Pick-Pockets

You may have heard to carry your money in a belt pouch under your shirt to discourage pick-pockets. How feasible is that? Do you really want to un-tuck your shirt every time you make a purchase? That’s one bit of advice I could never understand…

On that issue, think about what you would do when traveling around a large town; do you tuck your money in your belt, or have a fat wallet sticking out of your back pocket? Do you carry a large pouch purse that does not fasten, or do you carry the essentials in a smaller bag that has a good clasp? Consider this before packing: how much do you want to worry about pick-pockets on your trip? How easy is it for you to retrieve your money is equal to how easy it is for anyone standing beside you.

Pants with zipper or button pockets and purses that cross over the chest are both easy precautions. I preferred the pants with mid-thigh pockets (the modern version of parachute pants) that zipped, with my wallet inside. I carried a cross-chest purse (purchased in Florence) for my make-up and other feminine essentials, plus some small bills for a caffe stop or bus fare. For men, there are the multi-pocket pants that serve the same purpose.

Il Riposo

Walking around after lunch, you notice that all the shops seem to be closing. The streets begin to empty, and only trattorias or caffes are open. In truth, it seems like the town has temporarily shut down…and it has. It’s taking a rest; Il Riposo. Every day, from the hours of 12 pm-3 pm (varies by town), Italians take the equivalent to a Mexican siesta. This would be a good time to explore the town, take pictures, or visit museums that may be open. A suggestion is to enjoy some café time with your friends or family, talking about your trip, planning your next destination. Or do as the Italians; sit back, relax, and take a rest.

After supper, when all stores are closed, it's nice to walk around a piazza or historic landmark. Nighttime is good for a stroll--but use common sense. Walk with a friend or two; many a time I walked the night by myself, quite safely, but I do not recommend it in any strange city. Remember to keep your jewelry in the hotel room when going out; in fact, it's best if you don't bring too much with you.

Later in the night, if you're one for it, there are local bars and dance clubs in or near most cities. Once again, it's best to go with more than one other person. Make sure you're comfortable driving during the day before venturing out at night; young males drive their little Fiats like Ferrarris.

Before leaving the hotel, verify that a night clerk or key will be available; not many have a curfew, but it's best to know before you're locked out for the night.

Should this happen, here's a little advice: don't panic. Return to the bar or discoteche; some stay open rather late. If you're in a good location, the sunrise from the top of a Tuscan mountain is quite beautiful. Catch some pasteries from a bakery...just follow your nose. Don't be surprised to see the bakers in their boxer shorts and white t-shirts; standing in front of the bakery, you understand why that's their 'uniform' even in the winter. Also, a few caffe's open around 5 a.m....which is about the time your hotel will be unlocking the doors.

Being from the south, I didn't notice as many bugs as I do at home. There are, of course, mosquitos, flies, and ants, as well as bees and wasps. I never had to apply the bug repellent during the summer in any of the locations I visited. One word of warning: there are scorpions in Italy. Check your shoes before sliding your foot in, and check the shower walls before turning on the faucet. Shake out your clothes if you lay them on the floor. None of the places I stayed had carpet (a few area rugs); this may be the reason.

It's cold, near winter, but there seems to be no heat available. Everyone is wearing their winter jackets, and you need a sweater or fire in your apartment/hotel. Isn't central heating available?

Not until mid-October, it seems. Most cities have the heating controlled by the government, and no matter how cold it may get, the heat does not go on before that set date.