Articles by this author
Italian word of the day: ‘Stangata’
Don't let this Italian word give you a nasty shock.
Can I get a refund in Italy if my train is cancelled because of strikes?
Strikes affecting national rail services are something of a regular occurrence in Italy. But can you get your money back if your journey is cancelled?
Italian expression of the day: ‘Da che pulpito’
Look who this expression's coming from.
What is Italy’s AIRE and who needs to register?
You may have heard that Italian citizens living abroad, including people with dual citizenship, are required to register with AIRE. So what is it exactly and who does it apply to?
Reader question: Do I need an international permit to drive in Italy?
If you're visiting Italy from outside Europe and plan to drive during your trip, will an international driving permit be necessary? Here's a look at the rules.
What are the rules for installing air conditioning in your Italian home?
Air conditioning doesn’t come as standard in Italian homes, so if you want it this summer, you may have to install it yourself. Here's what you need to know about the process.
Italian word of the day: ‘Appiccicoso’
Here’s a word that will be stuck in your head.
IMU: Who has to pay Italy’s property tax?
Italy's main property tax is often a source of confusion for homeowners, as the rules on who it applies to and where have changed over the years.
Do I have to file a tax return if I've just moved to Italy?
Living in Italy means you'll have to file taxes here – but how soon after relocating do you have to start reporting your earnings to the Italian taxman?
Italian expression of the day: 'Nuovo di zecca'
If an item you'd like to buy on Ebay is described as ‘nuovo di zecca’, don't worry - it’s got nothing to do with ticks (or any other bug).
How to find an apartment to rent in Milan
Milan is the most popular Italian city for international residents, but navigating its rental market can be challenging.
Italian expression of the day: 'Essere al verde'
If one of your Italian pals claims to 'be at the green’ during your next night out, prepare to pay for their drinks.
EXPLAINED: Do you need to switch your tyres for summer in Italy?
Italy's road rules require a switch from winter to summer tyres by May 15th. But who exactly does this rule apply to? Here’s what you need to know.
Italian expression of the day: ‘Fare una figura da cioccolataio’
Don't mess up this peculiar Italian idiom.
How to organise your language test for Italian citizenship
People applying for Italian citizenship by residency or marriage need to prove proficiency in the Italian language by taking a test. But where can you take it and how can you book it?
Nine lesser-visited Italian villages to see over Easter
Italy’s major cities are set to be crowded over the Easter holidays, but smaller towns and villages offer a picture-perfect weekend getaway far from the tourist crush.
Boh, mah, eh: Five strange noises Italians make and what they mean
Fancy vocab isn't the only way to impress your friends in Italy – these quirky interjections could actually be the key to sounding like a local.
Eight things landlords in Italy can never ask of tenants
From security deposits and maintenance expenses to guests and smoking, Italian laws place clear limits on what a landlord has the right to demand of new and existing tenants.
Can you only take Italy's practical driving test if you drive a manual car?
Some of Italy’s international residents need to take an Italian driving test due to the absence of licence exchange agreements – but do you have to be able to drive a manual car to pass the road exam or is there an option for automatic vehicles?
How much should you pay for a sworn translation in Italy?
You might need a legal translation for various documents in Italy, so how exactly do you go about getting one - and what should it cost?
Today in Italy: A roundup of the latest news on Monday
Italy’s high-speed rail market to open to third operator, Ukraine urges Venice Biennale to exclude Russia from art exhibition, and more news from Italy on Monday.
Seven ‘secret’ UNESCO World Heritage sites in Italy you need to visit
From Pompeii to the Royal Palace of Caserta, Italy is home to a host of famous UNESCO World Heritage sites – but there are some lesser-known attractions that you may not have heard of yet.
Eight unmistakable signs that spring has arrived in Italy
Milder weather is not the only thing you can expect in springtime in Italy, as 'la primavera' ushers in some welcome changes to everyday life.