Last week my friend and expat-in-southern-Italy counterpart, Tina of Tina Tangos wrote about three things to love about living in Italy.

And yes, it is all about the food.

The thing is, Tina and I are both lucky not only to live in Italy, but to live in southern Italy, where the food is apparently that much better. So in addition to Tina’s three things to love, I’d like to add a few of my own.

1. Say Cheese

My husband got quite offended earlier this week when I was near tears at the local Lidl’s British Week when I discovered there was no more Cheddar Cheese.

“You are in Calabria, Cherrye,” he told me. “We have the best cheese in the world.”

Well, since I am yet to sample all of the world’s cheeses and have a few French friends who’d defriend me if I agreed, I’ll just say that yes, Calabria has great cheese.

In fact, Calabrian cheese, especially Provola di Sila and Pecorino Calabrese are some of my favorite things about Calabria, so if you see them when you are out and about, be sure to give them a try.

2. Peperoncino, Per Favore

Oh, I’ve written of my passion for the peperoncino many times over the years, still it is one of my favorite things about southern Italy and thus, merits another mention.

I love how Calabrians use the ever-popular pepper in most of their plates, then offer it freely for those (of us) who’d like to add a little more power to our pranzo. I love how they don’t look at you strangely if you add it to your pasta and how oftentimes you get your choice-fresh, dried or oil-for your pizza.

3. Melanzane Mania

Even in Texas I loved to top my dishes with a pretty pepper or a chunk of cheese, but it is the mighty melanzane-or eggplant, if you please, that has taken me by surprise. This pretty purple produce is great sliced and grilled, fried, rolled into a ball or baked. Unfortunately, perfection has alluded me and most of the time my melanzane ends up either old-soaked or dry. However, my father-in-law is the melanzane master, so luckily for me, I can still get my fill on this Calabrian specialty.

Ok, if you had to choose-what ONE food-related item do you love most about southern Italy?

This post was written on behalf of Affordable Calling Cards.net, the company that sells-you guessed it-affordable calling cards to Italy. You can either check out their calling cards or read posts written by other expats in the ACC community.

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

Photos: Academia Barilla, Gusti di Calabria, Netturbe, Dolci e Non Solo (also a great source of Italian-language recipes).

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You see, I’m convinced there really is something to that Aria Calabra that changes a once innocent, well-meaning, pooch-petting boy into a hormone-ranging mostro.

And it all started in Pizzo.

Auntie Adventures: Italian Beach Bums

Pizzo is one of my favorite little villages in Calabria and since it is only 45-minutes or so from Catanzaro, it made for a sensible day trip. We headed out-on the train … more on that later-to check out the Murat Castle, go swimming in the Tyhennian Sea and taste-test tartufo in Pizzo’s main piazza.

And all went according to plan.

We toured the castle, I forced a picture of Cole and a statue, we had tartufo.

Then we went to the beach. In fact, we found an ideal cove of tan sand and rocks, just large enough for a few people and their beach towels, and plopped down to enjoy a few hours of private beach bummin’,

The boys had a great time and just before I called “time’s up,” they swam around the big boulder to my right-to another hidden bay of private beach bliss and had the surprise of their young lives.

A topless sunbather.

I looked up and saw Cole, stumbling towards me in a drunken stupor, wide eyes, goofy grin.

“Cici!” He said. (See, he is still a kid-he calls me by a special name.) “You’ll never guess what we saw. A woman without her bra!”

I jumped up. “Ok, boys. Time to go. We’ll miss the train … Come on. Andiamo!”

They reluctantly joined me and immediately started sizing her up.

“They were so big,” Cole said. “I gotta call Uncle Peppe!”

“They weren’t that big,” the older and wiser 14 year old, Jake told him. “She was probably a ‘C’.”

“They were big,” Cole insisted. “And there were like, nipples or something.”

“Enough, boys! Basta.” I had to stop it. I flashed back to October 17, 2000-just seconds after he was born-it was too soon to be hearing about nipples.

We hopped on the train and an hour or so later we were back in Catanzaro-the boys wearing a bit more pride on their upturned chests, Cole, with a glimmer of knowledge that shouldn’t be there, shining in his deep green eyes and me, with all of the stress and worry of an aunt who’d just allowed her sister’s nine year old child to grow up a bit too soon.

But all’s well that ends well. My sister laughed and forgave me, Cole thinks I’m the coolest aunt in the country and I’ve learned there is a lot more to beach bums than should ever meet the eye.

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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Adjusting to life in southern Italy-without a drop of Italian ancestral blood in my veins-took a bit more practice than it did for my Italian-American counterparts. You see, I didn’t grow up eating seven fishes at Christmas or fearing the dreaded malocchio.

But as Lisa Fantino of Wanderlust Women Travel explains, most Italian-American kids know of the Calabrian evil eye-and know how to protect themselves.

***
Calabria may be Cherrye’s adopted homeland but part of my roots come from there. The Sicilian majority of my DNA is cramping my muscles as I write this but it’s true. Yet, the Sicilian and Calabrese cultures are so close to each other that it was difficult for me, as a kid growing up in an Italian-American household, to distinguish between the two.

One thing that was taught from an early age was all about the malocchio, “the evil eye.” Southern Italians swear that this curse may herald the end of the world if placed upon you by another. Their answer to repel such cursed maladies is the gorni or horn. You’ve all seen it, that singular horn that is everywhere from men who wear the charmed amulets around their necks to nonnas who hang giant red gornis in their kitchens (along with the streghe or witches). As for me, mine was a gold one bestowed upon me the day I was born. All babies need extra protection, according to the Calabrese, because they are the most vulnerable of all.

Now, why would anyone give the malocchio to another? The answer is simple. It always has to do with envy or jealousy, from the elderly zia who curses the beautiful young women of the village, to the workers’ wives who scorn the padrone who has all of the money.

Yet, there is nothing to fear because there are a host of remedies which have been around for hundreds of years and all of them seem to work. You can wear the gorni, especially if it’s made from red coral because that’s extra protection. You can bless yourself with the sign of the cross when you come within 50 yards of the person who has cursed you. You can spit on the ground at the mention of their name. You can wear the mano cornutta (“horned hand”) around your neck because that essentially gives them the horns right back.

Lastly, you should know that you cannot truly prevent malocchio. It is all around us. Therefore, it is truly best to take precautions early:

1. Hang a bunch of skinny dried hot red pepper over your stove. They look like red horns and keep your kitchen safe.

2. Take a container of salt and sprinkle it everywhere. This is a must, from the corners of your new home so evil does not come in, to the trunk of your new car so blessings will always be with you.

3. And for added measure, just to make sure that the malocchio doesn’t find you in your dreams……….there’s the malocchio cloth, a giant piece of red material which should be placed between the floor and you, essentially between your mattress and boxspring, so that you will sleep soundly and safely.

Hey, I’m a left-brain/right-brain kind of girl with a masters and a doctorate and I wouldn’t mess with this stuff. Don’t say I didn’t warn you.

Lisa Fantino is an award-winning journalist and attorney and the creative force behind Wanderlust Women Travel and the Italy destination wedding portal Wanderlust Weddings, which specializes in destination weddings and honeymoons in Italy. She also writes travel features for MNUI Travel Insurance and blogs as Lady Litigator.

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

Photo: Zazzle (you can purchase anti-malocchio merchandise from this site, as well!)

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One of the most expensive portions of a world travel's trip is accommodations, so imagine how far your Euro would go if you didn't have to worry about paying for your resort, a hotel, your B&B, that week-long apartment rental … campgrounds.

From now until July 24, Radisson Blu hotels are hosting a contest-aptly named the the Greatest Holiday in the World and are giving away 365 nights in more than 200 of their hotels around the world … and you have five years to use 'em or share them with your friends and family (or the super cool blogger who told you about this awesome giveaway)!

Unfortunately for me, you have to be a EU citizen to enter and while yes, I now have residency and a Carta di Soggiorno in Italy, I'm not yet a full-fledged citizen. If you are, all you have to do is tell the Blogosphere why you deserve to win. You can enter directly from their site and whoever has the most votes on July 24, wins!

Easy Peasy.

In an effort to keep all things on the up and up, I should let you know that Radisson is paying me to announce the contest-but no, I have no real pull over there and yes, you still have to write the best entry and get the most votes.

But isn’t that tempting?

So go check out the contest and if you are an EU citizen, by all means, enter people! Do it for all of us Americans out there who can't, for the Canadians who tried, for the Asians and Australians who are watching from abroad. And if you enter, come back here and let us know so we can vote for you. I won’t make you invite me along for every trip. Probably.

Where would you go if you won 365 free hotel nights around the world? Would you use them all up or would you share them with your globe-trottin' friends and family?

Sponsored Post

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

Photos: Radisson Blu Hotels

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Over the last few months I’ve tried to feature southern Italian travel destinations outside of my beloved Calabria-and few places in the bel paese are more beloved than Capri. If you are considering a visit to this chic and stylish island, here are a few ideas to add to your itinerary by avid Italy traveler, Katie Greenaway.

 
Villa San Michele and the Axel Munthe Museum

Villa San Michele was the home of Dr. Axel Munthe, a Swedish physician who dreamed of living in Anacapri in southern Italy. Famed more as an author than a physician, his most famous book was the 1929, The Story of St. Michele, a book he spent much of his life writing that details his life and his home, Villa San Michele. The 45+ translations of The Story of St. Michele and the unending flow of visitors to the villa is a testament to Munthe’s fame.

Opening Hours:

January-February: 9.00-15.30
March: 9.00-16.30
April: 9.00-17.00
May-September: 9.00-18.00
October: 9.00-17.00
November-December: 9.00-15.30

Castello Barbarossa

This enchanting castle overlooks a cliff on the northeast part of Anacapri and is named for one of Capri’s most fearsome invaders-the Algerian prince Kair-ed-Din, or “Barbarossa,” who attacked the castle in 1535. The castle was the largest construction of the Byzantine times and was built with material obtained from Roman ruins. The central part of the castle still remains today. A small ornithological research and observation center has been set up in some rooms of the castle, which is run by the Swedish “Axel Munthe” Foundation.

La Grotta Azzurra
(“Blue Grotto”)

The discovery of this romantic hideaway among the rocks around Capri is credited to two German tourists who visited the island in 1826-Augustus Kopisch, a writer and Ernst Fries, a painter. The Grotta was already locally known as “Grotta Gradola,” a place the people of Capri considered bewitched because of the frolicking monsters and witches that were thought to lurk in the waters.

The area sank 15-20 meters (50-65 feet) below present sea level and blocked every opening through which light might directly enter the cave. On one side the sunlight penetrating from below through the sea water springs out and is reflected onto the sides and the vault of the azzurro-colored grotto. On the other side, this light from the white sandy bottom of the grotto reflects off of the water so that any object that is dipped in it drips and vibrates with a silvery light.

How to Arrive:
* 10 minute motorboat ride from Marina Grande
* 15 minute bus ride to terminal in Viale Tommaso de Tommaso (in Anacapri)
* 50 minute walk along Viale Tommaso de Tommaso, Via Pagliaro and Via Grotta Azzurra

Have you ever been to Capri? What would you recommend travelers add to their lists of “must-sees?”

Katie Greenaway is a freelance travel writer and is the Local Expert of Florence for Nile Guide where she also provides the secrets of Florence on her blog. She writes about her life in Florence on her personal blog Olio di Oliva e Sogni di Vino and contributes to MNUI Travel Insurance with travel articles.

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

Photos: CapriTourism and TripAdvisor.it

Too bad I didn’t consult my new blogging buddy, Andi of My Beautiful Adventures about some of the holistic medicine I should have used, before this crud got me down.

However, it is not too late for you if you are planning a trip abroad. Here are some expert tips from avid traveler and Chinese Medicine Doctor, Andi Perullo.

—

Being a health care professional, I always make sure that one of the first things I pack when preparing for a trip is my own personal first aid kit. In it I have combined the best of Western and Holistic Medicine into a little package that has kept me quite healthy on my travels around the world. Since I am a Licensed Acupuncturist, I am going to share my favorite Holistic remedies to bring when abroad. If you are more interested in the Western remedies, I encourage you to consult your primary physician for further advice.

#1 Ginger:

The most common problem that people encounter when traveling to a new environment is an upset stomach or diarrhea. This is because your stomach is not used to the new micro-organisms found in the local food and water. Ginger is an herb that people have been using for thousands of years to treat any kind of digestive issue. It comes in many forms, such as chewable tablets, herbal tea, and crystallized candy. It can also be used for nausea associated with any type of motion sickness. Feel free to use it as a preventive measure.

#2 Aloe

Even if you do not plan on visiting a sunny climate where you might get a sunburn, aloe is useful for other burns, scrapes, or bites. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties and its cooling effect will help ease the pain. Many people are not aware that aloe can also be ingested to help strengthen the immune system and combat digestive issues.

#3 Arnica

Arnica is an herb that can be used as a natural substitute for over-the-counter anti-inflammatory/pain medications. It is incredibly effective in treating any pain, swelling, and bruising. It comes in 2 forms: cream or pills. The cream is best for superficial problems, whereas the pills are best for internalized problems. You can pop a pill or two to prevent a hangover headache in the morning as well.

#4 Tiger Balm

Traveling long hours and carrying heavy luggage leads to muscle soreness, fatigue, and pain. One of the best ways to treat this is by rubbing Tiger Balm ointment, which is a combination of Chinese herbs, on to the affected area. Relief is guaranteed almost instantly.

#5 Lavender Essential Oil

Besides the fact that it smells divine, lavender happens to be a powerful antibiotic. If used on the skin, it can help cure rashes or disinfect scrapes or bites. If used internally, it can help boost the immune system. Put a couple of drops in a bottle of water and drink while on the plane to prevent catching a cold. Another benefit of this essential oil is its ability to relax the nervous system. Therefore, if inhaled before sleep it will help insomnia from jetlag.

Of course your kit will highly depend on your particular health concerns and the destination of your travels, however while I hope you will never have to use one of these five remedies it is better to have them than to not have them. Please remember my suggestions are for non-serious ailments. If your ailments do not get better or they become worse, you should seek more advanced care immediately.

Andrea Perullo is a Chinese Medicine Doctor by day, travel addict by night. When she is not treating patients, she is exploring the world or dreaming of the next place to visit. She also writes travel features for MNUI Travel Insurance and blogs at My Beautiful Adventures.

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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My friend Lisa over at Wanderlust Women’s Travel Dreams urged me to share some of my Auntie Adventures with you on the blog, so with Lisa’s urging and my sister’s insistence for details of our day-to-day activities, I’ve decided to chronicle some of our adventures here.

Boardwalk Surprises

Our first adventure takes place on a Sunday evening on the Catanzaro Lido lungomare. We have plans-the two boys, my husband and I-to meet up with friends for pizza, gelato and a night of people-watching on the lungmare.

Like many other seaside towns in Italy, Catanzaro Lido’s lungomare is bursting with people of all ages, walking their dogs, meeting their friends, gathering to play in the arcade or just checking out who on the lungomare is checking them out.

As we parked our car into one of too-tight spaces we’d managed to wrangle, our friends call and tell us they’ll be an hour late.

“No problem,” we thought. “We’ll just hang out here with the boys.”

As we were approaching the beach, a middle-aged man with a beagle passes us.

“Look!” Cole said. “A doggie! How do you say, ‘Can I pet your dog in Italian?’”

Knowing “accarezzare” would be too difficult for him to remember in Italian, we told him to just point to the dog and say “Posso?”

And so he did. (Except he said “Cosso?” and the guy had a hard time figuring out what this nine year old American kid was trying to tell him about his pooch.)

My husband came to the rescue, corrected Cole’s pronunciation and on we went.

However, anyone with kids will know that if you do something once, you’re going to get asked again. And again. And yet again.

Not content sitting on the lungomare waiting for dog-walkers to approach us, Cole began stalking them -searching for them, chasing them down the boardwalk, dashing to get ahead of them so he could accidentally bump into them in passing.

“Posso?”

They were all charmed and every one of those Calabrians freely offered up their pooch for his petting.

A few minutes before our friends scheduled arrival, we grabbed a seat on one of the orange-slice benches that faces the Ionian.

“Cole,” I told him, trying to give the dogs and their owners a piccolo break. “Most people don’t come to the lungomare to look at pets. They come to look at girls like the one your Uncle Peppe is pretending not to look at now.”

“Oh yea,” his face lit up. “Like her.”

I followed his gaze and it was, indeed, the same leggy blond Uncle Peppe was pretending he hadn’t seen.

“Yes,” I told him. “Like her.”

He glanced around the lungomare and as our friends arrived we began our stroll towards the pizzeria. The previous conversation forgotten by everyone but Cole, he blurted out, “That one! That’s the one I like.”

We looked over to a 30something blond, with a turquoise blue tank and tight blue jeans (“And black boots,” says Cole, as he reads this over my shoulder, “Don’t forget her black boots!”)

A pretty girl woman, indeed.

Everyone laughed at his choice and we continued on our way.

Ten minutes later, we enter the pizzeria and who do we see sitting at the bar? Blue Tank Top, herself.

A quick restroom break, hand-wash and scan around the pizzeria later (since he now knows that is what expected of men in Calabria), Cole and Uncle Peppe pass the bar.

To everyone’s surprise-and to Uncle Peppe’s astonishment, embarrassment, discomfort-Cole walks past Blue Tank Top, turns to look at her and her brunette friend and says, “Ciao bella!”

The table bursts into laughter and shy Uncle Peppe crawls into the hole he mentally blazed into the floor.

It is soon over, though.

Blue Tank Top leaves the pizzeria with her stack of to-go boxes and bag of arancini and walks my nephew’s nine-year-old heart out the door.

But all is well. In just a few days he’ll go to Pizzo and there will be another-albeit just as unattainable surprise waiting for him there.

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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A few months ago, I quizzed our Italian B&B guests, particularly those from Sicilia on their choice of top five places to go.

Here’s what they said.

1. Cefalù

This romantic beach resort is just 40 miles east of Palermo and is built on the site of an ancient Sicanian and Greek settlement. In addition to the striking beaches, the medieval historical center is filled with winding side streets and a large cathedral. I literally gasped when I saw it (corny, I know) but it is *that* stunning.

2. Palermo and Monreale

Yes, Palermo and Monreale are two different places, but the Sicilians I spoke with recommended you get a two for one when visiting the area. Both cities are dripping with rich cathedrals and a beautiful history. For my list of top 10 things to do in Palermo, see my guest post over at Why Go Italy.

3. Agrigento

Agrigento’s Valley of the Temples, or Valle dei Templi, is Sicily’s oldest tourist site that was founded around 582 BC by Greek descendants. The magnificent Temple of Concord can be seen as you enter the archeological park.

4. Ragusa

Ragusa is largely overlooked by tourists traveling through southern Sicily, but those who trickle into this part of the Val di Noto are greeted with ancient churches, historical artwork, quaint side streets and a plethora of Baroque architecture.

5. Taormina

Trendy Taormina tops many travelers’ to-see list for its dramatic panoramic views and glistening blue waters. In addition to its chic and glamorous feel, the medieval town is well preserved and offers easy access to nearby Etna.

I know, I know. I left off your favorites … eeeek! Which cites and sites do you think I should include in the follow-up?

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

Photos: Commons, Mario, TonioMoro, Scott MacLeod Liddle, Stills, fpatrizi

This post is written on behalf of AffordableCallingCards.net, where you can read other posts written by expats from around the world.

But today, Andrea Perullo of My Beautiful Adventures is going to give us the scoop.

Welcome, Andi.

—

My most useful and favorite travel tip, which is to join the Couchsurfing community, might be familiar to some and foreign to others. For me, it has become an integral part of not only my travels, but also my life. Couchsurfing’s mission statement succinctly sums the project up: Participate in Creating a Better World, One Couch at a Time.

Unfortunately, many people mistake the community for simply free accommodation, when really the goal is to create an international network of friends with the common interest being the love of discovery and exploration. It is true that one of the many benefits of Couchsurfing is that it can make travel more affordable, however the most meaningful benefit is the connection you make with other Couchsurfers. The hope, according to the website, is that this cultural exchange will in some way make the world a better place through: “rais[ing] the collective consciousness, spread[ing] tolerance, and facilitat[ing] cultural understanding.”

Couchsurfing is not only about hospitably exchange. There are approximately 1.4 million members worldwide (even in places such as Antarctica!), thus most cities have a Couchsurfing group. These groups have regular local events that you can participate in and are excellent opportunities to share your travel stories and to make new friends and potential travel partners. Plus, it is a great way to get your travel fix when you are not able to travel!

Another way you can use Couchsurfing is by contacting other members in the city you will be traveling in to see if they can either offer advice on what to do and see or if they might be interested in meeting for a coffee/drink, as well as possibly offering their guide services. You will find that most Couchsurfers love helping you in any way they possibly can. Make sure to also search the online forums for even more invaluable advice.

I promise that if you choose to join this community your travels will be enriched in indescribable ways and I can guarantee you that you will make some of the best friends of your life.

Andrea Perullo is a Chinese Medicine Doctor by day, travel addict by night. When she is not treating patients, she is exploring the world or dreaming of the next place to visit. She also writes travel features for MNUI Travel Insurance and blogs at My Beautiful Adventures.

* Photos: Lab Iulm and Je-Rome.it.

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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Trains are so easy to use in Italy. I was nervous the first time riding it alone but once you know the ropes, you will be a confident train traveler. First, we must discuss the differences in the train types.

Regionale trains are the slow trains that travel only in each region, like Tuscany or Umbria. They stop in smaller towns which is why the trains are slower.

Then there is the Intercity which nowadays are few and far between. They require a reservation and travel, you guessed it, between bigger cities. These trains travel between regions as well. But now that there are le Frecce trains, there are only a few Intercity trains that travel on a daily basis.

The Frecciarosso, Frecciaargento and Frecciabianca are the faster version of the Eurostar. Eurostar is now similar to the Intercity train. These don’t run as often as the Frecce trains. They are faster, more convenient, but more expensive. They travel to only the main cities, Florence, Milan, Venice, Bologna, Rome, Naples, to name a few. These trains also require a reservation.

Now that you know which train is which, how to do you purchase a train ticket?

It is quite easy.

The automatic machines like this one cater to the regionale trains only. So for example if you were departing from Florence to arrive in Pisa, this is the machine I would use.

There is never anyone at these ones either.

The machine shown in the top picture is the one that everyone lines up behind. But if you are just traveling to a town in Tuscany I suggest taking my advice and using the first automatic machine.

Now if you are traveling all over Italy and would like to ask questions to the tellers, you must wait in a long line. They are helpful (sometimes) also if you want to practice your Italian, give it a go.

You must remember to validate your ticket before stepping onto the train.

This is the machine you validate your ticket in. If you forget to stamp your ticket you will be fined around €50.

Sciopero is a word that travelers should be aware of when in Italy. Sciopero, which means strike, happens quite often. And when it does it is pure chaos, especially if it is rush hour. Be calm usually there is a back up train that will take over for the original train scheduled to depart. Be aware that these trains will be very crowded as well. Regionale for sure. They pack people in the trains like sardines. I would suggest once you know which track the replacement train is arriving on. I would race to last car of the train just so you can get a seat. People always rush to the first train.

While traveling by train, be courteous when you see someone in your seat, point to your seat number and they should kindly move. When there is an elderly person looking for a seat be kind and offer your seat up. Remember to arrive in the right carrozza or car when you are searching for your posto or seat. Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride along the seaside, through mountains and among the sunflower beds.

Any questions about the trains, head over to the Trenitalia site. You can change the language to English.

Katie Greenaway is a freelance travel writer and is the Local Expert of Florence for Nile Guide where she also provides the secrets of Florence on her blog. She writes about her life in Florence on her personal blog Olio di Oliva e Sogni di Vino and contributes to MNUI Travel Insurance with travel articles.

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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I asked for help in offering tips to soon-to-be expats with a pooch and Karen of Rebtel.com, came to the rescue.

—

Preparing your expatriation is certainly not an easy task. In your long list of things to take along such as credit cards, visas, passports, international calling service and other important stuff, there is one thing which is particularly stressful: your little doggy or kitten overseas trip preparation!

There is a lot to do in the weeks before the trip until you walk out with your luggage, here are few tips to help plan a good trip with your pet.

Laws in your country of destination

* In certain countries you may have to present documents of good health such as veterinary certificates, quarantine, a European passport, etc. So contact your vet or the delegation of your destination to avoid unexpected issues.

* Ask your vet for advice on vaccinations and your pet’s health status with regarding to adjusting to new atmosphere and traveling.

Recognition

* It is very compulsory for dogs and cats, check it before leaving.

Health factor

* Do not decide your pet’s medication on your own. Not all drugs are safe. Some drugs can be very harmful while traveling. Speak to your vet regarding the medical treatment to be given which can help in reducing the stress or sickness.

* A first-aid kit including regular medication can always be handy.

Booking your flight

* Some airline companies permit only a specific number of pets in the cabin per flight; the weight limit may also differ. Hence it is very important to check with them before you book your flight.

* Will your pet be in the cabin or in the cargo compartment? While traveling in the cargo compartment pets should not face any additional stress. Hence it is important to keep them with the ones having similar behaviors. Your pet should be adaptable to the temperature, pressure and lights to experience a safe and enjoyable trip.

* Check for where and when you should drop off your pet before departure.

* Before you fly, call the airlines 3 days in advance to confirm your pet’s ticket.

Direct flight or layovers?

* Limit to the minimum the amount of layovers.

* If you have to travel with several airlines, check if they have same policies for pets flying in the cabin.

* Also confirm if your pet is allowed to travel in the same plane with you.

Which container?

* You should check the size of the container with your airline company.

* The container should have enough space for your pet should to move, lie down and get up. Water and food need to be inside the container.

* It is must that you mention your contact details on the container.

* A few days before you leave, you can test the container and keep a small toy inside or a cloth with your perfume on it.

On D-Day

* Let your pet drink some water two hours before the flight.

* Let him move/run sometime before he gets placed in the container.

At your destination

* Your pet needs to rest and feel comfortable. So find a suitable cozy place. And make sure you don’t leave him alone. Be by his side and pet him so that he does not feel isolated.

* Keep your pet inside your home for a few days to get adjusted to the new environment.

* Use a collar with your current address and phone number.

* Perhaps stress and heat can modify his appetite, so let your pet decide his meal and his eating quantity.

What other tips do you have for moving overseas with your pet?

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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Traveling to/from and in and around Italy is always an adventure. Planes, trains and automobiles each pack their own challenges, yet they also present you with an interesting opportunity for adventure.

Planes – Italy is served by major airports in Rome, Milan, Genoa and Florence to name a few and by numerous smaller airports throughout the country. Getting to any of these smaller airports from another European country is relatively easy because many airlines fly direct between London and Naples; Paris and Torino; Barcelona and Venice; and Germany and Pisa. These flights can often be under €100 round-trip. Yet, getting to Italy from the US is a bit more challenging if you want to travel south of Rome to Calabria, Sicily or the popular Amalfi Coast. However, during the summer, Italian carrier Meridiana has direct flights between New York’s JFK and either Naples or Palermo.

Trains – There are many regional trains servicing the entire country. You will often go to a small train station, such as in Chiusi in Tuscany, and find yourself boarding a train that is only 2 cars long. Don’t worry, it’ll still get you there. The great thing is the new high-speed Italian train service which was just launched this summer. Now you can get from Rome to Naples in 70 minutes for just $21 and from Milan to Rome in under three hours. Fantastico!

Automobiles – this is where you can have real fun in Italy if you dare. As I’ve explained here before, driving in Italy is not for the faint hearted in the cities and the country roads also present different challenges. Yet, driving is the only way to become one with the locals……….and the carabinieri. Just be careful on the Autostrada now because I hear there are cameras somewhere. There are speed limits posted (although no one pays attention to them). Manual transmission cars are the norm in Italy but it’s getting easier to rent an automatic car and I have been the happiest renting and getting good rates from AutoEurope.

Lisa Fantino is an award-winning journalist and attorney and the creative force behind Wanderlust Women Travel and the destination wedding Italy portal, Wanderlust Weddings. She also writes travel features for MNUI Travel Insurance and blogs as Lady Litigator.

* Photos: Welcome Tuscany and Salvatore Vuono

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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I knew if I lived here that would be a challenge.

I was lucky to have two great friends sacrifice their time and vacation money to help me move. We talk about our trip often and I’ve been pushing like crazy encouraging them to come back soon. A few weeks ago I asked my friend Andrea, of Andrea Unplugged, if she’d share her first impressions on bella Calabria.

And so she did … .

—

My first trip to Italy was perfect in my eyes. But who could honestly have a bad trip to Italy? When I was helping Cherrye move to Catanzaro, I was most excited about Rome. And Florence. And Pisa. And the gelato. And the cappuccino. But I didn’t really know what to expect about Catanzaro, since the only reason I knew of it was because of Cherrye and Peppe.

Once we got there we were graciously welcomed with open arms and kisses on both cheeks. Peppe and his friend came to pick us up, in two cars mind you, since six suitcases and 3 extra people wouldn’t fit in Peppe’s little car. In Texas, someone would have come to get us in their extended cab pickup truck, which is definitely not something you see much in southern Italy.

On the drive to Peppe’s house, it was hard to take it all in … the winding, mountain roads, the olive and lemon trees growing on the hillsides and the breathtaking view from a bridge spanning the valley.

Catanzaro was so much more than I could have expected. The people are extremely kind, even if you don’t speak the same language. They feed you (Cherrye’s suocero) and they take you out on the town for pizza and gelato (Peppe’s friends…wait, isn’t that the same as feeding you?) You do a lot of eating in Italy.

And of course, the area is just as enchanting as the people. For the first time in my life, I got to see a place where the mountains meet the beach at Pietragrande. And I also got to see an ocean in shades of blue and green … rather than the mud-brown-and now even more oil-polluted ocean I’m used to in Texas.

The best thing about staying in Catanzaro was that we had Cherrye’s new home as our base. It really helped me feel like a local.

If you are traveling to southern Italy and don’t have a real life friend to stay with like we did, I highly recommend making friends with the B&B owners where you will be staying via email-or find a blog, message board or Facebook group and make friends with someone there. You don’t have to necessarily meet up with them (be safe if you do), but they can help you discover local treasures you may never find in a travel book.

I’ve been busy planning my return trip to Calabria and now, with four years under her belt, I imagine I’ll see even more of Calabria’s unspoiled surprises.

Thank you so much, Andrea! You can read more about Andrea, her travels and adventures in the kitchen at her blog, Andrea Unplugged.

***
Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

So today, I invited my photo-snapping friend, Cecil, to share some tips.

—

What are some tips can I share when traveling to Italy?

Hmm … tough question.

Cherrye has covered many general travel tips here on My Bella Vita, but since my experience-and passion-are in travel photos, that’s what I’d like to talk about today.

For a travel snapper like me who takes as many photos as possible when traveling, planning well-and planning ahead!-is critical.

If you are traveling independently in Italy, ie., you have control over when you visit various attractions and cities, then I recommend the following times for visiting and photographing some of Italy’s most photogenic icons.

1) River Arno

River Arno is the most scenic river cutting the old city of Florence, with the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) crossing overhead. This is a favourite for photo snappers. The best time of day to capture this scene is in the late afternoon when the evening sun is shining onto the row of buildings along the Arno.

2) The Duomo

The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore or the Duomo is the fourth largest cathedral in Europe and is the highest iconic architecture in Florence. You should avoid going there in the morning if you want to capture the magnificent white marble main facade of the Duomo on your memory card.

3) Piazza Signoria and David (replica)

If you couldn’t beat the long queue into the Academia Gallery to view the original David statue, then head to Piazza Signoria in the afternoon-after 3 PM-when the sun will be at the ideal angle.

4) St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City

The most iconic Vatican landmark is St. Peter’s Square. The best time of day to visit the square is in the morning when the sun is behind you and shining onto the more than 140 statues that top the pillars. Remember to bring along your long zoom lens as well!

5) Trevi Fountain

If you haven’t snapped photos of the Trevi Fountain, you can’t even say you’ve been to Rome! If you want to capture the best lighting of the fountain and surrounding scene, go in the afternoon, around 3 PM. Get your wide angle lens ready so you can stand in front of the crowd and still capture the entire fountain in your photo.

6) Colosseum

Though you can snap the Colosseum from any angle, the best location is from the west side, inside the small field, where you can see the dividing sections of the building. The best time to photograph the Colosseum is in the evening.

The above photo was taken in the morning when the sun was in front, so I had to make some adjustments to my camera to compensate for the direct sunlight.

Good luck with your next set of photos in Italy, or as they say there in that beautiful country … in bocca al lupo!

Cecil Lee is an avid traveler who is also a passionate travel blogger and travel photographer living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He writes about travel for MNUI travel insurance and on his own travel photo blog, Travel Feeder.

* Italy Photos property of Cecil Lee.

***
Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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L.A. Times Travel Editor Catharine Hamm covered this last year but let it suffice to say that the big difference between the two is expertise.

Still, in today’s Internet age, travel consultants aren’t for everyone. If you are wondering if you should hire a travel consultant, here are five questions you should ask yourself.

1. Am I traveling to a well-known destination?
If the country or region you plan to visit is well-known, then you will likely be able to find guide books, blogs and websites that can help you plan your itinerary. Maybe you have friends or family members who have visited or you have read about the area in newspapers or magazines. If you are traveling to a very well known region, you might not need a consultant.

2. Is the destination too well-known?
On the other hand, if you are visiting an overly touristy country, your risks are equally as high. More tourists mean more tourist trap hotels, restaurants and one-size-fits-all tours. And that’s not good, either. An expert travel consultant can steer you from the crowds or recommend less-traffic areas for your vacation.

3. How much time do I have before my trip?
Time is money and if you are spending all of your time in the office, you likely don’t have the time-or energy- to properly research your trip. If you have less time than money, then it’s a no-brainer-as a travel consultant will save you both. Hire an expert.

4. How much time do I have on my trip?
While it is true you always want to maximize your time during a vacation, if you are planning an international trip and only have a week or two, you can’t afford to waste precious vacation time. A travel consultant will tell you which trains to take, where to rent a car and which days are better spent for various activities on your itinerary.

5. Do I speak the language or will the locals speak mine?
If you are traveling to a less-touristy area where they don’t speak English a travel consultant will be able to help you secure your hotel bookings and reservations. If you speak the language or can find a hotel or B&B that speaks several languages, you are in luck.

There are many benefits to hiring a travel consultant that I didn’t list in this post-these five questions are listed to help you decide if a travel consultant is right for you. If you are traveling to southern Italy or Calabria and are considering hiring a travel consultant, click here to see how I can help you plan your itinerary.

Speaking of consultants, don’t forget to visit Robin at My Melange and see what travel tips she has today.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio.

This post is written on behalf of Affordable Calling Cards.net. Click here to read other posts written by expats from around the world.

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Justine’s book, Marcus of Umbria isn’t about her love affair with Prada, pasta or Pietro, but rather her pooch, Marcus.

In addition to guest blogging today here on My Bella Vita, Justine is also giving away a copy of her book, Marcus of Umbria. Welcome her, won’t you (and see below for giveaway details).

—

My year on a ramshackle sheep farm in the Umbrian backcountry was really bad for my hair (hard water). It was bad for my career (time difference). It was bad for my friendships (no email). But it was the best thing I’ve ever done for myself. In my entire life.

I’d ended up in Italy for the same reason women my age often ended up in Italy: Love. I’d met Emanuele the obviously unsuitable giardiniero while on vacation in the 200-person village of Collelungo smack-dab in the middle of Umbria, halfway between Terni and Perugia. He had pretty eyes and I was 25 years old. The next thing I knew, I’d packed up my studio apartment in Brooklyn and bought a one-way ticket to Rome-Fiumicino.

But the whole Eat-Pray-Love-Under-The-Tuscan-Sun fantasy? Well, as it turns out, there’s a whole other Italy beneath the wine-filled feasts and the cypress-tree-dotted hills. There’s a rural Italy built on generations of hardship and poverty, of near starvation, of just barely surviving off the land. There’s a rural Italy where everyone knows everyone, and has since birth, and will until death. That’s the Italy in which I landed.

The village’s old ladies were shocked: What was this random American doing, suddenly living in the centro storico with one of the local boys? I was shocked right back: What was I doing, suddenly living in the centro storico with one of the local boys?

I didn’t know it then, but I was there to get tougher, kinder, and slightly less ridiculous. I was there to grow up, and to learn.

In Collelungo, the girls regularly broke pigeon necks by hand to kill them for the pot. My prissiness had no place. After a month tiptoeing around, I finally took off my ballet flats, put on boots, and mucked out the horse stall. It felt strangely refreshing, the dirt on my hands.

I learned of the utter necessity of women: I expected Emanuele’s mother, Serenella, to roll her eyes at me. But when the boys had gone off for an after-dinner card game, she lit up a long cigarette and talked with me in Italian until I learned it.

Meanwhile, Emanuele’s sister-in-law Marta brought me to her makeshift beauty salon. “You need a facial,” she said in English, and got to scrubbing. Later, she taught me how to make boar stew (Not for the faint-hearted, I’ll say). In fact, I learned more about food than I could ever have imagined—how it should be made with fresh, local ingredients, cooked by hand and with love.

And I learned about family. I had grown up in a home in Connecticut with divorced parents and far-flung, distant relatives. In Collelungo, I was swept into Emanuele’s clan, surrounded by people who, without question, patched my jeans and gave me a seat by the fire. It was a loyalty I’d never seen before.

It wasn’t easy, parachuting into a tight-knit community with values so different from my own. I spent a lot of time ranting about gender-specific expectations (I was to clean while Emanuele hunted). I also expended an inordinate amount of energy trying to find clothes that didn’t come from the back of a Moroccan’s traveling van (I ultimately relented, and the results weren’t pretty). I tried valiantly to iron Emanuele’s shirts (bo-ring). I failed miserably at collecting mushrooms (they’re really quite camouflaged). I refused to even try milking sheep (the ewes became—and you couldn’t fault them for it—hysterical when you reached for their teats).

But even my failures were illuminating: I knew I was cool with picking up horse poop and sporting an unfortunate haircut that bordered on a shag. But I was also not okay with picking up a grown man’s underwear and hand washing them. And even though, to nobody’s surprise, it didn’t work out with Emanuele, I had fallen head over heels for a pointer I rescued and named Marcus. (Even my naming of the dog fell into the failure/illuminating camp: Marcus turned out to be a she, but the name stuck.)

After a year, I left Collelungo. My departure was bittersweet: I would miss Emanuele’s family, their swath of untamed land, a life lived close to the earth, the familiar faces at the café and the market. At the same time, we all knew I wasn’t really for that world.

I no longer had an apartment or a job back in New York, so I would return to the States without a landing place. And for the first time, that was okay.

There’s a particular and mysterious beauty to giving it all up and diving into an unmapped future. If I had done it in order to go to Italy, I could do it again in order to leave. Having lived in such a foreign place, both in body and spirit, and having survived—and even thrived—I wasn’t scared of uncertainty.

Okay, I was a little scared. But by then I had some pretty good practice living my fears.

—

Thank you, Justine. You can read more about Justine and Marcus at her website or you can follow her on Twitter @justinevdl or check in with her on her Facebook page.

Now for the giveaway!

It’s easy. Leave a comment on this post between today and Friday, June 18 at 5:00 PM, Italy time.

Leave as many comments as you like, but only one entry per person will be included in the random drawing.

Winner must have a US mailing address and will be notified by email.

If you can’t wait until Friday, you can order Marcus of Umbria today, right here.

In bocca al lupo!

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

In fact, I’ve been tossing around ideas such as “funny Italian words,” “strange Italian words,” even “beautiful Italian words,” so I figured I’d throw ‘em all together and share them today.

1. Allora

Allora is one of my all-time favorite Italian words and like  many Italians I know, I toss it into the conversation whenever I get a chance. It can be used like, “and, so … ” or “in that case” and even “now what?”

Ex: Allora … dimmi!

So …. tell me!

2. Meno male

In English, we’d say, “thank goodness,” but in Italian it it so much more charming. Meno male literally means “less bad,” and is one of those Italian expressions that makes me laugh. Seriously, I love it and since I learned it I have looked for ways to interject it into my conversations. For more, read this article on meno male in The Florentine.

Ex: Meno male che ci sei tu.

Thank goodness you are here.

3. Stufa

When I think of stufa I think of the little electric heater that could, working so hard to build up his steam that finally, after years of trying, he explodes. Yes, stufa means stove but it can also be used as an expression to say you are sick of something.

Ex: Oggi sono stufa di parlare.

I’m tired of talking today.

4. Telefonino

I actually like most of the words that end in “ino” and make the base word just a little smaller, but telefonino is one of my favorites. Really, it is so much cuter that cellulare, isn’t it?

Ex: Ho perso il mio telefonino.

I lost my cell phone.

5. Berlusconiani

The first time I heard this word I almost fell out of my chair. Can you guess what it means?

It describes someone who likes Italy’s controversial prime minister and is essentially calling them “a fan of Berlusconi.” Apparently it can be used for anyone, so those of you out there who like me can be called “Cherryeani.”

I like it.

Ex: E’ un berlusconiano!

He is a person who likes Berlusconi. (Just ain’t the same, is it?)

So confess. What are you favorite Italian words? If you have a blog, join in the meme and post on your site, otherwise, leave them in the comments.

This post was written on behalf of Affordable Calling Cards, click here to read other posts written by expats in the ACC community.

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

Photo: Podbean

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So, for the next month or so, I’m opening this column up to guest bloggers who will share some travel tips of their own.

Today, I’m happy to welcome Laura, of Ciao Amalfi!

Thanks for stopping by, Laura.

—

If you’re a traveler like me, when you arrive someplace new you want to see it all. The museums, churches, neighborhoods, parks and local foods—everything is at the top of your to do list. The problem with this type of traveling is that it often leads to particularly exhausting trips. (Yes, I used to be the classic person who needed a vacation after my vacations.) Another even more unpleasant side effect is that funny feeling upon returning home that I didn’t actually see or fully experience the place I went to amidst the whirlwind sightseeing.

One thing living in Italy has taught me is the value of slowing down and truly savoring the experience of traveling. It’s no longer about seeing everything at a mad dash, but rather about seeing a few things in finer detail. It’s about finding out what makes a place unique, and I’ve found that the only way to do that is by slowing down, but letting myself experience not only the sights but also the sounds, smells and moments of daily life. The la dolce vita lifestyle here in Italy has just about cured me of the need to see everything all at once.

My tips for those traveling to Italy are to resist trying to see every museum and sight, especially if you only have a short time in one place, and to take time each day to sit, relax and watch daily life go by. This not only connects you with the pulse of a place, but also is a chance to give yourself a much needed break so you don’t return home worn out. If you look closely, the Italians and their lifestyle will teach you all you need to know about slowing down and savoring each and every moment of your journey.

Getting away from the crowds and discovering a park full of children playing and Venetians chatting about their days is one of my most memorable moments from a week in Venice. Joining in the evening passeggiata with friends while enjoying a gelato was a highlight from a recent trip to Florence. Yes, I also saw museums and churches and plenty of other sights. But, more importantly, I saw the place.

Don’t forget to visit Robin at My Melange and see what travel tips she has today.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio.

Laura Thayer is an American writer and art historian living on the Amalfi Coast. She writes about life on the Amalfi Coast on her site, Ciao Amalfi and about travel for MNUI Insurance.

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

Photos: RalphUnden and Vittoria Benedetti

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1. I read that you moved to Puglia on a whim to teach ESL. How long have you been there and what was your first impression of the region?

That’s right, I did. After 10 years of touring small-scale UK theatres, acting, singing and dancing for the entertainment of small children, I was knackered, and decided I needed a change of pace. I drifted around for a while, not knowing quite what to do with myself, until one day when Mike and I were chatting about going travelling together. In the course of conversation he mentioned doing an EFL course for himself. A big light came on in my head and I remembered that was what I’d wanted to do originally, before becoming an actor. I looked into courses, applied to one, was accepted, and started the course a few weeks later – from first idea to being fully qualified was a time frame of about 8-10 weeks.

In a similar vein, ending up in Puglia was something that happened without too much thought at all. I was teaching at a summer school in the UK and one of the teachers there had just left the school where I’m now teaching. He suggested I apply here and the rest, as they say, is history. I didn’t really know what to expect from Italy before I arrived. Of course there are the stereotypes of the lecherous men and delicious food, and those facts do, to an extent, hold true, but there’s so much more besides. I’ve been here since October 2009 and am learning something new about the region every day. Last month, for instance, was the Festa di San Nicola. I had no idea that Santa Claus was buried in Italy until now – and not just Italy: Bari, in Puglia!

My first impressions of the region were positive. One of the first things I noticed was the temperature – still hot on 1 October. Delicious. (Of course, it started raining about a week later, and didn’t stop for much of the winter, but first impressions do last!)

The other thing that I noticed was the stone of the region. Lecce stone is apparently highly sought-after for its colour and ease of carving, and you can see why at every turn. Sure, there are ugly concrete houses all over the place, but go into the centro storico of any of the towns here and you see magnificent carvings and this beautiful, buttery yellow, soft stone. Gorgeous.

2. What have you noticed about traveling in southern Puglia? Is it easy to get around via trains or public transportation or is it, like Calabria, easier with a car?

Within region, it’s easier to go by car. My town is, despite being reasonably important within the area, placed on a branch line which doesn’t take you very far at all – you have to link to Lecce to be able to get anywhere. The trains to Lecce from here only run during the daytime, so if you want a night out on the town you have to drive, which can be inconvenient if you want to go out for a drink.

It is, however, much more picturesque to go by train, and I’m trying to do so more and more, rather than jumping straight in the car. Apart from anything else, trains are more environmentally friendly, as well as giving you a cast-iron excuse to chat to strangers. Well, when you’re stuck in a railway carriage, what else is there to do but have a conversation?

3. If your best friend was planning to visit you in Puglia, what three things would you make sure she saw?

I’d definitely head to Otranto. In fact, that’s just where I took my best friend when she visited in February. Sadly, at that point in time, it was pretty nippy, but we had a lovely day nevertheless, wandering around the town.

The castle is disappointing inside (it’s all been converted into conference rooms, so don’t bother going in), but there are breathtaking views from the top of the castle walls. Wandering up through the walled part of the old town is gorgeous, and the cathedral square at dusk is fabulous. Stop and watch the swifts swooping around the square as the sun goes down, and head into the cathedral if you get a chance.

If you arrive while a service is going on (as I always seem to do!) then head into the cathedral museum instead, on the opposite side of the square. It’s packed with pictures and artefacts, along with some lovely mosaic floor sections similar to the ones in the cathedral.

Santa Maria di Leuca, where the Ionian and Adriatic seas meet, is also worth a visit. Again, I went there in the winter time, but I have something of a soft spot for out of season seaside towns, so I rather liked the bleakness of it. Head up to the basilica and look out to sea to see if you can see the line between the seas – I couldn’t, but it’s alleged to be there!

Finally, I’d take her swimming in the Adriatic. Otranto beach is usually packed with people, but if you head along the coast a bit and don’t mind trekking across a field or two, you can reach quieter inlets, where you can dive straight from the rocks into bright blue water. It’s still pretty fresh at the moment (early/mid-May), but not icy. Or not by this English girl’s standards, anyway, and the exhilaration of jumping 6 or 10 foot into clear blue water more than makes up for the chill.

Thank you so much, Kate. You can read more about her adventures in Puglia at her website, Driving Like a Maniac.

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

Photos: Kate Bailward, Driving Like a Maniac

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Earlier this year I wrote a guest post for Melanie of Italofile about some of my favorite Italian words. As is turns out, that post has been quite popular. So Melanie challenged other Italy bloggers to come up with their favorite Italian words to create something of a series of posts that would be both fun and potentially useful to people trying to learn the language.

Melanie said I didn’t have to play, since I’d already written about my favorite Italian words, but what she didn’t know is that I had enough trouble narrowing my original list to five that I’m quite happy to have a chance to add to it! And, just to make the whole thing even more appropriate, I’m doing so with another guest post.

Here, then, is another list of five favorite Italian words.

boh

pronounced: boh

This may be one of the most useful and user-friendly words in the entire Italian language. I consider it the verbal equivalent of a shrug, but it’s a more all-purpose word than you might think. I tried to explain it to an American friend who said he thought our “meh” was about the same thing, but I disagree. “Boh” can be used in the same way “meh” can, in that “eh, who cares, we’ll just have to see” kind of way. But it can also mean “I’ve no idea what to think about that,” or “your guess is as good as mine,” or “there’s no point in trying to make any sense of it.” It’s often accompanied by an actual shrug and a slight frowny-face gesture, and this physical manifestation of “boh” is all you need to convey “boh” without even opening your mouth.

scoiattolo

pronounced: skoy|AHT|toh|loh

This is one of those words that I just like because of the way it sounds, regardless of how useful – or, in this case, useless – a word actually is. “Scoiattolo” is the Italian word for squirrel, and for some reason I enjoy saying it. I haven’t gotten to the point yet that I make up excuses to use the word “squirrel” in Italian sentences, but I would totally support anyone else who did that. Although I will confess that if I saw the word “scoiattolo” on a menu in Italy I’d be awfully glad I knew what it meant so I could think twice about ordering it.

fanciulla

pronounced: fahn|CHOO|lah

I have a photographer friend who lives in the Friuli region of Italy. Alessandro’s English is impeccable (much better than my Italian), and because he’s Friulano he also speaks the Friulano language. He’s constantly throwing Friulano into our Skype chats, so despite the fact that I’m still struggling to learn Italian there are a few Friulano words that have made their way into my brain, too. While “fanciulla” isn’t Friulano, it is a word I know only thanks to Ale. He often greets me on Skype with, “Ciao, fanciulla!” which is roughly the equivalent of “Hey, young lady!” but without the grandfatherly connotations. I do think it’s a sort of old-fashioned word, and I’ve never heard anyone else use it, but I love the way it sounds and I love that Ale has made it a sort of nickname for me.

spritz

pronounced: spreetz

While we’re in the northeastern region of Italy, why not stop and have a drink? You’re looking at the word “spritz” and thinking, “That’s not Italian.” And you’re right. But it’s become an Italian thing. “Spritz” is from spritzer, or seltzer water, and in some regions of Italy it’s the name for a cocktail. A spritz typically consists of prosecco (or other sparkly white wine), seltzer/sparkly water, and bitters such as Aperol or Campari, often with a slice of orange thrown in. The bitters give the drink a fantastic bright orange or red color, and it’s an excellent aperitivo drink – especially in warmer weather. You’ll find spritz particularly popular in the Veneto and other parts of northeastern Italy.

chiacchierare

pronounced: kee|ah|kyer|AH|reh

When I first learned this word, I was excited to find out that onomatopoeia existed in Italian, too – even when they don’t necessarily mean it to. The word “chiacchierare” is the verb “to chat” or “to gossip,” and it’s sometimes used to describe what’s happening when you see a group of old women sitting on a bench in the piazza. But when you say the word itself, chiacchierare, you realize that it sounds vaguely like chickens clucking. Which is, I imagine, what people who aren’t privy to a particular conversation think it amounts to. Boh, they’re just jealous…

Thanks, Jess. Be sure to come back next week for my follow up to Jessica’s post and Melanie’s meme when I list my favorite five Italian words.

About the Author:
Jessica Spiegel begin_of_the_skype_highlighting     end_of_the_skype_highlighting is the Italy expert at BootsnAll, and the woman behind BootsnAll’s Italy travel guide: WhyGo Italy. She’s happy to answer all kinds of Italy travel questions, from how to find cheap airfare to Italy to whether to buy an Italy rail pass to how to spend two weeks in Italy.

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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