We became the Three Amigas.  Friends since 1st year uni, some 10 years ago, we got to know each other a whole lot better after spending pretty much 24/7 together for 14 days travelling around the Italian countryside.

Positano became our unanimous favourite.  Though we were raised around beautiful, sandy beaches in Queensland, this "beach" was magical.  The locals love their town and the pace is so relaxed.  I could have done without the painful rocks on the beach, but as soon as you slid (gently) into the Mediterranean water, it was all worth it!

The town of Montepulciano - try saying that ten times fast!  Apart from being somewhat of a mouthful, this hilltop town is bursting with character.  Colourful locals, surrounded by gorgeous vineyards and a view that extends for miles.

A trip to Italy would not be complete without a stop in Rome.  The Eternal City proved to be just that - perhaps it was all in my head, but as soon as we emerged from the bus that transported us into town from the airport, the history that surrounded us left all of us momentarily speechless.  Granted, this affliction lasted but a few minutes, however, everywhere you looked, there was another tribute to ancient life.  It's amazing to think this city stood in a time where electricity was not yet conceived and the provision of running water was seen as a massive architectural feat. Though busy, dirty, and full of somewhat grouchy locals, Rome definitely feels "grand".

Three girls in their twenties travelling at the beginning of July in Italy, there was one Italian word we learned extremely quickly - and that was 'saldi'.  Having previously travelled through Spain, I was familiar with this word, but my two friends were excited to learn that there were 'sales' everywhere we went. No where was this as important as in Florence.  this city is a shopper's delight.  The goods on offer were more varied and interesting than the other Italian cities we visited (granted we didn't make it to Milan).  We had to be careful not to overdo the damage to our credit cards, or the weight in our suitcases!