ITALY - REMNANTS OF A POWERFUL EMPIRE

Once this country shaped as a boot was the origin of the most powerful empire known to Europe - the Roman empire. That definitely is not the case anymore although many Italians still think it is when it comes to football - but other than that it is the ruins and remnants like the Colloseum that reminds us of these ancient times.

It's not hard to understand why the Romans loved Italy so much. Places like Toscany and Umbria are just lovely and islands like Sicily are beautiful. Mountains can be found in the north (Alps, Dolomites) and the centre (Apennines). Culturally it is a real treat to fans: towns like Venice, Rome and Florence seem to have a cultural delight on every corner.

The Italians are unique; there is no other people in this world like them. Everybody knows their way of discussing, which for many seems like the worst fight ever but only appeared to be an amicable discussion afterwards. You either love it or hate it; I think it is fun!

I am sure my business visits to Milano, Rome, Como Lake and Sicily, or my holidays to Toscany, Elba and the Italian Alps will be my last ones...