Here is an idea you may investigate. I subscribe to a housesitting service website that posts listing from all over from people who need a housesitter. The last offer I received was from a couple in Cambridge who needed someone to stay in their house and take care of things (including providing love and kibble for their cat) while they travelled the world for one year. I can't do it right now...BUT, what a great opportunity!

Great idea, Cynthia, do you feel comfortable sharing the web site? Or I can email your address? Thanks.

Knowing the language is of course preferrable. Make it a priority starting now! At least learn some conversation and phrases, or become more conversant if you already do speak Italian. But please don't let the lack of it stop you from much of what has been mentioned above (plus more!). <BR><BR>I have found in my experiences (Mexico, Paris, Venice, Switzerland) that a pleasant and open personality, smile and good attitude have gotten me thru the basics just fine.

I always love to go into a forest and mingle with the deer. Just hang out and be part of the bambience. :)

Hi Lauren, sorry, this is not my real e-mail and I don't want to post it, but I will check on the website address when I get home and post it up here. good luck.

Lauren - I found it here at work. The website is- Housecarers.com

If you have a home/apartment that someone could stay in while you're in their place in Italy, a home exchange is a great idea. Locations in the U.S. that seem to be the most in demand include California, New York, and major cities, but many people are just interested in seeing more of the U.S. (so any location might work).<BR><BR>The two best sites I've seen are www.homeexchange.com, www.holiswaps.com, and www.homebase-hols.com (they have the most listings available to non-members & typically have a lot of information about the houses, including pictures). www.4homex.com has a lot of offers, but minimal info & pictures. <BR><BR>There are LOADS of offers in Italy and France, and many of them are second homes, so the exchange does not need to be simultaneous, or they will rent. <BR><BR>We've just listed our own house and are hoping for our first exchange. In case a Fodorite with a European home wants to come to Shanghai, here's our site:<BR><BR>http://pages.ivillage.com/libris/phillipsonline/<BR><BR>(This can, in fact, count as shameless self-promotion, but it's not commercial . . . !)

&lt;&lt;We've just listed our own house and are hoping for our first exchange. In case a Fodorite with a European home wants to come to Shanghai, here's our site:<BR><BR>http://pages.ivillage.com/libris/phillipsonline/<BR><BR>(This can, in fact, count as shameless self-promotion, but it's not commercial . . . !)&gt;&gt;<BR><BR>Oh, yeah...just wait until LSKahn hears of this and you'll see if it's commercial or not.

Thanks, I will look into all of these ideas.