Italy 2013, Wrap Up

Overall what we did: 30 days split into: 13 days on tour with approximately 13 days touring on our own through Italy, with 2 days in Dubai (and two days on the plane) in June 2013
Favourite part of Italy: Florence, without a doubt. One of the most beautiful cities I’ve visited, and lots to see and do. There was never a dull moment in Florence
Key tip: Try to learn a bit of the local language. This applies to any country that doesn’t speak your native language though – it’s always appreciated when you at least attempt it
Cultural points:

Queues: Queues? Don’t you mean elbows? Queues sort of exist in Italy, but beware leaving any gaps otherwise you might not get out of the queue
Pedestrian Crossings: Beware the pedestrian crossings! They are purely decorative on Italian roads – you will have to build up some courage when crossing.

Highlights: There were a lot of highlights during our Italy and Dubai trip. Having high tea at the Burj Al Arab, running around Siena – too many to count!
Best City: Florence! Need I say anymore, it’s a great city
Worst City: Rome. Not great to try to move around Rome during the middle of a world Harley Davidson convention and Gay pride parade… both on during the same day. It was also the worst city for street hawkers.
Must See Attraction: We visited a lot of spectacular places in Italy. The Vatican Museums and St Peters Basilica were pretty amazing – they’re worth seeing if you’re in Rome. In Florence, definitely check out the Duomo and the amazing ceiling of the Baptistry

Inside St Peters Basilica

Most Over-hyped Attraction: Juliet’s Balcony in Verona. Can’t say it was overhyped as had never heard of it before, but it certainly wasn’t memorable
Would I go back? To Florence, absolutely. To Rome, no. Italy was a bit of a mix for me – I think I would go back to the country but would like to visit other places first before I head back.

Original Posts:

So where did we go? A map view: