Who has not dreamed of getting away for a couple of weeks, a month or even an entire summer season in an Italian villa? Italy is a wonderful tourist location year-round, with fantastic shopping, gorgeous countrysides, amazing architecture - and don't forget the food and wine! For those that want to soak in the experience, living in a rented villa, country house or apartment is an excellent alternative to pricey hotels. Moreover, you can unpack and relax in the comfort of your own "home away from home."

With the Internet, these days it is easy to browse hundreds of potential properties by price, region, size, and proximity to key cities and landmarks. With the click of a mouse, you can easily compare prices and availability. Some websites offer excursions, as well, including cooking classes, wine tasting and more.

Anyone who has read the book, Under the Tuscan Sun, by Frances Mayes, or seen the 2003 movie starring Diane Lane, has likely fantasized about living in (let alone, restoring) an Italian villa. Your own personal experience in renting a villa will depend in part on the property that you select. There is a wide range of price points, styles and locations. For example, a stone house along the Amalfi Coast that will sleep 9 people will set you back nearly $5,000 for a week. If you'd rather stay in a rustic farmhouse near Pisa, you can get a weekly rental rate bargain of $2,000 for the same number of people. Some smaller apartments in Rome go for as little as $800 a week.

Shopping for and cooking your own food is part of the charm. You don't need to plan every meal at home, but experiencing the local grocery stores with the intent to make your own authentic pizza, enjoyed with a glass of Chianti is priceless. The atmosphere is more relaxed and personal than that of a hotel. Just remember that there will not be room service. Cleaning up and making beds will be your responsibility.

When planning to book a villa, give yourself plenty of time. Larger groups (6 or more) will need to reserve the property at least 9 months in advance. Not surprisingly, summer is high season. Rates will be steeper and properties more scarce. Not all villas are available during winter months as some owners do not pay to heat them through the season.

Booking fees may require a deposit of up to 75% of the rental fee in advance, with the balance due before you arrive. Check the small print to see if any is refundable in case you need to change plans or cancel. Additional fees typically include a damage deposit and/or utilities charges. You may wish to purchase trip insurance if it is available. Be sure to read all the details of the contract and ask lots of questions before putting your credit card down!

What if you need a villa fast, or there are not any properties that strike your fancy on the "traditional" websites like the ones shown above? Some property owners advertise on eBay or Craig's List. Other sources are found in travel magazines, or alumni or trade publications (I always see ads for vacation properties in my Bar News and in Columns - the University of Washington alumni magazine). You can even check the newspaper. If you're really creative, run your own Craig's List ad saying that you are looking for a property and specify dates, locations and price.

If you want to move off-line, working with a travel agent can be a safe and efficient way to get your travel needs met. Typically, the agent's fee is paid by the listing agency, so you will not be out of pocket for this service. One good resource is the Chicago office of the Italian Government Tourist Board. Call 312-644-0996 and they will give you names of Italian brokers with whom you can work.

Be sure to specify any requirements or conditions that you desire with respect to the property. For example, many brides and grooms enjoy having wedding ceremonies in foreign countries. Do you need a villa large enough for a wedding party, or for an entire reception? Think about proximity to towns, as well, considering grocery or other sundries that you may need while on your trip.

After writing this article, I am ready to head back to Italy! I have visited twice and loved it immensely both times. From the Amalfi coast, the Island of Capri, north through Naples to Rome. Then from Rome further north into the Tuscany region, through many delightful hill towns, towards Florence! You can't forget Pisa and Venice. So much to see and do. Frankly, I think it would be hard to pick just one region and stay. However, I think I could make do, after viewing some of the magnificent properties available... and renting a great little car. Have a great trip!