Help?! - Off to Milan in a week
Nov 22nd, 2005, 09:40 AM
#1
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Help?! - Off to Milan in a week
Hello all!
I was surprised recently to find out I'm going to Italy - next week! I've never been overseas. Turns out my husband is going on business. Thought it was a great opportunity not to be missed.
So, my dilemma. I usually like to plan what to do, see, stay ect. I've don't have much time to plan, so, any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
His business is near Piacenza, and he'll be there before I will, so my 1st challenge will be finding my way (alone) from Milan airport (Malpensa) to Piacenza. (He wont be meeting me) I gather its 1 - 1 1/2 hrs away- so a taxi will be quite $$? I've looked into the trains, but there seems to be so many, I'm somewhat confused...I understand theres a shuttle from the airport? Does anyone know which route from there?
Once in Piacenza we'll be there for 1 or 2 more nights. Anything of interest around there, or favorite restaurants?
Then we have 4 - 5 days to play with before we're back at Milan airport. (Linate this time) Not long enough to see as much as we should - I know. Any suggestions?
I've heard Venice is beautiful, but considering the time of year I'm not sure if it is an option? Do the gondolas run in Dec?
Or would Bologna down to Florence and maybe Rome be reasonable? And whats recommended in between?
We do not have any hotels booked for the 4 - 5 days... hoping we could just check into one wherever we end up. Assuming that will be easy during low season?
Also, wondering about any travel tips?
Should I exchange most $ when I get there, or before I go?
Is there many english speaking people to converse with, or will I need a translator everywhere?
I've heard there is concern with pick-pocketing.. T or F?
Feel free to tell me anything you think I should know.
Please send me my itinerary...as you can see - I need all the help I can get.
Well thank-you in advance for your time. It is really appreciated!
I was surprised recently to find out I'm going to Italy - next week! I've never been overseas. Turns out my husband is going on business. Thought it was a great opportunity not to be missed.
So, my dilemma. I usually like to plan what to do, see, stay ect. I've don't have much time to plan, so, any help/suggestions would be greatly appreciated.
His business is near Piacenza, and he'll be there before I will, so my 1st challenge will be finding my way (alone) from Milan airport (Malpensa) to Piacenza. (He wont be meeting me) I gather its 1 - 1 1/2 hrs away- so a taxi will be quite $$? I've looked into the trains, but there seems to be so many, I'm somewhat confused...I understand theres a shuttle from the airport? Does anyone know which route from there?
Once in Piacenza we'll be there for 1 or 2 more nights. Anything of interest around there, or favorite restaurants?
Then we have 4 - 5 days to play with before we're back at Milan airport. (Linate this time) Not long enough to see as much as we should - I know. Any suggestions?
I've heard Venice is beautiful, but considering the time of year I'm not sure if it is an option? Do the gondolas run in Dec?
Or would Bologna down to Florence and maybe Rome be reasonable? And whats recommended in between?
We do not have any hotels booked for the 4 - 5 days... hoping we could just check into one wherever we end up. Assuming that will be easy during low season?
Also, wondering about any travel tips?
Should I exchange most $ when I get there, or before I go?
Is there many english speaking people to converse with, or will I need a translator everywhere?
I've heard there is concern with pick-pocketing.. T or F?
Feel free to tell me anything you think I should know.
Please send me my itinerary...as you can see - I need all the help I can get.
Well thank-you in advance for your time. It is really appreciated!
Nov 22nd, 2005, 11:17 AM
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I'll try.
First, take the bus from Malpensa to the MIlan train station. Ask at information or just look at the schedule posted for the next train to Piacenza. BTW, get your euro from an ATM machine. You will get a good rate and its as easy as in the US.
Take the train to Piacenza and don't worry about pickpockets. Just be aware of your surroundings and know where your purse is at all times. No problem.
Sorry, I'm not versed on Piacenza.
I'd do Venice or Rome. Both are captivating and utterly different. Rome is urban and bustling and full of history. Venice is more laid back and picturesque (with its own history). (And gondolas will be operating.)
The people you meet in Italian cities will speak English. Relax and enjoy yourself. Italians are a caring people and if you don't know, just ask.
First, take the bus from Malpensa to the MIlan train station. Ask at information or just look at the schedule posted for the next train to Piacenza. BTW, get your euro from an ATM machine. You will get a good rate and its as easy as in the US.
Take the train to Piacenza and don't worry about pickpockets. Just be aware of your surroundings and know where your purse is at all times. No problem.
Sorry, I'm not versed on Piacenza.
I'd do Venice or Rome. Both are captivating and utterly different. Rome is urban and bustling and full of history. Venice is more laid back and picturesque (with its own history). (And gondolas will be operating.)
The people you meet in Italian cities will speak English. Relax and enjoy yourself. Italians are a caring people and if you don't know, just ask.
Nov 22nd, 2005, 04:28 PM
#3
I suggest buying a general guidebook for Italy to read on the plane ride over. Supplement this with free literature you can pick up in hotel lobby, train station, tourist bureau after arrival.
I suggest obtaining euro by using your ATM card after arrival supplemented by charge card(s) and US cash to exchange as an emergency backup plan.
Most people will speak Italian but some (especially in service i.e., hotels, restaurants) may speak some English. You don't need a translator, just keep your eyes open and you can figure things out easy enough in most circumstances. Buy a small phrase book when you get that guidebook I mentioned above.
Lastly, you do have a passport, right? That's one absolute MUST there's no way around.
I suggest obtaining euro by using your ATM card after arrival supplemented by charge card(s) and US cash to exchange as an emergency backup plan.
Most people will speak Italian but some (especially in service i.e., hotels, restaurants) may speak some English. You don't need a translator, just keep your eyes open and you can figure things out easy enough in most circumstances. Buy a small phrase book when you get that guidebook I mentioned above.
Lastly, you do have a passport, right? That's one absolute MUST there's no way around.
Nov 23rd, 2005, 05:02 PM
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Thank-you both for info.
ATM there, great idea. Thanx
Good perspective of both cities - wish I had more time...both are intriguing. And yes I do have a passport. The guide book is a good plan too, alot of reading time on the plane. Thanx again for some calming of nerves, and common sense.
ATM there, great idea. Thanx
Good perspective of both cities - wish I had more time...both are intriguing. And yes I do have a passport. The guide book is a good plan too, alot of reading time on the plane. Thanx again for some calming of nerves, and common sense.
