Originally booking a trip on our own- friends suggested we do a tour.. perillo or contiki because we don't speak the language.

is it that difficult to get around if we dont speak the language- i just thought tours were so rushed.. i mean we want to see the sights but we also want to relax and enjoy the sights....

there is also a variety of places i want to see such as almafi coast (positano), caprl, venice, rome and florence.

any suggestions? this is our one year anniversary trip/

thanks so much

As long as you learn some of the basic phrases, I don't think you will have any problem getting around on your own. Many people speak English in the cities, but not as much so in the smaller towns. I vote for going on your own, as well, and you will find plenty of helpful info here to get you started in planning.

We also considered an organized escorted tour first but ended up doing it on our own for the same reasons as you - too rushed, too hectic, and a schedule that is not your own. We found travelling in Italy to be very easy as almost everyone speaks some English. We also had prebooked all our train travel, hotels, and museum reservations prior to departing so made for a very smooth trip. You can use this board as I did along with some good guidebooks and/or the help of a travel agent.

Hi VA,

> friends suggested we do a tour.. perillo or contiki because we don't speak the language.<

As they say in Italy, "Pish, tosh".

Utter nonsense.

I highly recommend that you travel on your own. So many people we talk to who are on tours are disappointed with the pace of tours and the fact that they have almost no time to relax and to explore on their own - one of the best aspects of travel IMHO. Don't worry about the language, you will do fine. Try to learn a few common phrases so you can greet people, etc. It is very easy to be a tourist in Italy without language proficiency. You may be aware that this board is mostly for independent travelers so you will probably get advice to travel on your own here.

I booked our first Italy trip on my own, online, and we had a fabulous time. I agree with you- take your time and explore. A tour is too rushed and you have to adhere to someone else's schedule. My parents love tours but we prefer to find more local flavors and enjoy! I did take a one day a wk Italian class that helped a bit but a key phrase guide book would also be fine. The people were very friendly! Congrats!

Don't let the language intimidate you .... It's the easiest language to speak, and the Italian people will meet you more than half way. As suggested, start with some everyday common phrases and you'll be fine.

Invest in a set of CDs or a local Italian language class, and you'll be more than ready.

Dear VitaAnn:

Go on your own. Use this or other travel sites to help plan. Also, the Rick Steves Italy guide book is good for first timers.

Good luck and have a great trip.

MY