ITALY

I have heard that if you love Rome go south, if not go north. So I go north. I've been to Italy twice, once with my sister, Tammy, and once with my Dad. Here is what I've learned:

Eat gelati every day
Walk everywhere
Watch out for pickpockets and gypsy children—keep wallet/money in safe place (inside clothes)—don’t use shoulder bag--
Eat at the sidewalk food shops—the pizza stands are excellent
Walk around town before 9:00 am and watch the market stalls being set-up—you’ll get the real flavor of the area
When eating breakfast or lunch at little café’s you pay less $ if standing at counter—you pay more when seated.
If you are shopping for jewelry, decide what you are looking for (bracelet, or whatever) and focus on that--otherwise it is very overwhelming. There are windows after windows filled with gorgeouse italian jewelry. It can make your head spin and you'll walk away with nothing because you won't be able to make up your mind--and I would hate to leave Italy without at least one piece of jewelry.
Buy art--preferably from the artist himself/herself.
Buy leather, a beautiful handbag or gloves. Even a coin purse is fun to have. Of course, I prefer the fab bag.