Ultimate Travel Tips for a Seamless Italian Adventure

Miscellaneous Tips from Leslie & Gurvy: 

• The Key Card Trick for a Hot Summer Day: To keep your hotel room cool on a hot summer day, request an extra key card if your room has a slot to control the AC and lights. Leave the extra card in the slot so you can return to a pleasantly cool room.

• Laundry tips to maximize your time: Instead of wasting time at a laundromat, use the hotel facilities or bring some detergent to wash your clothes in the sink. Pack breathable, lightweight clothing. Use the towel warmer in the hotel bathroom or a hair dryer to help dry your clothes.

• How to order water, bubbles or flat: When ordering water in Italy, be aware that many options will be sparkling (with bubbles) or flat. Red labels typically indicate sparkling water, so if you prefer non-carbonated water, think of the red label as "stop!" – an easy way to remember.

• Navigating Check in at FCO or NAP Airports: When departing from FCO or NAP airports, refer to the large monitor to find your flight and the corresponding check-in desk. If you arrive early, you'll need to wait for the monitor to display your check-in desk information.

• Safeguard copies of your Passport and Credit Cards: Take pictures of your passport page and the front and back of your credit card. Upload them to your phone's photo albums or email them to yourself. This will provide a starting point in case they are lost or stolen.

• Adapters: Pack an adapter and bring several if you're traveling with family. Keep in mind that hotel rooms may not have enough outlets for everyone's devices. Plan a charging schedule to ensure everyone has time to charge their devices. A fast charger is recommended.

• Stay Powered Up: Pack a battery backup for your phone. Videos, photos, and maps can quickly drain your battery, so be prepared. Bring a charging block in case your room outlet does not have a USB port.

• Ironing Alternatives for wrinkle free clothes: Italian hotels typically do not provide irons in the room, but you can request one from the front desk. However, availability may be limited, so you might have to wait. If someone in your group has a hair straightener, it can serve as a good alternative.

• Ensuring reliable phone service: Before you travel, check with your phone service provider about international plans to avoid high roaming charges. WiFi is widely available in hotels, cafes, and public places, so take advantage of it to stay connected without using data. 

• Carry a change purse for Euro Coins: Carry a change purse for €1, €2, and other coins, as they can easily get buried at the bottom of your bag. Having a dedicated place for coins is convenient for small purchases and tips.

• Potty preparedness: Bathrooms in train stations or attractions can cost €1 to use, so be prepared with coins. Additionally, bathrooms often do not have paper toilet seat covers, and some may even lack the main seat cover. Plan accordingly for a more comfortable experience. 

• Sweet find for the best gelato: Always go for "Gelato artiginale"when choosing a gelato shop. "Artigianale" means artisanal, indicating that the gelato is freshly made using traditional methods. These shops offer the freshest, creamiest gelato for an authentic Italian treat. 

• Step in comfort: Wear comfy shoes, as you'll be walking on cobblestone streets the entire time. Don't let a bad back or achy feet ruin your trip--prioritize comfort!

• Shop Smart: Use a currency app to convert euros to your currency and determine if buying that special item is a good idea.

• Cross with Caution: Before you cross the street, make sure to look both ways—Italian drivers are known for their speed! Stay alert and stay safe.

• Navigating rides in Italy: In Italy, Uber functions more like a traditional taxi service. If your Uber app isn't finding a driver or you don't have service, head to a hotel and ask if they can call an Uber for you. Additionally, look for taxi stands nearby. Always ask for the price before hopping in.