Senior needs advise on Pompii
 

<BR>I am a senior going to Italy would like to see Pompii with the others in the group, but can not stand a 3 hour walk. <BR>Are there mechanical options, ie electric carts etc <BR> <BR>Or must I just stay in the hotel while they go <BR> <BR>Thanks for your help

<BR>I think you shouldn't miss the chance of experiencing Pompeii; was there 2 years ago and spent an entire day! Don't go in as part of a tour, just go at your own pace. There's a restuarant not too far from the entry (inside) where you could sit and take a break. No carts or wheelchairs in evidence when I was there... <BR>Good luck!

Be forewarned: The streets in Pompeii are the original surfaces from ancient times, and they are not smooth in any way--they'er stones and rocks! There are no carts or other vehicles for going around Pompeii. <BR>However, as the previous poster said, Pompeii should not be missed! If you are able to walk around, then go! You can always stop and rest periodically.

<BR>THANKS FOR YOUR HELP <BR> <BR>I guess I will just meander along and meet the group when I can. <BR> <BR>John

John---our adult daughter slightly twisted her foot when she slipped off a step during a rain in Pompeii. She was a brave gal, limped about and we only occasionally mentioned she was slowing us down ! <BR>Go to Pompeii, enjoy a gentle walk through this incredible site. <BR>Wear comfortable shoes---or better yet--wear hiking boots which we had recommended to her, but, kids will be kids !

I too was in Pompeii as part of a tour a few years ago. I was with my mother who, at the time, was 63. This was not an easy tour to take as we were with a large, fairly fast moving group. However, I did see other smaller groups there that had several seniors with them and noted that they took frequent "sitting" breaks. Mom said that she would not do it again with the group that we were with but should you be able to see this area by yourselves at your own pace it would be great. The previous poster was correct about the streets, they are cobble stone and very uneven. It would be very easy to twist your ankle if you weren't very careful. I hope that you are able to work out other arrangements to see this area. It was the most awe inspiring thing I had ever witnessed (well, in addition to the Sistine Chapel, David...the list goes on & on!!). Good luck and have a great trip.

Good for you, John. Go for it!

I agree that you should give it a go, but please take a hat with you. There is very little shade and the sun is very strong very early in the morning.

<BR>Carol took the words right out of my mouth! Do make sure you wear a hat....it is very hot there. <BR>With a hat and comfortable shoes, you should be able to enjoy some of it if you go at your own pace. <BR>Good luck and have fun.

John, I have been to a few places with groups, and if you keep to your own pace <BR>it won't matter at all, as long as you are back at the bus before departure time. <BR>When you arrive at the site, perhaps talk to your tour guide, or to the tourist desk, to find out what where the restrooms are, where the reataurant is, and the location of the sightseeing highlights that are most interesting to you. I haven't been there, but there is likely a map of the site. You could walk to see the highlights, and if you feel that you must skip the remainder, you won't mind so much while you are sittng somewhere, sipping a cool drink.

If you must go with a group simply check when the bus is scheduled to depart and see what you can prior to departure. Plan for heat and take your time. As was mentioned there is a cafeteria and a spot with drinks just off the Forum. Get a drink across from the entrance before you go in. <BR> <BR>Remember it will take as long to get out as it did to get in. <BR> <BR>Get a folding walking stick Sherlock brand for the rough surface. It splits into separate parts and fits into a 22 inch roller. <BR> <BR>If you are staying in Sorrento or Nice and want to rejoin your group at the hotel there is a nice light rail line right outside the entrance to get you back.