Good for you, xyz, there is something to be said for good ole' tried and true clothes that we know and love, it is comforting to wear what we feel comfortable in, but I agree to change to more formal attire in fancy places.

My wife an I were just talking about this the other day. We sure wish we brought our sneakers with us last summer on our trip to Italy. They are the most comfortable for lots of walking and I don't believe it would have been a hindrance on the cobblestone streets. I don't know why people are so worried about "not" looking like the locals. As if you won't be labeled a tourist the moment you open your mouth. Wear whatever makes you most comfortable, even jeans, although it will take you a long time to dry after a wash. Enjoy Italy.

Re: &quot;I don't know why people are so worried about &quot;not&quot; looking like the locals. As if you won't be labeled a tourist the moment you open your mouth.&quot;<BR><BR>True. But what if you're walking along the street without opening your mouth? Aside from fashion, there's a pragmatic reason for *trying* to not look like a tourist: it *may* lessen one's chances of being targeted by pickpockets who, I would think, tend to target tourists.

You know, I don't suddenly become a moron because I'm on vacation. I live in the DC area, and used to live in the city, so I have some idea of how to be careful. So how cares if a pickpocket wants to target me because I may look like a tourist? They're not going to get anything.<BR><BR>Comfort above all else.

wear what I want, be comfy, don't open my mouth, don't act like a moron and what ever I do - don't utter the word 'fanny'...got it =)