A series of transport strikes has paralyzed Italy in the past few weeks, the most recent being Jan. 19 when Alitalia workers walked out for eight hours, causing the cancellation of 364 flights and the rescheduling of another 64. A one-day air traffic controllersÂ’ strike two weeks ago wreaked havoc on air travel in and out of the country, and now local transport workers are threatening a 24-hour strike next week. Follow local press reports, and try to pad your itinerary so you can handle disruptions with the least possible inconvenience.
After a rash of parcel bombs postmarked Bologna were delivered to various EU institutions and leaders, the Italian government has expressed concern over a rising threat from home-grown anarchists. They do not suspect a connection between the recent episodes and Islamic militants based in Italy.