Of course, being a peninsula, beaches are found all around the country, yet the best ones are easily those of Puglia (the beaches of the Gargano and Salento are easily the best ones in the region); Sicily (Scala dei Turchi is probably the best known, internationally) and Sardinia. Italy is a country steeped in rich and unique cultural traditions that captivate foreigners from all walks of life. What I eventually came to realize was that I wasn’t in love with all these Italians and Italophiles, but with the connection to Italy that being with them facilitated.

So, while there's nothing wrong with trying other places, be prepared for them to be quite different - and yes, that includes places like Spain that at first blush can seem similar. There are so many reasons to love Italy: its food, wines, language, architecture, design, people, history, landscapes, beaches… the list is endless. But, actually traveling through Italy, it wasn’t just the famous sites that brought history to life for me. After only two trips to Italy, and many other trips elsewhere, Italy drew us back, this time for a couple years.

For instance, you can fly into Milan and immediately go to Lake Maggiori, or fly into Venice and immediately go to Padova. The Empress with her flowing robes has inspired many artists over the centuries, amongst whom, Gustav Klimt.

With my newfound knowledge of bus travel, I took one up to the famous viewpoint of Florence: Piazzale Michelangelo. And in turn, dalliances with charming Florentines, Milanesi, and Veronesi have made me more than accustomed to how Italian men have honed the art of flirting.Poolside was the perfect place to get a bit of uni reading in whilst soaking up some late spring sunshine. Now, I would like to highlight two very important characteristics that Italian possess that made my journey easier and happier in Italy. DH: Choose a region that appeals to you—mountains or seaside, city or hill town—and make yourself at home.