For those of us who don’t live in or around New York, reading about the consistently low fare deals to Europe out of New York’s airports can feel like something akin to cruelty. I mean, it’s all well and good for you New Yorkers who can jet off to Europe at a moment’s notice for under $700, but the rest of us have to pretend that getting a flight to Europe for around $1,000 is a good deal.

So, when I saw this deal for round-trip airfare to Italy on Air One for under $700, I assumed it was from New York… But no! Am I reading that right? I am! It’s from the American Midwest!

You heard me – it’s an Air One fare sale to Italy from the Midwest, with flights starting at a shockingly low $649 round-trip. And hold onto your hats, folks, because that price includes fuel surcharges and taxes.

I’ll give you a moment, because I know you’re hyperventilating. I was.

Okay, ready? Here are some of the deals you could grab for fall trips to Italy from Chicago or Boston (which isn’t in the Midwest, I know):

• Milan – $649 RT (nonstop)
• Palermo – $697 RT
• Lamezia-Terme in Calabria – $698 RT
• Naples – $698 RT
• Rome – $699 RT

These prices are fantasmagorical, and here are some of the deal details you’ll need to read before you book:

• Prices quoted are valid for both midweek and weekend travel dates.
• Best fares available from September 1 through December 17 of 2008.
• Tickets must be booked by August 17, 2008.
• Fares quoted include all taxes, fees, & surcharges.
• Trips must include a Saturday-night stay.

With prices like this, no matter where you are in the country you’d be smart to look into a flight to Chicago or Boston to take advantage of these tickets.