Electronics
If you haven't been to Europe, you will need to purchase an adapter and/or converter so that you can use/charge your electronics. We usually just purchase the highest rated one on Amazon. An adapter changes the plug configuration so that your US plug will fit into Italian wall sockets, while a converter's job is to change the voltage found in an Italian outlet and match it to that of your devices. We recommend buying a converter (they act as adapters anyways) to ensure that the European outlets don't fry your electronics. Most of today's smartphones and tablets can withstand both 110v (US) and 220v (Europe) electricity, and would be fine with an adapter if you so choose. Sarah will always use a converter for her steamer and curling iron (both of these tools are dual voltage products that she purchased on Amazon for her European travels). Hair drying tools DO NOT work in Europe - this unfortunately means your blow dryer, Dyson Airwrap, Shark Flexstyle should be left at home. If any ladies have questions on hair tools in Europe, feel free to send Sarah a text.
International Phone Service
Most, if not all, phone providers offer international plans, either included in your current contract or available as an add-on for overseas travel. For instance, Verizon has a plan that costs $10 a day, providing full access to cellular data so you can use your phone just like you would in the US. We recommend contacting your phone company for more information on your exact plan offerings.
If you'd prefer to avoid the extra costs, many international travelers will turn off their cellular data during the flight over and connect their phones to WiFi when available. Many hotels, Airbnbs, and restaurants offer free WiFi—just ask!
Currency
Visa and Mastercard credit cards are both accepted almost everywhere in Italy, while American Express is not. We recommend bringing a credit card that does not charge foreign transaction fees. These fees are charged by banks or credit card issuers for transactions made in a foreign currency or that pass through a foreign bank, and can range from anywhere between 1-5% of every purchase. Make sure to double check that the credit card you plan on using overseas DOES NOT charge foreign transaction fees. Another tip for using your credit card in Europe is, when given the option, ALWAYS pay in the local currency (Euros). Your US bank/credit card company will offer you the best exchange rate to convert that purchase to US dollars, saving you lots of money over the course of your whole trip. Make sure to call your credit card company/bank before you leave to let them know that you will be traveling out of the country. This negates the risk of your credit card being declined in Europe, as your bank is aware that you will be traveling.
It is also a good idea to have Euros on hand, for smaller towns and businesses that may not accept credit cards. For the best exchange rate, you can call your bank before hand and ask them to get you Euros. There are also easily accessible ATMs all over Italy - you will get charged a small fee ($3 - $5) to use an ATM that is different from your home bank, but these offer a decent exchange rate. Do not get Euros out at airport currency exchanges, they charge one of the highest exchange rates for the convenience of their location.
Theft
Pick pocketers are very common in crowded, touristy areas and on public transportation in Italy. As long as you are smart and diligent about the whereabouts of your belongings, you shouldn't have too much of an issue. Sarah once had to slap a woman's hand on the metro in Barcelona because this woman was trying to steal her wallet - and it all happened in less than 20 seconds. Some tips and tricks to stay vigilant against pick pocketers:
Men, do NOT carry items in your back pockets. Keep them in your front pockets or your partner's purse.
Ladies, carry your purse across your body or use a fanny pack. Make sure it's always in front of you and close to your body. Do not hang your purse on the back of your chair at a restaurant, keep it on your lap or on the table where you can see it at all times.
Do not leave any valuables in cars.
Don't leave items unattended at public beaches.
Utilize the safe in your hotel room or Airbnb - lock up your passports, valuable jewelry, sentimental items, cash, etc.
Don't carry large amounts of cash at once.
Make copies of your passport and any other important travel documents. In the case that any do get stolen, the local US embassy can help you get a new passport.
Roman Jubilee 2025
We want to inform everyone that 2025 will be a Jubilee Year, or Holy Year, for the Catholic Church in Italy. This year, which occurs every 25 years, sees Rome and the Vatican welcoming pilgrims from around the world for a celebration of forgiveness and renewal. The festivities will be spread throughout 2025, helping to distribute visitors across the entire year rather than causing a large influx on a single date.
If you follow the Catholic faith, this quadranscentennial event offers a unique chance to partake in a significant spiritual celebration. However regardless of your faith, if you plan to visit or travel through Rome at any point during your trip, expect larger crowds and make sure to book any flights and accommodations well in advance. Puglia should remain largely unaffected.
Emergencies in Italy
If you are ever facing an emergency, get in touch with the relevant national emergency numbers:
Call 112: Emergency
Call 113: Police
Call 118: Health emergency
Call 115: Fire Brigade