Gala Placidia's activity

Sandflies and midges are a real pain. Not surprising that one of its species is called "Culiocoides Molestus", a real nuissance. Also, there is a pappatataci fever, which they transmit. So it is a real problem. Many years ago, I lived in Byron Bay (Australia) and some areas suffered a lot from these little monsters. I remembered that the local Council used to issue instructions about how to deal with them and I found this most useful piece of information: http://www.byron.nsw.gov.au/protect-yourself-from-biting-midges-sand-flies There used to be a local remedy made by mixing baby oil with tea tree oil (available from health food shops) and it was quite effective. I also found this article that mentions some of those remedies: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Sandfly Also, people with O type blood group seem to be more affected than others. Vitamin B1 is also useful to prevent attacks. Look at the instructions in the Byron Shire sheet. And follow their advice regarding what to do. They are all very effective. In any case, I would advise you to have with you some prescription medication containing antihistamines in case you get seriously attacked. Do not take it on a regular basis, simply as needed if you find yourself in a difficult situations. Ask your doctor to explain. Best wishes.       

Hi Sue, the list of banks that receive transfer payments from overseas is this one http://www.enel.it/it-IT/clienti/enel_servizio_elettrico/la_tua_bolletta/paga_bolletta/pagamenti_estero.aspx If you look here: http://www.enel.it/it-IT/clienti/enel_servizio_elettrico/la_tua_bolletta/paga_bolletta/regione.aspx?regione=13 it appears as if the Banca Monte dei Paschi di Siena is the most prevalent one in Abruzzo. Follow the instructions given by Enel regarding the data you must include with your transfer, which appears in the bolletta pagamenti estero general instructions. I would send a copy of the bolletta and the transfer to ENEL SERVIZIO ELETTRICO Casella Postale 1100 85100 POTENZA ITALIA to make sure that they have a correct record of the transaction. I would send it through certified mail. If you have any doubts, you can ring Enel from Spain through +390230172011 And finally, if you do not want to have problems with your bills, I strongly recommend you to organise direct debit with your Italian bank. Total peace of mind! I also live in Spain and we generally do that if the payee accepts it. 

A great art exhibition is currently open to the public at the main salon of the Terme di Bagni di Lucca. Notice the quality of the work exhibited and the beautiful surroundings. Another fine example of what the art community in Bagni di Lucca is offering. http://bellabagnidilucca.com/2013/04/08/la-mostra-di-morena/

This is the latest article on the forthcoming Festival http://lovebagnidilucca.wordpress.com/2013/04/07/the-summer-art-fesival-of-bagni-di-lucca/ It is great to see such a positive response and I am certain that it is going to be a great event.

It will all depend on the quality of the work exhibited. I guess that the photographs correspond to work exhibited last year; however, I understand that the scale of the event was much smaller. I understand that this year the aims are more ambitious and that the organisers intend to extend the number of exhibiting venues to include La Villa. Already, there are events that will be held in the theatre, next to the Circolo dei Forestieri that has two beautifully renovated rooms very much suited for displays. Also, there is a project to convert the centre of La Villa into a pedestrian only area during the summer months. I think that this is a great idea as there are other alternatives to overcome traffic and parking problems. Quite a few exciting projects for our lovely area. By the way, if anyone knows of any artists who may be interested in participating, please encourage them to do so by contacting the organisers through the Festval's web site. The more, the merrier.

Hi VIolet and welcome. There are members living in your area. Best wishes!

Emma Bonino al Quirinale! Great choice! And Renzi is right. Italy is wasting precious time with this gridlock. 

We also switched to mains gas immediately after buying our house, more than five years ago and we are delighted. Easy, clean and convenient. All energy is expensive in Italy, but our gas bills are very reasonable. But then, we have PVC double glazed windows and have done quite a bit regarding insulation. And this is the key: make your house energy efficient.

For all those interested in rabbits, the House Rabbit Society at rabbit.org has plenty of information and advice. I just found out that there is an Italian branch www.aaeconigli.it

I think that fresh elections are inevitable. I only hope that this time they will vote using their brains with the intention of electing those who may be able to reform the country and clean it from corruption. And that they will have the right candidates to choose from. Not too much to ask, really. I hope it is not "Mission Impossible".