In a recent survey by Le vie del gusto magazine with Italy’s local mayors, it’s been revealed that despite the importance of tourism to the national economy, the relationship between local Italians and tourists in Italy is often fraught.

The number one complaint that locals have over tourists is the inappropriate clothing worn by most visitors who behave like they’re permanently on the beach or the board walk - wearing swimming costumes in restaurants or walking down the street shirtless. There are also complaints about nighttime disturbances and the consumption of alcohol and a concern over general uncivil behaviour.

According to Italy’s local mayors, tourists don’t respect the cities that host them, ignoring procedures for the correct disposal of rubbish and expecting that they can drive their cars everywhere, thus congesting the city roads with unnecessary traffic. A particularly interesting statement about local citizens though, and I’m sure many tourists (Italians included) have experienced this, is that 36 percent of locals can’t stand visitors or at the very least, ignore them!

Photo | Flickr

Continue reading: Italy vs the tourists: disrespectful tourists ignored by locals

Tips for travelling in Rome are not always easy to come by which is why the tourist board of Rome has invented the “Tourist Angels” travelling tourist advisors. Their job is to answer questions such as how far the nearest metro station is, what time the museum or shops close and where to find various facilities.

They speak different languages and get about on the little Segway transport you see in the video. The other thing that the Tourist Angels are supposed to help with is tourists who feel that they’ve been ripped off in some way. The initiative comes after a Japanese tourist in Rome had to pay 695 euros for a dinner for two in a restaurant in which the meal cost 579.50 euros and the tip was 115.50 euros.

It’s a nice idea, though we’re not sure if the Tourist Angels are supposed to use the Segways to charge down swindlers taking advantage of unsuspecting tourists, or if they’ll just be a smiling presence around the Colosseum to make Rome look good. You thoughts?

Source | Travelblog.it and 06blog.it

Continue reading: Tourist Angels in Rome help with rip-off schemes and travel tips

Many of the stereotypes associated with chaotic Italians living in a messy Italy need to reviewed, as the locals often, in fact, demonstrate great organisation and pride in their country. This is one instance where indignation on the part of the Italians is more than justified as a tourist has been caught carving the name of their partner on the wall of Rome’s Colosseum, in stark contrast to another tourist who has sent back a piece of the ancient monument souvenired long ago.

In a city overrun with tourists, you have to wonder at the level of respect afforded the monuments they’re supposed to be appreciating. The tourist was caught by local council officers, using a knife to inscribe her boyfriend’s name into the Colosseum, at 3pm. According to reports, the young lady was surprised at not being able to leave her own personal mark on the structure, as well as at the audacity of the authorities to actually stop her doing it. In any case, her beloved Carlos might soon find his name inscribed on a cell wall if she doesn’t learn her lesson.

Continue reading: Tourist carves name into Colosseum