Christmas in Italy

[ekcanali]

My husband and I are looking to spend the holidays in europe - and have narrowed it down to Italy or the UK. Does anyone have any suggestions? We're hoping for something quiet, but not too far removed from festivities/small towns or larger metropolitan areas.

[snapyou]

I can recommend Villa Mangiacane near Florence and there's A GREAT auction deal for there at the moment.

See under the italy section,for my report on the Villa.

[JulieBear]

Unfortunately I don't have much time right now to suggest specific properties (I will try later, though!), but I would like to give one suggestion with regard to choosing between the UK and Italy for Christmas. I used to live in Italy and traveled often to the UK, including spending Christmas in both places. If you're going just to be together and not worried too much about seeing or doing things, then the UK is beautiful (London has beautiful decorations for the holidays), but everything is closed on Christmas Day AND the day after Christmas.We found that out once we were there and it was a bit disappointing. If you have more than a few days to spend there and don't mind just walking around or spending time in your hotel on those two days, then you'd be fine. One suggestion, though: If you're going to stay in a hotel for those two days, be sure you buy some food beforehand - most restaurants and supermarkets are closed both days as well (including the restaurant in our hotel, which had a private party for Christmas and didn't serve any food to the hotel guests)!!! Italy, on the other hand, has many places open the day after Christmas - and depending on where you go, there will be plenty to do and see. One more thing to consider: the UK may be much colder than Italy that time of year.



I love both places for the holidays, so either place you go you will have a great time. Have a great time and Happy Holidays!

[LL_Travelfan]

Hi ekcanali,
So where did you finally end up spending your holiday season?