Thursday, March 01, 2007

A View into the Classic Italian Wedding

With the many rumors about gay communities and the fast-changing world in Italy at present, who will think that Italians still celebrate traditional weddings? Yes, Italians still celebrate classic weddings; here is a view into that wonderful celebration.

Though the classic wedding ceremony is regular around the globe, what makes the Italian wedding unique are the program and the materials required for the ceremony. During the wedding day, one large ribbon is embellished at the church doorway to inform passerbys that there's a wedding going on. After the ceremony, the newlyweds must march on the aisle while the guests shower them with rice and paper confetti, which symbolize nice fortune, as well as grain, nuts, and almonds, which supposedly stimulate conception. At the church doorway, just before the couple get in their wedding auto, they must release two doves to symbolize contentment and love.

The couple, then, goes immediately to the reception where all the guests are waiting to party with them. The dance session happens with the couple, then the partakers and relatives follow. After dancing, some important people bestow speeches and distinguished gifts to the newlyweds. While in other weddings, we ordinarily hear the word "kiss" with clangs from champagne glasses, we will hear Italians say "Evviva gli sposi," or in English: "hurray for the newlyweds!" during the wedding celebration.

As we can see, the Italian church wedding is remarkably classic. But this only illustrates that Italians still respect their practices and beliefs despite all the changes in the country.

Wednesday, February 28, 2007

Scouting and Exploring Italy

Famed as one of Europe's most distinguished countries, Italy definitely has it all --painters, paramours, political puerility, poets, popes, potentates, and polenta. The country's sumptuous panoramas and dreamy cities are perfect for those who are touring the place for relaxation and leisure. Its long years of culture, cuisine, and history seduce just about every traveler who visits the country.

The prime time to traverse Italy is during the seasons of spring, between April to May, and autumn, from October to November. During these months, Italy's terrains are beautiful, the weather is pleasant, and there are fewer crowds in the country's top tourist attractions. It is not recommended for individuals to traverse Italy during August for most Italians take their breaks at that month, thus, all businesses and shops are closed. Meanwhile, individuals love to visit Italy because there are a lot of things to do and explore in the place. They can traverse the historical Roman ruins, admire the Renaissance art, explore small medieval hill towns, go mountain climbing and skiing in the Alps, gaze at the tall church buildings, and traverse the Venice canals. Aside from that, individuals can also indulge in Italy's “la dolce vita” pleasures of clothing, excellent food, and good wine.