Was thinking of Bologna because of the university but any tips on spending a month in Italy and learning Italian. Somewhere other than Roma.
A friend of mine went to http://www.sorrentolingue.com. Did the two week homestay in April. Don't know if it would meet your needs. Our local university runs a program for study abroad in Ferrara. Perhaps a college or community college near you has some connections.
Florence is actually the most popular city for American students who study abroad so that'd be an easy one.
you might check into Apple language courses. (not the computer company) They have classes in several cities in Italy, you can add a family stay, or find your own living arrangements. They have beginning classes on up for your language skills. I've so wanted to do this, just no time off from work!
Thank you all, laurel, Rik and Ellen very much!