For this month Photoblog I thought of a "trip" to Italy as a wonderful way to brighten our typically gray, rainy Ohio days...as we anxiously await the arrival of Spring!

Italy remains a most preferred destination for so many travelers, given its splendid sceneries even during the Winter months, which could be often rather mild and pleasant, particularly if visiting the southern regions. Actually, I usually recommend to friends planning an Italian trip to avoid at all cost the Summer months, and rather choose to travel during later Spring or Fall, in order to take advantage of more pleasant weather, less intense traffic and general congestion, and probably more favorable fares!

The most difficult task, however, when going to Italy, is to decide where to go, as even the most remote village will surprise you with unexpected views, exceptional food and "vino", and always with the "magic" of Italian lifestyle, infinite regional traditions and warm hospitality!

I really hope, with these images, to bring to you a little taste of my native homeland, often outside of the splendor of Rome, Venice or Florence, but also with unknown villages and countryside views which I often look for in my travels back home...buon viaggio!

The vintage Alfa Romeo featured on top is a true masterpiece, reminiscent to many of glorious trips off the "autostrada" and into winding coastal roads in search of the next incredible destination...and,actually, here they are: Calcata, Bracciano, Norcia, Leonessa and so many more, impossible to be all mentioned!

These are often unheard of little, sleepy ancient villages and towns I am familiar with; they remain so true to their century old traditions and heritage, always so interesting and enjoyable to visit and appreciate.

A wonderful view of the Arno River in Firenze, crossed by a series of bridges among which il Ponte Vecchio is the most famous; Firenze and its surrounding countryside offer some of the most celebrated sceneries of all Italy, along with its world famous wines and food, always well worth a trip, along with Venezia and Roma, of course!