PASSPORTS AND TRAVEL DOCUMENTS

• Be sure that you have your passport in your handbag. Do not put it in your suitcase because you will need to show it several times.
• Also bring the credit card with which you paid for the airline ticket.
• In general, a major credit card to show proof of financial independence is required.
• Make copies of your passport and keep them in separate places in case you misplace your original passport.
• Bring another form of picture ID as well.

AIRPORT/AIRPLANE

• Bring with you:

The credit card that you used to purchase the ticket.

Your frequent flyer card.

Your printed e-ticket.

• Check in is 3 hours before flight time.
• Do not bring any liquids in your carry-on bag.
• Do not bring more than one small-sized and one medium-sized suitcase (plus your pocketbook).
• Drink plenty of water on the plane (this is especially true if you drink alcohol on the plane as well; flights tend to dehydrate the body).
• Vegetarian or special meals must be requested beforehand (not on the airplane).

EXCHANGING MONEY

• Do NOT bring American Express Checks or Travelers Checks of any kind.
• Change your money in the US airport for a flat exchange rate regardless of amount ($5.50 per exchange up to $10,000).
• Italy airports usually charge 3% of the exchange amount.
• You can withdraw up to 250 euro per day in Italy. Check with your bank to find out if they wave withdraw fees worldwide.
• Always have cash on you when visiting Italian towns because not every place will accept a credit card.

CLOTHING/PACKING

• Weather in Italy is very similar to the US (maybe 5-10 degrees warmer). They have seasons, like the east coast of the US; and it is warmer in the south and cooler in the north.
• Churches are always very cool and damp, even if it is extremely hot outside, so wear layers.
• Always wear comfortable shoes. Italy is a bit hilly and there is always plenty of walking.
• Dress as you would if you were living in Italy (as opposed to being a tourist in Italy). Be comfortable but fashionable, as you may be going out anywhere. The Italians dress well so you won’t feel out of place if you are a bit dressy at times.
• Do NOT pack a lot. You will find that you will wear many of the same things over again. Pick a few of your favorites and know that everyone, even the Italians, will repeat their clothes.
• Leave extra room in your bag for purchases if possible.
• You must pack all liquid items in the suitcase that you will check.
• The maximum number of bottles of wine that you can legally bring back is two. Shipping wine is only possible through a US vendor; therefore, if you think you may want to ship wine, set something up in advance with your local wine shop if possible.

TRAVEL INSURANCE – required by ATIE

• ATIE can not offer refunds regardless of bad weather, natural disasters, terrorist threats, death or emergency, etc, so you must insure your own trip.

• www.globaltravelshield.com (for minimum $35 insurance plan, plus higher rate offers for more extensive coverage)
• www.americanaccess.com (for the most extensive coverage; best to have a deposit receipt from ATIE with the same date as you get the insurance for maximum coverage )