The OP asked this question fourteen years ago, but I find myself now in almost exactly the same circumstances, (except that I am an Australian temporarily residing in Italy). I imagine that the scene has changed since the suggestions above were proffered, so I would welcome further thoughts on this topic. (ITA might seem to be an obvious choice, but their presence in the alliance seems to be a little marginal at present, and I have actually never flown with them/Alitalia in my four years here, so not sure how useful that will be going into the future.) Thanks in advance!