The Latest on Italy Airfare Sales

It is that time of year again — sales for spring travel to Italy! Fly to Rome for $399 roundtrip on Eurofly. The price is for select flights from New York  for travel through April. Price includes fuel surcharge but not taxes. Alitalia has roundtrip fares of $549 for travel now through March 29. A Saturday night stay is required. …

Ravello Exudes Romance

I’m convinced that the Amalfi Coast town of Ravello is a bit closer to heaven than most other places. I’m not just talking figuratively; it literally seems like you can reach out and touch the sky – all the while enjoying the most majestic views of the coast below. This photo is from my recent stay at Ravello’s Palazzo Sasso …

Romantic Italian Travel Gifts for Valentine’s Day!

This Valentine’s Day, think outside of the box — the candy box that is — candy is great, but don’t you want to get your Valentine something more unique and meaningful? If he or she loves Italy or if you’re planning a trip together to the land of la dolce vita, we have a choice of two perfect gifts: Romantic …

What are Your Favorite 30 Things in Italy?

Travel writer Tim Jepson has compiled a list of the 30 best things in Italy for the Telegraph newspaper. Lists like these always prompt discussion and debate; “but what about x or what about y.” Jepson’s list and links to related articles from Dream of Italy are below. Feel free to share your favorites in the comments section! Basilica di …

Rome: Renting an Apartment Long-Term

New Yorkers have a notoriously difficult time finding apartments that match their needs and the size of their wallets. That might be why The New York Times chose to chronicle a young American couple and their four-year quest to find the perfect Rome apartment rental. Sienna Reid, her husband Yves Jacques and their son Marcel started out living in Castelli …

Italian Public Holidays in 2008

Keep these holidays in mind when planning your trip to Italy- March 24: Easter Monday April 25: Liberation Day May 1: Labor Day June 2: Anniversary of the Republic August 15: Feast of the Assumption November 1: All Saints’ Day December 8: Feast of the Immaculate Assumption December 25: Christmas Day December 26: St. Stephen’s Day

2008 Anniversary Celebrations in Italy

Palladio: 2008 is the 500th of the birth of the great neo-classical architect, Andrea Palladio. Celebrations are planned throughout the Veneto region where Palladio designed his famous villas and churches. The city of Vicenza will also host events and exhibitions. Paid subscribers can learn more about Vicenza and a fantastic local guide in Adventures in the Veneto, a DOI article …

Basilicata: Hot Destination for 2008

The London Times named the region of Basilicata – south of Campania – as one of its 100 best summer destinations of 2008 and I have to agree. I’ve always thought that this region is one of Italy’s best-kept secrets. The Times points to one town in particular – “Matera…looks like any other pretty town in southern Italy, a collection …

Learn Travel Writing in Italy

For several years now, I’ve been interested in running a travel writing course in Italy. So many people have the dream of becoming a travel writer, even if it is just a hobby, and I’d love to share my passion and experience with them. Well, I haven’t set up a program…yet…but in the last few days I’ve learned about several …

Is Sicily Part of Your 2008 “Dream of Italy”?

Our friends at the wonderful online Italian food store DITALIA are taking their love of all things Italian on the road – to Sicily in May! Their 7-night tour focuses on the incredible foods of this island, while taking in the sights and sounds of cities and towns like Palermo, Ragusa, Modica, Agrigento and Erice. Participants will dine at some …