Berlusconi's TV ad urges Italians to take staycation

London, July 8 (ANI): Italian PM Silvio Berlusconi has appeared in a TV advertisement where he encourages people to take their holidays at home.

According to the Scotsman, the 30-second promo, called "The Magic Of Italy", shows Berlusconi describing Italy as a "unique country, made of sea and sun but also history, culture and art; an extraordinary place that you have yet to discover".

Financial crunch has forced a lot of Italians to cancel their foreign vacation plans but the premier is actively encouraging them to get out and about to explore the beauty of Italy.

It is the first time that a serving Italian prime minister has appeared in a TV campaign promoting domestic tourism and it is also believed to be the first for any leader. (ANI)