Sightseeing Sundays: San Marino (Italy Part 3 of 4)

San Marino has a fairytale landscape like a princess in her hightower. It sits near the middle of Italy atop a huge mountain and has 360 degree views of Italian countryside for miles and miles. The people are happy and friendly, glad to share their paradise with tourists. You'd be happy too living where it's known as "The Most Serene Republic of San Marino."
San Marinoians have living the good life figured out along with a solid economy and politics. They have two elected presidents at all times that serve for only 6 months at a time. This constant change prevents corruption, helping San Marino have the lowest unemployment rate in Europe, no debt, and actual a budget surplus (maybe they could teach America a thing or two?). They embrace their Italian roots, yet they are proud to be their own Republic with their own government. 
The peace we felt when opening the doors to the balcony of our hotel room (one of the bigger rooms we stayed in for the whole trip) was immeasurable. Since we were almost a mile up from sea level, you could look down and see the winding road leading down the mountain and miles of vineyards and greenery.
And they appreciate these views, with most restaurants being all windows so diners feel like they are eating on a cloud. The food and wine is delicious, of course, just like everywhere in Europe, and they have their own San Marino wine, which was the fruitiest wine we tasted throughout our vacation.
They also have an aerial tramway which goes out a few hundred feet and brings you back. You don't really see anything you already can't from just looking out over the edge, but the experience is worth the small price. Also, make sure to climb up to the very top and get an up-close view of the Three Towers and marvel at their historical roots dating back to the 11th century.
While it is a bit out of the way, put San Marino on your itinerary. It may just be the closest you ever get to being a prince or princess in your own fairytale. But don't bother trying to capture the insane views with a camera--no picture can do this near-mirage justice.