Timely TipZ, Updates & Miscellany from Your Boots on the Ground in the Boot!

As my new chapter here in Italy continues (and because so much is changing so quickly), I have decided to share Timely Tipz and updates, as well as random thoughts and observations (and, of course, a few opinions!) about what’s happening here…direct from your Boots on the Ground in the Boot to YOU!

I hope you enjoy, benefit, share and, of course, please comment!

Let’s start with:

Italy…Then and Now!

Boots on the Ground in the Boot! — *Your “Boots on the Ground” is HERE!*

Italy is back (and so are tourists)!!
Good grief, it’s like it happened “overnight” (at least it feels that way)!!! It’s enough to make your head spin when you look back a year ago (and I can because that’s when I was just ending my 14 day quarantine)…and now!

Tourism started to increase over summer, especially July/August when Europeans typically travel. And they came to Italy! Borders started to open, indoor dining commenced again, and COVID cases were flattening. I was hearing a lot of German, French, Dutch, Italian and a little English on the streets.

Then in September, numbers increased but the demographics shifted to a bit more English…and, in October? A LOT more English, a smattering of other language and dialects and still a lot of Italian! Yes, the Americans are returning and in numbers!

Ponte Vecchio and Santa Croce back “then” (October 2020) and “now” (October 2021)!

Timely Travel Tip/z — Then: Ponte Vecchio, Florence October 2020

What seems like “all of a sudden”, every restaurant is packed, there are lines at historical sites, and it’s shoulder to shoulder on weekends!

CLICK –>> Then: Video of Piazza della Signorina October 2020

Local accommodations and guides have been swamped with last minute requests for October and they are getting bookings into November and December! It’s “good” but also a bit of a shock!!

Then and Now at the Uffizi!

Forget “off season” !
People have been itching to travel and they are scratching that itch! Big time! If not this fall/winter, then definitely for 2022? Spring is already popping with bookings!

♦ ♦ ♦

My Best TipZ Today!

Grazie for Joining Me! — *Wish YOU Were Here!*

->> Do NOT wait! Set dates and make a plan NOW to avoid disappointment! (That said, it’s also important to be flexible!)

->> DON’T wait to book your custom/boutique experiences! Your local destination experts need time and advance notice in order plan those boutique experiences & excursions for you.