By Marc Justin— With the crazies of the holiday season upon us, our minds turn to those uber-important consumer questions: What will I bring home for my aunt so-and-so? What will hard-to-buy-for brother actually enjoy? What about Mom who’s awaiting both my present and my presence? Hey, you’re in Florence, consider this a good thing! » Read more

By Marc Justin— You splurged on a scarf you couldn’t afford? Waiting for an urgent bank transfer from mom and dad? Whatever, you’re broke, you’re in Florence and you don’t know what to do. Well, rejoice my friend, here are some free activities to explore. Music 1. Every night, the organ goes wild at the » Read more

By Marc Justin in Florence— Unless you’re that guy I see once in a while on his unicycle circling the Duomo, chances are you ride a bike. And since you’re reading this, chances are you have some remote interest in visiting Florence. So why not combine the two? Join a bike tour before it joins » Read more

By Marc Justin in Florence— People are always asking me for pointers on where to stay in Florence. If casa Marc is available then hey, no problem. Otherwise, here are the neighborhoods I suggest when choosing a hotel: Steps from the Station: Santa Maria Novella I know a guy who always insists on picking hotels » Read more

By Marc Justin in Florence— Let’s face it. Most of us look like Clydesdales trotting around Florence in our clunky running shoes and baggy Bermuda shorts while the locals prance down the sidewalk like fashionistas of cool. So what can we do about the not-fitting-in situation? Read on my friend, read on. Start with the » Read more

By Marc Justin in Florence— Since arriving in Tuscany, you’ve not only developed a palate for fine wine, but also a handsome routine where every night you like to indulge in an aperitivo. The only problem is that it’s been putting a real dent in your budget. So here’s what to do to keep the » Read more

By Marc Justin in Florence— Instead of my usual banter about the best things to do in Florence, I’m going to try something different. No recommendations this time. At least, not the usual kind. Instead, here are some activities to avoid – expensive bad ideas, hence the crummiest things to do in my city. 1. » Read more

By Marc Justin in Florence— One thing you won’t see during the summer in Florence is people chugging down hot bowls of soup. With an average high of 88 degrees in July and August, this town really tends to sizzle. But besides the usual beach trips and dipping in and out of public pools (see » Read more

By Marc Justin in Florence— Florence was recently billed as the most polluted city in Italia. Not cool. So what did the mayor do? He started kicking out cars from the center in favor of more pedestrians zones. Coolissimo! So which streets are making happy feet? Check this out to know more. The Danger Duomo » Read more