Hi, Has anyone experienced any trouble with "new" way of confirming vatican tours. It seems that we book them via the internet etc. but they are not confirmed until 24 hours before date. The confirmation comes to the hotel by fax. This could be distastrous for us as the only day we have available now is our last day in Rome. Regards Pawsha

ttt

The Vatican website still says you must book tours by fax and notification is by fax. Where did you find a way to book by internet or are you booking through a private company?
http://mv.vatican.va/3_EN/pages/z-In...zi_Visite.html

Does anyone know how soon in advance can you request booking a tour through the Vatican? Their website says, (...An advanced booking is needed from one month to one week prior to the date of the visit." Does that mean no sooner than 1 month before arrival in Rome? I'll be in Rome during May 2007

In regards to Pawsha's comment about faxing the Vatican's confirmation to the hotel. The Vatican site does request your hotel fax, " While asking for the reservation, we appreciate, if possible, the name of the hotel and itx fax number in Rome (or Italy)." Does that mean the Vatican will fax to hotel only, but not to a personal fax??

In answer to kybourbon's query. Go to www.selectitaly.com. You can book on the net but you cant get any verification until 24 hrs before the tour. I cant find a fax no. for our hotel as it was booked thru a travel agent and the hotel agency wont give it out. Any ideas anyone? also what does ttt mean anyway. Cheers Pawsha

I guess I don't understand why you would want to pay Select Italy $41 to book this for you when you can book directly with the Vatican for 21.5E. If you tell them you don't know your hotel's fax # or your hotel doesn't have one, I'm sure they will fax you directly to the # you provide. You are quoting Select Italy policy, not Vatican. Please reread the Vatican website for individual bookings. They do have a 12 hour cancellation notice if you intend to cancel, but they say nothing about confirming only 24 hours before.

I would fax a month in advance as the website instructs. I would also advise them of the dates I was traveling and see if you can get them to notify you (by fax) before you leave for Italy.

You can also just get in line at the Vatican and rent the audio guide, if you don't get in the tour.

gohedwig - I wouldn't think the Vatican would expect everyone to be staying in hotels with fax available. Many people stay in apartments.