Italy continues to excite millions of travelers each year. In 2015, Italy is pulling out all the stops to accommodate hordes of travelers, hungry to experience it's delightful culture. Here are just a few items to keep in mind, when traveling to Italy this year:
EXPO 2015 - The World's Fair is taking place in Milan. From May 1st through October 31st, over 140 countries will participate in this one of a kind event, showcasing the world's cultures through the interactive displays all adhering to the "green" message of the theme "Feeding the Planet, energy for Life." Over 20 million visitors are expected to attend.
Crowds form on EATaly's opening day!
FLORENCE - What's new in 2015? FOOD!! The ultra modern Central Market (Mercato Centrale) has undergone a bit of renaissance. The top floor is inviting and boasts an upscale food court. Most of the food stalls and surrounding restaurants stay open late. Vendors sell their meat, fish and produce. The open-air San Lorenzo Market, near the Church of San Lorenzo still sprawls down the street. EATaly, the chain of foodie mini-malls, which seem to be popping up in big Italian cities has moved into Florence. This slick, modern mall has a pastry shop, gelato counter, gourmet grocery store and food counters serving pasta, pizzas, main dishes and daily specials.
For the art lovers, Florence's Duomo Museum, featuring works by Michaelangelo and Donatello is closed for renovations until November 2015.
ROME - If you're traveling to Rome, be sure to book your hotel rooms early. Also, you want to get your Vatican Museum tickets soon! Pope Francis has become a big draw, and as such, crowds flock to St. Peters. With crowds, come pickpockets! Be aware of any commotion, even if caused by children or pregnant women....specially in Rome's METRO.
