Even though there are times when Italians seem to find many ways to make me unlove the place… it never works.

Getting into Italy is a little more complicated than it used to be with the new European entry system. When I encountered it in Munich, it was smooth. It went quickly, and everything worked perfectly.

In Italy, however, I had to try the system three times. There was never a shortage of kindness — plenty of uniformed staff were there to guide me — but nothing quite seemed to work. First time, not good. Second time, not good. Third time… nice try.

Eventually, I made it through the hand and face recognition scanner and found myself standing in front of a uniformed officer eager to stamp my passport. He barely even looked at it.

And then I was free.

Free to enjoy the wonder and quirkiness of this place.

No matter what happens, Italy can’t put me off. It’s still my favorite country.