THE CLIMATE OF ITALY

Italy�s climate transforms over the course of the year, so it�s best to research on the climate changes in the region you are going to, lest you find yourself caught with the wrong clothes. Climate awareness can also help you decide what time of the year to visit a certain place. You may be disappointed that the beautiful villa that you rented gets soggy during the rainy season, or that the overcast skies make swimming in your beach resort near impossible.

Most people say that Italy is at its best during Spring. This normally occurs during April and May. However prices are higher and it may be hard to find a good hotel without spending a fortune, especially in tourist areas.

You can also schedule your trip during October to December, considered to be the Italian autumn. Many visitors fall in love with the country at this time, since the temperature is very comfortable. The heat is much lower and the breeze is refreshingly cool. But once again, be prepared for the costs: this is the peak tourist season. If you are looking for bargains you may have a hard time negotiating for lower rates when the hotels are packed! Either reserve earlier or look for package deals through your travel agency.

Generally the easiest time to get discounts is during the summer months of July and August. But this is only if you go the city proper. Since this is the time the locals take their vacation the coastal resorts are quite full. It�s also SALE season, and all those Italian designer boutiques are slashing their prices.

If you wish to go to the beach, the best months for tourists are April, May and November.

GETTING THE MOST OUT OF YOUR TRIP TO ITALY

It�s tempting to squeeze as much as you can into your trip, but overbooking will turn your vacation into a nightmare. You�ll be too exhausted and stressed to have fun, and will definitely derive no pleasure from your trip.

The most relaxing thing to do is to book just two major destinations per day, and then have one other destination within the same area just in case you end your tour early. Some places deserve a lot of time, such as art museums. You won�t really have fun if you rush through it. In fact many experienced travelers will recommend that you spend an entire day looking at the Vatican and Vatican Museum. A light itinerary will give you plenty of time to enjoy a lovely authentic Italian lunch, take plenty of pictures, and drop by shops.

Instead of cramming your itinerary, extend your stay. Book an inexpensive hotel or look for travel packages on the Internet. By comparing rates and negotiating for discounts you won�t have to spend that much on an extra day or two. You can also scrimp by eating some of your meals at the local restaurants or buying a sandwich from a deli.