|
My husband and I (joint spouse) was assigned to Aviano back in 97-2001. Hands down the best and most rewarding assignmnet of our careers. Work was busy, but being able to go home off base and live amongst our Italian neighbors was an opportunity we were blessed to have. We took advantage of the Italian classes they offered and learned as much as we could. We shopped on base AND off. We enjoyed shopping off base more because we enjoyed the differences of our culture. We found that even though we did not speak Italian very well, we were still able to communicate just fine. When we had a free weekend we traveled around to France, Austria, Germany, Slovenia, Croatia, Switszerland and of course Rome, Venice (multiple times), Pompei, Sorrento, Capri, Vinci and of course the mountains and beaches! Some one mentioned the utilities and cold homes. Utilities were a bit expensive, but we managed and I didn't mind the cold home in the winter. A few carpets and house shoes and you were good to go. Our land lady was the best and unfortunately she got ill when we PCSd. If you get an assignment to Italy, keep and opened mind and enjoy what other people pay big bucks to do.
|
