People: Italians are very outspoken and emotional people, which is often such a delight to see. For a non-italian it is often overdone, but that makes it such fun I suppose. Italians in groups are not always pleasant though, but that counts for a lot of nationalities. Score: 8

Landscape/Nature: Italy is very divers. Mountains, coastlines, rivers, islands, beaches, forests: you name it. Not really wild, but a place like Toscany does take your breath away. Score: 8

Transport/Infrastructure: the roads are generally in good condition. Also the public transport is quite well established, although many Italians prefer their own car. if you want to drive your own car in Italy, be aware of cities as Rome or (even worse) Naples. To European standards these people drive like lunatics. Score: 9

Fauna/animals: in the Gran Paradiso we found many Steenbok and Gems, which was a delight. Apparently there are some wolves left in the Apennines, but don't expect to see them. Reptiles are quite abundant, but then I refer to the smaller lizards. Otherwise, Italy is not really a wildlife destination. Score: 5

Food: Italian food is unique and very interesting and very tasteful, and the Italians pride themselves in their eating habits. Even their coffees are interesting, although a bit too strong for my taste... Score: 9

Climate: as a southern european country right at the Mediterranean Sea, Italy does have a very moderate climate which is often very pleasant. The south of Italy it can get very hot though, too much for many. Score: 8

Culture: Italy is the place to be for culture buffs. Lots to see, especially the cities are very rich. I am only referring to architecture: the peeple I don't find very interesting, culturally speaking. Score: 9

Hygiene: not always that good, but still European standard. Score: 8

Travelling costs: Italy is definitely NOT cheap, and especially tourist areas like Como Lake, Rome and Toscany do sometimes go completely overboard. In the villages it is still very affordable. Score: 6

Safety/Stability: like in the whole of Europe, Italy is generally quite safe. You don't have to fear the Maffia unless you are a professional criminal... Score: 8

Excitement/Challenge/Adventure: there are things to do, but I wouldn't pick Italy as a first choice destination for adventures. Score: 6

Overall score: 7.3

With this score Italy will NOT enter our top 10 of most attractive travel countries.