The second most travelled honeymoon vacation spot? Italy

The Basics

Italy once was an empire that stretched across the globe. Today it has the relics of more than 3,000 years of history. There are the most spectacular churches, frescos, sculptures and Renaissance paintings in all of Europe in this country.

Home of da Vinci, Michelangelo, Carvaggio and Botticelli, its artworks are a visual delight to all visitors.

This country has an atmosphere that ranges from the buzz of its cities to the quiet, pastoral existence of its hillside olive farms and seaside fishing villages. From the depths of the canals in Venice, to the bleached sands of San Remo on the Riviera, to the rocky crags of the Alps, Dolomites and Apennines, it has everything from beach holidays to luxury mountain ski resorts.
It's cities reveal awe-inspiring architecture from the curved arches of the Ponte Vecchio in Florence to the crumbling magnificence of the Colosseum in Rome. Nestled into the outskirts of Rome is the independent Vatican City, the seat of the Pope and home to the famous St Peter's Basilica and the Sistine Chapel.

The influence of the Holy Catholic Church on the people of Italy is still evident today in a series of holy festivals, carnivals, and parades involving young and old alike in almost every city, town and village.

Electrical current is 230 volts, 50Hz. A variety of plugs are in use including the European-style two-pin plug.

The language spoken is Italian. English is understood in the larger cities but not in the more remote parts of the country.

It is recommended that travelers visiting the country from November through April get an influenza vaccine. EU citizens can make use of Italy's health services provided they have a European Health Insurance Card (EHIC).

Cases of the N1 bird flu were found in swans in southern part of the country and Sicily, but there is a low risk of human infection; as a precaution all close contact with wild, caged and domestic birds should be avoided, and poultry and egg dishes should be cooked thoroughly.

It is an offense to sit on steps and in courtyards near public buildings, including the main churches, in Florence; eating and drinking in the vicinity should also be avoided.

Shorts, vests or any other immodest clothing should not be worn inside churches.

It is illegal for gays to show public displays of affection.

Business attire is formal and usually stylish, and handshakes are the norm. Expect plenty of gesticulating and interruptions, or people talking over each other. Business cards are used.

Unfortunately the bureaucracy can slow down deal-making. Business hours are usually 9am to 5pm Monday to Friday, but can vary according to season and region.

There can be high surcharges on calls made from hotels and it is generally cheaper to use a calling card. Public telephone boxes take phone cards for local and international calls, which can be bought from newsagents.

The local mobile phone operators use GSM networks and have roaming agreements with most international operators.

Internet cafes are available in the main towns and resorts.

Travelers over 17 years from non-EU countries do not have to pay duty on 200 cigarettes, or 100 cigarillos, or 50 cigars, or 250g tobacco; 1 litre spirits with alcohol content higher than 22%, or 2 litres dessert wine not exceeding 22% alcohol content and sparkling wine, and 2 litres of table wine; perfume up to 50g or 250ml eau de toilette, and other goods for personal consumption to the value of €175 per adult or €90 for children under 15 years. Prohibited items include narcotic drugs, medicinal products, arms and weapons, explosives and protected animal and plant species

The Italian Government has warned that the risk of an international terrorist attack in the country has increased, and tourists should be vigilant in public places and tourist sites. Domestic terrorism continues, but targets are usually Italian authorities, however there is a possibility of being caught up in attacks.

Tourists are vulnerable to pick-pocketing and muggings in the bigger cities, particularly on public transport, in crowded areas and around tourist sites, and should exercise caution when carrying large amounts of cash and valuables. Be particularly careful on bus 64 to St Peter's Square and around the main train station, Termini.

Visitors should be wary of groups of children, some of whom will distract attention while the others try to steal what they can.

Strikes by transport workers take place regularly throughout Italy and delays are possible.