I forgot to mention so far that I spent my Spring Break in Italy. I mean really does life get better than this. We flew into Milan and the adventures literally began the moment we stepped onto the plane. I met another American student abroad who had taken some Italian and learned a few really helpful phrases on the way. Milan is the place where we tried (hands down) the most delicious gelato I think exists. In our defense, we were completely logical about our findings. Since we stumbled upon this place on the very first day, we attempted to be as unbiased and educated in our judging as possible. So, we had gelato everyday, in a different city. I think that adds some credibility.
Venice was the next stop. Personally my favorite aesthetically. Note, even if you are about to miss a train, do not forget to scan your bus ticket because you will get fined 62 euros and if you refuse you will get arrested. 
Also, “verify” your train ticket before you get on as well. There are true sticklers in Italy for these rules. Anyways, Venice is amazing. Pictures do not do it justice. Gondola tours are expensive so save up if that’s on the list or take a water taxi for a few euros and pretend you are not surrounded by 50 other people(it’s really not bad and we had a great time). One day when I hit the lottery, going back to visit at the very least Murano and Burano Island. While Venice is really small, you need more than one day if you want to see some islands too.
Rome. Yea we looked for Paolo and were humming along to some Lizzie McGuire songs. I admit it. Rome deserved more time too. The Vatican Museum could easily take you a few hours. Also, don’t let people try and scam you for those tickets. People will be wearing official looking badges outside and you will be bombarded with “amazing offers” to skip the line. If you know a language other than English, Spanish or Italian I suggest trying that when you have had enough of being bombarded for deals. St.Peter’s Basilica is right there so do that right after or before Vatican Museum.
I didn’t even touch on Naples or Procida. This is Part 1 of a 2 part post.