When in Italy it’s very important that you take out private health insurance. Whilst they don’t pay for doctor’s fees, they will usually cover 100% of all hospital fees. It is best to pay doctors fees yourself, which can sometimes be more expensive than the treatment itself, around €80 for every ‘illness’ you have, but when it comes to the serious illnesses, that will be paid for by your cover.

You can cover a family of four for around €1500 – €2000 per year, but try to avoid any companies which reserve the right to ‘cancel’ your policy once you reach a certain age; known as ‘recesso’ or ‘facolta di redcissione’.

Be aware that the policy will be more expensive for the more elderly person, so it is best to take it out as soon as you can. Don’t go with the first policy you come across either, shop around and get the best deal you can. Also talk to friends and neighbours and see who they are with and get their recommendations.

To understand the full step-by-step process to buying a property in Italy, collect The Overseas Guides Company’s ‘Italy Property Buying Guide’