Università per Stranieri di Perugia (USP)

Always make an effort to be empathetic, tolerant and yet guarded. Many times the culture is very difficult for people to understand or rationalize, but you need to be careful not to cast dubious judgements or lack in making a true and sincere effort to open yourself to the language and the people.

From an overall point of view, Italy it's and unbelievable country where to live and where to find most you are interested in (in addition to a great gastronomy and a lovely mediterranean wheather!!). Just to advice you that when travelling would be better doing it with someone else, so as to share expenses. However, Italy it's quite easy to visit it by yourself, and you can save a great deal of money staying at Youth Hostels, that normally are pretty good and in unique locations.

Travel to Sicily, Verona and Torino.

I would say the Universita per stranieri is a very good experience, not only for language but for meeting new people, because everyone is in the same boat as you are;looking to meet new people and learn about italian life. I also studied after the stranieri at The Umbra Institute which is a private university in Perugia. I would comment on their friendliness and helpfullness there, however the school is not particularly recommendable.

Travel insurance highly recommended. I had, so that saved me from trouble.

Don't fly Ryan Air!