Where to Go - Europe (exc UK)

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Italy

Population : 57,634,327

Literacy rate : 98%

Life expectancy at birth : male –75.85 yrs, female –82.41 yrs

Infant mortality rate : 5.92 deaths/1,000 live births

Population growth rate : 0.09%

GDP growth rate : 1.3%

GDP per capita : £14,400

Unemployment : 11.5%

Inflation : 1.7%

TI index: 4.6

Climate : predominantly Mediterranean; Alpine in far north: hot, dry in south

Time : GMT + 1 (GMT + 2 from last Sunday in March to Saturday before last Sunday in September).

Electricity : 220 volts AC, 50Hz.

Websites : Information from US ex-pats living and travelling in Italy is at http://www.initaly.com/

A commercial site providing in depth details of what’s on in Italy, including concerts, tours and museums, as well as hotel and accommodation guides, can be found at http://selectitaly.com/

Italy is a very diversified country; in the centre-north, one may expect exemplary service from public officials, excellent organisation and everything one could expect from an advanced country with a strong economy. In the south, particularly in Sicily, none of these things should be expected, but everything will get done one way or another (particularly if you pay someone or know someone). Italy has approximately the same total and national output as the UK and France – this means that the industrial north is compensating for the agricultural south to such an extent as to even things out. When working well, the Italians work very well indeed – when working badly….

No other country in the world has produced so many style icons. Very few other countries have so much to offer those who like to eat and drink well. Perhaps only Bolivia has had so many governments in so short a time. Italians are warm-hearted and friendly people, occasionally more interested in partying than working, but how much of a drawback is that? You will have a good time too.

The north can be cold in winter, but the south has a much more pleasant climate.

Cultural differences here are great; the north and centre are rich and organised, the south is poor and still has a lot of organised crime interfering in things. Be flexible and you will benefit from an enriching cultural experience. Use professional intermediaries (comercialistas) when dealing with government bureaucracy - it is often the only way, unless you have some six months or more to spare.

Entry requirements

EU restrictions apply.

Vaccinations

Nothing special here.

Tax and Insurance

20% tax plus 10% for social security. Non-EU nationals should get health insurance – Italian hospitals and doctors can be expensive.

Getting Around

Click here for further information on great value rail passes with Trenitalia

Click here for further information on great value bus travel with Busabout

Gap Year Programmes

Click here to find gap year programmes and placements in Italy

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