I snicker when I hear a newbie European traveler say they want to rent a car in Italy. Yes, traffic signs are in Italian and they drive fast. But, how hard can it be, right?
I try to tell them there are different rules for driving in the city than there are for driving in the country. Then, there's driving the autostrada where another set of rules apply. Plus, it takes a special kind of skill to survive the Italian roads -- a fearless fortitude!
Our last drive in Italy was strangely easy. Maybe because we are becoming veterans at it. More likely, it seemed easier because it was low tourist season and less traffic was on the road! Even still, there were brief moments of trepidation. Safely at home, we can now laugh about those moments! Take a look: