How can I take a trip to Italy?

Question

Right now I'm starting my junior year in high school. My best friend and I have this dream where when we graduate, we'll take a vacation to Italy for about ten days. We want to travel at the beginning of June 2010, but I don't know how to get started with this. How much money should we both plan on spending? We don't plan on cooking our own food and staying in dorms. Also, how can I get my parents to let me go overseas with my best friend, who is a girl?

Answer 1

Well, if you want to backpack it on your own, I would suggest saving at least 2000 for airfare (with the way gas prices are going up, and the fuel surcharges you get when you purchase your airline ticket) just to be on the safe side, then at least 1000 for hotels if you are doing hotels, or 500 if you are doing hostels, and 600 for food/souvenirs, because food is really expensive in Europe. And I really think  you should buy a guidebook, like Rick Steve's or lonely planet, since they are really helpful. Since it seems that you are planning on traveling during peak season, I would also suggest reserving your hotel rooms before you leave, just to be sure that you'll have a room for every night you are there. As for traveling with your friend, I would suggest being open about it with your parents, and tell then that this is a great experience, traveling abroad and it is smart to travel with a friend. I think if you emphasis on the experience factor, you will have an easier time with the convincing.

Or you could do a package trip. I did one though EF Collegebreak two weeks ago, and it was awesome. Its just one price for pretty much everything, since they pay for round trip airfare, hotels, breakfasts, and transport you around alot of places. I went to Greece, but I was looking at their Italy one. Here is the website, if you are interested. Keep in mind, you will still need to save up money for lunch and dinner and souvenirs. The cost for the Italy trip for 11 days is around 2,000. (i don't know where you are flying out from, so this is a ballpark guess) But if you do want to travel thought them, I have their discount code. It is hesseln1188 and it gets you $50 off any trip, but more of the ones that are on sale. Good luck, and have fun!

Answer 2

Well first off will you be 18yrs, if so why would you need your parents permission.  Depending on your preferences, is what your cost will based on.  Flight rates are not consistent, to be safe I would save at least $2000. per person for the flights, who knows you might find something for only $800 or less. It might be cheaper to go in September.  You can stay in Hostels if they are available.  I wouldn't, but many on a budget do, that will be like staying in a dorm, and it is very cheap accommodations.   Depending on the class of hotel I would expect a room to cost a minimum of $100. per night.  If you have discount plans like AAA,Entertainment card, Sams Club etc. you maybe can get a discount on your hotel.  Also you might save if you can find a good package deal(Hotel & room). Altogether for flight and decent accommodations, I would try to save a minimum of $2500 per person. Spending would depend on your eating habits and touring. If Italy offer all inclusive packages (room, flight, dining all for one price) might be economical and you don't have to worry if you run short on cash during your trip, since your necessities are taken care of.  also check for tour packages, or do it yourself,using public transportation and touring during discounted hour.