Tuesday, January 03, 2012

Visiting Italy in January


January is really not the best month enjoy Italy unless you like to ski! On the other hand everthing in the country is less expensive than in the other seasons.  You can find great deals on airfair and accommodations. One more advantage is no hordes of tourist which would mean no lines and a more peaceful atmoshere.
But if you do love adventure sport and skiing you should definitely visit the country in January. Italy is internationally known for its world class ski slopes and it great mountains that remain covered with snow during the winter months. The famous Dolomites are the best place to visit in January for those who love winter sports. The most famous places along the Dolomites are Alleghe, Auronzo, Falcade, Urtjei and Arabba. Apart from skiing, visitors can also stroll many charming mountain villages.

Italian Festivals in January

Festivals in Italy go on all through the year and January is no exception. Good festivals are organized in different part of the country. Visitors can visit different areas and get a sneak peak of traditiona life of locals in Italy. Some festivals are very unique and then others may be just an excuse for the locals to party, with lots of music, drinks and food. That is in my opinion what they do best!
The most important festival in Italy in January is Epiphany. In fact, Epiphany is more important in Italy than Christmas. This festival is celebrated in the country on January 6th. That is when Italians exchange gifts and the children hang their little stockings on the 5th night. There is no Santa Claus, but a very old women named La Befana delivers gifts to children in the festival. The legend goes that the Three Wise men knocked on her door and asked for shelter for the night. She refused them but later changed her mind and then went to search the world for the Kings and to deliver her gifts to children.