italy

Pizza and Popes

Information

 Italy is a European country with a long Mediterranean coastline.  Its capital of Rome is home to the Vatican and also landmark ancient ruins. 
Italy has a population of over 60 million of which around 80% are situated in towns and 20% considered rural.
Italy comprised some of the most varied and spectacular scenery an earth.  With high mountains, alpine meadows active volcanoes and sparkling lakes and plenty of coastline there is something for everyone.

QUICK FACTS:

Currency:  Euro

Language: Italian

Visa: On arrival

Power: 230 volts AC.  Plug  types  C ,F & L

Safety: Violent crime is rare and in general Italy is a safe place to travel. Normal travel precautions apply as they do world round.

TRANSPORT:

Train – excellent network and great service makes this the most popular form of transport in Italy.
Buses are another option and are the best in town, although very slow due to traffic congestion.
Renting a car is another great way to see more of the country, but only worthwhile if going off the beaten track.  It is certainly not for the feint hearted as drivers in Italy can be fast & aggressive.

FESTIVALS:

Summer Music Festivals – December, January, February

Carnevale – February
San Biagio Festival – February
La Quintana – March
Disfida – April
Regatta of the Ancient Maritime Republics – May
Il Palio di Siena – July
L’Ardia di San Constantino – July
Festa della Madonna Bruna – July

 

Planning

With its hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters, Italy experiences a Mediterranean climate. Winters in Italy are cool and humid in the north and the mountainous zone.  The summer can be quite hot in Italy, mainly in the south of the peninsula, with high nocturnal temperatures of usually 28-33°C, but sometimes even 40°C.is changeable

Packing:  
Pack one nice outfit for evenings and smart casual for the rest.  Layers are great as it can be cold in the mornings and in the mountains.  Take a rain jacket and umbrella to keep you dry. There is plenty of walking so good shoes are important.  Dont forget the beach wear for all that coastline.

BUDGET:

Accommodation:-
Dorm Beds 18 – 30 Euro
Basic Double 60 – 130  Euro
Mid Range 100 – 200 Euro
Luxury 200 plus

Food:-
Local restaurants 15+ Euro
Resort or similar 25+Euro

Transport:-
Bus & Metro – 1 – 2 Euro, you can also buy daily tickets which can be worth while depending on your plans Taxi’s are metered and plentiful. Average city journey is 10 – 15 Euro.

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