Hey, I can only understand a little bit of French. And I can't speak it at all. :P But if you want to learn Italian: buona fortuna. ^__^

I haven't booked a hotel either, I'll meet the friend who's coming with me on Sunday and we'll discuss it. And now I'm tempted to go to the New Year's concert too, but I'll be working in a new place from next week, so I can't plan anything long-term just yet. Damn. =/