With July approaching, we remind you that this is the last chance to get things done in Italy before the whole country goes on holiday and the sign 'chiuso per ferie' (literally closed for holidays) starts appearing on every business' door. Italians tend to concentrate their holidays in the summer. That's how it has always been. This is because from North to South it can get really hot and, till just a few years ago, airconditioning was not in use. Moreover, schools close from early June to early September and while in June parishes, local youth associations and after school clubs organise summer camps for kids, parents need to look after them in July and August. So if you want to order the new tiles for the house you are restoring, if you want to book a doctor's appointment, if you want to fix the fridge, you should do it now or wait till September. One thing you can be sure about is that we will continue to keep you company even during the hot summer months, reporting from every 'cool' place in Italy!