Being informed before going anywhere is very helpful in avoiding any little speed bumps and leaving you free to simply enjoy your trip. For those planning a stay at a villa in Tuscany throughout much of the year - but summer or autumn, in particular - it is worth keeping in mind that you are likely to encounter mosquitoes. Some areas can be especially prone to significant numbers of mosquitoes and some people are particularly tasty to the bugs and this is something that has taken some of our customers by surprise in recent years.
Tuscan Conditions That Mosquitoes Love
Mosquitoes are common throughout much of Italy but it is worth keeping in mind that as a large amount of land in Tuscany is made up of reclaimed marshlands, they are especially prevalent in the region. Where there are lakes, ponds, standing water, or marshlands nearby, mosquitoes are sure to follow. Some urban areas also have plenty of mosquitoes so it's not always a guarantee that you can avoid them by locating yourself in a town or city.
In addition, the warm Mediterranean climate and seasonal summer rains provide a perfect pairing for mosquito breeding. So, in summers or autumns where you have these two weather conditions in play, you will have larger numbers of mosquitoes to deal with.
How To Deal With Mosquitoes
The good news is that some travellers will not be bothered by mosquitoes at all and should have little to worry about. For those who the mosquitoes favour, however (like this author, unfortunately), there are some things to keep in mind:
1. Check to see if mosquito nets are mentioned in your rental's listing. This will be of great help as mozzies tend to bite a lot during the night and you don't want to wake up itchy and annoyed! If you can't see anything in a listing or you want help finding a property with mosquito nests, contact us and our team will help you out.
2. Bring mosquito repellents or stock up once you arrive.
3. Mosquito repellent wipes are helpful if you want their effect but don't want to fumigate unsuspecting passer by or a terrace full of fellow dinners while sitting out al fresco.
4. Long-sleeved tops and full-length pants will prevent the worst of the attacks if you are planning on sitting out in the evening.
5. Keep screens closed as much as possible and if you only have windows, try to keep them closed at night.
6. Get a plug-in wall repellent in the pharmacy to put in your room.
7. If a mosquito is in your room and circling and you have a fan to hand, point the fan at your bed so it can't get close too easily.
8. If you do get bitten, stock up on aftercare creams, patches, and antihistamines to aid your discomfort and recovery.
Will I Get Sick?
Mosquitoes in Italy do sometimes carry diseases but it is quite rare for those who get bitten to require medical care or become ill.
Key Words You Might Need In The Pharmacy
If you're stocking up, here's the vocab you'll need:
Zanzara / zanzare – mosquito/mosquitoes
Spray antizanzare – mosquito spray
Crema dopopuntura – after bite cream
Antistiminico – antihistamine
For those who the mozzies love, this is all worth keeping in mind so that you're prepared but if you've been dreaming of a villa with a pool in Tuscany, it's no reason not to plan that dream trip, it's still well worth it!