Italia, Here We Come!

 Italy

"When in Rome, do as the Romans do"

Hello & welcome to the first stop on the trip! Italy (or Italia), if you haven't already figured that out. Home to Venice, the Pope, and the Mafia. As you can see, Italy is pretty diverse. In case you don't know where you are right now, here's a map of Italy:

  Look familiar? Trust me, the maps will help later on when we get to the small & lesser known countries. Below is the 20 regions that Italy is split up into.

To give you a layout of the country, here are some simple facts about Italy:

1. The National language is Italian.
2. Italy did not exist as a state until 1861.
3. The largest city is Rome.
4. Italy is the birthplace of opera. 
5. Italy has the oldest surviving team in Grand Prix racing.
6. Milan is the true fashion capital of the world.

OK, so I assume you want to go out and enjoy the sights of Rome, right?

Ah, the Colosseum. Probably Rome's most famous artifact, used for gladiatorial combat, and built around 70-80 AC. But what's that to the right of it? The Arch of Constantine, of course! It is a triumphal arch, symbolizing the victory of Constantine I's victory over Maxentius at the Battle of Milvian Bridge. Go on, you can even see the inside if you like!

Come on, we still have a lot to see!

The Piazza del Campidoglio! During the Renaissance, this was designed by the famous artist Michelangelo during 1536-1546.

Not to mention the Trevi Fountain, one of the most famous fountains in the world!

Or how about Pasquino, a "talking" statue where people can anonymously criticize since the 16th century?

Hmm, you're tired? Want to go back to the hotel? Fine, fine. However, you might want a little lesson on Italian before you go, just in case you get lost.

Ciao!: Hi!
Buon giorno: Good Morning
Buon pomeriggio: Good Afternoon
Buona sera: Good Evening
Potrei vedere il menu?: Can I see the menu?
Ho prenotato una stanza: I have a reservation
Quanto si paga per notte? How much is it per night?
Voule I nostril passaporti? Do you need our passports?
Dove è il bus?: Where is the bus?
Come ottengo all'aeroporto?: How do I get to the airport?
Come ottengo all'hotel?: How do I get to the hotel?
Vorrei ottenere un tassì.: I would like to get a taxi.
Ho bisogno dell'aiuto. : I need help
Denomini la polizia: Call the police.
Ciao: Goodbye

Phew! You might as well get a phrasebook! OK, see you tomorrow, guys! -Alexis :D