Vinci designed in his drawings. There are many exhibits on display, as well as 13 interactive labs, theater animation activities and temporary exhibits. Some new developments at this museum include displays on the lifecycle of products, helicopters and Polymer materials.

Theater Museum

The Theater Museum is referred to as “Museo Teatrale alla Scala” in Italian, part of the La Scala opera house in central Milan. There are many materials that relate to this particular theater, as well as theater in general. On display are several original musical scores, as well as sculptures, ceramics and paintings.

Civic Archaeology Museum

In Italian, this museum is called “Civico Museo Arccheologico,” and it is situated in north west Milan. It has a large collection of materials from the Bronze Age. It also has a wooden plow that dates back 4,000 years.

Eating Customs in Italy

Many people move or travel to Italy because of the food. Even if there are Italian restaurants in your home country, customs likely are different in the homeland.

Breakfast is very light, and often consists of just cappuccino, milk and espresso. People sometimes eat yogurt, but there are no meats or eggs.

For lunch and dinner, it is customary to serve in courses. First is appetizers, followed by a first course, then a second course with a side dish. People usually order at least two courses, but you are not required to. Italian meals can least an hour or two, sometimes longer.

There are several rules with Italian dining. Pasta and bread are NOT served together. Also, buttered bread is not common. Italians will eat bread with oil, but not as an appetizer, as it will fill you up and ruin your meal. It is custom to have mineral water and wine along with your meal. Soda and milk are usually for children or teenagers, or if you are eating pizza at lunchtime.

Meals at restaurants are served on different plates, and portions are generally smaller than those in America. Appetizers are often antipasti, which could have cold cuts and specialties of the area you are in. Next is pasta soup or rice (risotto, usually in Northern Italy) is served first. This is followed by fish, meat or vegetables, and a side dish could be salad or a potato. The following dessert, or dolce, is by fruit or cheese.

When you eat a fish-based pasta, grated cheese is seldom put on it. Coffee is drunk following the meal, never with it. Cappuccinos are served at breakfast, but espressos are served following lunch and dinner. Italians generally put whipped cream on Cappuccinos rather than cinnamon. If you only want to eat a sandwich and not a whole ensemble, you can go to a bar. Bars are not just for drinking; Italians will often go there for breakfast, or even to purchase gelato.

When eating salad, Italians generally don’t eat “Italian dressing,” but oil and vinegar. Red wine is drank with meat, white with fish. Italians generally take Sunday to eat out for a long lunch with their families. Lunch is usually eaten at 1:00, and dinner at 8:00. Restaurants will usually close in between lunch and dinner. When you are finished with your meal, you must ask the waiter for your check, or else they will not bring it to you.

Beautiful Gardens of Italy

Monsters' Grove

Botanical Gardens, Bologna

While there are many Botanical Gardens in Italy (some claim that botanical gardens started in Italy) Bologna University’s Botanic Garden holds a special importance as one of the oldest in Europe. The garden was founded in 1568 as an important site to study the medicinal values of plants.

More recently the garden went through a period of neglect but this has now been reversed and the garden enjoys a new period of growth and development. Areas within the gardens include: natural habitat reconstruction, medicinal plants, ponds with aquatic plants, a natural wood with very large specimens, and a marshland, a new area in development.

The Palazzo Fantini, Tredozio

This private garden is a culmination of centuries of care and design. Begun in the 7^th century, the garden only really began to take on its present day shape from the 19^th century. Visitors have come to these classic Italian gardens since the 18^th century. The present owner has an excellent collection of herbs and a museum of agricultural equipment. Today it is a beautiful home that can be let by the public for private functions or for Bed & Breakfast.

Villa Marigola, San Terenzio Lerici

On a hill with views of the Golfo dei Poeti, both the micro and macro views here are worth seeing. Villa Marigola is representative of the rand Italian seaside houses. The garden originally contained citrus fruits, olives and grapes. When the landscaped garden came into fashion in the 19^th century, the land around the house was changed into a more formal garden with paths and vistas.

Percy Bysshe Shelly and his wife Mary Godwin lived here in the summer of 1822. It was here that he wrote:

“… and the scent of winged flowers,
and the coolness of the hours
of dew, and sweet warmth left by day,
were scattered o’er the twinkling bay…”

(lines written in the Bay of Lerici, June 1882)

Today this venue can be booked for functions or conferences.

Palazzo Patrizi, Castel Giuliano, Bracciano, Roma

These gardens are over a century old but have suffered some from neglect over the years. The present owners are carefully renovating the gardens to their former glory and the results are already beautiful. The gardens are located at the base of the Tolfa Mountains, on the site of an ancient Etruscan and Roman settlement. The estate dates to before 1500.

Immaculate terraced lawns, groups of trees, giant Cedar of Lebanon, and many Etruscan tombs and Roman ruins turned pleasantly into natural rock gardens are a pleasant surprise. The special feature of these gardens is the rose collection—possibly the most important private rose collection in Italy.

The Roseto, Cavriglia

Also famous for its rose garden, this is an exceptional example of a private botanical garden. With approximately 7000 roses, (some were thought previously extinct), the garden holds an incredible history of the rose.

The garden maintains a strictly organised structure–subdivisions of Section, Species, Sub-species, and hybrids (of very complex lineage). Each rose is labelled with its botanical name, the year of introduction to Europe, and if relevant, the hybridizer. Donations help maintain this site of significant horticultural importance.

The Sacred Grove or The Monsters’ Grove, Bomarzo, near Orta

During the nineteenth century and well into the twentieth, the garden became overgrown and neglected but in the 1970s a program of restoration was implemented by the Bettini family, and today the garden, which remains private property, is a major tourist attraction. It is unfortunate that in recent years, a number of the stone sculptures have had fences put around them. Whilst this may deter visitors from climbing on them, it has the effect of making them more remote from their natural setting.

The original gardens were created by Vicino Orsini, the Duke of Bomarzo, 1528 -1588. A devoted husband, he created them in memory of his wife, Julia Farnese after her death. He called the garden a Bosco Sacro, a Sacred Grove or Bosco dei Monstri, the Monsters’ grove. In this case Monster, from the Latin, monstrare, means to demonstrate. The gardens therefore, are meant to demonstrate his love for his wife.

Although famous and visited by many well-known people, many years later the gardens became neglected and lost much of their glory. And yet, with the overgrown vegetation and the crumbling statues, the gardens took on an even more fantastic aura. 20^th century restoration has brought back some of the glory if the garden’s past, but the necessity of fencing around the statues has meant the magical realism has been lost to some extent.

Villa Lante, Gabnaia, near Viterbo

Along with the Monster Grove at Bomarzo, the garden at Villa Lanta is one of the most famous Italian 16th century Mannerist gardens. With waterfalls and water steps, fountains and wet grottos, the water features are especially impressive at Villa Lanta. A hydraulics engineer, Tommaso Ghinucci created such successful water features that they still work today.

The garden were badly damaged by allied bombs during WWII but has been under a careful and extensive reconstruction project and is now part of the Grandi Giardini Italiani, an organization of protected, exceptional gardens.

Learning the Social Customs of Italy

Italy is a family-based society, where individuals consider their families as the base of their social life, and also as a personal support structure. In Northern Italy, it is typical for nuclear families to reside together. In Southern Italy, it is more common to have extended families living together.

Italians take appearance and style seriously. It is expected for people to keep their appearances up. Many Italians believe that dress reflect an individual’s social status, family background and educational experience. Be sure to make good first impressions, as Italians take those seriously, and they may have preconceived notions about new people based on how they are dressed. The totality of clothing, accessories, shoes and personal appearance are important factors for Italians, and these are complimented by personal confidence and personality. If you wear sneakers in Rome, you will probably look like a tourist.

Italians also abide by the Roman Catholic religion, and the country has more Catholic churches per capita than any country in the world. Though there are many churches, and their influence on society is great, church attendance itself is somehow low. You will see crosses everywhere, and every day is a saint’s day of some sort. Children are all named after saints, and celebrate saint’s day.

If you give flowers to an Italian, pay attention to what type your are giving them. Chrysanthemums are reserved for funerals; red flowers are associated with a secret; yellow flowers are associated with jealousy. If you give wine as a gift, then it should be of good quality. Do not wrap gifts in black or in purple.

If you are invited to dinner at an Italian home, make sure to dress fashionably, even if they say that the dinner is informal. You do not need to be nervous about arriving on time, as Italy is not a punctual society, and being 15-30 minutes late is acceptable. You should wait to be seated, as there may be a particular seating order.

Usually, the hostess initiates dining actions, such as eating first, getting up first and ending the meal. The host will initiate the first toast, and then the guest of honor should make a toast later on. When eating, you should take small portions of food because you will be offered second helpings. It is fine to leave a small amount of food on your plate when you finish your meal. Wine glasses are also refilled, so if you do not want more, then you should leave it nearly full. If they offer cheese, you should pick it up with your knife instead of your fingers.

In terms of greetings, they are formal, but still enthusiastic. Italians will shake hands and smile with strangers, but may start air kissing when they begin to know each other better. Many Italians use calling cards, which are like business cards for social situations. Calling cards include the person’s name, address, title, academic credits, and telephone number. You should get a calling card made if you plan to be in Italy for a long time.

Public Transit in Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy, has an advanced public transportation system with buses and a metro. One precaution to using this system is to watch out for pickpockets, as they use very sly techniques on crowded buses and trains!

The Metro

The Roman Metro is usually referred to as the “Metropolitana.” It operates daily from 5:30 AM-11:30 PM, except for on Saturdays, when it stops at 12:30 AM. It is a rapid form of transportation, with trains stopping every 7-10 minutes, and no hold up from ground traffic.

There are only two lines, labeled A and B, so while it is a fast way to get around, it is not the most extensive network. Passengers are required to buy tickets before boarding, as drivers do not sell them. You must validate your pass by walking through the turnstile. These tickets can be purchased at the stations, or through newsstands, tobacco stores or vending machines. You must push a button to operate the doors on the blue line, but they operate automatically on the red line. The metro is not the most practical way of transit for tourists, as it does not stop at most of the major attractions.

Bus

The Roman bus system is much more extensive, and reaches to most areas of the city. Daytime buses run from 5:30 AM to midnight. Most buses do not operate on schedule, so do not expect to catch a bus at a specific time, but a select few do. Nevertheless, they show up fairly rapidly and passengers usually will not have to wait too long. To get on the bus, passengers must enter through the front and back doors, and exit through the middle doors. However, many people do break this rule. Since buses are not required to stop at every station, you may have to flag down the bus you wish to take, especially if you are outside the city center. To get off the bus, you need to ring the buzzer so the driver knows to stop.

The front seats on the buses are reserved for handicap, elderly people and pregnant women. If you are sitting in one of these spots, it is customary to give up your seat for priority passengers. Most of the buses in Rome are in the Linea Urbana, and the newer ones have air conditioning and more seating. There are also some express buses, called the Linea Express, which do not operate as much and do not make every stop.

Bus stops all have yellow signs that indicate which buses stop there, and their hours. There are also 20 lines of night buses that operate from 12:30 AM-5:30 AM. Buses get very crowded because they are the main way of transportation around Rome, so do not expect to get a seat every time.

Learning the Business Customs of Italy

Business in Italy tends to be personal. Italians like to know people when they do business, and prefer face-to-face meetings instead of on the computer or over the phone. Italian business partners will probably want to know some information about you and your background before they would want to associate with you.

It is not a bad idea to have a third party introduction to start things off. First impressions are important, and you should appear formal and stylish in your dress. It also does not hurt to ask other business colleagues questions about themselves so you will get to know and trust each other. When you communicate with Italians, they will probably act very expressive and enthusiastic and use their hands a lot.

In terms of meetings, appointments are very necessary, and you should schedule a meeting 2-3 weeks in advance. You should do this by sending an official letter, written in Italian. To confirm this upcoming meeting, you should send a fax or make a phone call, also in Italian.

Most people take vacations in the month of August, so avoid scheduling meetings then. People have different concepts of punctuality in Italy. In the north, your colleagues will probably be on time. You should have all of your written materials translated into Italian, and also hire an interpreter if you are not familiar with the language.

During meetings, people will probably be very loud and enthusiastic. People will often raise their voices and speak over one another, so do not get offended if this happens to you. Initial meetings generally do not reach any decisions, as they are more intended to have everyone say what they need to get across. Because of such a free-flow communication style, disputes will often break out between colleagues.

The amount of small talk will differ depending on the region of Italy you are doing business. In the north, the people are more strict, and will communicate with less small talk. In the south, they are usually more laid back and will want to get to know you for a little while before any negotiating. While negotiating, if you make a verbal agreement, never back out of it, because they show integrity. Do not be surprised if there are several arguments to finally determine the price and delivery date of anything.

There is definitely a hierarchy in the Italian business world. People have a lot of respect for power and age, and prefer to do business with people who are high up in their companies.

Italians are stylish people, so you are expected to adhere to this custom. Men should wear dark-colored business suits, and women should wear business suits or dresses. You can touch these up with elegant accessories, as these things will be noted.

Exploring the Volcanoes of Italy

Italy has the only active volcanoes in mainland Europe. This is because the country is located close to the boundary of the African Plate and Eurasian Plate.

The volcanoes are divided into three areas; the Campanian volcanic arc runs northwest through the center of Italy. The second group of volcanoes is clustered northeast of Sicily, and then the third is in the Mediterranean Sea, around the island of Pantelleria.

Mount Etna

Though it contains many volcanoes, there are only three that have erupted in the past century. Mount Etna, the biggest volcano of Italy (and therefore of Europe). It is located on the east coast of Sicily, and is about 3,329 meters (10,922 feet) tall, though this changes according to eruptions. It is one of the most active volcanoes on earth, having continuous activity. Because of the eruptions, it has caused the surrounding soil to be rich in minerals, therefore suitable for agriculture and vineyards.

Mount Stromboli

The second active volcano is on Stromboli, which takes up a small island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, north of Sicily. It is one of the nine Aeolian islands, and is 926 meters (3,034 feet) tall. A few hundred people live on this island. Stromboli also has continuous activity, constantly erupting through the three active craters on the peak. Its last major eruption occurred in 2009. Stromboli has been continuously active for the past 20,000 years.

Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius is located east of Naples, Italy, in the Bay of Naples. It is the one active volcano on mainland Italy, as well as mainland Europe. It is not currently erupting, which is fortunate, as it has had some historically very damaging eruptions that have wiped out towns and killed thousands. This mountain is prominent in ancient history and mythology, as the ancient Greeks and Romans thought of it as sacred to the hero, Hercules. Today, the area around Mount Vesuvius is the most densely populated volcanic region on earth.

Apart from the active volcanoes in the modern age, there are a number of dormant volcanoes around Italy and its many islands. Vulcano, one of the Aelion Islands, had last erupted in the late 19th century. Another one is Ischia, which is an island west of Naples, has last erupted in 1302.

Monterosso, Italy

Monterosso is one of the five beautiful villages along the Italian Riviera’s Cinque Terre. If you’ve never visited here before, prepare to be entranced. If you have, then you’ve probably already dreamed of living here someday. This week, why not consider making those dreams a reality?

Monterosso is actually officially a commune, and since it is under protection as a national park (along with the whole of Cinque Terre) and as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it isn’t exactly an easy place for expats to move to en masse. Even so, its well-preserved beauty is also part of what makes the town so alluring. The best way to move here is actually to find real estate in the surrounding La Spezia province, or perhaps even in Pisa (home of the leaning tower!).

Getting in and out of Monterosso is exceptionally easy due to its convenient train station, and it’s a short ride from anywhere in the surrounding region.

One of the perks of Monterosso compared to the rest of the Cinque Terre villages is its beach, which makes it a popular hub for sun bathers visiting the area since it is the only exclusive beach within the Cinque Terre. Of course, during tourist season in the summer, it can get overcrowded here. But for much of the year its historical atmosphere, environment and culture is relatively well preserved.

If you’re one to take daily walks, then you simply can’t do better than the Cinque Terre. There is a hiking trail which famously connects Monterosso with the rest of the villages; one of the most breathtaking hikes in the world. Along the way, pick out some fresh lemonade or wine from farmers who call this hillside their home.

The area is famous for its many lemon trees that can be seen throughout Monterosso. It is also renowned for its white wines, grapes, and olives.

Historically, many of the villages on the Mediterranean were walled to protect against attacks from the sea– which today has added an architectural beauty to Monterosso which is incredible. This area of the coast was often attacked by Muslim pirates and Vikings. Viking influence can still be seen in the occasional fair-skinned, red-headed children of the native villagers in the region. Of course, nowadays the only invaders are the waves of tourists.

Italy has its fair share of beautiful tourist destinations, and the Cinque Terre might top them all. It will be impossible for you to visit here without wanting to stay forever.

Why You Should Visit the Largest Mediterranean Island, Sicily

Sicily is an autonomous region of Italy with a rich history and culture based on architecture, language, cuisine, art, and folklore. Charming cliff top villages, beaches, Greek temples, Etna volcano… Sicily offers something for everyone!

How to get there?
The island is located in the South of Italy, 3km away from the peninsula, offering a warm Mediterranean climate all year long. There are two international airports located in Palermo and Catania.

A rich history

Sicilian Baroque, world heritage sites, castles… Greek, Spanish, Arabic or normandie influences can be found in this unique mix of architecture and art herited from the numerous invasions Sicily has known in the past. There is no other place on earth to find such combinations and amazing places.

Places to visit:

Palermo: the capital of Sicily autonomous region

Syracuse: presented by Ciceron as the greatest and most beautiful greek city

Agrigento: with its incredible Valley of temples

Taormina: and its incredible view of the Etna

Segesta: one of the most beautiful temples and theatres

Piazza Armerina, Ragusa, Cefalu, Messina, Noto and so many others…

Where to stay?
Sicily is not offering massive tourism infrastructures but you can choose between old-style grand hotels and residences transformed into luxurious B&Bs, adding a lot of charm to your vacations.

What to eat?

Food is one of the strong components of Sicilian culture. You can find very elaborated meals that require hours of preparation or simple and rich ones Don’t leave the island without trying the following: sincione a la palermitana, caponata, panelle, arancine, polpettone, cannoli, iris, cassata…

Eating Customs in Italy

Many people move or travel to Italy because of the food. Even if there are Italian restaurants in your home country, customs likely are different in the homeland.

Breakfast is very light, and often consists of just cappuccino, milk and espresso. People sometimes eat yogurt, but there are no meats or eggs.

For lunch and dinner, it is customary to serve in courses. First is appetizers, followed by a first course, then a second course with a side dish. People usually order at least two courses, but you are not required to. Italian meals can least an hour or two, sometimes longer.

There are several rules with Italian dining. Pasta and bread are NOT served together. Also, buttered bread is not common. Italians will eat bread with oil, but not as an appetizer, as it will fill you up and ruin your meal. It is custom to have mineral water and wine along with your meal. Soda and milk are usually for children or teenagers, or if you are eating pizza at lunchtime.

Meals at restaurants are served on different plates, and portions are generally smaller than those in America. Appetizers are often antipasti, which could have cold cuts and specialties of the area you are in. Next is pasta soup or rice (risotto, usually in Northern Italy) is served first. This is followed by fish, meat or vegetables, and a side dish could be salad or a potato. The following dessert, or dolce, is by fruit or cheese.

When you eat a fish-based pasta, grated cheese is seldom put on it. Coffee is drunk following the meal, never with it. Cappuccinos are served at breakfast, but espressos are served following lunch and dinner. Italians generally put whipped cream on Cappuccinos rather than cinnamon. If you only want to eat a sandwich and not a whole ensemble, you can go to a bar. Bars are not just for drinking; Italians will often go there for breakfast, or even to purchase gelato.

When eating salad, Italians generally don’t eat “Italian dressing,” but oil and vinegar. Red wine is drank with meat, white with fish. Italians generally take Sunday to eat out for a long lunch with their families. Lunch is usually eaten at 1:00, and dinner at 8:00. Restaurants will usually close in between lunch and dinner. When you are finished with your meal, you must ask the waiter for your check, or else they will not bring it to you.

Beautiful Gardens of Italy

Monsters' Grove

Botanical Gardens, Bologna

While there are many Botanical Gardens in Italy (some claim that botanical gardens started in Italy) Bologna University’s Botanic Garden holds a special importance as one of the oldest in Europe. The garden was founded in 1568 as an important site to study the medicinal values of plants.

More recently the garden went through a period of neglect but this has now been reversed and the garden enjoys a new period of growth and development. Areas within the gardens include: natural habitat reconstruction, medicinal plants, ponds with aquatic plants, a natural wood with very large specimens, and a marshland, a new area in development.

The Palazzo Fantini, Tredozio

This private garden is a culmination of centuries of care and design. Begun in the 7^th century, the garden only really began to take on its present day shape from the 19^th century. Visitors have come to these classic Italian gardens since the 18^th century. The present owner has an excellent collection of herbs and a museum of agricultural equipment. Today it is a beautiful home that can be let by the public for private functions or for Bed & Breakfast.

Villa Marigola, San Terenzio Lerici

On a hill with views of the Golfo dei Poeti, both the micro and macro views here are worth seeing. Villa Marigola is representative of the rand Italian seaside houses. The garden originally contained citrus fruits, olives and grapes. When the landscaped garden came into fashion in the 19^th century, the land around the house was changed into a more formal garden with paths and vistas.

Percy Bysshe Shelly and his wife Mary Godwin lived here in the summer of 1822. It was here that he wrote:

“… and the scent of winged flowers,
and the coolness of the hours
of dew, and sweet warmth left by day,
were scattered o’er the twinkling bay…”

(lines written in the Bay of Lerici, June 1882)

Today this venue can be booked for functions or conferences.

Palazzo Patrizi, Castel Giuliano, Bracciano, Roma

These gardens are over a century old but have suffered some from neglect over the years. The present owners are carefully renovating the gardens to their former glory and the results are already beautiful. The gardens are located at the base of the Tolfa Mountains, on the site of an ancient Etruscan and Roman settlement. The estate dates to before 1500.

Immaculate terraced lawns, groups of trees, giant Cedar of Lebanon, and many Etruscan tombs and Roman ruins turned pleasantly into natural rock gardens are a pleasant surprise. The special feature of these gardens is the rose collection—possibly the most important private rose collection in Italy.

The Roseto, Cavriglia

Also famous for its rose garden, this is an exceptional example of a private botanical garden. With approximately 7000 roses, (some were thought previously extinct), the garden holds an incredible history of the rose.

The garden maintains a strictly organised structure–subdivisions of Section, Species, Sub-species, and hybrids (of very complex lineage). Each rose is labelled with its botanical name, the year of introduction to Europe, and if relevant, the hybridizer. Donations help maintain this site of significant horticultural importance.

The Sacred Grove or The Monsters’ Grove, Bomarzo, near Orta

During the nineteenth century and well into the twentieth, the garden became overgrown and neglected but in the 1970s a program of restoration was implemented by the Bettini family, and today the garden, which remains private property, is a major tourist attraction. It is unfortunate that in recent years, a number of the stone sculptures have had fences put around them. Whilst this may deter visitors from climbing on them, it has the effect of making them more remote from their natural setting.

The original gardens were created by Vicino Orsini, the Duke of Bomarzo, 1528 -1588. A devoted husband, he created them in memory of his wife, Julia Farnese after her death. He called the garden a Bosco Sacro, a Sacred Grove or Bosco dei Monstri, the Monsters’ grove. In this case Monster, from the Latin, monstrare, means to demonstrate. The gardens therefore, are meant to demonstrate his love for his wife.

Although famous and visited by many well-known people, many years later the gardens became neglected and lost much of their glory. And yet, with the overgrown vegetation and the crumbling statues, the gardens took on an even more fantastic aura. 20^th century restoration has brought back some of the glory if the garden’s past, but the necessity of fencing around the statues has meant the magical realism has been lost to some extent.

Villa Lante, Gabnaia, near Viterbo

Along with the Monster Grove at Bomarzo, the garden at Villa Lanta is one of the most famous Italian 16th century Mannerist gardens. With waterfalls and water steps, fountains and wet grottos, the water features are especially impressive at Villa Lanta. A hydraulics engineer, Tommaso Ghinucci created such successful water features that they still work today.

The garden were badly damaged by allied bombs during WWII but has been under a careful and extensive reconstruction project and is now part of the Grandi Giardini Italiani, an organization of protected, exceptional gardens.

Learning the Social Customs of Italy

Italy is a family-based society, where individuals consider their families as the base of their social life, and also as a personal support structure. In Northern Italy, it is typical for nuclear families to reside together. In Southern Italy, it is more common to have extended families living together.

Italians take appearance and style seriously. It is expected for people to keep their appearances up. Many Italians believe that dress reflect an individual’s social status, family background and educational experience. Be sure to make good first impressions, as Italians take those seriously, and they may have preconceived notions about new people based on how they are dressed. The totality of clothing, accessories, shoes and personal appearance are important factors for Italians, and these are complimented by personal confidence and personality. If you wear sneakers in Rome, you will probably look like a tourist.

Italians also abide by the Roman Catholic religion, and the country has more Catholic churches per capita than any country in the world. Though there are many churches, and their influence on society is great, church attendance itself is somehow low. You will see crosses everywhere, and every day is a saint’s day of some sort. Children are all named after saints, and celebrate saint’s day.

If you give flowers to an Italian, pay attention to what type your are giving them. Chrysanthemums are reserved for funerals; red flowers are associated with a secret; yellow flowers are associated with jealousy. If you give wine as a gift, then it should be of good quality. Do not wrap gifts in black or in purple.

If you are invited to dinner at an Italian home, make sure to dress fashionably, even if they say that the dinner is informal. You do not need to be nervous about arriving on time, as Italy is not a punctual society, and being 15-30 minutes late is acceptable. You should wait to be seated, as there may be a particular seating order.

Usually, the hostess initiates dining actions, such as eating first, getting up first and ending the meal. The host will initiate the first toast, and then the guest of honor should make a toast later on. When eating, you should take small portions of food because you will be offered second helpings. It is fine to leave a small amount of food on your plate when you finish your meal. Wine glasses are also refilled, so if you do not want more, then you should leave it nearly full. If they offer cheese, you should pick it up with your knife instead of your fingers.

In terms of greetings, they are formal, but still enthusiastic. Italians will shake hands and smile with strangers, but may start air kissing when they begin to know each other better. Many Italians use calling cards, which are like business cards for social situations. Calling cards include the person’s name, address, title, academic credits, and telephone number. You should get a calling card made if you plan to be in Italy for a long time.

Public Transit in Rome, Italy

Rome, Italy, has an advanced public transportation system with buses and a metro. One precaution to using this system is to watch out for pickpockets, as they use very sly techniques on crowded buses and trains!

The Metro

The Roman Metro is usually referred to as the “Metropolitana.” It operates daily from 5:30 AM-11:30 PM, except for on Saturdays, when it stops at 12:30 AM. It is a rapid form of transportation, with trains stopping every 7-10 minutes, and no hold up from ground traffic.

There are only two lines, labeled A and B, so while it is a fast way to get around, it is not the most extensive network. Passengers are required to buy tickets before boarding, as drivers do not sell them. You must validate your pass by walking through the turnstile. These tickets can be purchased at the stations, or through newsstands, tobacco stores or vending machines. You must push a button to operate the doors on the blue line, but they operate automatically on the red line. The metro is not the most practical way of transit for tourists, as it does not stop at most of the major attractions.

Bus

The Roman bus system is much more extensive, and reaches to most areas of the city. Daytime buses run from 5:30 AM to midnight. Most buses do not operate on schedule, so do not expect to catch a bus at a specific time, but a select few do. Nevertheless, they show up fairly rapidly and passengers usually will not have to wait too long. To get on the bus, passengers must enter through the front and back doors, and exit through the middle doors. However, many people do break this rule. Since buses are not required to stop at every station, you may have to flag down the bus you wish to take, especially if you are outside the city center. To get off the bus, you need to ring the buzzer so the driver knows to stop.

The front seats on the buses are reserved for handicap, elderly people and pregnant women. If you are sitting in one of these spots, it is customary to give up your seat for priority passengers. Most of the buses in Rome are in the Linea Urbana, and the newer ones have air conditioning and more seating. There are also some express buses, called the Linea Express, which do not operate as much and do not make every stop.

Bus stops all have yellow signs that indicate which buses stop there, and their hours. There are also 20 lines of night buses that operate from 12:30 AM-5:30 AM. Buses get very crowded because they are the main way of transportation around Rome, so do not expect to get a seat every time.

Learning the Business Customs of Italy

Business in Italy tends to be personal. Italians like to know people when they do business, and prefer face-to-face meetings instead of on the computer or over the phone. Italian business partners will probably want to know some information about you and your background before they would want to associate with you.

It is not a bad idea to have a third party introduction to start things off. First impressions are important, and you should appear formal and stylish in your dress. It also does not hurt to ask other business colleagues questions about themselves so you will get to know and trust each other. When you communicate with Italians, they will probably act very expressive and enthusiastic and use their hands a lot.

In terms of meetings, appointments are very necessary, and you should schedule a meeting 2-3 weeks in advance. You should do this by sending an official letter, written in Italian. To confirm this upcoming meeting, you should send a fax or make a phone call, also in Italian.

Most people take vacations in the month of August, so avoid scheduling meetings then. People have different concepts of punctuality in Italy. In the north, your colleagues will probably be on time. You should have all of your written materials translated into Italian, and also hire an interpreter if you are not familiar with the language.

During meetings, people will probably be very loud and enthusiastic. People will often raise their voices and speak over one another, so do not get offended if this happens to you. Initial meetings generally do not reach any decisions, as they are more intended to have everyone say what they need to get across. Because of such a free-flow communication style, disputes will often break out between colleagues.

The amount of small talk will differ depending on the region of Italy you are doing business. In the north, the people are more strict, and will communicate with less small talk. In the south, they are usually more laid back and will want to get to know you for a little while before any negotiating. While negotiating, if you make a verbal agreement, never back out of it, because they show integrity. Do not be surprised if there are several arguments to finally determine the price and delivery date of anything.

There is definitely a hierarchy in the Italian business world. People have a lot of respect for power and age, and prefer to do business with people who are high up in their companies.

Italians are stylish people, so you are expected to adhere to this custom. Men should wear dark-colored business suits, and women should wear business suits or dresses. You can touch these up with elegant accessories, as these things will be noted.

Exploring the Volcanoes of Italy

Italy has the only active volcanoes in mainland Europe. This is because the country is located close to the boundary of the African Plate and Eurasian Plate.

The volcanoes are divided into three areas; the Campanian volcanic arc runs northwest through the center of Italy. The second group of volcanoes is clustered northeast of Sicily, and then the third is in the Mediterranean Sea, around the island of Pantelleria.

Mount Etna

Though it contains many volcanoes, there are only three that have erupted in the past century. Mount Etna, the biggest volcano of Italy (and therefore of Europe). It is located on the east coast of Sicily, and is about 3,329 meters (10,922 feet) tall, though this changes according to eruptions. It is one of the most active volcanoes on earth, having continuous activity. Because of the eruptions, it has caused the surrounding soil to be rich in minerals, therefore suitable for agriculture and vineyards.

Mount Stromboli

The second active volcano is on Stromboli, which takes up a small island in the Tyrrhenian Sea, north of Sicily. It is one of the nine Aeolian islands, and is 926 meters (3,034 feet) tall. A few hundred people live on this island. Stromboli also has continuous activity, constantly erupting through the three active craters on the peak. Its last major eruption occurred in 2009. Stromboli has been continuously active for the past 20,000 years.

Mount Vesuvius

Mount Vesuvius is located east of Naples, Italy, in the Bay of Naples. It is the one active volcano on mainland Italy, as well as mainland Europe. It is not currently erupting, which is fortunate, as it has had some historically very damaging eruptions that have wiped out towns and killed thousands. This mountain is prominent in ancient history and mythology, as the ancient Greeks and Romans thought of it as sacred to the hero, Hercules. Today, the area around Mount Vesuvius is the most densely populated volcanic region on earth.

Apart from the active volcanoes in the modern age, there are a number of dormant volcanoes around Italy and its many islands. Vulcano, one of the Aelion Islands, had last erupted in the late 19th century. Another one is Ischia, which is an island west of Naples, has last erupted in 1302.

Monterosso, Italy

Monterosso is one of the five beautiful villages along the Italian Riviera’s Cinque Terre. If you’ve never visited here before, prepare to be entranced. If you have, then you’ve probably already dreamed of living here someday. This week, why not consider making those dreams a reality?

Monterosso is actually officially a commune, and since it is under protection as a national park (along with the whole of Cinque Terre) and as a UNESCO World Heritage site, it isn’t exactly an easy place for expats to move to en masse. Even so, its well-preserved beauty is also part of what makes the town so alluring. The best way to move here is actually to find real estate in the surrounding La Spezia province, or perhaps even in Pisa (home of the leaning tower!).

Getting in and out of Monterosso is exceptionally easy due to its convenient train station, and it’s a short ride from anywhere in the surrounding region.

One of the perks of Monterosso compared to the rest of the Cinque Terre villages is its beach, which makes it a popular hub for sun bathers visiting the area since it is the only exclusive beach within the Cinque Terre. Of course, during tourist season in the summer, it can get overcrowded here. But for much of the year its historical atmosphere, environment and culture is relatively well preserved.

If you’re one to take daily walks, then you simply can’t do better than the Cinque Terre. There is a hiking trail which famously connects Monterosso with the rest of the villages; one of the most breathtaking hikes in the world. Along the way, pick out some fresh lemonade or wine from farmers who call this hillside their home.

The area is famous for its many lemon trees that can be seen throughout Monterosso. It is also renowned for its white wines, grapes, and olives.

Historically, many of the villages on the Mediterranean were walled to protect against attacks from the sea– which today has added an architectural beauty to Monterosso which is incredible. This area of the coast was often attacked by Muslim pirates and Vikings. Viking influence can still be seen in the occasional fair-skinned, red-headed children of the native villagers in the region. Of course, nowadays the only invaders are the waves of tourists.

Italy has its fair share of beautiful tourist destinations, and the Cinque Terre might top them all. It will be impossible for you to visit here without wanting to stay forever.

Why You Should Visit the Largest Mediterranean Island, Sicily

Sicily is an autonomous region of Italy with a rich history and culture based on architecture, language, cuisine, art, and folklore. Charming cliff top villages, beaches, Greek temples, Etna volcano… Sicily offers something for everyone!

How to get there?
The island is located in the South of Italy, 3km away from the peninsula, offering a warm Mediterranean climate all year long. There are two international airports located in Palermo and Catania.

A rich history

Sicilian Baroque, world heritage sites, castles… Greek, Spanish, Arabic or normandie influences can be found in this unique mix of architecture and art herited from the numerous invasions Sicily has known in the past. There is no other place on earth to find such combinations and amazing places.

Places to visit:

Palermo: the capital of Sicily autonomous region

Syracuse: presented by Ciceron as the greatest and most beautiful greek city

Agrigento: with its incredible Valley of temples

Taormina: and its incredible view of the Etna

Segesta: one of the most beautiful temples and theatres

Piazza Armerina, Ragusa, Cefalu, Messina, Noto and so many others…

Where to stay?
Sicily is not offering massive tourism infrastructures but you can choose between old-style grand hotels and residences transformed into luxurious B&Bs, adding a lot of charm to your vacations.

What to eat?

Food is one of the strong components of Sicilian culture. You can find very elaborated meals that require hours of preparation or simple and rich ones Don’t leave the island without trying the following: sincione a la palermitana, caponata, panelle, arancine, polpettone, cannoli, iris, cassata…