>power cable that is rated for use
Didn't think of that, but that's right!
All cables used and certified for 230V MUST have two layers of insulation. US power cords don't usually have this.

I have a Dell Latitutde 410 that I have taken to S. American, the Carribean, all over Europe, and Turkey and never had a problem as long as I could find a WiFi spot or a phone line. The Dell power cable is rated 110-240 v, and 90 watt. The surge protector is a very good idea, especially in rural areas where the power can spike or go out when it rains. I read somewhere about taking a full backup of your laptop on an Ipod so that if your machine crashes you can reload and get back to work. I take a CD of essentials. My system has a Virtual Private Network installed so I am always encripted when I am connected to the network - landline or WiFi. Make sure your machine is password protected with something non-obvious. I take at least two adaptor plugs for safety sake, because I have never found a us to eu adaptor outside the us, just ones made to work in the other direction. If you are worried about theft in your hotel room you can buy a set up that attaches permanently to your computer (some bolt to it and have to be put on by a computer guru while others superglue on. It will have a raised steel ring. Then just use a lightweight steel or titatium locking cable to attach the laptop to something permanent or really really heavy. I also take a USB plug so that i can charge my Clie and Cellphone through the laptop. I take a jump drive in case I am stranded somewhere that i have to use an internet cafe to send and recevie files. Otherwise I don't use them - too noisy to get any work done. And remember to bring the cable that attaches your digital camera to the laptop so you can download all your photos each day. A month in Italy - sounds great! Hope you have a wonderful time! btw - if you have free WiFi, then you can use yahoo messenger with voice to talk to people (who are on your friend list) for free. This is a great money saver, but requires a bit of prework to get the frend network set up get a small headset mic. Then all you have to do is send an email saying you will be online on such and so date and time and you can hook up, share photos, send files and tell everyone at home that while Italy is not heaven you can see it from there.

Thank you for mentioning the power cable issue. I hadn't thought of that. Unfortunately; the international power cable that Dell sells won't work--they say it will--but pin alignment is wrong.
Guess I need to pack a converter.
Thanks again for bringing this issue up!

You don't need a <b>converter</b>. To plug an American plug into a European socket, use an <b>adapter</b>.

The distinction may seem trivial, but a converter can burn out your power supply. For single-voltage electronics, a <b>transformer</b> will step down the European voltage.

bookmarking

&quot;When I smacked his hand, he claimed he dropped a flash bulb. HAH&quot;

LH how old was the guy? I don't even remember when I last saw a flash bulb!

Hi again KSWL

I'd estimate he was late 20's. We were down in the area where the popes are laid to rest and I was having a bit of trouble keeping up with DH and friends (torn the miniscus on my right knee right before trip) He said &quot;scuzi dropped flash&quot; and I just pulled my handbag closer. I then called to DH and friends and &quot;said guy&quot; left in a hurry.

ttt