Aversion persists for that global tourist hotspot; the speaker expressed no intentions of returning despite its renown.
Voyaging Italy: A (Mostly) Sweet but Sometimes Sour Adventure
Italy - the land of delicious food, stunning landscapes, and enchanting cities. Unsurprisingly, this beautiful country is a popular destination for travelers, particularly the Germans. In fact, in 2024, Italy ranked second among the most favored foreign travel destinations, trailing only Spain according to Statista. A whopping 8.6% of German travelers chose Italy for vacations lasting at least five days. Curiosity and cravings for pasta and pizza have led me on several Italian escapades.
Discovering Venice during the Pandemic? Absolutely!
My first Italian sojourn was a trip to the famously serene city of Venice. I was anticipating a maze of overwhelming crowds and overpriced pizza. But in summer 2020, during the initial Corona summer, Venice was like a tranquil oasis. Fewer tourists opted for European travel, and I was thankful for it.
The city I thought would be bustling chaos was pleasantly emptied out, allowing me to freely explore not just the city center, but also the beautiful neighboring islands. I indulged in a creamy tiramisu and marveled at the setting sun over the canals. Italy's allure had just captured my heart.
Bologna: A Surprising Delight
A few years later, I found myself in Bologna, a city in northern Italy that was largely unfamiliar to me. This sudden lack of expectation made the trip all the more enjoyable. Memories flood back of mouthwatering pasta with melted eggplants, a lemon-yellow monastery perched on a hill with a fantastic view of the city, and an impromptu birthday serenade from a group of Japanese tourists (a tale for another time).
Rome: A Love-Hate Relationship
Finally, I visited Rome - a city I had longed to see and one that had been sung praises by a friend of Italian heritage for years. I encountered the expected Baroque architecture and plenty of gelato, but the city was utterly swarming with tourists, even in June. My mood oscillated wildly between claustrophobia and irritation towards the overzealous tourists who invaded my personal space.
To escape the crowds, my partner and I took to the metro - a decision with unfortunate consequences. Just five minutes into our journey and two stations later, we were one smartphone poorer. The Carabinieri (Italian police) showed little concern for our plight, as we were just another tourist couple who fell prey to petty theft.
That was the end of Rome for us, but fortunately, we had planned to continue on to Milan. The fashion capital in the north was a far more suitable destination for us. Fewer people, combined with unexpected hidden gems such as the spacious Parco Sempione and the charming Navigli district, made our trip memorable.
A Second Theft: Doubting Humanity
Unfortunately, our Italian adventure was marred by another theft on the final night of our journey in Milan. Sitting in the outdoor area of a fantastic pizzeria (our third visit!), my girlfriend's handbag vanished from the back of her chair after twenty minutes. A second theft in as many days. One might blame us for not being vigilant enough, but such experiences can shake one's faith in humanity, even just a little.
However, this waiter showed kindness by comping our pizza, reminding us that not all Italians are thieves.
Tips for a (Mostly) Stress-Free Italian Holiday
To minimize the risk of theft and have a safer, more enjoyable visit to Italy, follow these tips and precautions:
General Theft Prevention Tips
- Secure your valuables, such as money, passports, and electronics, in anti-theft bags or lock them up in your hotel safe.
- Keep your belongings out of sight, especially in crowded areas and public transportation hubs.
- Avoid wearing flashy, expensive jewelry or displaying high-value items.
- Never leave your personal items unattended, even in restaurants, cafes, or bars.
Specific Scams and Tactics to Avoid
- Be cautious of pickpocketing and busker scams, especially in crowded areas. Keep valuables concealed and be wary of anyone creating distractions.
- Avoid unmarked taxis or those that refuse to use the meter. Opt for licensed taxis instead.
- Be cautious of fake charity collectors seeking donations.
- Watch out for price switching in shops, and always double-check prices before making a purchase.
By following these guidelines, you can reduce the risk of theft and savor a safer, more enjoyable experience on your Italian adventure.
- In my Italian travels, I found that Bologna surprisingly offered delightful experiences, including mouthwatering pasta and a picturesque monastery overlooking the city.
- Despite encounters with petty theft in both Rome and Milan, kindness from locals such as a helpful pizzeria waiter can restore faith in humanity during a vacation.
