My First Trip to Italy
Jul 27th, 2006, 03:35 PM
#1
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My First Trip to Italy
I have scheduled a 12 day trip to Italy with Globus in Mid-September. I have never traveled outside of The US. My Itinerary includes Rome, Pompeii, Sorrento, Capri, Naples, Assisi, Pomposa, Venice, Pisa, Florence, and Siena. Meals included are 10 buffet breakfasts, and 5 three course dinners , including a special welcome dinner in Rome.
What additional costs can I anticipate regarding the additional meals (not fancy)?
Should I convert American Dollars into Euros? If so what amount do you think would be adequate? What type of travel wardrobe should I bring? I am assuming casual, mostly summer clothing. Any special suggestions regarding, sportcoat, light outerwear? Are cargo shorts acceptable during the day or only casual slax and appropriate sport shirt? Any other things that you think I should know about preparations for my trip would be deeply appreciated. Thanks for helping out a novice traveler.
What additional costs can I anticipate regarding the additional meals (not fancy)?
Should I convert American Dollars into Euros? If so what amount do you think would be adequate? What type of travel wardrobe should I bring? I am assuming casual, mostly summer clothing. Any special suggestions regarding, sportcoat, light outerwear? Are cargo shorts acceptable during the day or only casual slax and appropriate sport shirt? Any other things that you think I should know about preparations for my trip would be deeply appreciated. Thanks for helping out a novice traveler.
Jul 27th, 2006, 03:44 PM
#2
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You can get your Euro when you get there from ATM machines. Make sure you bring an ATM card with a PIN that is tied into your checking account. If you convert $$$ into Euro, you will lose in the transaction.
You'll need that money for gelato, and more gelato, along with a lunch here & there.
Mid-September? I would wear shorts. If you are going to any churches/the Vatican, cargo pants/dockers w/polo or sport shirts.
You'll need that money for gelato, and more gelato, along with a lunch here & there.
Mid-September? I would wear shorts. If you are going to any churches/the Vatican, cargo pants/dockers w/polo or sport shirts.
Jul 27th, 2006, 04:13 PM
#3
You'll definitely want to have euro.
Whether you order them from your home bank, a Thomas Cooke agency, or online, buy them at your departure airport, or use an ATM after you arrive Italy... all those methods work OK (with the ATM having the least fees and best rate of exchange).
I would maybe take 300 euro worth, then have your ATM card along if you need more cash. Supplemented by a charge card for any unexpected expenses.
Usually I'd say ATM is the only way to go, but being on an organized tour I'm not sure how much free time you'd have to hunt for a machine to use.
Does your tour company give any guidelines about size of suitcase allowed or clothing and packing suggestions?
Whether you order them from your home bank, a Thomas Cooke agency, or online, buy them at your departure airport, or use an ATM after you arrive Italy... all those methods work OK (with the ATM having the least fees and best rate of exchange).
I would maybe take 300 euro worth, then have your ATM card along if you need more cash. Supplemented by a charge card for any unexpected expenses.
Usually I'd say ATM is the only way to go, but being on an organized tour I'm not sure how much free time you'd have to hunt for a machine to use.
Does your tour company give any guidelines about size of suitcase allowed or clothing and packing suggestions?
Jul 27th, 2006, 04:54 PM
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colethomas, my mother did a Globus Italy tour in March 2005. I believe her's was 14 nights but her itinery sounded very like yours. She had a wonderful time. I'm sure you'll also have a great time. As far as wardrobe let me just mention, if you plan on a Vatican tour or to visit any of the Basilicas that belong to the Vatican, no shorts allowed on men or women. This is enforced.
Jul 28th, 2006, 06:37 AM
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Hi C,
Many people like to convert $50-100 to euro at the departure airport, just to have cash when they arrive.
ATMs are the least expensive way to get local currency. They are everywhere.
Lunch in Italy can be anywhere from 7 - 150E. Dinners about 20-300.
Many people like to convert $50-100 to euro at the departure airport, just to have cash when they arrive.
ATMs are the least expensive way to get local currency. They are everywhere.
Lunch in Italy can be anywhere from 7 - 150E. Dinners about 20-300.
Jul 28th, 2006, 07:15 AM
#7
I don't think you could go wrong with:
a couple pair good walking shoes or sneakers in dark color, 3 dockers or jeans, 1 cargo shorts, 1 dressier slacks, plus t-shirts, knit polo type shirts, a few button up shirts, one sports jacket (wear on the plane), one bathing suit (you never know), PJs, socks, underwear, shaving kit w/toiletries.
Have fun!
a couple pair good walking shoes or sneakers in dark color, 3 dockers or jeans, 1 cargo shorts, 1 dressier slacks, plus t-shirts, knit polo type shirts, a few button up shirts, one sports jacket (wear on the plane), one bathing suit (you never know), PJs, socks, underwear, shaving kit w/toiletries.
Have fun!
