I've been fortunate enough to see operas performed at the Teatro Musicale in Florence, La Scala in Milano, The old Opera House in Paris, Covent Garden in London and at the Met and NYC Opera in Lincoln Center. I must say the translation subtitles on the back of the chairs at the Met have totally spoiled me, so I guess i can no longer say I am a purist.

Traviata is a great opera, but my all time favorite is Nabucco.