Prices for Italian vacations were down in 2009 compared to 2008, and 2010 promises to be about the same.  Airfare, meals and museums have all reduced their prices to combat the global recession.  Keep in mind the euro is holding a firm command over the U.S. dollar so expect to pay about 55 cents more for every single euro.

There are many sample itineraries to try when visiting Italy.  Many people go directly to Rome before exploring other cities and the rolling countryside.  Will you join an organized tour or go it alone?  All options are available right from the internet.  If you do hire a tour guide make sure he or she speaks English.  There is nothing worse than needing information from someone you cannot understand.

Whether or not you are Roman Catholic, a tour of the Vatican is a great stop.  The Vatican Museums house some of the world’s finest art, including Michelangelo’s frescoed ceiling in the Sistine Chapel.  You can then walk to St. Peter’s Basilica which is Christianity’s largest sanctuary before walking outdoors to the mammoth St. Peter’s Square which has regular audiences with the Pope.

No trip to Italy should be complete without a tour of Tuscany and there are villages, bridges and wineries between Rome and Florence to entice you to make Italian vacations a tradition you will want to repeat.

The host of this Blog is Federica Merli of TuscanyWithMe.it, a native Tusanite, where you will be greeted in flawless English and she will assist you in planning the ultimate holiday in Tuscany.  Each and every client receives close personal attention and if you know where you want to go and what you want to see it will be arranged immediately

If you are unsure of just what your best choices should be Federica will make marvelous suggestions.  All of her tour clients receive a custom tour to exactly what you want.  Italian vacations do not get any better than this.

To receive a price quote click here: Italian Vacations

Thanks to the internet, Italian vacations are easy to plan right from your own home.  In fact, many travelers believe the fun begins with the click of a mouse as soon as they begin their research.  Here are some tips to make your trip go smoothly.

First, know how to pay for things.  Italy is part of the European Union and it uses the Euro as currency.  There are several online sources available right from your cell phone to convert U.S. dollars to Euros.

You will see Euros listed quite differently than prices in America.  The commas and periods are reversed.  What is $2.25 in the U.S. is 2,25 in Euros.  Conversely, $1,900.00 will appear as 1.900.  You will find sales associates very patient with you as long as you present a friendly demeanor for your transaction.

That leads to another important consideration for travel throughout Europe.  Most Europeans speak English better than Americans speak other languages, but it is important to try some conversational Italian.  As long as you attempt to converse in the language of your hosts, you will find them more than happy to take it from there.

ATM machines in Italy are called Bancomats and they appear different from their American counterparts, especially those in smaller cities and towns.  In Italy the ATMs are located outside the bank in a glass enclosure.  This allows the machines to be accessed 24 hours per day.  Oftentimes you’ll need to use your ATM card to gain access to the enclosure which is excellent security to have you in there exclusively.

Be aware of your surroundings when accessing cash in the ATM.  Some of these locations are hot spots for thieves looking to rob tourists.   With a little vigilance and attention, vacations to Italy will have a happy ending with a lifetime of good memories.