Well said Bob!!

The vineyards, which we refer to as "wine on a vine!"

The people, the people, the people. There is NO one in the world like Italians. Their language is beautiful, their history is astounding, their food is unsurpassed...and their driving abilities are remarkable!

Anticipation

We will be in Venice September 8quot;>

JanT: <<The people, the people, the people. There is NO one in the world like Italians.>>

And these wonderful, unique, remarkable qualities persist through the generations even in their grandchildren in the US.

I'm not sure what Italy offers that other countries don't. But, I look forward to learning and posting a trip report after I return from my first visit in September

goosebumps-it is all just sooooo good..........
(people/food/wine/landscape/history/
activities/sightseeing)


For those who "get" Italy- no explanation is needed as to how spectacular it is.
And for those who don't get it- no explanation will nearly be good enough.

A burning desire to return over and over again.

Yes, Barzelletta! And those of us who can proudly claim that heritage will carry on all those traditions to our children, and they to their children. Viva Italia!!

My husband and my beautiful children....oh ya and the Grappa!!!!

...some of the most amusingly (and charmingly) forward men I met in all of Europe.

Hi Marilyn,

That's great.

When you do Italian/English/Italian you get "il dolce per non DI fare niente"

The next translation gives
"the sweet for not to do nothing"

which isn't too bad.

I can't wait to get there i'm leaving on Aug 22

How come no one mentioned the music and the opera?

"How come no one mentioned the music and the opera?"

Because we wanted to leave that for you.

Monica Bellucci

Thanks, maitaitom... May I add Fellini to the list?

I need to ring in here..though the 'tomatoes' reply was on my list.

I'll add:

- countryside views that take your breath away; it's like Big Sur and a bunch of baby Surs, with surprises at every turn.

- history that precedes all the rest of the western world, and remains as vibrant today as when it encompassed and inspired that world.

- music that tears your heart out of your chest and tears from your eyes.

- perhaps the most effective combination of leisure and industry known to man. Where else can you take a nap every day, dine at 9, and still build some of the most amazing structures in the world? Autostrada, aqueducts...and Venice...

- a continuing general sense of joy at just being Italy. Every Italian I met had a keen sense of pride, without being overbearing.

What does Italy have that other countries don't? I found something there that I couldn't find here.

My heart and soul.

My family and home.

Traveljack,
I feel the same way......