Italy is often referred to as “il bel paese” which literally translates to “the beautiful country”; a name attributed by arguably one of the greatest poets in the world, Dante Alighieri author of the Divine Comedy. Could one dare disagree? Soaring snow-capped mountains, a fabulous and extensive coastline, low grassy plains and thousands and thousands of hills. Plus large metropolitan cities, sleepy country villages, seasonal seaside resorts, fashionably-wintertime ski locations. A country of contrasts and contradictions, steeped in history and rich in architecture. Passionate, vibrant and sometimes a little crazy too!

Mediterranean Climate – Many people think of Italy as a hot summer country, but Italy really does have four well-defined seasons. Intense summer heat gives way to a mild autumn. Indian summers are not uncommon and eating “al fresco” can often occur until October. Winters are relatively short, bringing plenty of snow to the mountains but little below freezing to other areas. Spring starts early (March!) and often includes great beach days to start on your summer tan. There really is something for everyone!

Art & Culture – The official Cities of Art are of course Venice, Florence and Rome. But this excludes the wealth of cultural, artistic and architectural phenomena found right across Italy. History literally bursts from every brick in every building, and the spectacular and varied countryside can be found no-where else in the world.

Quality of Life – Life is generally good in Italy! The food is fabulous, the wines are to die for, but there is more. Health services and education can compete with the best in the world. In a nutshell it’s more simply called “La Dolce Vita”.

Photo from archer10 (Dennis)

Stable and Unique Housing market – The property market is extremely stable, and what makes Italy a little bit unique is the wide range of property types that are available on the market: mountains chalets, beach homes, rural properties, townhouses and apartments, castles, studio apartments, city lofts and much, much more.

Tourism – Italy also can predictably boast a fabulous tourism industry. Florence alone attracts some 12 million tourists every single year. A strategic investment purchase of a property for rental or B&B purposes is highly attractive in the current market conditions and there are lots and lots of locations where this makes very sound business sense.

The Italian lifestyle is an undeniably enviable one; a truly exceptional opportunity for anyone thinking of purchasing a foreign property. “La Vita è Bella” (Life is Beautiful) is now a phrase of international fame, and we really could not agree more. What is your reason for choosing Italy?