Italy and the Vespa

Let's face it the Vespa is synonymous with Italy. Is there any other way of seeing that gorgeous Mediterranean coastline? Or what else are you going to use to get around the beautiful, yet congested towns of Venice, Florence, and Naples?

Some of the most classic scenes in old films feature a Vespa. Old films such as "Roman Holiday" or "La Dolce Vita" show that this little scooter represents more than just ride, it represents a certain sophistication. Piaggio, the maker of the Vespa, actually made a calendar to show old publicity shots of movie starts on their Vespas.

Make sure to check out the 1993 Italian film "Caro Diario". There is an incredible opening scene where the lead character takes a ride his Vespa on a sunny morning in Rome. It's such a inspiring scene, that it made me want to drop every single responsibility I have and take the first flight to Rome. It just seems to capture the exquisiteness and even the rawness of the amazing city.

The Vespa just represents everything the Italians are famous for. Who else could make a person wearing a business suit and riding a scooter to work seem hip and irreverent? That's the interesting thing about a Vespa. It could make a three-piece suit seem rebellious.

While most people around the world, especially the United States, act as if a Hummer, Lexus, Mercedes, (Insert other expensive car) instantly puts them in some royal echelon. It's as if somehow the cost of the vehicle is a sign of who you are. Irregardless of who's behind the wheel the car is more important than the person inside it.

The Italians don't look at it that way. They don't see a price tag as their way to credibility. They'd rather focus on the charm. That's why the Vespa in accessory of the person riding it, not the other way around.