Blog - Life in Italy

What's happening in Rome all year round!... Find out here

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in January - Rome
• Epiphany – “Befana” in Italian, is a religious holiday held on January 6th.There is also an Epiphany Fair held in the Piazza Navona with small rides for the children to ride and stands with games to play.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in February - Rome
• Ash Wednesday - Late February, many local romans celebrated this religious holiday. The Pope walks from the Basilica of Santa Sabina to the Circus Maximus, accompanied by members of the College of Cardinals.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in March - Rome
• Festival of St. Francesca - Early March, local romans drive their cars to the Piazzale del Colosseo, near the Church of Santa Francesca for blessing and prosperity.
• Feast of St. Joseph - People celebrate St. Joseph holiday by going to the Trionfale Square  to eat a traditional roman type of doughnut-pastry called “Cimabela”!
• Maratona della Citta di Roma (Marathon) – Held every year in late March. This marathon is watched by crowds of people (locals and tourists) as the athletes run past by many of the city's spectacular landmarks and beautiful churches.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in April - Rome
• Festa della Primavera (Spring Festival) – It takes place early April highliting the beauty of all corners of Rome. The most commonly known area where this colorful special event takes place is the Spanish Steps. These amazing steps are decorated with azalea plants and concerts are held on top of the steps in Trinita dei Monti.
• Good Friday – During early April, in the evening the Pope leads a Procession of the Cross from the Colosseum  garden to the Roman Forum.  Take part or simply admire the parade of people following this amazing site.
• Easter – This year follows on April 12th, 2009. A memorable outdoor mass takes place in St. Peter's Square in the morning listening very carefully to the pope. There are more than 20,000 seats available for anyone who wants to attend.  At the end, the Pope then blesses the crowd at noon. I do advise to go early for seating.
• Easter Monday – On April 13th, (long weekend) most locals go away to the country side and spend a relax three day weekend. In Rome however, in Castel Sant'Angelo gardens many celebrations are held to the public.
• Live Concerts – All throughout the month of April, the Accademia Filarmonica Romana performs regularly at the Teatro Olimpico to the public. If you are into music, this is a great place to go see.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in May - Rome
• Introducing new Vatican Guard – On May 6th 2009 an event will be held swearing in of the new guard at the Vatican on the anniversary for the Sacking of Rome.
• Tennis – In the middle of May, the tennis Masters Series Roma start at the Parco del Foro Italico 
• Live Concerts – All throughout the month of April, the Accademia Filarmonica Romana performs regularly at the Teatro Olimpico to the public. If you are into music, this is a great place to go see.
• Chamber and symphony concerts - throughout May, the Accademia Nazionale di Santa Cecilia performs at the Via della Conciliazione, near Castle Sant’Angelo and Vatican St. Peter’s square.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in June - Rome
• Festa della Republica – On the first Sunday in June, this incredible military parade takes place on Via dei Fori Imperiali between the Colosseum and Piazza di Venezia. The street closes becoming an event where Italy celebrates their republic day.
• Saint Peter and Paul Day – During late June, solemn masses are held at St. Peter's Basilica (Vatican) and also all over Rome during this holiday.
• Pesaro Film Festival – In late June, also known as the International Exhibition of New Cinema – (hyperlink), works of recent/old films of new directors and also other recognitions from many countries around the world.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in July - Rome
• 4th of July –An American holiday also celebrated by Italians in Rome  in the company of other Americans. It includes picnics, fireworks and many other fun activities.
• Spoleto Festival – Held in early July held in Spoleto.  This festival presents top-quality concerts, opera, dance, theatre and film for all tastes.
• Operas and Ballets – During the whole month of July and early August, some of the best local Opera singers and ballets dancers perform regularly at Teatro dell'Opera, Piazza Beniamino Gigli. If you are in Rome, do not miss a show.
• Noianti Festival – From middle to late July there will be folk music, dancing, stands all of kinds selling goods and fireworks display in Trastevere.  Fun activities for the whole family in honour of the Virgin Carmine.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in August - Rome
• Festa della Madonna della Neve – On  August 5th, open-air film festival held at Santa Maria Maggiore church.
• Ferragosto (The Assumption) – A very traditional holiday held every August 15th,  the mid-summer Roman holiday. Many locals take this holiday and go away to their country home outside the city of Rome or the beaches.  On this day, you will not see many locals around as you will also notice many places are closed.
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in September - Rome
• Crafts show – Takes place late September in Via dell'Orso. A must see!

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in October - Rome

• No activities

Rome Events and Rome Holidays in November - Rome
• All Saints' Day – Only once a year in early November, all churches will be open to the public for visitors.
• Unity Day – It represents World War I and Armed Forces Day. A unique ceremony takes place at the Tomb of the “Unknown Soldier” at Piazza Navona Held in November.  Really nice site!
Rome Events and Rome Holidays in December - Rome - Rome
• Feast of the Immaculate Conception - Early December, the Pope places flowers at the column of the Virgin in Piazza di Spagnathis religious holiday.
• St. Stephen's Day - December 26th, many Romans visit nativity scenes, decorated churches with Christmas spirit throughout Rome on this public holiday… very popular day in Rome. An excellent day to visit and look inside all the beautiful churches in Rome.
• New Year's Eve - December 31st, masses are celebrated in churches all over Rome. There are also many parties and general celebrations in public places, restaurants and also in homes of family and friends.

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Rome believe it or not has gardens... beautiful ones too!!!  Excellent to take that extra calm, slow walk, have a picnic or if you enjoy jogging, these are your perfect tracks!  

The largest Garden in Rome is Villa Doria Pamphili. It’s mostly used by locals for picnics, riding bicycles, catch sun rays and mostly running. On Sundays, this park is full of life with people doing their activities.  It houses an amazing Villa full of statues and fountain, a church and hundreds of acres of green land. Drifting off and away towards one of the many exits of Villa Pamphili to the west side up a little higher on the hill, you reach Janiculum Hill. This hill holds a place in history where Italy You will see a large statue of a man in a horse, his name is Garibaldi. He led his troops in a bloody battle defeating the French becoming free as a nation. One of the best things that stand out here is the view it provides. From here you get a 360° degree view of Rome as far as the eye can see.  A hidden treasure that most people are not aware of, but now you know!!!  Finally, the Park of Villa Giulia houses the famous Etruscan Museum since 1899. This villa is one of the most important mannerist architectures of Rome.

One that stands out in the center of Rome is Villa Borghese.  It is the second largest public park in Rome (80 hectares or 148 acres) after the Villa Doria Pamphili. The gardens were developed for the Villa Borghese Pinciana ("Borghese villa on the Pincian Hill"), built by the architect Flaminio Ponzio. It’s a large landscape garden in the naturalistic English manner in Rome, containing a number of buildings, Museum (Galleria Borghese), several villas and other fun activities (ride your bike). Today, this Garden is called "Park of the Museums" This beautiful garden also houses the amazing Galleria Borghese; (museum) and an outdoor Cinema surrounded by many beautiful fountains, sculptured statues, a race horse track and training grounds. The police here in fact ride on horses instead of a police car.

Start packing your bags and come to Rome and add more great memories to your travel memory bank. Most people think of Rome only having only monuments, statues, etc… now you know it has a lot more to offer! Just imagine, when your feet are tired of exploring the eternal city, just think that around the corner, there’s always a park where you can go and rest.

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Venice is a unique city and there is no other like it anywhere else in the world. It is built on 117 small Islands, 150 canals and 409 bridges. Venice is a city where you can walk very easily from historical site to another. Some of the best walks are the ones you do on your own, get lost within the narrow streets, find your way out again, this is the best part! Start in the area (Santa Croce). A location where you can soak up the authentic Venetian neighbourhood atmosphere and still close to the city’s main attractions. It's a very pleasant area to take an evening stroll! A lively square full of people and music where sometimes couples can dance in the middle of Campo San Giacomo dell'Orio Square. You must visit the Jewish quarter,  Madonna dell'Orto Church and Gesuiti Church.
A highly pleasurable and recommended tip to get your curiosity running wild absorbing the incredible work of art this city's unique structures have to offer is to take a Vaporetto (public transportation small ferry) down the Canal Grande and pass under the Rialto Bridge. You will be looking at more than a hundred Venetian built style mansions along the way dating from the 12th to the 18th centuries including the Fondaco dei Turchi, Ca' Pesaro and the Ca' d'Oro – Venice’s most beautiful Gothic building. Get off the Vaporetto at any stop at your own leisure to explore it better on foot and get on again to the next interesting spot that catches your attention. Enjoy a walking along the non-tourist path.
When you have exhausted visiting Venice's beautiful churches and palaces, take a last stab at the elegant Piazza San Marco and the Bell Tower and the Clock Tower, you might have to wait a little bit in line, but it will be all worth it. Visit the Basilica containing St. Mark's tomb and incredible gold mosaics which was completed in 1094. Be prepared to wait a little bit in line but it will be worth it once you’re inside as it is one of the most magnificent cathedrals in Europe… walking along is the pink and white marble Doge Palace, where the elected Doges lived and governed the city.Visit also the Palazzo del Cinema where Venice's international film festival is held each September. At the end of the day, you will be a bit exhausted from the long and exciting day you had. Reward yourself in one of the city's local and cheerful restaurants tucked away in a side street. You’re in Venice therefore you must devote yourself to Italian’s most rich and famous dessert of mascarpone cheese, Marsala, sponge and chocolate called Tiramisu, which was invented here.

Also if you have time, try to witness Venetian glass-blowing, they show demonstrations sometimes

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Did you know...?

Venice is known to be expensive, but don’t despair… I have created a list for you to enjoy Venice to the maximum without spending a fortune!

1) … Piazza San Marco is excellent place to stroll around the square? Do some window shopping, take amazing pictures of the great architecture and if you like pigeons, then join them in the middle of the square as they love to just stand on people.
 2) … Basilica di San Marco “St. Mark's Basilica” is the greatest of all Venice's churches? To enter and visit the Basilica of San Marco is free (expect lines, don't try to enter with a rucksack or indecent clothing).  If you also wish to visit the Pala d’Oro, there is a very relatively inexpensive fee to see it.

3) … Venice Churches Santa Maria della Salute most part to visit the church is free? The sound of the Organ music is simply amazing. San Vidal – Near the Accademia Bridge is free to enter only during the day time. In the evening is used for local classical music concerts. The church's treasure is above the high altar; a painting by Vittore Carpaccio of San Vitale. I Carmini (Santa Maria del Carmelo) – Is free to enter and it includes paintings by Lorenzo Lotto and Cima da Conegliano.

4) … the Rialto Bridge is a great place for people watching and you get a beautiful view of the Grand Canal for both sides? Look down and watch the Vaporetto boats and Gondolas slowly making their way through under the bridge just beneath your feet. Make sure you watch the sunset from Rialto Bridge. A must see!!!

5) … the Rialto Bridge markets are immense? Vendors here yell out many sorts of things selling their products. You can find the Venetian Carnival masks, beautiful Murano glass pieces, clothing, leathers, shoes, fruits, vegetables, fish and meats. Sometimes even a strong wonderful aroma of herbs and spices.

6) … the streets of Venice are a narrow, winding, maze easily making you feel lost very easily? This is the fun part! Try to find your way back!!!  Best point of reference, ask for Piazza San Marco and start all over again.

7) … window shopping in Venice is like no other? The Murano Glass stores are like museums exposing beautiful pieces of Art. Chances are you have already found one free thing to do.

8) … canal watching on one of the many bridges in Venice and wait a few minutes is a lot of fun? Watch how the locals live their life totally different from ours. It is amazing to see furniture, ovens and refrigerators being moved aound on boats like you and I would use cars. The strange boat manoeuvres they do and to us would be so difficult to even try. My favourite is the firemen and ambulance service!

9) … if you notice, the city/Island of Venice can be a very interesting place! You can hear sea gulls, gondoliers slowly skimming on top of the water, motor boats putting along, water splashing against the side of some sinking building and tourists speaking a world of languages. What you won’t hear are cars, buses or scooters.

10) … to see Murano Glass is not necessarily free as you must take the Vaporetto to get to the Island! But the fun ride is worth the small fee you pay. Once you are there all is free… spend the day exploring one of the Lagoon Islands, walk around and look into one of the workshops as you will see glass maker artists at work. This will definitely make up the fee for the Vaporetto ride.

Venice is considered an unique paradise and a wonder of the world. Its canals, bridges, Byzantine architecture, lagoons and gardens, can be visited totally free. We all know that eating, sleeping, shopping and travelling are expensive, this is one way to balance yourself out for the things you don’t pay. If you are looking for a cheap holiday, we recommend you concentrate your budget on one key element: Accommodation!!! 

Our Advice:
Avoid eating in restaurants in Venice, they are more expensive and lower-quality than what you might expect compared to the rest of Italy. By eating snacks it will get you through the day and you'll save lots of money without missing much. Try slices of pizza to go, get a heated sandwich in a bar, etc… (look for somewhere packed with people) these little things will fill you up and energize you enough for the long day’s journey! The thekeytoitaly.com can help you find the perfect rental apartment in Venice for you! Their English speaking staff is well trained and able to answer any questions thrown their way.

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Did you know...?

1) ... to take a joyful peaceful walk in one of the famous oldest roads of Rome?  Appia Antica - on Sundays when the street is block for traffic and becomes a pedestrian zone. Try to picture armies of thousands of men marching down this same road as you look around and enjoy the ancient sights along the way.

2) ... to put your hand inside the mouth of the lion on the wall? This is actually fun and you can take some really fun pictures! Legend has it that your hands will be bitten off if you have been lying...be careful, it may really bite you! Bocca della Verità was once an ancient sewer grate. It’s located in Piazza Bocca della Verità.

3) ... that the Trevi fountain is located at the entrance to a large palace called Palazzo Poli! Trevi Fountain was built by the architect Salvi in 1735 during Pope Clement XII's time. According to the legend, if visitors throw a coin into the fountain, they are sure to return to Rome. The current version is if you throw two coins, it will lead to a new romance and three will ensure either a marriage or divorce! Quite a mystery to base your love in a toss of three coins into a fountain.

4) ... the Spanish Steps - Scalinata di Spagna - The monumental stairway of 138 steps, were constructed between 1723 and 1725? They can be easily found and recognized at the Piazza di Spagna square rectangle like shape. The Piazza di Spagna is one of the most popular tourist sites in Rome.

5) ... you can visit the Vatican museum “free” on the last Sunday of every month!... but go early. The lines can be a bit long.  It’s also free to visit the excavations under the Vatican. Try a Wednesday audience with the Pope.

6) ... the Pantheon was originally a pagan temple, converted into a church in 608AD? Easily found in Piazza della Rotonda, is a meeting point for locals in the evenings. It's the best-preserved monument of imperial Rome, entirely rebuilt by the emperor Hadrian around AD 120. Best to visit on rainy days as you will witness the rain drops falling straight into two very small holes on ground from the top of the dome.

7) ... that Piazza Navona and Piazza Campo dei Fiori are the two most famous squares in Rome! Piazza Navona, has two famous fountains by Bernini one on each side with an obelisk in the center. The Campo dei Fiori (the field of flowers) is best experienced during the daily morning market hours, coming alive in the evenings. They are located adjacent to each other

8) ... that all year round Trastevere is a major attraction for its restaurants, cabaret clubs, movie theaters, arts and crafts artisans? It's full of picturesque maze of narrow cobbled alleyways. The church of Santa Maria in Trastevere is one of the oldest churches in Rome and a common meeting grounds for locals and recently tourists. At night, both natives and tourists alike gather together around its many pubs and restaurants.

9) ... to Visit the Galleria Nazionale Di San Luca - Piazza dell’Accademia – Via di San Luca,77?  Free admittance is always better! Open on  Mondays, Wednesdays, and Fridays. The last Sunday of the month is open from 10:00am to 2:00pm. All other days are closed. Works of Raffaello, Canova, and other great artists.

10) ...you can be the next Russell Crowe! Take part of the activities in Gladiatorial Combat lessons that are available if you want to test your skill and muscle. Intensive three day training programms are offered at the gladiator school on Via Appia… Do something different and exciting, take a shot at it!

* ... that before coming to Rome, you'll need an accommodation! The hotels in Rome tend to be a bit over-priced and offer a low standard than what you might expect. You might prefer to opt for a vacation rental apartment available for rent in Rome instead.  The ThekeytoItaly.com has the answer for you with 50 apartments in the center of Rome available for you!

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 for Coffee Lovers ... Taste the real flavor!

Experience the beauty and taste of having the “real” cappuccino and the  sensation of several coffee flavours made in Italy. Now you can choose which one you would like to have and act like a local when ordering a coffee type at your taste depending on your mood. Return home and brag to your friends about it.

Caffe Espresso - (€0,70) One shot of strong, dark espresso. Served in a small cup. If you want it weaker, ask for a -Caffè Lungo. They will add more water to the espresso. 

Cappuccino - (€0,80) One shot of espresso topped with hot milk and foam. The term cappuccino refers to the brown and white colors of the robes of the Capuchin monks. In some areas, a cappuccino is called a cappuccio.

Caffe Corretto - (€0,90) A shot of liqueur (usually whisky or grappa) is added to your espresso to "correct" it.

Caffe Hag - (€0,75) A decaffeinated coffee (made by Kraft), pronounced "ahg". This is a brand name and is commonly used to request decaffeinated coffee.

Caffe Shakerato - (€0,90) An iced and sweetened espresso drink. Great for the summertime!

Caffe Macchiato - (€0,80) If you find a cappuccino is too milky, order a caffe macchiato, which literally means "stained coffee". This is an espresso with just a touch of milk. It is not always listed on the menu, but is commonly ordered. (It is the same price as an espresso)

Cioccolato - (€1,30) a cup of hot chocolate. In the winter the caffes have hot chocolate machines at the bar. The hot chocolate is very thick and not that sweet (you can add sugar). You can pay extra to have real whipped cream on top. Delicious - but very rich.

Caffe Decaffinato - (€0,80) A decaffeinated coffee (commonly called by the brand name "Caffe Hag").

Caffe d'Orzo - (€1,20) Barley coffee, a non-caffeine coffee substitute (not actually coffee). Can be ordered in a small glass cup (tazza piccola) or large glass cup (tazza grande). You can also have a Cappuccino d'Orzo.

Latte - (€0,80) "Milk". It is hot milk served in a glass. You may ask for it cold.

Tisana - Herbal tea - Some caffes have a selection of herbal teas (Very good!)

Camomilla - (€0,80) A cup of chamomile tea (herbal).

 

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Piazza San Marco: Go to Cafè Florian or Quadri for live music. Crowds gather to listen to popular classical music. Tables and chairs laying outside will definitely give you a better feel for the ambience while sipping on a cocktail but enjoying the magical scenery of Piazza San Marco lit at night. You can't miss it!

Casanova Music Cafe: This is Venice's only Disco, located on the busy Calle Lista di Spagna in the Cannareggio district. Although the space can feel somewhat cramped at times, it still offers some convincingly diverse music, such as Rock, instrumental, House and even Latin American Music.

Piccolo Mondo: Opposite side of the Accademia Cinema theatre, this small club attracts a young crowds and is usually crowded full of life and energy. Calle Contarini Corfu, Dorsoduro 1056/A

Martini Scala Club Piano Bar: A place where class and style is highly welcome. Enjoy live ambience music while you dine in this elegant establishment. Dress appropriately. Campo San Fantin, San Marco 1980.

Le bistrot de Venise: Venitian Cusine at its best with some very ancient and luscious recipes at a costly price.  Enjoy a local, diverse cultural programme from cabaret to poetry readings while you eat. Calle dei Fabbri, San Marco 4685

Casino Municpale: Located in the elegant Palazzo Vendramin Calergi, on the Grand Canal (Vaporetto Stop: San Marcuola). For a 10 Euros entrance fee (Includes a 10euros free casino chip), you'll get to familiarize yourself in the magnificent 18th century setting Palace. Truly a memorable evening in Venice. Even suitable for those who don't like to gamble.

947 Club: A club with live DJ and an amazing lounge atmosphere offering excellent service. It also has an upscale restaurant part of the establishment, 947 Club Restaurant. Castello 4337.

Campo Santa Margherita - The most lively Square in Venice. 10 minutes walking distance away from Piazzale Roma. Live music, young people, people dancing, good music and fun atmosphere.  Around Carnival time, it's full of people, live shows and tents of all sorts. Bars are open until 3 or 4 in the morning.

Stazione Marittima - A large club and beer/wine hall by the river on the south of the main island. Only a few minutes walking distance from Piazzale Roma Square. You can't miss it as you can hear the music and see the lights from the distance. Very popular during the Carnival time. A must see!  Open until 3 or 4 in the morning.

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Many people wonder when is the best time to come and visit Venice! We have gathered useful information to provide you with a sneak preview of activities and weather conditions for each and every single month throughout the year in Venice.  

January in Venice is cold but magical, dress up warmly. The streets are quiet, and the locals live their normal everyday lives or stopped to chat in the little Venetian Squares. This is the hot chocolate season; time to retreat into a snug cafe, sip a steaming hot chocolate and maybe read a Venetian book about the history of Venice. January is the perfect time of year to really feel connected to the city and its past. Good points: Quiet streets, cheap accommodation apartments, authentic local atmosphere, hot chocolate in cosy cafès, atmospheric photographs.  Bad points: It can be cold,  you may spend a lot of time outdoors.

February is Carnival time, so the city is very busy, lively and colourful. Renting an accommodation may be hard to get as they are heavily-booked as tourists arrive to enjoy the spectacle, so book early. In Rialto Bridge and St. Mark's area are most fun and exciting. Stepping away from the masks and costumes, the outside local areas of Venice are still quiet and peaceful. Good points: The Carnival.  Bad points: The Carnival.

March and April the air can still be crisp and the streets are quiet in Venice. During Easter, Venice is invaded with tourists arriving for Easter weekend  from all over the world- every European country is on holiday, and feels most of them come to Venice. Although it can still be cold at night, spring makes itself felt with small hidden walled gardens and breaks of sunshine ripping through the clouds. Locals gradually get rid of their thick winter coats. Good points: Sunshine, small crowds (except) for Easter.  Bad points: Crowed on Easter, March and April is still a bit cold.

May is a happy and exciting month. The cold slowly drifts away and the sun becomes a daily visitor. The air is still fresh but warm enough to hit the beaches on the Lido (where some businesses are still closed). May is really the best month for visiting Italy, with its warm sunshine, comfortable temperatures, dry and humid air and flowers begin to open. Good points: Sunshine, comfortable climate. Tourist services are fully operational but without excessive crowds.  Bad points: Practically none.

June in Italy (Venice) is the start of summer and Italy braces it with open arms. The weather is usually fine, although sometimes it reaches hot temperatures. This is your last chance to visit your favourite spots before the peak of the summer season starts. Space on the beaches can still be found especially on the week-days. In odd-numbered years Venice hosts its Art Biennale in the Castello District, which runs from early June to November. Good points: Warm weather, plenty of sunshine, no rain.  Bad points: High Temperatures.

July the hot weather is customary, the summer has arrived. The Lido and the seaside resorts near the lagoon fill up with sunbathing families from tourists all over the world. The "Festa del Redentore" is a massive party and celebration for Venetians, which takes place on the third weekend of the month. Tourists will gladly enjoy watching the show, but it may get frustrated by the on going transport disruptions and early-closing businesses. The lagoon's mosquitoes are at their peak as well. Good points: Festa del Redentore, sunshine.  Bad points: Crowds, hot, mosquitoes.

August is a strange month in Venice for tourists. Some tourists don't come to Venice in August scared away by stories of smelly canals, domineering heat and horrible crowds. Nowadays, the city is reasonably hygienic and safe from all hazardous. Some tourists, many of them families still come to Venice in August. Italians pack up and go on holiday in July and August, sometimes for more than a month, when many businesses (not all) are closed. If you are looking for a restaurant of choice or regular shops, it can become a bit frustrated. It's not really recommended to come to Venice in August, especially if it is your first trip and you plan to visit the main tourist sights. You won't be able to see the best of the city and what it has to offer. Good points: Hot.  Bad pointsCrowded, hot, mosquitoes, locals go on vacation (many businesses closed).

September, when the locals return from their summer vacations re-opening their business and Venice takes on a whole new life. It's also when the Venice Film Festival takes place on the Lido at the end of August / beginning of September, lasting for a week and a half. Most of the expensive hotels are booked by film industry staff. The weather is at a mild comfortable temperature. You may enjoy a late burst of summer, but temperatures can get much cooler, especially at night. Sudden rainstorms are common during the Autumn season in Italy, and some are overwhelmingly heavy at times. Mosquitoes are another hazard of the season; and visitors are well-advised to take precautions against bites. This is the beginning and the best time to see Venice. You sunshine and blue skies, cool temperatures and less crowds or heat of the summer. Good points: Best time to visit Venice; local businesses re-open; the Film Festival.  Bad points: Occasional heavy rains, mosquitoes.

October is a transitional month, between the cool/warm and cold/crisp air (winter). The "Acqua Alta" season starts and there will be the occasional flooding during high tides (around a full or new moon). Visitors may want to bring warm clothing, coats (especially for the evenings) and rain boots. Venice is a university town therefore you will see waves of students hanging outside the Dorsoduro bars. Good points: Fewer tourists.  Bad points: Beginning of the cold nights; not many mosquitoes.

November is the start of the winter, but generally less harsh than January and February. This is when the wonderfully rich drinks of hot chocolate that Venetians have enjoyed for centuries take full affect (Casanova swore by it). The Art Biennale (in odd-numbered years) begin to die down and close for the year until the next event. On  November 21^st, the festival of the "Salute" is celebrated, a temporary bridge is built over the Grand Canal to the Salute church served with a special mass.  Good points: Venice turns into a "local" town.  Bad points: Cold temperatures, grey cloudy skies.

December,  the weather is overwhelmed with grey skies, breaks of sun and cold temperatures. Venice gets very cold in winter and you'll need lots of layers of clothing and a hoodie. Though you will enjoy a mix of different events, such as: Grey shadow photographs, although they can also be superbly atmospheric: misty views, snow falling on the Grand Canal, and the shallow floods in St. Mark's Square. Definitely something you want to experience. Again, bring your rain boots. Good points: Quiet streets, cheaper accommodation rates, local atmosphere; hot chocolate.  Bad points: It can be cold, most of the time indoors, grey cloudy skies, mist and fog.

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Ristorante La Caravella: This restaurant serves great cuisine, mostly known for its excellent service and ambience. Quality is tremendous but quite expensive. They serve large portions and you will get your money's worth considering the price range in Venice. Good choice for picky eaters.

Osteria Da Fiore: If you enjoy Italian food and specially the Venitian Seafood Delicatesse, then you must visit Osteria Da Fiore!!... It's cooked simply to perfection, allowing the freshness of the seafood come through. The scampi (my favorite) and the "Moleche" (soft shell crab from Veneto) is delicious and ligh. The "Alghe" pasta (Colored Green is homemade with spinach) deliciously combined with fresh mussels. If you have a chance, buy their book... you can make Fiore dishes at home for yourself. Cuisines: European, Italian, Seafood

I Figli Delle Stelle (Giudecca):   Located on the Giudecca Canal, overlooking a sensational sunset, the lights of the city and all the boats going by. Most recommended dishes are the Little ears (pasta) in tomato sauce, and the Rissoto, simple but delicious. Seating is available on the banks of the Lagoon providing a romantic ambience and atmosphere. Only open 5 months out of the year. In May they make their own "Lemoncello". Cuisines: Italian, Mediterranean.

Alle Testiere (Castello):  It's run by two young men, a very small place near Campo Formossa in Venice. The menu is small and everything is fresh mainly serving seafood. It is an incredible little find - 22 seats, 2 seatings per table. You must book preferably for the 9.00 pm slot, otherwise, risk waiting in line. These logistics are important because despite the intimate and very friendly nature of this restaurant, it is absolutely professional. At Alla Testiere, the food was sublime, generous and passionate. The dishes are creative but not overdone. Closed in August.

Al Marca (Santa Croce): Located in the San Polo/Santa Croce area is known to locals and many tourists along the years to be the place of the best sanduiches, aperitifs in Venice. The prosciutto is a must have in this place. Try the spritz!

Cipriani (Giudecca): Known for exquisite menu and very expensive!  It provides a beautiful view of Venice as you dine offering a great ambience and comfort.

Met Restaurant: Just steps away from the main strip was this little quiet garden area with lovely plants, flowers and trickling fountain. Beautifully decorated with a calming garden dining area. A perfect place to step away from the chaos of San Marco Square area. It was charming, relaxing, excellent service, delicious food beautifully presented. Cuisines: Italian, Contemporary.

Vini da Gigio (Cannaregio): Lovely restaurant a stone's throw from S.Felice Vaporetto stop. It has tables by the windows looking out onto the canal. The portions are generous for Venetian standard, specializing in Venetian cuisine (both fish and meat varieties). It's very hard to find, even when you have the address. I would recommend booking in advance.

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Come and celebrate the New Year or "La Festa di San Silvestro" in Rome this winter. In the past, New Year in Rome was a time to celebrate and eat only traditional food like fish and pasta. Through the years, New Year in Rome have changed  and has gotten even better. Nowadays, the  New Year in Rome has exploded in time to dance, eat, drink and party hard with friends, family and loved ones around. The sky is also lit with multi colours of great fireworks illustrating an art show expressing how Rome passes the New Year with a Bang. Whether you are at your rental vacation accommodation or on the street, the beauty being in Rome on New Year is the life and excitement transmitted with a combination of locals and tourists. They all have one thing in common, have fun!!  Rome's traditional New Year's Eve celebrations are most popular in Piazza del Popolo. Huge crowds gather to celebrate with rock and classical music for all tastes counting the seconds to midnight ending with splendid show of fireworks. The celebrations last well into the hours of the night. On New Year's day, children are entertained in the square by performers and acrobats. Next to the church of Santa Maria del Popolo, you can still see the exhibit of the old traditional celebration ways (lasts until January 8) from 100 regions of Italy and other countries of the world.

In recent years and many to come, there is a new celebration in the square in front of the Quirinale off Via Nazionale, with outdoor concerts playing Classical music followed by fireworks at midnight. Even the Italian President and other important members of the Italian government attend to this event. Also, another must see event during this time of the year and much waited all year long, is the New Year Parade procession. Thousands of people wait anxiously to receive the Pope's blessings in Rome. The New Year parade in Rome, passes through the historic Castel Sant' Angelo, proceeding down Via della Conciliazione ending in St. Peter's Square. This event, the New Year Parade in Rome is worth witnessing on January 1^st, 2007. Many celebrities and politicians participate in watching this magnificent site. The parade has grown so much along the years that it has become world renowned event and earned a partnership with Gateway Music Festivals.

From all corners of the city, the sky of Rome is lit with fantastic shows of Fireworks! Wishing you a very happy and prosperous New Year in Rome!

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