We are going to rome,italy and want to know anything that we need to do,i have never been outside the US.?

Question

passports,money exchange,protecting my belongings and person.

Answer 1

Nothing!

And don't believe the things that touristic guides say!

Rome is the safest european Capital in Europe (0,4 homicides per 100,000 inhabitants), more than London, Paris and Amsterdam. Look at this link:

http://it.wikinews.org/wiki/Criminalit%C...

Just 3 advices:

1) don't expect to find in Rome an efficient underground (metro). Rome has only two underground lines (A and B) because the subsoil is rich in archaeological sites and not suitable to be excavated. Use the bus!

2) Pay attention when you cross the streets! In Rome (and in Europe) cars drive in the opposite side (right)!

3) You havo to change your money in euro!

enjoy :)))

Answer 2

Make a copy of your passport to leave with someone in the US and one to cary on your person along with the orig.  Cary a purse of bag that has a flap and a zipper and idealy that can cross over your chest.  I used my ATM card and just pulled out Euros.

There is so much to see in Rome!  Trevi fountain, colluseum, pantheon, vatican city, st peters basicillica

Answer 3

You HAVE to go to the Vatican museums-  reserve a full day of your time, you will not regret it. It is essentially one the most amazing places in all of Europe. The richness and complexity of the works of art are truly inspirational. An absolute must you do not want to miss. The Roman Forum also offers very nice picture opportunities and although it seems cliche, the Coliseum is a must just because it is still there after all these years (the visit won't be as impressive as the Vatican Museums though).

Answer 4

Passport - get one and don't lose it after you get there. Your hotel will ask for it. Give it to them. It's the law. They will give it back quickly if you ask for it.

Money - Get and use your ATM card from the US in Italian machines after you arrive. They are called "bancomat" and even the small towns have them. Ask your bank before you go if it will work in Italy and what their fee is (the Italian sponsor bank will have an additional fee - it will say it on the screen when you use it.) Even if these fees seem high to you, they are still far cheaper than the commission/fees you will pay at a currency exchange kiosk/window. Don't fall for that. Know the exchange rate and be able to calculate it (1 euro is about US$1.30 now). Do not keep anything, money or otherwise in a backpack, f***y pack, wallet or back pockets. I only put valuables in a hidden money belt or my front pockets if they are deep enough. Almost zero physical crime, but they have some of the best pickpockets in the world. Be aware that anyone that approaches you is probably either trying to steal from you without you knowing it or selling something. Do not take anything into your hands, like flowers, gadgets, etc. They will then try to charge you for it and they can usually get it or make you life very miserable while you argue. The cops will side with them at times. Just don't take anything, keep walking, and learn some Italian phrases (No, grazie! = No thanks).

Check out www.ricksteves.com for more great advice than you have time to read.

Relax and enjoy! There is nothing to "worry" about if you just keep you eyes open. It's one of the greatest countries on Earth for a visitor.

Buon Viaggio!

Answer 5

Be careful of any kids coming up to you to try and sell you newspapers, or anything like that.  They're actually pickpockets and will try to steal anything you have in your pockets.