Cottage in Italy

When I was house-sitting in Wales I met a couple who offered to let me stay at their cottage in Italy when I travel into Europe. I decided to get in touch with them since finding a job isn't working out so well. They have generously offered me free use of their cottage in Panicale for as long as I want to use it (I just need to pay the house-keeper to do the laundry and cleaning when I leave). Panicale is located near Perugia on the border of Umbria and Tuscany. I'm looking into flights and my plan is to spend two or three weeks there before going to Canada for David's wedding.

I'm so excited! They said there are lots of great day-trips into the surrounding area so I'll rent a car (back to driving on the right side of the road) and do some exploring. It's hard to believe this opportunity was just dropped in my lap. I called my parents to tell them and I just kept bursting out with, "I can't believe I'm going to Italy!"

The area is cold (between 5 and 10 degrees) but it's warmer than where I'm living in England! The place has two double bedrooms, a kitchen, bathroom, and small sitting area. It was described as simple, unsophisticated, and a perfect base to explore the area. She also mentioned that I should rent a very small car due to the narrow roads... this could get interesting.