Want to spend your summer vacation in Italy doing more than just being a tourist? Here's a unique opportunity to participate in art restoration projects in Puglia, working on 15th century frescoes in Byzantine underground or cave churches. Participants stay at Masseria La Selva, a hunting lodge built in the 18th century by the Roman Orsini Family that's now a working farm. No experience is needed and the fees cover room and board for three works as well as workshops and the chance to make your own fresco. See Art Restoration Project in Puglia for details or to sign up.
Interesting places to visit in this area include the Cave Settlements of Matera the Trulli of Alberobello.
Art Restoration Project Photo © by Messors Workshops. used by permission
An app I’ve used to learn some good Italian phrases is
http://itunes.apple.com/us/app/travel-phrases-italian-simple/id500361627