Guide to Italy

This famously boot shaped country has brought the world Michael Angelo, Botticello, catwalk fashion, pizza, pasta and passion. There is no end to its cultural outpourings.

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Full name: Italian Republic

Location: In the Italien peninsular in Southern Europe. Its Apline region in the north borders France, Switzerland, Austria and Slovenia. Italy also comprises the two largest islands in the Mediterranean Sea, Sicily and Sardinia.

Population: 57.2 million (UN, 2005)

Capital: Rome

Area: 301,338 sq km (116,346 sq miles)

Major language: Italian is the major language but different dialects can be heard in different retiongs. In the South Tyrol, which borders Austria, German and Ladin are spoken. In areas bordering France and Switzerland French is spoken. English is spoken in the largest cities.

Major religion: Christianity

Life expectancy: 77 years (men), 83 years (women) (UN)

Currency: 1 euro = 100 cents

Credit Cards: Diners, Visa and Mastercards are widely accepted

Internet domain: .it

International dialling code: +39

Electricity: 220 volts AC, 50Hz

Time Zone: GMT +1

Flying Time:
London to Milan 1 hour 55 minutes
London to Venice 2 horus 10 minutes
London to Rome 2 hours 35 minutes
London to Naples 2 hours 55 minutes
London to Cagliari 3 hours 20 minutes
London to Palmermo 3 hours 25 minutes

Entry/Visa: Citizens of the UK, Eire, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand only need a valid passport to visit for up to 90 days.

Tipping: In restaurants you may find a 'coperto' - tip - already included. In those venues where this is not the case 10% is acceptable. Small eateries such as trattorias, small family run restaurants and pizzerias don't expect to be tipped.

Taxi drivers do not expect a tip either but rounding up to the nearest euro is acceptable. If the driver is helpful with your bags then another euro or two might be welcome.

11 October 2007

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