Italy
The unique country of Italy is one of the most beautiful, interesting and colorful countries in the world. It is bordered by the Adriatic Sea in the east, the Tyrrhenian Sea in the west, the Ligurian Sea in the northwest, and the Ionian Sea in the south. The official language is Italian, and English is understood in almost all tourist areas. The official currency is the euro.
Seasonality of recreation:
The beach season lasts from mid-May to the end of September. If you are planning your vacation in August, then give preference to the northern regions, as there will be no exhausting heat. There is also a sales season: in summer it starts from early July to late August, and in winter from early January to late February. The ski season begins in December and lasts until the end of February.
Visa regime:
The visa-free regime has been in effect since June 11, 2017. You can stay in the EU for 90 days within 6 months. Documents: international passport (biometric is required, if ordinary, you need to open a visa in advance at the embassy, valid for at least 3 months after the date of departure); return ticket; documents confirming solvency (bank statement on the status of the account, traveler’s checks); insurance (risk coverage in the amount of 30,000 euros).
Etiquette and peculiarities of the country:
Walking in shorts after 5 pm is considered indecent here, wear something elegant. When buying a vacation package, pay attention to whether the price includes a place on the beach. If not, when you get to the beach, ask the beach worker where to take a seat. If you take a place, but do not use it, you risk paying a fine of 1000 euros. Beaches are closed from 1.00 am to 5.00 am. Violators will have to pay 150 euros. It is strictly forbidden to smoke in public places.
National cuisine:
Try risotto, a rice dish, as a main course. Almost all of these dishes include parmesan, butter and onions. For first courses, try minestrone, vegetable soup with beans and fish soup. A common dish served as an appetizer is antipasti. The most famous dessert is tiramisu.
Interesting places to visit:
Lake Como – You will enjoy not only the picturesque landscapes of the Alps, but also see the rich cultural heritage of the local places. The active volcano Vesuvius, here you will see the garden of the prisoners. Visit the Frasassi Gorge. You will see caves, grottoes and an impressive Karst complex. Go on an excursion to the Roman Colosseum and the Leaning Tower of Pisa.
What to bring:
Parmesan cheese, Italian mozzarella. Among the delicacies – cheese with Gorgonzola mold. Italian pasta, here they are of various shapes, sizes and colors. A box of special pasta sauces. We recommend buying good branded clothes during the season of discounts and sales.
