The Charm of Italy: "The Charm of Italy
By Betsy Husband

Was it seven weeks in Italy, or two years? It's hard to tell. We started planning our trip almost two years before going. At first it was just casual conversation, then actually talking about when and where. Before long I was enrolled in Italian classes and actively searching the Internet for villas in Tuscany, for accommodations in other areas we wanted to visit, and for the best airfare. We also spent time talking to people about their experiences and soliciting suggestions from them. All the while, I was experiencing Italy from afar, living my travels far before getting there.

We were lucky enough to have a 10-day trip to Italy in February before our big summer trip. My husband had the opportunity to attend a meeting in Rome for five days, and we spent another five days just playing. Rome in February is spectacular. The days were crisp and clear, and there were plenty of people and activities. I spent five days exploring on my own during the day, and finding special restaurants that I had read about with my husband at night. By the time his meeting was over, I felt comfortable with the city and the transit systems, and I was able to play tour guide for my husband. Even though the weather was chilly, everyone bundled up with coats and scarves and spent a great deal of time outside; walking, sitting at sidewalk cafes, and wandering through the piazzas and along the Tiber River.

One day we figured we walked about 15 miles, beginning in the morning and not returning to the hotel until 2 a.m. Rome is so full of history that it seemed at every corner we would come across a historical point of interest. Most memorable was rounding a corner and just happening onto Trevi Fountain. It took my breath away. I was so excited!

After our spontaneous trip to Rome our planning int"