casa del campanile's activity

We have SKY IT and are here for six consecutive months and have several of the "packages."Couple of options; if you are here for a consecutive 12 week period you can just cancel service (believe you have to give 30 days notice) and reconnect on next visit. Or, just cancel the extra packages (30 day notice) and keep the basic service when not here.If you talk to them directly you may be able to work out some sort of arrangement. The other option, of course, is to cancel alltogether and get a FTA receiver for Astra or Hotbird where there are a few English language news programs plus some Italian Rai channels which help with the language.Many other options via I-Net if you have WiFI or other high-speed service. Good  luck.

Hertz in Pisa not necessarily immune from some of the "nefarious" practices of lesser known and/or "discount" car rental agencies. We have used them for a number of years for transport to and from the airport with no problems. This year, we were given a "new car" with about 5k kms.Upon return after an overnight rental, the check-in girl, or, as I would name her, "the scratch scrounger," came into the check-out office and announced there was a scratch on the back of the passenger side rear view mirror for which we would have to pay extra.  I asked the manager to go out with me to view this "scratch."Upon inspection, I wet the tip of a finger and wiped off the remains of an unlucky bug.'Nuff said.

We are former colonists from the US and have resided in several countries over the years; Austria, Germany, Italy, and Hawaii. Yeah, I know it is technically a US state, however, some of the islands, especially the Big Island, operate just a shade above third world status. We have resided part-time in California during this time period.For anyone thinking life in the US is so much better, uncomplicated, etc.,check it out first. I could give you chapter and verse, however this is not the forum or thread for that.If you want to succeed in the Italian adventure, you need to do several things, starting with developing a somewhat working knowledge of the language.Without this, you will need more than just a “hand-holder.”  Get to know your neighbors and seek out and befriend someone who has some experience with dealing with the bureaucracy; preferably someone who works for or has worked for the government. Not only can such a person give you some guidance, in many cases they know people in the bureaucracy and can facilitate some things for you.We were fortunate to develop a close relationship with a lady in our small (14 Italian families) village who was retired from government service who has been invaluable in guiding, enhancing, and facilitating our Italian experience over the past nine years. She has saved us weeks and months of time accomplishing certain items not to mention the amount of money also saved.By becoming comfortable with the language and your neighbors, you can help yourself enhance your own Italian experience.Fred

Thanks for your reply and advice. Will check out ACI in a couple of weeks after we get "settled in."Fred

We had visitors from the States last year who found the train from Aulla to Venice the most efficient and economical method, especially with our gas prices. They booked a hotel online (The Florida, I think) close to the train depot and had a great time. They then continued to Bologna and Rome by train.We have always driven to Mestre (Hotel Garibaldi) and taken the bus daily into Venice.Hope it helps.Fred

Believe you can reduce your packge to the bare minimum allowable for periods of time.We do it every six months by cancelling our sports, news, and one other package for the following six months and then re-instate upon our return. You can do it on-line or by phone if you can ever get a live person.Fred

Alan, thanks for your input. Started with that route, however could not find the specific info I needed. Finally, just took everything apart, thoroughly cleaned, etc. and all seems to be working fine again.tjanks again,Fred

Problem resolved. Took digibox to Sky shop (Pontremoli) agency from whom we originally purchased, a phone call by the clerk, 5 minute wait, and presto! all back in order.

Thanks again for your input. We have a 90cm dish and are in Lunigiana about 15 KM east of Aulla. Our signal is a little weaker than previously, however most FTA channels come in clearly.

Thanks for the info. This AM realigned dish and was able to receive FTA again at 28E, so either I was out of alignment or July came early.