Hi and welcome,
Is this an excellent forum, or what? I've not met most of the regular posters on here personally because our main connection with the area is through already having relatives over there but I do know that, if you have any kind of question or problem to do with the area, there is usually someone who can help you out, as you can see. Those who travel regularly to Calabria or who are already "in situ" through making it their permanent residence have usually encountered or experienced most of the problems and difficulties, or are currently dealing with them, so they often have good tips to share - so handy when you are venturing into relatively uncharted territory.
I think the previous posters have probably already answered your question about bandits - I have to say that I also felt it was a very safe place to be - maybe the rumours you've heard are more to do with fokelore than reality but I guess it's wise to keep on your guard wherever you go these days, however relaxed you may feel - seems to be the course of commonsense to me.
Sorry to hear about your losing your house in L'Aquila - must have been a difficult time for you. However, I'm sure you'll find something really nice in Calabria, so happy hunting!
All the best.
Kind regards,
Frances.  |