Having sufficiently recovered from jetlag and unpacking, and my head finally clearing from the effects of a nasty cold, I am happy to report that, yes, three weeks in Italy is breathtaking yet exhausting. The luxury of a week in a city allowed us to thoroughly explore the hidden gems that we’d otherwise have to skip. (Okay, my feet have still not forgiven me. I tried to take a walk yesterday, and they said, oh no, not yet.) We were able to get past the “Top 10” and really enjoy the beauty that is only Italy, from the lively markets, to the oh-my-gosh-wow moments in the churches and museums, to the undeniable friendliness and charm of its people.

I have to add a post-trip aside before I begin. At the local grocery store the other day, once I finished paying and the cashier handed me my receipt, I automatically said “grazie” to her. She gave me this look, and I had to laugh. Oh, how I love grazie, prego, and all that’s Italian.

Itinerary

Lugano, Switzerland – 1 night
Venice – 7 nights
Milan – 2 nights
Florence – 6 nights
Rome – 8 nights

Hotels/Apartments

Lugano: Walter au Lac (walteraulach.ch) - sort of lakefront (street between hotel and lake) – typical Swiss double room, lovely balcony, probably only 3 rooms occupied. Best features are location and their superb breakfast room with big windows overlooking lake. Free internet in library.

Venice: Corte Grimani apartments (cortegrimani.com) – OUTSTANDING! Wonderfully appointed one-bedroom unit, large bedroom and living/dining rooms with wall kitchen area, superb location, and extremely accommodating staff, free internet in reception area.

Milan: Ibis Milano Central (accorhotels.com) – Clean, good value for short stay.

Florence: Residenza Il Villino (ilvillino.it) – lovely room with terrace overlooking courtyard, very quiet. Charming hotel a short walk from the sights. Owners are extremely friendly and helpful. Free internet in breakfast room.

Rome: Domus Termini apartment (homelidays.com, #68763) – beautifully furnished, large two bedrooms/two baths. Everything about this place was an A+, except for the location. This is a brand new apartment. We were only their second customer. The owner, Mrs. Bianchi, a retired schoolteacher, is as charming as can be. Her son was our interpreter. This was truly a gem of a home, not just your typical rental apartment. The dinnerware was even china! Having decided to go with an apartment rather late in the game, our choices were limited. This place was just across from the Termini station, and the neighborhood was – well, let’s just say it made me a bit uncomfortable walking past the groups of men hanging around in the evenings. No one ever approached me nor threatened me, but it just made me uneasy.

More later...

Goodness gracious. Where, oh where did that title come from?

Should read "Three Weeks in Italy - March/April 2006".

On second thought, forget this one. I'll repost with a correct title, hopefully. Let this one drop to the bottom...

And you said "sufficiently recovered"? What's that topic? Was it prescription medication you've been drinking for your cold

Repost, and please continue, can't wait!

Your trip was rated XXX ?
Post a report please!! lol