Gala Placidia's activity

Lisa, keep on looking. you still have 4 years until retirement. Many things can happen during that time and you may find another perfect place that would suit you better. I also agree with you, don't buy properties in the middle of nowhere Isolation can become a major problem as we grow older. There are usually plenty of beautiful spots within walking distance from town. Make sure that you have all basic facilities nearby. And a major airport with international flights operating throughout the year and not exclusively by low cost airlines. Never get into a project beyond your agreed budget. The dream may become a nightmare. As I said before, I wish you lots of luck in your endeavours. 

Difficult to give you accurate advice without knowing more detailss; however here are a few warnings. To start with, the vendors ' attitude leaves much to be desired. Nobody can guaranteebwhat they will do if you try to meet or negotiate their new price. Although it is obvious that you like the property, you should be looking at other properties as well to compare prices. Lso, keep in mind that you are not buying a house, as the existing one will need to be demolished, but a piece of land. Compare with other plots available in the area Demolishing an existing house and building a new one is a mjor undertaking and some people get nasty surprises in the process. You will need to make provisions for contingency sums. If you are on a limited budget, be careful with this . In any case, I wish you good luck..

Preserving fruits without sugar is difficult as sugar is actually a preserving agent that kills microorganisms. But you could use alcohol instead.  

If you were paying ICI prior to the time whn it was abolished for prima casa, I cannot understand how they can bill you now for that exemption period... you must be registered with them and they should know about your situation. Tarsu may be a slightly different thing because of its nature, but then... You should complain, it is an abuse.

Besides IKEA, for new furniture at reasonable prices have a look at Mondo Convenienza www.mondoconvenienza.it From our experience in Tuscany, some of the "mercatini" have increased their prices and are charging antique prices for below average vintage or simply second hand. Try to go to Antique and Vintage fairs in your area and mix and match as much as possible.

Glad that it helped and actually Australian plants are better suited to the Italian climate than to the UK one. Also, it is a "niche market" which is a better bet in these times.

Dylano, Australian natives would be very adaptable to the Italian climate conditions; however, they are not easy to find with the exception of a few callistemons, or "kangaroo paws". There  is plenty of information about varieties in the web and I can tell you that they are becoming increasingly popular in California.

It is most important nowadays to read all packages and labels. Manufacturers are introducing new products all the time...

I would tend to agree with Elliven, an orchard and then a few herbs in containers. A vegetable garden is only for those wih a strong gardening vocation.

From our experience, I agree with Ram's statement. Also, welcome to the Community!