Italians like their drinks warmer than Americans like theirs. So, if you want ice you will have to ask for ice.

Several years ago I was eating dinner by myself in a small outdoor café on the Via Veneto in Rome. I entertained myself by watching the other diners. Since it was early to be eating dinner by Italian standards, most of the Italians were enjoying a drink and a snack.

I happened to be sitting next to a table of four elderly women and one elderly man. They were all dressed extremely well in their suits and hats. One of the women had a bright green drink that had been delivered to her full of ice. After much discussion with the waiter and much complaining to her friends she meticulously picked out each and every sliver of ice and put it on her plate.

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i never thought this town was known for more than it’s great skiing mountain, but boy was i wrong.  it’s also the home of a therapeutic riding program for those of all ages and various conditions.  it not only involves horseback riding, but grounds management and and what skills are required in the stable/barn.

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