Maira

I am planning to do a couple of day trips by train out of Rome Termini. The trips are to Pompeii and Assisi and we (sis, niece, myself) expect to arrive late (8:30pm+). Should I overnight in those cities to avoid Termini at night? The trips would be on Feb weekdays, in case that makes a difference. We are staying near Piazza Di Spagna metro stop. Any special safety advice?

Wendy

The Rome Termini is like Times Square! It is very crowded, but not particularly dangerous. Just use good common sense...8h30 should be fine! After midnight? Welllll...
Wendy

wendy

Also:

When will you be in Assisi? I leave next week.....
Wendy

the turnip

I read countless horro storries about pick pockets, gypsies, etc. in Rome. Yes we saw a few "seedy" characters but if you take normal pickpocket measures you will be just fine. We found all of Rome to be well patrolled by the police and very tourist freindly.

Have a great time in Italy.

Cheers, the turnip

Walter

Maira: I won't worry too much about it. Termini seems gets its bad rep thru pickpockets and people who will take an unattended bag. I have never read a post (I follow 3 Forums) in almost 4yrs of anyone who has gotten physically assaulted, mugged or robbed with a weapon in or around Termini. I've stayed in the immediate area and have walked thru the station at night and saw nothing that would cause any real concern. There is also a police presence in Termini and in my opinion Italian men are very chivalous and I think the majority would get involved if they saw a woman/women being victimized by someone. And I also won't discount Italian women getting involved. Termini isn't the greatest place to be in Rome and I wouldn't hang-out there, but if you're worried skip the Metro and take a taxi back to the hotel (with a nice tip ~$5) this way you are always in sight and yelling distance of scores of people. HTH Regards, Walter

Maira

Thank you all for easing my mind and for the good advice.

Wendy-- I am leaving the 16th Feb and planning to visit Assisi on the 22nd. I made a note of the hotel you mentioned on another post. Thanks.

Ken

We were in and out of the Termini many times over holidays. No sign of difficulties. I think some people just wear a sign on themselves that says "American" fleece me. We tried to wear clothing that blended into setting; no college jackets, sweatshirts etc. We had heard about the pickpocket problems, but did not see any problems.

Ed

Advice is mainly the same as the daytime: keep aware of your surroundings and what's going on.

Legal cabs can be a bit more difficult to find in the evening. Be sure and seek the yellow and black licensed cabs, and accept only a metered ride.

Ed

wendy

Maira~
I will JUST miss you in Assisi! I'll be driving through Tuscany on my way to Milan when you arrive. I visit often for business, let me know if I can answer any questions before you go?
If you like/love food...feel free to e-mail me directly!
Wendy