I found that working in a holiday rental agency was a fantastic way to get to know Italy and the local culture. My account from behind the scenes reveals what goes on behind closed doors, tells you what you need to know about the agency before you book your holiday …
Last week, the entire financial problems in Testaccio were solved in less than 10 minutes. There was widespread debt and no money in community, until the visit of an American Tourist. Here’s what happened.
Why should you support the use of cash in Italy? Does that not mean that you are facilitating tax evasion? Not necessarily. Instead, overusing your credit card in Italy means to undermine their social fabric, and might hurt the local economy and culture. Here is why.
One of the things you don’t realize about Rome until you’ve left is the city’s (and the country’s) great tradition of pasticcerie.
Quite honestly, overall, they played rubbish.
It all starts with a few problems in the team. Two of the biggest problems are Cannavaro and Pirlo. These two players were the backbone of the 2006 world cup success. The team played well around Pirlo, and defensively, Cannavaro was second to none. However, 4 years on and Cannavaro is not the player he was. … Continue Reading
It’s unfortunate that the time of year most people visit Rome is also one of the most uncomfortable: the height of summer. Although the city, and the entire country, look gorgeous this time of year, the heat can dishearten the most ardent Rome-fanatic. If you find yourself arriving in the city during a heat wave, like the one sweeping currently, there are a few measures you can take to make your estate romana (Roman summer) a little more pleasant. … Continue Reading
We had closely followed the first trial, in which Amanda Knox and Raffaele Sollecito were found guilty of murdering her British flat mate, Meredith Kercher, in Perugia. This was one of the most dramatic and internationally observed Italian trials of this decade, … Continue Reading
Anyone wandering around Rome in these days can see that it is a busy place. It seems as though the city has just woken up from a long slumber. Tourists and locals out and about and spending money. The good old days are back.
Or are they? … Continue Reading
There is so much to do in Rome. Doing “Not Much”, is one of the best with kids.
Rome is a wonderful place for kids. Depending on their ages, you just need to tailor your trip to include a bit of “them” time, whilst making sure they are not bored with the you time. It is not that difficult as Rome is a very safe city, endlessly fascinating in many different ways. … Continue Reading
House prices, Rent prices and market direction in Italy
Short term predictions about asset prices (houses, stocks, commodities) are inherently based on rumour and emotion. Predicting for the long term however, must be based on fundamental analysis. … Continue Reading
Has the abuse scandal already had wider implications? Will it shape the future of the church, or is it merely a storm that will pass soon? Perhaps it is too much to link the following bit of news to the scandal, … Continue Reading
Why should you support the use of cash in Italy? Does that not mean that you are facilitating tax evasion? Not necessarily. Instead, overusing your credit card in Italy means to undermine their social fabric, and might hurt the local economy and culture. Here is why. … Continue Reading
For travelers to Rome, and those expats being paid in Euros, the currency has become way too interesting over the last month or so. This is a quick overview to wipe away some of the main stream media misunderstandings, and try to understand what might happen to your money … Continue Reading
European Petrol(Gas) Prices keep on climbing
The latest European figures for average petrol (gas) prices for various countries are now out for May 2010. … Continue Reading
There is a lot of important travel news coming through at the moment, and it is worth summarising quickly a few of the more important ones.
1. BA strikes. Whether the Unions succeed in a 2 week strike, or 1 day strike over the next few weeks, the fear of strikes is hitting future bookings with BA hard. Willie Walsh, CEO, has come out and said that no matter what happens from here, there will be a fire sale of seats of the summer to win back loyal customers. That is, they will dump seats at very low prices. … Continue Reading
What to pack? What will I need? And how to fit it all into a suitcase? Packing is somewhat of a chore for most people, and the restrictions on the liquids you are allowed to take in your carry-on bag during airtravel have not made it easier. … Continue Reading
Spring is a wonderful time of year in Rome, especially because of all the fresh local products that are transformed into seasonal dishes in many great restaurants throughout the city. In this article, I would like to introduce you to the Jewish District – renowned for its traditional dishes, … Continue Reading
The European debate on the integration of Muslim minorities is heating up: Last week, a committee of Belgian MPs voted to prohibit face-covering Islamic veils, paving the way for the first such ban in Europe. As you may know, the same discussion is in full swing in Italy, France, Austria, Switzerland, and the Netherlands, … Continue Reading
To be honest, the whole catholic church abuse scandal has had me sitting in front of my laptop in lethargy for days. The doubts cast on the church’s willingness to admit to the crimes commited among their ranks, and to do whatever is necessary to compensate the victims for their trauma – as much as that is possible – have highlighted … Continue Reading
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