As said before, I am moving to rome in August. I was wondering what neccessities NEED to be taken. I've heard that you can buy hairdryers, curlers and straighteners pretty easily, so would that be easier than bringing my own and buying a convertor? also does anyone know how or where i can get a list of the currency rates in italy and how they measure up to american currency? I'm not good with how much 50 euros is worth in american dollars. thanks for all of the help

Of course if you are moving there you should buy your hair supplies there, if you will be there for some time you will not want to juggle converters very long. It is a regular city with regular people buying regular items every day.

You had better sharpen your skills on converting money if you are moving there too! Do a google search on currancy to find a website.

Good luck.

Here, I did a google for you:
www.x-rates.com

for currency rates.

You might want to find an expat message board on the web & try "talk" to some Americans living there. I would definitely buy hair stuff there.

Thanks for the help. one more question though, since i'm new to the whole overseas travel, would it be best to (or would i even be able to) exchange my american money for Euros at a bank?

PLan on opening a bank account in Rome, so that direct transfers can be made.
If you will be employed or enrolled somewhere in Rome, there must be an office that can make some suggestions.