Outsiders are fascinated by the Italians—their style, politics, diet, sex lives, and cars, not to mention their incredibly beautiful country, to which many thousands of vacationers flock year after year. Why are they healthy and slim in spite of their carb-rich food? Why do they dress up for every occasion, even if it's a trip to the market? How can a country that produced Botticelli also produce Berlusconi? Taking a close look at all aspects of life in Il Bel Paese, this book is the essential companion for the curious and the committed Italophile.