Travel Tips: Five Things to Do Before you Travel to Italy

September 8, 2015

Ciao a tutti! Are you dreaming of that trip to Italy? Have you begun your plans, secured lodging, transportation and you prepared to pack your bags? (If not, that is what I do for people every day!) It is so exciting, isn’t it? Andiamo! Let’s go!

Soon you will be in the land of the Romans, the Medicis and the titans of art and music. You may leave your heart there, you know. And you want to have a wonderful time.

Family in Canada

Here are a few things you should do before you take that suitcase to the airport. You will enjoy your trip more if all goes well.

  • Check with your phone carrier to see if your cell phone will work in Italy. And also check for charges.  I have T-Mobile and they are the cheapest overseas phones....hooray for one thing. Note that texting is usually the least expensive mode of communication. Let your family and friends back home know that if they want to reach you, TEXT.
  • Remember to let your credit card and bank know you are traveling overseas.  If they do not know they may not accept your charges. This is important... I forgot to do that on a trip to Mexico and had issues charging a family gathering and my hotel room. I had to waste an hour on the phone! You can also change your maximum daily cash card withdrawals--oftentimes if you can get $400 max for instance you will only be able to get 400 Euros max that day.  There are fees so you want to get as much cash out at a time each time you do it.
Family in Canada
  • It is a very good idea to give someone back home a copy of your passport and carry a copy with you.  If your passport is lost or stolen this will help you get a temporary ID from the American Consulate.  I also give someone at home a copy of my credit and debit cards in case of loss. You might also want to keep a copy of who to contact OVERSEAS if you lose a card.   I have never had these problems and I have traveled a good deal--but it is always better to be like a Boy Scout and be prepared.
  • Remember, the electric current is different in Europe. You need the correct adapter for your electronics. You can find them on line or in travel stores, even at Target.
  • Invest in a money belt to wear under your shirt/slacks. Again, I have never been pick pocketed but I do not keep all my money, cards and passport in my bag.  I wear a money belt on the flight overseas. That way if I walk around the plane or fall asleep I always have my passport, money and cards with me. Better safe than sorry. You can get these things at Target, Bed, Bath and Beyond and elsewhere.

Are you ready? Have a wonderful time! Buon Viaggio!

Ciao for now!

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