Does it make sense to bring back an expresso machine? Not the stove top ones but the real thing with the steamer. I am aware the voltage is different. i suppose that can be deal with easily.

Not only will the voltage be different, but the plug will be too. The plug is easy enough to change, but the voltage isn't. You will need what is known as a step-down transformer and it is a bulky, heavy thing that will not look pretty sitting on your counter nor will it be easy to move around if you don't keep the machine on the counter. Another thing to consider, the machine may not perform the same with the transformer. Some appliances run slower and hotter with a transformer. It may take you a half hour to steam your milk!

Don't. Buy your Italian made espresso machine from Williams-Sonoma, Sur La Table, or some other good upscale kitchen supply company. An appliance bought in Europe or South America will never perform the way you expect it to in the U.S. It might work, but it will be substandard. In the end, you will be disappointed.

I'd listen to the advice you are getting here. It's good. BUT -- you could always bring back some expresso cups & saucers. and some special expresso coffee beans?

All the best Italian expresso machines are available in the US (either in good kitchen stores or on-line). <BR> <BR>Idea about the coffee cups is a good one (I got a present of a set of six hand-painted cups & saucers from an Italian friend). I also collect Italian ceramic stuff called "Muti" which is truly beautiful - you may want to pcik some up. <BR> <BR>Why not post a request for recommendations on where to buy this stuff? <BR> <BR>Regards

Agree that it's best to purchase one stateside. For one thing, a warranty is essential, in case there's a problem. I've had terrific luck with Capresso products and their customer service is magnificent, even beyond the warranty.

to the top <BR>

Espresso. No x.

Thanks everyone for your great advise. I am grateful to this board where I get such prompt and helpful answers. You guys are much better than the Official Italian Tourist office in New York City. Everytime when I called that place to ask a question, it seemed that the person who spoke to me knew nothing. She has to put me on hold, ask someone at the back, i would hear alot of italian conversation going on and she would come back and give me a phone number to call in Italy. And they also always run out of maps. <BR>Thanksyou. I'll listen to you. I won't buy an expresso machine in italy. For all expresso people out there. Try ILLY coffee if you haven't, you won't regret it.

Mo: At one time Costco had a coffee maker/expresso machine on their websight that they would mail to you. I noticed it because it is exactly like the one my brother bought for his home in Hong Kong,,,but of course this one would be for American use. It wasn't cheap, but check out their websight, maybe it is still available. My brother loves his. If it still isn't listed, I may be able to find out the name of his if you are interested.

Sherry, thanks for your response. I actually shop at costco, and I also have brothers in Hong Kong. What coincidence!!! <BR>I'll pay attention next time when I go to costco. I have a krup, it works OK. I just think it's cool to have a real one from Italy. <BR>Thanks anyway.