PLMN, didn't you believe me?

Re: "nonnafelice, where did you get the idea that many places in Italy don't accept credit cards? "

Mostly small family-owned restaurants. The more upscale the place, the more likely it will take cards. If you're traveling on a budget though, you're more likely to seek out the local trattorias.

As for the discount, here's an example of a shopping experience we had at a small gallery. We were going to buy a little water color, and they told us if we paid cash, we could get two (different scenes) for the same price.

Also, if you look at the Rick Steves Rome guidebook, you'll see many discounted hotel rates listed as good only if you pay cash.

Yes jsmith, of course. I just wanted to clarify terms that were used. Thank you for the info, it will come in handy.