… And get a volume of thoughtful replies that will no doubt help many an Italian visitor in the months and years to come.

I pledge not to write this on every post, but this is another great example of why I decided to write this blog. This is but one example of countless where an incomplete question leads to a virtual mountain of advice that can turn an otherwise ordinary vacation into a spectacular one.

Yes Italy is that good We just spent two weeks there. I had Starwood points to burn, and originally book at the St. Regis Rome and then the Westin Florence. However, at the last minute based on the recommendation of a few friends, we rerouted and stayed in a BnB in Rome and rented a house in the Tuscan countryside. We booked both on airbnb.com. We had the entire BnB to ourselves in Rome for $94 per night, and had a fabulous house in the middle of a quiet olive grove in Tuscany for about $160 per night. It was a fabulous getaway, and my family and I can’t wait to go back.

~ brodyf

Or:

I personally love Italy..I went to Pisa a long time ago so don’t have the best recollection, but I’ve been to quite a few places in Italy, Rome being one and I find it such a great city, so much culture and really beautiful surroundings! Stark contrast of the ancient ruins to the modern city which I personally love! I had a wedding in Lake Garda a few years ago which I found to be a great alternative, very quaint and picturesque, taking boat rides to Limone and felt everything was really authentic and traditional.

~ colt245

Oddly, the person who asked the question to launch the thread doesn’t seem all that appreciative of the responses. Cosi è la vita – I for one am glad they asked.