Nada's Italy

"Tours for people who don't go on tours." Got Italy on your mind? Don't let another year go by, let's make it happen!! Andiamo! Our small group tours are limited to just 12 participants and fill up fast. Come with us to experience the true Italian lifestyle, food & wine in the charming hilltop villages! Take a look at our website for more details: http://nadasitaly.com/

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What are the trips planned for 2014?

if you go to our website www.nadasitaly.com you can find all the tour dates or you can call [phone] and we can kind of time out what type of tour you're looking for and navigate you in the right direction.

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Nada's Travel Tips: What to expect…and what not to expect on your trip to Italy!

Here are Italy’s “dirty little secrets” that no one will dare tell you about. Besides us. So be prepared!

Don’t expect to find: • King-size beds. Most beds in Italian hotels as well as homes are two twin-size mattresses pushed together. The main reason is that elevators and stairways are not usually large enough to allow for transporting large mattresses up into the bedrooms. As most Italians live in condos and small homes, they prefer to have “modular” furniture that can be easily moved.

• Window screens. There are no standard-size windows and Italians just don’t use screens for whatever other reasons. So you may want to be prepared and bring some mosquito-spray if you’re traveling during the Summer and want to open up your windows at night.

• Wash-cloths or facial tissue in hotel bathrooms. You’ll usually find small towels next to the bidet, therefore, not for removing make-up. We suggest you bring your own if this is something you’re accustomed to using.

• Walmart or any one-stop-shops. We still have mom & pop shops and small minimarkets where you can find some basic necessities, but overall, there is not one place that “has it all”, especially in city centers.

• The same amenities and services you find in American hotel chains.

• Free bathrooms. A lot of public bathrooms charge and if you go to a cafe', you have to buy something.

• Italian salad dressing (or any other type of salad dressing). The only thing Italians put on their salads is olive oil, vinegar, salt & pepper.

• Wines from other countries. Italians are very attached to their own food & wine, so you may even have a hard time finding wines that are not from the region you’re visiting. Enjoy the house wine, which is local, of course!

• Shops open all day or 24 hours. Couple of thoughts: A lot of shops still close at lunch time and are closed on Sunday. Some places can be closed Monday morning or Wednesday afternoon. Museums, even major ones, are closed on Mondays. Also, be prepared to spend more cash than you’re used to – a lot of shops still don't accept credit cards. This is more true in less touristy towns and villages. Larger cities such as Venice, Florence, Milan etc. are more prepared to accept different forms of payment.

• Free refills or American-size drinks. In general, Coke and other popular soft drinks are much more expensive compared to the USA and they are usually served without ice or a straw. There are no free refills.

• (Functioning) Air conditioning. Although most hotels in Italy nowadays do have small air conditioning units in the rooms, you should not expect the same amount of “cold” as you do in the USA. Some of the units are also noisy. In order to save energy, many hotels will turn the air conditioning off during the day if your room is vacant, so you may need to turn it back on when you’re back. Also, because electricity is so expensive in Italy, there are town ordinances about the dates when people are allowed to start turning on the heat in the Winter. For instance, business buildings, such as hotels, are not allowed to turn on their heating until November, so if you end up in Italy during a particularly cold week in October, you may need to ask for extra blankets. Unfortunately there is nothing the hotel staff can do about this, so don’t think they are being rude or difficult.

• Butter on the table. Nope.

• Ice water, or ice in general. If you ask for ice and you’re lucky, you’ll get a couple of cubes. But don’t ask again…

• No alarm clocks in hotel rooms and wake-up service that is not very reliable. 

Expect to find:

• Hard(er) Mattresses, thin pillows, and some towels are not large and fluffy like in the US.

• Slow(er) service in restaurants and non-responsive sales people. Don't expect the check to arrive after a meal unless you ask for it. You're not being ignored, so don't get irritated. Italians love to dine for hours on end and we’d find it very rude if someone would bring us the check before we asked for it. We also don’t like to be constantly asked if everything’s ok.

• Small(er) bathrooms and small(er) bedrooms. Many hotels that are located within an historical center, are old, sometimes ancient buildings that have been restored. Therefore the strongest intent is to respect and preserve the original structure as much as possible. The Italian government also dictates certain rules that do not allow for many modifications. Most rooms will be different in size, layout, and view, so don’t expect to find the exact same room as you see on the hotel’s website or that others in your party may be assigned.

• Noise in cities & towns. If you are staying in a hotel located within a city center, please know that there may be a certain degree of noise that is higher compared to other accommodations in more remote areas. You may hear cars, pedestrians, mopeds, and other noises that are typical of most urban settings.

• Late meals. Italians eat later compared to Americans. Most restaurants will not serve dinner before 7:30pm at the very earliest. Restaurants are not open all day as they usually close in the afternoon.

• Good food in less-than-casual restaurants. Italians don't really care about decor as long as the food is good, so even very "rustic" places can be great restaurants.

• Fluorescent light bulbs & timed lights. Since Italy doesn’t have either fossil fuels nor nuclear power plants, electricity is extremely expensive. Therefore, Italians are all about recycling and power efficiency.

• Public bathrooms with no tissue, paper towels, soap, or all of the above. However, your hotel room will have all these.

• “Platform-style toilets”. This mostly is the case in public bathrooms, as in some cafés, not in people’s homes. These are platforms that are extremely friendly for men, not so much for women as there is no way to sit. So just be prepared.

• Odd banking hours. Banks are typically open Mon-Fri from 8:20am to 1:00pm, open again from 2:45pm to 3:30pm. Closed on weekends.

• Unisex bathrooms. Some restaurants have only one toilet - both men and women use it, but not at the same time, of course!

• Cab drivers trying to rip you off. Make sure to ask how much the ride is going to cost you before getting in. The price may vary based on traffic, but overall, you should not be paying a lot more than what you were quoted.

• Elevators. If a hotel has an elevator, you are lucky. Most of them are very small (going back to building within an ancient structure). Sometimes there is a staircase to get to the elevator. One more reason to pack light.

• Pick-pockets. Mostly in large cities like Rome, Milan, Florence. Be very careful and never take your wallet out in public (unless you are in a shop purchasing something). You may want to use a fanny pack or neck wallet for extra safety.

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Nada's Travel Tips: “The Biggest Travel Mistakes You Don't Want to Make”

Aside from the proverbial forgotten toothbrush and small items you may have overlooked during your frantic last-minute packing session, there are some mistakes you really don't want to make. Here are some of them: 

Your documents: Not buying travel insurance for your trip. Not checking the expiration date on your passport. Forgetting about visas and vaccinations needed for certain countries. Failing to scan and email yourself a copy of all your important documents, including credit cards. Not carrying contact information for your hotels.

Hotels: Not communicating your arrival time to them (this insures they don't sell your room in case you have a late evening check-in, which they may interpret as a no-show). Not asking about charges ahead of time (breakfast, internet, parking, etc.). Not realizing that the cheapest deal is usually the one with the biggest penalties or altogether non-refundable. Not researching the weather for your destination (for example, going to the Caribbean during hurricane season...not good). Not choosing the location of your hotel in relation to what you want to do and the sites you want to see.

Money: Not calculating your true costs according to the exchange rate. Forgetting to tell your bank you’ll be gone and risking they’ll block your cards. Not having enough cash on hand (in case there are no ATMs in the proximity). Not changing the data settings on your phone and getting pounded with roaming charges. Packing way too much and paying over-the-weight-limit fees. 

Safety: Not learning some basics in the language of the country you’re visiting and not having a travel phrasebook on hand (if traveling abroad). Being careless with valuables and lack of awareness of what is going on around you. Wearing flashy jewelry that can catch lots of unwanted attention. Being too friendly with strangers who “appear to want to help you”.

Logistics: Waiting until the last minute assuming you'll find last-minute flight deals (purchasing airfare too far ahead may be just as big of a financial mistake). Not printing out your boarding pass ahead of time. Not asking your taxi how much the ride is before you get in (again, travel + surprises = not good). Failing to inspect your rental car before driving away. Being suckered into unnecessary rental upgrades. Having an overly-ambitious itinerary and stressing yourself out. Failing to pack basic necessities in carry-on bag (toiletries, underwear, medicine) should your checked-in luggage not show up. 

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Nada's Travel Tips: “How to Get the Best Value on Travel”

As with many other things, the most important elements when planning a vacation are research, knowledge, and planning. The more research you do, the more knowledge you have, the best planningdecisions you will be making.

1. Avoid unexpected expenses by researching what is and what is not included (tips, taxes, internet, parking, gym, kitchenette to cook some meals in your unit, cleaning service if you’re renting a villa or condo). You’ll be saving a lot of money on your meals by choosing hotels that include breakfast.

As we all know, for some reason there are always “added-on” fees, government taxes, and plenty of “I-wonder-what-that’s-for” charges when we’re ready to settle our hotel bill. However, there is a way to settle this in a friendly way. Just ask. No matter where you book your accommodation, whether it’s through an online broker such as Hotels.com or Orbitz.com or a travel agent, don’t hesitate to get in touch with the hotel’s reservation desk directly. You can sometimes get information that is not available online. Get specific answers especially if you are renting a villa or condo – some places don’t even include toilet paper, so it’s better to be prepared.

2. Choose hotels that give a discount on a multiple night stay. Often you can find better deals on accommodations when you avoid changing cities every day.

This opportunity to save is often overlooked by many travelers who have the necessity to “see as much as possible” in a very short amount of time, but ultimately spending more time in one location will not only save you money, you will also have a better, more relaxed experience, and gain deeper knowledge of the local culture. Depending on your destination, lower rates can also be offered on weekday stays as opposed to weekends.

3. Location, location, location. Even though a hotel in a prime location may have higher rates, you will ultimately end up saving time and money on transportation if you book a hotel that is within reach of the major sites.

This is also true when you’re researching villas, resorts, and vacation rentals. Many people specifically look for properties that are remote because they like the privacy aspect and “being away from it all”. However, feeling like you’re away from civilization may get old fast. So make sure to verify which amenities (pool, restaurant, golf, snorkeling, etc.) are included so you and your family don’t feel bored and need to spend more money on searching for entertainment away from the premises.

4. Consider a group tour or a cruise to book an all-inclusive deal. Depending on the tour company, meals and services such as guided tours, transfers, and excursions are bundled so you can get a better rate than booking them individually on your own.

Ok, so this is going to take a little bit of research and yes, work, on your part. But it will truly be worth it. If you have your mind set on what you want and the places you want to visit, it will help you put together a list of services you will need. If you realize that booking these services individually, such as private drivers and tour guides, which can be very expensive, you may want to look into a tour package or cruise that already includes them at a lower rate. However, some tour companies and cruises give you a ‘special price’ that may sound like a great deal, until you realize it’s a bare-bones package and you need to add all the costs for the activities you want, without which the trip wouldn’t even be worth taking. This is when the “work” part comes in…

5. Get friends and family to travel with you. This is useful to break up expenses such as taxi fares, tour guides, apartments, and vacation rentals, among other things. Sometimes you can have more leverage to get a group discount.

This may sound like an obvious tip and an easy way to get quantity-driven discounts, but some people think it’s really difficult to get a group together because it seems everyone nowadays has their calendars booked up for the next five years. However, if you start to consider your Facebook friends and all other social media connections as a sort of “extended family”, the daunting task of coordinating a trip with your overly busy and ever-unavailable so-called bff’s may become as easy as changing your status.

6. If you’re on a budget, research your destination’s high and low travel season so you can take advantage of discounted rates. Stay away from major holidays.

In a perfect travel world, you’d want to be visiting a country or city when the weather is at its best, the hotels aren’t crowded, and kids aren’t out of school. But in the real world, combining those three things can be a challenge. That is why once again I give you this word: research (=work). Depending on your budget, you may be able to travel during what is called “shoulder season” (also referred to as “middle season”), which is the period of time between a destination's low (cheapest, with more availability) and high (most expensive, with less availability) seasons. Usually shoulder season is when the weather is most unpredictable, but not as bad as during low season.

7. Never underestimate the power of the hotel’s front desk staff. Ask and you shall receive. You can sometimes get so much more (even a better room!) simply by asking.

Communicate with the hotel’s front desk to ask for a room with a view (when available without an additional charge) or early check-in, even after you’ve already booked. Let them know your arrival time. Be extra nice to them, become friends, take them out to dinner if you must (just kidding), because these are the people who can get you discounts at local restaurants, great deals and advice on guided tours, and also make reservations for you (sometimes including museum and train tickets). Starting a good communication with the hotel staff, without pestering them, is your ticket to receiving great service and saving a lot of time and money.

8. Don’t wait until the last minute to book your flight; give yourself enough time to shop around.

There's no perfect way to time a ticket purchase, so usually the best thing to do is shop around and not wait until the last minute. Booking too late is obviously not a smart financial move, but many don’t know that sometimes booking too early can be just as expensive. Generally the lowest fares are available between 1-2 months on national travel and 3-4 months for international travel. Play around with your departure and return dates, as sometimes just changing one day may give you several $100’s in savings. To do this better, select “my travel dates are flexible” to see the various rates available. If you’re not set on a destination, but want to see what are the available rates from your city to anywhere in the US, check out Google Flights www.google.com/flights. You simply enter the city you’d be flying out of and a date range, and the engine will find all the options available.  Don’t forget to sign up for Airfare Watchdog http://www.airfarewatchdog.com/ so you can get notified by email when the lowest fares are published for a specific itinerary.  If you like to travel comfortably, a great way to save on business or first class is to purchase a basic economy ticket and then use miles to upgrade. Some airlines like US Airways offer a special last-minute deal where you can upgrade to first class for a fraction of the regular cost, but it’s based on availability and can only be done the day of departure.

9. Travel to destinations where the US Dollar is still strong.

The circle of countries where a $1.00 will still go fare is getting smaller and smaller. Despite the fact that Europe is going through some rough economical changes, for whatever mysterious reason, the Euro is still very high. You may want to consider a Latin American country such as Argentina, Costa Rica, or Panama. Or, try Morocco, Turkey, or Thailand.

10. To be better prepared, calculate your trip expenses, then add another 30% to your budget for unexpected costs that may come up. If you don’t end up using this extra money, great. If not, you have an extra source to tap into. And remember: saving is not your ultimate goal. Having a great vacation is.

Finally, this one piece of advice is something I can never stress enough to travelers: keep an open mind and be flexible when traveling. Sometimes you will have to compromise between what you want to do, and what your wallet can spend. So, you may end up giving up on some activities, amenities, or both. But in the end, the rewards of travel are priceless, so keep traveling!

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Nada's Travel Tips: Nada's Commandments for Traveling to Italy

Some of these may leave you scratching your head in need of an explanation. But I ask you: did Moses give an explanation? Just follow these simple commandments and thou shalt have a wonderful vacation!

1. Thou shalt not ask for a doggie bag in Italy nor will you "donate" your leftovers (no matter how good they look) to the hotel staff or the driver, or anyone.

2. Thou shalt not ask for a "sconto" (discount) for imports less than €80.00 and then expect to use a credit card. Shop owners are more likely to give you a discount if you use cash.

3. Thou shalt never pass on the opportunity to use the restroom. When in need, look for a "Bar", purchase something (anything - juice, coffee, a pack of gum) and ask for the "Bagno".

4. Thou shalt remember to bring a valid ID on your daytrip (doesn’t have to be your passport) and a note with any medical allergies, emergency instructions, and emergency contacts.

5. Thou shalt honor thy server: make sure you always have loose change to leave at least 2 Euros at the end of each meal as a sign of appreciation (or around 10%).

6. Thou shalt not exchange money from an "Exchange" booth as you will get ripped off. Instead, thou shalt exchange US$ before leaving the US, or use your ATM/credit card in Italy.

7. Thou shalt not wear flashy jewelry, cameras, designer luggage, and other bright, high-end fashion items that may attract people with shady intentions.

8. Thou shalt (if you're a single woman) not flirt with just about every guy in the piazza and then complain about the cat-calls and evident attention.

9. (In a restaurant) Thou shalt not ask for: grated Parmesan for your salad and/or pizza, extra sauce for your pasta, cappuccino after lunch or dinner. Thou shalt not ask for pasta as your side dish. Thou shalt not ask for a "Bistecca fiorentina" (Florentine steak) as well-done.

10. Thou shalt learn to correctly pronounce and use "Buongiorno" (good morning), "Per favore" (please), "Scusi" (excuse me), and "Grazie" (thank you).

11. (Hey, I never said they were 10...) Thou shalt not continuously compare Italy to the U.S.A. Like the fact that Sunday is closing day in Italy and stores are closed. Or the fact that Italians don't use screens on the windows. Or the fact that customer service just isn't as good as in the US.

12. Thou shalt not be ripped off by Roman taxi drivers. International Fiumicino to the city of Rome is a flat rate of €45, up to 4 people (that means €45 in total, not per person).

Thou shalt read and follow Nada's Commandments! Now go and have a great trip!

Are you trying to plan a trip to Italy on your own and are feeling a little overwhelmed? We can help!

Whether you're just starting out and gathering ideas, or you have your itinerary already set and want someone to review it to make sure everything goes smoothly, Nada Vergili can provide some expert assistance. By setting up a phone or in-person (in the Charlotte, NC area) consultation you will have all your questions answered, a finalized itinerary, a ton of resources, insider info, and most importantly, peace of mind. Email us: [email protected]

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Nada's Travel Tips: The truth about Italian food.

We all have our own ideas and misconceptions about foreign cultures. Some are pretty accurate, while some of them almost cross the limits to what is acceptable and what can be considered rude or judgmental. So, if you’ve never traveled to a particular country, how do you know whether your expectations are in line with reality or completely off?? The thing is, many Italian-American restaurants in the USA have developed their own cuisine and trends, making it quite disorienting for people who can no longer distinguish what is a national custom, as opposed to the choice of a few creative individuals. Who was the inventor of Alfredo sauce and how did its popularity spread among American palates? Who decided to dip the calamari in marinara sauce? Perhaps a hungry American college kid who ran out of pasta? Here is an essential guide to Italian culinary culture so you can compare your ideas of what you’re used to thinking is “real Italian” as opposed to what really… is Italian. Knowing more about the country you’re about to visit will help you avoid frustrating misunderstandings and make your stay much more enjoyable.

Things Italians actually don't do when they eat…

1. Putting Parmesan cheese on top of Pizza (or salad…or mushrooms… or seafood). Why don’t we do that? Because there is already Mozzarella cheese... Parmesan is only going to add more salt and cover the flavors. Also, try putting Parmesan cheese on mushrooms or any type of seafood and Italians will look at you like you’re a criminal.

2. Drinking coffee during lunch or dinner.  We usually have an espresso (caffe') after a meal, while cappuccino is only a breakfast beverage. Caffellatte is also consumed only at breakfast because it’s considered too “rich”. Chasing your steak with a gulp of milk doesn’t sound as good as a nice red wine. The perfect compromise after a meal for most Americans is the “macchiato” (stained), a cup of espresso with just a shot of steamed milk. Also, expect smaller sizes, not big 16 oz sizes or bigger “trough” sizes.

3. Drinking wine outside of a meal.  With the exception of Prosecco, a bubbly white wine, which can be enjoyed as an “aperitivo” before dinner, Italians see wine as a complement to their food, as food is a complement to their wine. Italian wines are very dry and somewhat difficult to drink on their own, but their personality shines when savored with a tasty meal. Seeing another Italian drinking wine without food is considered tacky.

4. Dipping bread in oil and vinegar before a meal.  Yes, we know, you're thinking "But THAT'S exactly what Italian restaurants serve in the U.S.!!", however, it's still an Italian-American thing. In Italy this is somewhat looked down upon, as if you're "starving" or trying to fill up so you don’t have to order as much food. You won’t find bread served with butter either. However, you will notice that the waiter will bring a basket of bread on the table – that is to be consumed with your course. The restaurant will charge a cover fee for bread, utensils, etc. and it will show on your bill as “COPERTO”.

5. Putting garlic on pizza.  There are no vampires in Italy so there is no need to do this, unless you just don’t like to have people around you, period. And what about “pepperoni” being a cured meat? The translation in Italian is simply “bell peppers”, so you won’t find pepperoni on your pizza either.

6. Over-using garlic.  We use it very lightly and often remove the whole clove before serving sauces. You will notice how very little garlic is used in our cuisine. We know about people’s love for garlic in Italian-American cuisine, but the reality is that the food you find in Italy nowadays is different from what you expect. 7. Doing shots of any hard liqueur.  We see liqueurs as "digestives" (aids in digestion.. especially after a big meal, you can consider some of them a sort of "liquid plumber", to give you a better idea) so we like to savor them taking our time, enjoying them with friends at the dinner table. Popular ones are Grappa, Amaro, Sanbuca, Limoncello. The first three can also be added to espresso, making it a "caffe' corretto" (corrected coffee).

8. "Italian salad dressing", fettuccine Alfredo, garlic breadsticks, spaghetti & meatballs, capellini pasta, and other unfortunate culinary misunderstandings. These things are not traditionally Italian and you won't find them on your trip. If you do, you may want to go to another restaurant for dinner as the one you found specializes in serving tourists. A note about capellini or angel hair pasta: we do have this thin type of spaghetti, but it’s usually made for soup, as it doesn’t hold it’s firmness as other types of pasta, which must be rigorously served al dente. You will never find capellini served as a side dish with your entrée as they do in the US.

9. Expecting Lasagna as it is in the U.S.  Lasagna is typically a dish made at home, which pretty much any common Italian soul is able to make. Since the BEST lasagna will always be the one Mamma makes, eating any other will just result in disappointment. Ricotta cheese, mozzarella, and plain tomato sauce do not go in lasagna. Ok, I'll give you that, in some areas in the South of the country ricotta is used, but most Italians use "besciamella" (white sauce) and "ragu" (a meat-based bolognese sauce) instead.

10. To-Go cups and Doggie-bags.  Since our consumption of coffee (aka espresso) occurs for the most part standing at a counter at the nearest café on our way to work or after lunch, there is no need for a to-go cup. The amount of coffee Italians drink is actually a fraction compared to that of Americans – there is no Starbucks Venti cup, but rather a small 1-ounce shot. We also usually don’t take home food that is left over after a meal. Why? We don’t know. For some reason Italians think “If you really liked what you were eating, you would’ve finished it. If you didn’t like it, then why are you taking it home?” Sometimes it’s hard to understand why certain things are done a certain way and that’s the beauty and mystery of traveling to a foreign country.

11. Eating protein for breakfast.  Italians do not consider breakfast a meal. We get up in a hurry, have a cup of coffee at home, then perhaps stop at the nearest café or pasticceria (pastry shop) for a cappuccino and a croissant (with custard, jelly, chocolate.. or plain, but always sweet) on our way to work. That said, most hotels and lodgings will try to accommodate as best as they can an international crowd by serving cheese, ham, bread, fruit, yogurt, juices, eggs, and other things that foreign people are used to having. So, just keep an open mind when traveling and try to ask yourself “If I had a hotel and had people come from all over the world, what would I serve?”

12. Italian food.  Believe it or not, there is no such thing as “Italian food”. To us, food is just food, and the food we make and eat is the one we’ve grown up with. The food our mothers and our mothers’ mothers made for generations. This is why there is no “national Italian cuisine” because every region, every village, every home has its own tradition. There are specific crops, cheeses, wines, and dishes that are exclusive to a specific area and cannot be found in other parts of the country. This is why we always recommend that travelers let go of their pre-conceived notions of Italian food and ask for the local specialty that is available in the town they’re visiting. For example, cannoli is a dessert made with ricotta cheese only available in the region of Sicily. Biscotti di Prato (almond cookies) are usually served as dessert in Tuscany. Limoncello is a typical lemon-liqueur of the Naples area. Spaghetti alla Carbonara is traditional of Rome. Polenta is a classic side dish served all over the Northern regions and the Alps.

13. Serving pasta as a side dish. Italian menus are composed of: Antipasto (appetizer), Primo (1st course – usually rice, soup, or pasta), Secondo (2nd course – usually meat or fish), Contorno (side), Dolce (dessert). You don’t need to have all of them, you could just pick two, or just one. The important thing is that you keep the order (i.e. have an Antipasto and a Secondo, but not the other way around). Keep in mind that everything is a’ la carte in Italy, meaning that sides are not included with the entrée. One last note about pasta, if you are going to enjoy a nice plate of spaghetti, don’t be surprised if you don’t find a spoon sitting on your table. The reason is because, unlike in the old days, modern Italians rely on their fancy “wrist-twisting” skills to wrap the pasta around their fork… with some practice you’ll be able to do the same!

Now enjoy and MANGIA!!!

[nadasitaly-blog]

Nada's Travel Tips: Tipping in Italy

To tip or not to tip? Decoding the impossible task of tipping in Italy.

Why is this topic so debated? Why are people so confused? Let's see if we can solve this cloud of confusion once and for all.

Generally speaking, leaving a tip in Italy is not expected, as it would be in the U.S. God forbid you forget to leave a 15%-20% tip (more like 20% nowadays...must be inflation...) for the waiter who checked on you 33 times during the 40-minute lunch with your coworker, and you'll be chased out into the parking lot with a similar ruffled attitude as if your spouse was questioning you as to why you left him hanging at the altar. Anyway, in Italy leaving a gratuity is simply a sign of gratitude, an implied "thank you for your service, we really enjoyed it". Do they expect it? No. Do they appreciate it? Yes. Is it common courtesy? Si, si, and si!

Still, a lot of guidebooks are confusing (and often inaccurate) in explaining when to tip and how much. Hopefully the information below will provide some clarity on this subject.

Restaurants: Yes, is it true that a waiter in Italy isn’t the underpaid part-time employee you might expect a waiter to be making a tip the difference between paying their rent or living under a bridge, as it often seems in the U.S. BUT truly, how much more is their monthly salary compared to what an American waiter makes on tips? Answer: not much. The average monthly salary of an Italian waiter is about 900 euros (about $1,350 US). Is that more than minimum wage in the US? Yes, but not a whole lot more.

Therefore, it is recommended that you leave about 10% of the total bill in cash on the table. This is indicative, you could just leave 1-2 euros per person and they'll be happy. You won't be able to pay your tip on your credit card slip (if you pay with plastic) because there is no space for it. The only way is to leave it on the table or give it to your server. In the unfortunate instance you see “Servizio” (service charge) on your bill, you must know that this is not a tip, as much as it looks like one. I personally don’t like when restaurants do this because it’s very deceiving and makes people think the tip is included. The "service charge" helps the owner pay for the salaries, but the amount actually does not go to the waiter.  Restaurants also charge a “Coperto” which is usually 1-2 Euros per person, added to the bill. This last charge is to cover the expenses of bread, condiments, silverware, etc. but once again, not a tip for the server.

Bars & Cafe’s: Not necessary to tip if you’re not sitting and being served. Most of the time, Italians will enjoy their drink or coffee standing at the counter, because often times the facility will charge more for table service. So, if you choose to sit, some change or 1-2 Euros will be sufficient as a tip.

Bell-boy (if applicable): Usually 1 Euro per suitcase that he’s carrying or lifting to your room.

Hotel Concierge: Not necessary, unless you really like the person and they went out of their way to help you.

Hotel Cleaning Lady: It is recommended that before you check out, you leave 1 Euro for each day of your stay on a side table in your room.

Taxi driver: A tip is not necessary, however, if you want to give some small change (1 or 2 Euros) it will be appreciated. They will charge you extra for each piece of luggage anyway.

Tour guide: 1-2 Euros per person will be appreciated by the local guide if you enjoyed their service.

Private driver: If you're on a tour or hire a private driver for a few days, it is courteous to give them between 5-10 Euros per day of service. Some people don't realize what a high-stress job this is.

Valet Parking: Since when is there valet parking in Italy???

For everyone: Never tip people in anything other than money. Couldn't finish the 8th bottle of wine last night? Were you too stuffed to eat all the pizza? Throw them out.

Finally: Don't just tip "to tip". I mean, if you're asking for directions and someone is kind enough to help you out, you shouldn't hand them 2 euros just because you feel "generous". This may actually insult their dignity by putting a monetary figure on a gesture of kindness that should really be considered priceless.

Note: See the suggested amounts listed above as "per person".

Are you trying to plan a trip to Italy on your own and are feeling a little overwhelmed? We can help!

Whether you're just starting out and gathering ideas, or you have your itinerary already set and want someone to review it to make sure everything goes smoothly, Nada Vergili can provide some expert assistance. By setting up a phone or in-person (in the Charlotte, NC area) consultation you will have all your questions answered, a finalized itinerary, a ton of resources, insider info, and most importantly, peace of mind. Email us: [email protected]

[nadasitaly-blog]

Nada's Travel Tips: How to use the Italian railway system

Italy is extremely well connected by its railway system, so there is truly no reason why any traveler would go through the hassle of renting a car and dealing with the inevitable migraine-inducing traffic jams, poor street signs, and scarce parking. Unfortunately there are still areas, especially in the mountains and countryside, where trains cannot get to. Still, trains should be the first option for independent travelers, especially when connecting between major city centers. To make sure you choose the right type of train to reach your destination, review the following guidelines and you'll be on your way to an easy and stress-free ride. 

TYPES OF TRAINS:  EUROSTAR (also marked as AV for "Alta Velocita'", Italian for high-speed): If you're connecting between major cities such as Florence, Rome, Venice, Milan, Naples, Bologna, among others, you may want to consider booking a "Eurostar" also called by the names Frecciarossa, Frecciargento, and Freccia Bianca. This is a high-speed train that makes only the main stops, travels up to 200 miles an hour, and is considered more luxurious than other commuter trains. Eurostars have a cafe’, bathrooms, wifi, and yes, air conditioning. To give you an example, driving from Rome to Florence would take close to 4 hours and with a regular "Regionale" train, close to 6! The Eurostar will get you there in less than 90 minutes and you don't have to deal with impatient Italian drivers. If you decide to go with this option, it is advisable that you purchase your tickets ahead of time. Once you have your ticket, you will also have a reservation for a specific seat on the train, whereas for other trains, there is no assigned seat.

Intercity/Eurocity (also marked as IC and EC) – These trains stop in all the major cities, but not every single town - it's a less expensive, slower, and less fancy option than the Eurostar.

Espresso (E), Diretto (D), Regionale (R), and Interregionale (IR) – These trains make ALL the stops, will get you to the small towns and big towns. The slowest, but these trains are also the cheapest. They are more similar to a light-rail type of transportation for commuters and students.

IMPORTANT: If you purchase a ticket on trains OTHER than the Eurostar, you MUST stamp your ticketprior to getting on the train in one of the YELLOW machines within the train station. Don't forget as failing to do this will ensure an expensive penalty by the onboard ticket agent! Purchasing a ticket for the Eurostar includes a reservation and assigned seat, while seats on other trains are on a first-come first-served basis.

PURCHASING YOUR TRAIN TICKETS:

STEP 1: Know your train station names.  Know your train station name before purchasing your ticket. The main train station in Florence is called Firenze Santa Maria Novella (also marked as Firenze S.M.N.), the one in Venice is Venezia Santa Lucia (also marked as Ve S.L.), the one in Rome is calledRoma Termini (also marked as Roma TE), the one in Milan is Milano Centrale (also Milano C.le), and the Naples train station is called Napoli Centrale (also marked as Napoli C.le). These major cities are connected by the Eurostar – the fastest train in Europe. You can also take other types of trains, as the ones listed above, but they can be very crowded with commuters and students during certain times of the day, and sometimes there can be pickpockets onboard, so pay extra attention to your belongings. Use the local trains only to get from one small town to another, where the Eurostar does not stop. Local trains make many stops and there are many running all day long, you don’t need a reservation, and you can just buy the ticket at the last minute, stamp it, and hop on. STEP 2: Choose your train and purchase your ticket. You can purchase tickets directly at the train station through the automatic machines (just like ATMs), which can operate in several languages and accept credit cards, but the best way is to purchase your ticket online ahead of time on the official Italian railway system's website: TRENITALIA.com (online payment is by credit card). Click on the British flag for an English version of the page (the link provided above already directs you to the English version). Now enter your departure and arrival cities (again, make sure the train station name is correct). Enter the date and hour you'd like to travel, and number of passengers. Select the option that fits your schedule, first or second class, and follow the instructions to complete your purchase. Now, print your ticket and review that the information is correct. Make sure to keep the ticket code (PNR) with you as you will need to show this to the onboard ticket agent.

When you purchase your Eurostar ticket, you’ll have a reservation for a specific train as well as assigned seats. If you don’t have access to a printer, you can simply take note of the TRAIN NUMBER (marked asTreno ES Italia AV + the number), the Departure Time, the Coach (or Carrozza in Italian), the Seat Number (or Posti in Italian), and the PNR or Ticket Code. Venice to Florence = 2.5 hours by Eurostar/Frecciarossa.  Florence to Rome = 90 minutes by Eurostar/Frecciabianca.  Rome to Venice = 3 hours and 45 minutes by Eurostar/Frecciargento.  To check train schedules and purchase your tickets ahead of time: <http://trenitalia.com/homepage_en.html> STEP 3: Get on the right train! PAY ATTENTION! When you are looking for your train, be sure to look at the electronic timetable (PARTENZE – departures) and search for the train number and the time it is scheduled to leave. DO NOT LOOK AT THE DESTINATION! The destination indicated on the timetable for a certain train may NOTnecessarily match your final destination. Your train may be directed to Naples, but your destination may be a stop along the way, like Rome. So make sure to get on the right train! Also, you will need to look for the correct binario (BIN) which is the track where the train is stationed. Then, look at your ticketand look for the number next to the word CARROZZA (that is the train car number you want to board).Next, you want to look for your seat number, marked on the ticket after the word POSTI.

A word of caution: Train stations are usually crowded, so watch your belongings as there can be pick-pockets and pan-handlers. Plan B. If you happen to miss the train or need to change a reservation, don’t worry, just go to the ticket office (Biglietteria) and they will issue a new one for you. Or, you can also change your reservation on the Eurostar online if you have an account.  There are no porters in the train stations so make sure to pack light as you’ll be the one carrying your luggage, getting it on and off the train. There is usually a common storage area at the beginning of every car where you can stow your luggage on the train itself. Just keep an eye on it periodically when the train stops in the stations.

GOOD TO KNOW: Un biglietto di sola andata – one way ticket Un biglietto di andata e ritorno – round trip ticket. Vorrei un biglietto per... Roma – I would like a ticket to....Rome.  Quanto costa? = How much is it? Ci sono posti liberi? = Are there seats available? Quanto tempo ci vuole per arrivare a.... Venezia? = How long does it take to get to.... Venice? A che ora parte il treno per... Firenze? = What time does the train to Florence leave? A che ora parte il prossimo treno? = What time does the next train leave? Che tipo di treno e’ questo? = What type of train is this? Io vorrei prendere un.... Eurostar = I would like to take a.... Eurostar. Dove posso comprare i biglietti per.... il treno/autobus? = Where can I buy tickets for...the train/bus?

[nadasitaly-blog]

Nada's Travel Tips Eating in Italy: Menu items, Types of Restaurants & Cafe's

Italy and food are two words that cannot be separated. Hopefully, you'll be having some of the best food and wine that you've ever had in your life during your trip. Possibly a traveler's worst nightmare is to end up in some "tourist trap" restaurant where the experience would be all but a pleasant and authentic local Italian meal. Let's take a look at some practical advice for finding good places to eat as well as how meals work in Italy. Enjoying a leisurely meal is one of the pleasures of traveling in Italy, so keep in mind that for this reason, sometimes service is slightly slower compared to the fast-paced, get-in get-out attitude of many American restaurants. Italians take food very seriously and are very proud of the local traditions, sometimes with a somewhat closed-minded, skeptic position towards new and experimental food pairings. This rigidity in maintaining recipes true to the original version has kept the Italian cuisine relatively unchanged for centuries. Each region, and sometimes even a city, will have regional specialties that you cannot find anywhere else. Enhance your dining experience by asking your waiter about the typical dishes. Understanding how Italians traditionally eat will help you get the most out of your travel experience.

Where do Italians eat?

The differences between different eating places (Ristorante, Trattoria, Osteria) used to be much greater in the past. Nowadays it is up to the owner to choose the appropriate name based on his/her judgement and the kind of clientele he/she wishes to attract.

Ristorante: restaurant (can be fancy and expensive, make sure you see the menu before sitting down)

Trattoria : family run restaurant, home-style cooking, moderately priced. Usually more casual compared to a Ristorante.

Tavola calda : cafeteria-style restaurant, moderately priced

Osteria: informal and rustic wine bar that serves regional food, appetizers, tastings. Usually moderately priced, but some new osterias can be trendy and more upscale.

Pizzeria: pizza restaurant, usually wood-fired oven. Sometimes sold “al taglio” (by the slice) or boxed and sold for take-out. As the most popular type of eatery in Italy, the pizzeria no longer confines choices to pizza, but often provides other dishes (mostly pasta) usually at lower prices than a ristorante.

Bar: serves coffee and snacks, sometimes first courses. If you just want a sandwich, you can go to a bar. A bar in Italy is not just a place for drinking alcohol and there are no age restrictions. People go to the bar for their morning coffee and pastry, to grab a sandwich, and even to buy ice cream. This is a great place where you can easily walk in, purchase something (anything.. pack of gum, orange juice, coffee) and use the restroom so you can avoid going to a public one that may be dirtier and unsupplied. Many bars and cafes will have a stand up bar where you can order food or drinks. TIP: keep in mind that if you sit down, the price for what you are ordering is usually HIGHER than if you were to eat/drink at the bar, standing up. Sometimes bars will have two distinct "sit-down" and a "stand up" price lists, this is because once you sit down, there is usually a waiter that comes to take your order. Make sure you ask before sitting down if the prices are the same or different.

Pasticceria : A cafe' that has its own bakery, serving fresh pastries, cakes, and sandwiches. A great place to have your "colazione" (breakfast) with a fresh pastry and a cappuccino, Italian-style! When ordering to eat at a busy bar or pasticceria, you usually have to pay for what you want at the register (cassa) first, then take the receipt and repeat your order to the barman. If the bar is quiet and you are known there the barman may take your order and you pay before leaving. There is no set rule on what to do – watch what the locals are doing.

When do Italians eat?

Breakfast (8.00 – 11.00) or 'Colazione'

For an Italian, breakfast is not considered a meal. May consist of a cappuccino or coffee & a pastry at a bar or pasticceria (often standing up) or at home dipping cookies in caffellatte (coffee and milk).The pastry (typically a croissant) can be plain (vuota), filled with jam (con marmellata) or creamy custard (con crema), even occasionally with chocolate (con cioccolata). Italians usually do not have a big breakfast as Americans do. Sometimes they will have some cereal, fruit, perhaps a poached egg, but you won't catch an Italian eating scrambled eggs or ham in the morning. Breakfast is considered a "sweet" ingredient meal, not savory. If you stay in a hotel, you will most likely be served a continental breakfast, including eggs, ham, cheese, and other more "American style" items. Note: For Italians cappuccino is a breakfast drink and most do not drink it after 11 am. During the day Italians drink several espressos, especially to get that "kick" after a heavy meal. Anyone who consumes a cappuccino after 11am (especially after a meal) is considered "un turista" (a tourist). Still, if you cannot resist the urge, just go for it! You are on vacation anyway, so who cares what people think, right?!

Lunch (1:00pm - 2:00pm) or 'Pranzo'

As times have changed, it is more rare for Italian families to gather at the table during lunch and have a full home-made meal. Italy's economical situation has caused many mothers to take on full-time jobs, therefore children are in school until mid-afternoon and less people have time to go home at lunch time. Typically speaking, people working in offices have a 1-hour break, while retail stores still do close down for a longer period of time (usually from 1:30pm to 3:30 or 4pm). Lunch in Italy is not the main meal, but it is common for Italians to have a glass of wine with an entree before going back to work. There are a variety of options for places to eat. A bar or pasticceria offer foods to go, such as fresh made sandwiches that you can select from a case, prepared salads, or thick square slices of pizza or stuffed focaccia. A trattoria, Ristorante, and tavola calda offer a sit down experience with hot dishes or pizza. If you feel quite confident with your Italian, you can consider walking into a deli (gastronomia, paninoteca) and ordering a sandwich. Keep in mind that Italian sandwiches aren't "as loaded" as American-style sandwiches. Often you will find a simple focaccia bread with a few lean slices of prosciutto, and if you are lucky, some sliced tomatoes with mozzarella or pecorino cheese. Make sure you don't delay in grabbing something to eat, as most restaurants will stop serving after 2pm, and often close until they re-open for dinner service, which is usually around 7:30pm. On Sundays, many families will have a large, 2-3 hour lunch out, so make sure to reserve as restaurants are very busy at this time.

Happy Hour (6:30pm - 7:30pm) or 'Aperitivo'

Rather than an actual meal, this is more a snacking and socializing opportunity for Italians after a hard-day's work. It has been a tradition in Northern Italy for many years, but more recently it has spread to the rest of the peninsula. A Bar will host this event as a pre-dinner social with a free buffet of both hot and cold dishes that people are welcome to as long as they purchase a drink, which does not necessarily need to be alcoholic. Whether you get a cocktail or a coke, rest assured that you will be well over-charged for it to make up for the 'all-you-can-eat buffet'. Still, the Aperitivo is a hip and trendy way to start your evening out.

Dinner (7:30pm - 10:00pm) or 'Cena'

Restaurants typically don't start serving until 7:30pm at the absolute earliest and don’t become busy until after 9:30pm. Dinner is the main meal of an Italian's day and usually this is when they go all-out. Consider that most items on a menu are a' la carte, which means an entree usually does not include a side, so what you order is what you get. You'll notice that menu items are much more simplified than in American menus. For instance, an item that you would find on an American menu such as "Home-made Egg Pappardelle Tossed with Braised Rabbit marinated in balsamic vinegar and Italian parsley, freshly cut imported Roma Tomatoes, roasted Garlic and Parmesan cheese", in Italy would appear more similar to this: "Rabbit Pappardelle". So if you need to inquire more about what's actually in a particular dish, make sure to learn some specific phrases and keywords. It is common for Italians to have an Antipasto (appetizer), Primo (pasta, soup, or rice dish), Secondo (meat, poultry or fish course), a Contorno (side item such as a mixed salad or grilled vegetables) and a Dolce (dessert) all for dinner. Obviously you don't have to order all of that, if you are not very hungry you can just have an appetizer and/or one entree, just as you would in the States. As a general rule, salads are served at the end of the meal and the dressing is very simple: oil, vinegar, salt & pepper. Guess what? There is no such thing as "Italian dressing" in Italy!!! Also, at the end of such a big meal, Italians will often have an espresso, sometimes paired with a "digestivo" (a digestive liqueur such as GRAPPA or SANBUCA) or "amaro" (bitter, herbal liqueur such as FERNET or AVERNA).

What do Italians eat?

First, let's begin with coffee...

Un caffé = If you ask for "a coffee" you will get espresso. Un caffé americano = Espresso diluted with hot water, served in a larger cup. This is what you want to order if you want something more similar to American coffee. Chances are, it will still taste much stronger than the coffee you are used to. Un cappuccino = Espresso with some steamed milk. This is usually consumed for breakfast. Having one with your meal or after it is considered a "tourist" thing. Un caffellatte = Hot milk with a shot of espresso, typically served in a tall glass (this is more similar to what would be considered a "latte" in the U.S.). Un caffe' DEK (or decaffeinato) = Decaf espresso. If you want American decaf, ask for "un caffe' americano dek". Un macchiato = espresso with a dollup of steamed milk (litterally 'macchiato' means stained, as if the milk 'stains' the coffee). Un caffe' corretto = 'corrected coffee', this is what Italians will have after a meal, an espresso with a shot of grappa or other liqueur.

Traditional Italian menus have five sections: Antipasti, Primi, Secondi, Contorni, Dolci.

Antipasti (starters) = appetizers, typically cold cuts, salame, crostini, bruschetta, etc. The word "antipasto (or anti-pasto)" litterally means "before the meal".

Primi (1st course) = usually is a starch-based dish such as rice (risotto) or pasta, or soup. Usually there are several pasta choices. Italian pasta dishes may have less sauce than Americans are usually used to. In Italy, the type of pasta is often more important than the sauce. Some dishes may say minimum of 2 persons, especially the ones with seafood or very elaborate ones. You can order pasta as your main dish or skip it all together. Usually the pasta serving is not as large as you would see at home. Pizza is also considered a "Primo". Sometimes people will just have pizza as their dinner. In Italy pizza is an institution: social and family life revolves around this circular delight! Pizza in Italy is different from the one in the States, it has a much thinner crust, which is really what makes a good pizza, well, good. Each pizza has a name and that determines what is on the pizza. If an ingredient is not listed, it is not on the pizza (including cheese). If you'd like an additional topping, you can usually just tell your server. TIP: In Italian, 'peperoni' means bell peppers. You will want to order ‘salamino piccante’ if you want something like the American style pepperoni. Also when your pizza comes, it will not be sliced. You can cut as you go and although pizzas are individually-portioned, smaller than in America, sharing is allowed. The crust is thinner and the tomato sauce is usually lighter and more diluted, so it's up to you to choose whether you want to eat it with your hands or with your fork & knife.

Secondi (2nd course) = a protein-based dish such as a meat, poultry, fish. This is considered the main course, often the most expensive. Sometimes Italians will have an Antipasto and then if they don't want to fill up on pasta, they will skip that and have a Secondo. Fish and seafood are considered the most expensive food items.

Contorni (side dish) = vegetables (vedure) or salad (insalata). Since most items on the menu are a' la carte, sides are typically NOT included with your entree, so you will need to order these separately.

Dolci (dessert) = Most Italians will skip dessert and head out for a gelato as they walk off part of their meal. Desserts include Tiramisu', Panna Cotta (a type of milky pudding) and the all-American cheesecake, but are usually lighter compared to American desserts. Cheese platters are also consumed at the end of a meal with some seasonal fruit.

Beverages = Most Italians drink wine and bottled water with their meal. Often the waiter will take the drink order before your food order, just like in the States. There is no particular reason why Italians drink bottled water, the tap is just as good, but they will look at you 'funny' if you do not order bottled water. 'Acqua Minerale Naturale' is the terminology for ordering bottled water. There may be a house wine that can be ordered by the quarter, half, or full liter and will not cost much, sometimes less than the bottled water. This is what most Italians will drink with their meal.

TIP: So many Italians drink sparkling water, so often the waiter assumes that is what you want. To make sure they do NOT bring you sparkling, make sure you say "NON GASSATA" (not sparkling). Italians are not big beer drinkers. They prefer red wine. There are a few popular Italian beers that generally taste like a light beer in the States, such as "Peroni", "Nastro Azzurro" and "Moretti". If you plan to have a beer, you can also order 'birra alla spina' (beer on tap) and choose among PICCOLA (small) and MEDIA (medium). For some reason Italians don't typically have a "large" size for beer. You can also say CHIARA (light), ROSSA (ale, double malt), or SCURA (dark, pilsner).

How it works. Restaurant service, Tipping, Getting the Bill.

Restaurant service in Italy is different than in the US. No front of the house host and no “Hi! My name is Jerry, and I’ll be your server today." You may have more than one waiter serving you, so if you need something, you can usually just get the attention of the server walking closest to your table.

Getting the Bill = The waiter will almost never bring the bill until you ask for it. When you are ready for the bill, simply ask for 'il conto' or do the internationally-known hand gesture with your hand raised as if you are "signing your name in the air". The bill will include a bread and cover charge but the prices listed on the menu include the sales tax . Not all restaurants accept credit cards so be prepared with cash, just in case.

Leaving a Tip = Most restaurants have a cover charge and sometimes a service charge. The cover charge is supposed to cover the consumption of bread and things like salt, pepper, olive oil, and vinegar, as well as linens and dishwashing expenses. This will be listed somewhere in the menu as "COPERTO" (sometimes it will say "PANE E COPERTO"). NOTE: NONE OF THESE CHARGES INCLUDE A TIP FOR YOUR SERVER. You may also see an additional charge on your bill for "SERVIZIO" meaning "service" and can be 12-15% of your total, but it is NOT a tip!!! It actually goes to the restaurant as "help" to pay for the waiters' wages, but it is not a tip. Truthfully, waiters in Italy are paid more than American waiters, but it's still not a lot. Consider that the average pay for a full-time waiter varies between €6 and €8/hour. Leaving a tip is not required as it is in the US, but it is a special "thank you" just for the waiter. You will not find a space on your credit card slip to leave a gratuity, so if you wish to do so, leave between 5%-10% as cash, directly on the table, or give it to your waiter. This is what most Italians do when eating out.

Questions

Do I have to order all courses (i.e. antipasto, primo, secondo, dolce)?

No, you don't. Often times people will get an antipasto and then either a primo or secondo. The important thing is to follow the order, never get a primo and then an antipasto, or a secondo and later a primo.

Can I still enjoy the food if I'm vegetarian?

Yes, you can. Italy is the land of pasta, pizza, soups, cheeses, and so much more. The food variety is incredible and you're sure to enjoy it, no matter what type of foods you eat.

If I don't finish my food, can I take it home?

No, Italians don't do doggie bags. It's seen as impolite and distasteful.

Read more about Italian eating habits on the "What's Italian?" page.

Practical phrases for eating, drinking, and ordering.

Vorrei: I would like.... Per favore: Please Grazie: Thank you Prego: You’re welcome Quale e’ la specialita’ della casa?: What’s the house specialty? Cosa consiglia?: What would you recommend? Un tavolo per una persona/ due persone/ tre persone/ quattro persone: A table for 1/2/3/4 people. Acqua: water Bicchiere: glass Carne/Pesce: Meat/ Fish. Un bicchiere di Acqua, per favore.: A glass of water, please. Acqua Gassata/ Non Gassata: Sparkling/ Non-sparkling water. Vino: wine Vorrei il vino della casa: I would like some house wine. Un litro: One litre Mezzo litro: Half a litre Una bottiglia: a bottle Vorrei un’altra bottiglia, per favore: I would like another bottle, please. Bibita: soft drink Birra: beer Non ho ordinato questo. : I didn’t order this! Mi scusi! : Excuse me! Il conto, per favore.: Check, please. Ancora un po’ di .... : Some more .... Posso avere un altro coltello / cucchiaio / forchetta / piatto?: May I have another knife / spoon / fork / plate? Sono vegetariano. - I am vegetarian. Sono allergico a.. : I am allergic to.. Non mangio – I don’t eat…

[nadasitaly-blog]

Nada's Travel Tips: Currency: Getting the most 'bang' out of your Euro.

It’s tricky to travel on a budget when the exchange rate is so bad! That’s right, the US Dollar is at an all-time low, but we can’t let that bring us down!! You can still go to Italy, shop for those one-of-a-kind items, and have a great time by keeping a few useful tips in mind.

:: TAKE CASH BEFORE YOU LEAVE First of all, I recommend that you have a couple hundred EUROS with you before you leave the US. That is to ensure that you have some cash handy for your first expenses: taxi cab, sandwich, phone calls, etc. regardless if the ATM at the airport works or not once you get there (ATMs are not always functioning because of the high usage). For the record, the Euro is the ONLY currency used in Italy (and most European countries part of the E.U.).

:: USE YOUR ATM CARD ATMs are the best way to take cash out once you are in Italy, but the daily limit is 250 Euros (banks do that to prevent fraudulent transactions), so again, make sure you have enough cash before you leave. Banks have very strange hours to say the least (some, but not all, follow this schedule: 8:20am-1:20pm and then from 2:35pm-4:05pm), so it’s not always easy to find one open while you’re out. Make sure to tell your local bank the dates you will be gone so your check card doesn’t get blocked!! Also, make sure your PIN number will be good overseas, some banks require a different PIN, so again, ask your local branch. DO NOT take Traveler's Cheques, they are VERY hard to change, many banks don't at all, so avoid the whole trouble by not taking any.

:: USE YOUR CREDIT CARD Most stores in the bigger cities take credit cards, but not the majority when you’re in a small town. Also, stores are more willing to come down on price if you pay cash! MasterCard and VISA are the most commonly accepted cards. You will get a better exchange rate by using your credit card, as opposed to exchanging US$ in Italy. But keep in mind that if you pay cash, you're more likely to get a discount in an independently owned store if you ask for it (I would start asking for a “sconto” from a total purchase of 80 Euros or more). However, when you pay by credit card you'll be able to track your spending better and dispute a charge if you haven't received the goods you ordered (for instance, if you're shipping an item from Italy). Each credit card company has their own policy about international exchange rates, some may even add an international exchange fee on top of the exchange rate, so make sure to ask your own credit company about their policy.

:: DON’T BRING CASH US DOLLARS A note: use your credit card, use ATM machines (which in Italy are called “BANCOMAT”), but don’t exchange your cash dollars, unless it’s an emergency, because that will give you a terrible rate and you’ll end up paying more commissions than anything. Always calculate an additional 2-3% over the current Euro-US Dollar exchange rate, because that is the average commission fee that your bank or credit card company will add on as a service charge to each transaction you make in Italy.

:: GET MONEY BACK BY ASKING FOR A TAX FREE FORM A great way to save money is to fill out a “Tax Free Form”, which you can ask for in many retail shops around Italy. The 20% SALES TAX (VAT) is already INCLUDED in the merchandise that you are purchasing, so if an item is 10 Euros, that is what you’ll be paying at the register (tax is not added at time of payment like in the USA). You will need to fill out this form completely, with your address, passport number, and other personal information, but this is legal and controlled by the government. The Italian government encourages foreigners to spend by refunding a little over 13% of the sales tax, but there is a minimum purchase necessary for this, which is about 150 Euros (as a total purchase in one single store, can be multiple items). By filling out the form and keeping the original receipt, you can present it at the airport of departure on your way back (at the information desk), and you will get roughly 13% refund of the tax you’ve paid while shopping throughout your trip. Believe me, it adds up!! The refund is given as either cash (Euros or Dollars) or by crediting your credit card (this may take longer, while the cash refund is instant). Unfortunately this refund doesn’t apply to food expenses, restaurants, hotels, car rentals, etc, but still, by the end of your trip you may have a stash of receipts that can give you some relief from the guilt you got from all the shopping!!

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Nada's Travel Tips: Be prepared for your trip and pack the "Perfect Suitcase" Essentials you can't leave without!

There's a saying in the travel industry "there are two types of travelers: those who pack light and those who wish they did". With that in mind, you truly want to resist the temptation to bring all the "what-if.." shoes and clothing, and be as minimal as you can. Still, there are some things you just shouldn't leave behind and they are listed below. Before we get into that, I know that some people have their own "system" for packing. Some lay everything out on the bed so they can see where to put their belongings within the suitcase. I'm more of a "grab and go" type of person, so to make sure I don't forget anything, I write out achecklist with all the things I need to pack. This will give me a mental visual of how much to take.

First of all, pick out suitcases that are easy to identify. Or use bright luggage tags. Try not to use a common blue or black suitcase that can accidentally picked up by someone else. Don't use expensive, designer luggage that is easy to be spotted by unwanted eyes. To avoid losing them, don't bring expensive jewelry or items you're emotionally attached to.

Choose hard-shell suitcases that will provide better protection for your belongings. Plastic also keeps any bugs or dirt from attaching, as opposed to a fabric suitcase that could also allow moisture inside, in case of rain.

Use clear containers to "compartmentalize your belongings" and easily access them when you need them.

Ask your hotel if they have a hair-dryer so you don't have to take one. Ask them which specific toiletries they provide on a daily basis so you don't have to bring them. Remember, it's all about keeping it simple and minimal!

Dress in layers. Bring black pants and skirts, so you can easily "dress up or dress down" just by changing your top and shoes. Stick to neutral colors so you can easily mix & match. Roll your clothes so they don't get wrinkled. If bringing back delicate items such as wine bottles, wrap your clothes around those on the way back or pack some bubble-wrap.

If you are going to Europe or a place with cobblestones, make sure to pack shoes with a grip on the bottom, not leather-soled. NEVER bring new shoes to wear.  Break them in before you go. Always pack shoes first, at the bottom of your suitcase, especially if you have an upright roll on, so the weight stays on the bottom.

If you're going out of the country: check on any visas you may need to apply for or vaccinations for that country. Also, check that your medical insurance is valid abroad or make sure you've purchased travel insurance before leaving.

ESSENTIALS TO PACK:

1. A travel book on the destination. Getting to know the history and culture before arrival will give you an advantage and make you feel more confident in asking about things. If you're traveling abroad, pack a phrase-book for basic travel language needs. Locals will appreciate your efforts to communicate with them, even if it's just a greeting, at the very least.

2. Cash. You should have at least $100 US and the equivalent in the local currency of the country you're visiting. In case there is no ATM readily available, this is your "immediate necessity" spending money, such as making phone calls, paying for coffee and a sandwich during your layover, paying the cab driver, etc.

3. Zip-lock bags. These are extremely useful, especially to keep your liquids from spilling in your suitcase during travel.

4. Hand-washing detergent packs (so you can pack less and wash clothes as you go).

5. Bring two credit or debit cards in case one doesn't work. Let your bank know when you'll be gone so they don't block your cards.

6. Hand Sanitizer and Small Tissue packs. As shocking as it may sound, some bathrooms, both public and private facilities, may not have toilet paper or soap to wash your hands.

7. Photocopies of your important documents (passport, credit cards, medication prescriptions), emergency contacts, and medical instructions. Keep the photocopies in a safe place, but separate from your actual documents. So if you lose one, you have the other.

8. Alarm clock, in case there isn't one in the room.(hotels offer a wake-up call service, but you still may not want to risk missing your 6:00am flight).

9. A duffel bag. You know you're going to shop. You may actually end up going over the weight limit for baggage allowance. Having a duffel bag with you will give you enough flexibility for a last-minute "extra weight removal" so you can carry it on with you instead of paying extra $$.

10. Flip flops. Many hotels do not have carpet and your little toes could get a little chilly on the tile. 

OTHER USEFUL ITEMS:

- A small travel umbrella (although I just prefer to buy one on site, in case I need it. Then I just leave it at the hotel for other guests to use and "pay it forward"!)

- Compression stockings (unbelievably helpful!! They help prevent your feet from swelling up and looking like a ham-sandwich during a long flight!)

- Trash bags (separate dirty laundry from other clothes inside your suitcase)

- Journal (keep a record of your travels)

- Pocket calculator (for calculating exchange rates when shopping)

- Binoculars, if you wish to see more detailed views of the countryside’s villas and castles.

- Wash-cloths (for the ladies who use these). Many European countries don't use these and if you do find them in a hotel... they are most likely paired with the "bidet".. so for your own face's sake, bring your own. 

IF YOU'RE TRAVELING ABROAD:

- An outlet adapter - for your electronics that need recharging. Make sure you get the right one for the country you're visiting (available online, at Radio Shack or Best Buy)

- A cell phone. Some USA carriers now offer cellular service in Italy (AT&T, T-Mobile, Sprint). However, the roaming rates are through the roof. A better solution is to rent an international cellular phone (such as the service offered by PlanetFone www.planetfone.com) or set up a Magic Jack (www.magicjack.com) account or Skype (www.skype.com) to talk for free.

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Nada's Travel Tips: Safety and Security

PICK-POCKETS: Make sure you carry your cash/wallet/documents in your front pocket, in a fanny pack or money belt (if you’re a man), or in a closable purse that you can hold tightly in front of you (if you’re a woman) for when you’re in highly crowded areas like buses and other public transportation. Predictably, most thefts occur at crowded tourist sites (it’s so easy to dive into somebody’s pocket when their gaze is fixed upwards on the Duomo or the Leaning Tower) on public transport, or at the major rail stations, (where people are invariably confused and distracted). Leave big, flashy jewelry at home (both the real AND fake stuff - theives can't tell the difference). It's just not worth getting the unwanted attention and looking like a "rich American".

Pickpockets take advantage of distractions like sudden noises or particular activities, so please always be aware of your surroundings and your belongings. Backpacks are not recommended, because they offer an easy access from the back. Don't carry your wallet or purse in your hand; you may think you’ve a tight grip on it, but you’re just making it more visible and easy to snatch. Take that bag off your shoulder and pin it tightly under your arm with the opening facing inward. And don’t have an expensive camera swinging from your neck.

Some pickpockets are easy to spot, they may be looking shabby and unclean, some of them are “gypsies”, kids and adults who beg for money and steal your cash as you pull out your wallet!! Some others instead wear a suit and tie and you can never tell. So to be safe, never pull out your wallet unless you’re purchasing something in a store. And if you want to give some money in charity, give it to street performers, artists, and musicians, who won’t steal from you. Keep some loose change in one of your pockets that you can use to give to them so you don’t have to take out your wallet. Don’t sign petitions or anything that seems a bit sketchy! Pick-pockets are on public transportation, so you want to hold on to your purse while on the bus/subway. A zipper purse is fine, as long as you always keep the zipper opening in front of you. For the record, a money belt is something that only tourists use…so being smart and aware of who’s around you will be sufficient.

DOCUMENTS & MEDICATIONS: Make photocopies of all your documents as well as credit cards before you leave. Leave a copy of everything with a family member or friend, including phone numbers of hotels. If you take medication, be sure to pack exactly how much you'll be taking, plus take a copy of your doctor's name and phone number, a list of your current immunizations, and the generic name for any medications you are taking: this way, if you lose or misplace your medicine in Italy, an Italian pharmacist can help you.

COMMON SENSE: If a thief does try to take your purse, scream loudly, but let go - you'd rather lose your valuables than risk assault. When on the streets, use good judgment: avoid dark, empty streets, and when in crowds, be aware of everyone around you. Don’t walk around train stations after dusk, these are considered areas full of drug-addicts, dealers, beggars, and homeless people.

Expensive or extravagant clothing may give a would-be thief the impression that you're carrying a lot of money, and skimpy or revealing attire could attract unwanted comments, propositions or even groping. Stick to blue jeans or khakis and t-shirts. Flashy logos and big jewelry (even if it’s obviously fake) are unnecessary and will only attract attention. Still, even the most unassuming woman might receive comments from the very open and friendly Italian men. If this makes you uncomfortable, walk erect and purposefully and ignore them. If harassed, look them in the eye and say "no" loudly or call for help. Never give strangers your hotel name or room number. Once in your hotel room, use common sense: keep the door locked, do not open the door to strangers, and always use the main entrance of the hotel, as back entrances are sometimes hidden or remote. Never leave valuables out in your room; most hotels offer a safe either in the room or at the reception.

CAR BREAK-INS: Theft from parked cars and purse-grabbing can be a problem in large Italian cities. Thefts of small items from parked cars can be a problem, and though you won’t be car-jacked, robberies do occur. If you’re a woman, always walk on the side of the sidewalk that is nearest to the building, not the street. If you happen to walk along the side next to the street, make sure your purse is facing the building, so it’s not an easy target for drive-by thieves. If you are renting a car, make sure no belongings are in sight, especially when the car is parked. Don’t take a risk by parking a car full of luggage to go site-seeing. If you need to stop on the ‘Autostrada’ (highway) at a gas station or Autogrill (convenience store franchise), make sure you lock your doors and park the car in a spot that is not hidden or isolated. These areas are highly targeted by thieves. Never leave your navigator (GPS system) showing on the window, but also don’t leave its stand, which would only be a clue that you’ve hidden the GPS under your seat. When driving, hit the central locking, keep the windows up, and stow your valuables out of sight. If you’re waiting at a traffic light and a ‘window-washer’ comes over, quickly lock your car and wave ‘no’ with your finger. There are some quite elaborate scams. Being flagged over by a helpful motorist who tells you you’re running a flat is one. As you talk, his pal is slitting your rear nearside tyre. You get out to inspect, accompanies by your new friend, while the second robber filches your belongings from the car.

LEARN A FEW PHRASES IN ITALIAN: Attempt to learn at least a few rudimentary Italian phrases. At the very least, know how to say 'hello', 'please', 'thank you', 'excuse me', 'yes', 'no' and ask for a restroom, hotel room or table. If you must ask for help in English, ask your hotel desk clerk or a friendly waiter over coffee. Most Italians speak English, but you'll have more fun and blend in better if you at least make an effort to speak a little Italian. Italy is not a destination to be feared. It is however, one to be wary. DO NOT be loud or obnoxious, but rather polite, observant & considerate. You'll find your visit to Italy a pleasant one if you accept the Italian quirks and refrain from expecting things to be as they are in the US.

WOMEN TRAVELING ALONE – First of all, the chances of getting your ‘bottom’ pinched are highly unlikely. Italian men are known to be pretty forward when talking to a woman, so they may easily compliment you in a way that may be considered highly inappropriate in the US, while in Italy it is expected. Usually compliments are said quite frequently, but that’s about it. If a man is actually trying to get information from you or is just too pushy, say ‘No’ firmly and walk the other way. Women, especially traveling alone, may be the recipients of wolf-whistling or hissing; the best way to respond is to ignore it and stride confidently on. Don’t get angry and don’t be tempted to respond, it’ll just keep them going. And while you are unlikely to be mugged in a public park, there are flashers. Parks can also be popular pick-up places, so beware. Something that happens quite frequently is a man on a crowded bus who takes advantage of the situation to ‘push’ himself on a woman. If this should happen, just try to walk away from him through the crowd until you get close to the bus driver. Than, just say the word ‘MANIACO’ out loud, which in Italian means ‘sexual molester’. Although there is little the driver can do, other people will hear you, and hopefully so will the molester, who should be driven by shame to get off the bus.

IN CASE OF THEFT : Go to the nearest hotel to find someone who you can trust that will be able to help you. They will make the appropriate phone calls if necessary. If in a restaurant or shop, ask where is the nearest ‘Questura’ (police station) where you will go to make your police report.

Emergency phone numbers are as follows. 113 for general emergencies, 115 for the fire service, 116 for roadside assistance and 118 for an ambulance.

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Nada's Travel Tips: Renting a car in Italy

If you are actually reading this section, the cold blood of a fierce black mastiff is running through your veins.. ready for anything, quick, swift, aggressively defending its territory from any unexpected outside intrusion...relying solely on instinct to make sudden decisions, no compromises, no submission. Great! You’re ready to rent a car in Italy!!! And if you have already done so, congratulations! You’ve made it back!

Ok, so driving in Italy isn’t for the casual driver (i.e. a tourist who’s leisurely driving while enjoying the views of the countryside). My older brother once told me while teaching me to drive “indecision on the road equals death”. For some reason that phrase stuck with me, but I guess the wide lanes of US highways actually seem to unofficially consent a little “should I take this exit or is it the next one?” of on-the-road ponderation. Yes, the urgency is there, but... there is a little extra room between my car and that other one over there... so I could still technically switch lanes if I must... in a little bit... ok.. perhaps now?.. ok now I’m turning my blinker on... he sees me.. so now I’m veering to the left lane...here I go. This is not what you should expect from Italy. The roads are actually more narrow, on both highways as well as city streets. And if you do happen to stumble across a wider street, Italians interpret that as a 3-lane road. And then of course.. the Italian stuntmen. Oh, I’m sorry did I say ‘stuntmen’? I meant to say drivers. If you’re trying to go for a leisurely ride in the countryside, the Italians will make sure you get a little “thrill” out of your vacation and make you feel like you’re on a race-track. And did you know which country is arguably considered to have the worse signs in Europe? You guessed it! Let me go ahead and break down the pros and cons of driving a car in Italy, so you can decide for yourself whether renting a car for your trip is a suitable option for you or not.

Pro #1: You are free, you can stop when you want to stop, go when you want to go. You can visit the towns you want to visit, and skip the ones you don’t. Con #1: You are not free, you are tied to a car. What I mean by this is that now you have to find parking for it before you can actually go and enjoy the wonderful things that Italy is known for. And don’t think that parking is so easy. The smaller the town, the less crowded it is, the better chances you have in finding a parking spot. But be careful, because you’ll have to pay in most cases. Very often the meter is not in front of the parking space. Often it’s actually nowhere near the car! Sometimes you have to look for it. It’s a machine that delivers a ticket based on how much money you put into it, but then you have to WALK BACK to the car and place the ticket in a visible spot. If you don’t, trust me, you will get fined. Speaking of fines, how would you even get fined if you’re driving a rental car? Remember the credit card you gave the car rental company? That’s how.

Pro #2: You can listen to the music you want to listen to. Con #2: You can’t enjoy the music because of the guy behind you, who’s been blinking his headlights at you for the last 30 minutes, riding about 1/4” from your tailgate. This type of situation will most likely happen to every first-time driver in Italy. Italians do it to Italians, so no need to feel special. It will mostly happen on the “autostrada” (toll-highway), when you’re driving in the LEFT lane, which is considered the “passing lane” and keep your left blinker ON UNTIL you are finished passing and return to your right lane. If you are not passing, get out of the left lane!!! And if you forget, don’t worry, there will be plenty of occasions to remind you. You want to pass ONLY in the Left lane and make sure to recognize this sign “SENSO UNICO” means ONE-WAY, and be careful, because there are many one-way roads in Italy.

Pro#3: You can take off your shoes and not worry about people complaining about your smelly feet. Con#3: “Wow, look at all those parking spaces. Wait! Why am I the only car here?” If you happen to say this, chances are you have passed beyond what is called the “ZTL” sign (Zona Traffico Limitato), which is the limited traffic zone, where only cars with special permits are allowed to access. This is usually in the historical centers, and very tiny towns have historical centers as well, so don’t think that you can get everywhere just because you’re going to a town of 500 residents. There is no way to get the permit, and most of the time there is a small white sign with a red circle around it right before you enter this “zone”. So you’re thinking “What’s the big deal, I can just make a u-turn and get out of here, no?”. Well, the bad news is that everywhere you go, there are cameras that will take a picture of your tag and fine you for trespassing, so if you have passed the sign, unfortunately you will be charged a fine.

Pro#4: You can use your American driver’s license, although if would be best to get an international driver’s license as extra ID from your local AAA office for about $10. Con#4: Shoes aren’t the only expensive thing in Italy. Nowadays, gas is considered one of the most expensive commodities with a price of over $8.00 per gallon. Gas stations can be found on the side of highways, as well as in the cities. Fewer are found in the rural areas, so you may need to memorize this phrase: “Dove posso fare benzina?” (where can I get gas?). The other thing is that many gas stations close for lunch and all day on Sundays and holidays, so make sure you have plenty of “benzina” to carry you throughout the weekend. You can have a “benzinaio” fill up for you (with a surcharge) or do it yourself. If you do it yourself, the machines aren’t like the ones here, some of them only take cash (kind of like a vending machine).

Pro#5: You can get to know the country people, the locals! Oh, well, this would be the case if you speak fluent Italian, of course. Con#5: Don’t even try to pick that up! The cell-phone, that is. Driving and talking on the cell-phone in Italy is against the law, so if you are caught doing it, you may be pulled over and fined. Trust me, it’s a good thing that it’s against the law... if you consider that most cars have a manual transmission and that Italians talk with their hands, it would be an absolute nightmare otherwise...

Pro#6: You can take your GPS navigation tool with you, given you download the Italian maps on it, and use it in Italy!  Con#6: You can’t drink as much wine as you want to, because someone’s going to have to figure out a way to get back to the hotel.. in the dark... hopefully without getting lost too many times. Signs in Italy can sometimes be “amusing”, but unfortunately not very easy to interpret. Like the elusive “tutte le direzioni” sign (to all directions), or the seductive “centro” (historical center) that you eventually want to get to, but don’t want to trespass the infamous “ZTL”. You may see two signs indicating the city you want to go to, but going in opposite directions. The GREEN sign indicates a toll-highway, while a BLUE sign will indicate a local road. It would be a good idea to learn some Italian, because if you find yourself in a rural area, chances are, it will be hard to find someone on the street to ask directions to, much less someone who speaks English.

Five Questions to Ask Yourself Before Renting a Car in Italy:

Ask yourself these 5 questions to help you determine whether you want to rent a car or hire a private driver/use trains and public transportation.

1. How long will you be in Italy? The more time you will be there, the more having your own car makes sense, especially if you are in no hurry and don’t need to “stuff” things into your itinerary. 2. Can you handle high-stress driving scenarios? And mostly, can your travel companions handle it? If you are OK with getting lost, wasting time trying to find your way around, looking for a parking spot, and so are those traveling with you, then you should be alright. 3. How many people are traveling with you? The more people in your group, the less comfortable taking trains and busses can be with the luggage, etc. 4. Do you want a relaxing vacation or an adventure with unexpected surprises? If you are traveling with no expectations, on a “go with the flow” schedule, than you won’t be disappointed if you don’t see EVERYTHING because you lost a few hours finding your way around. 5. Are you going to visit major cities like Florence, Venice, Rome, Milan, or are you also wanting to visit the countryside? If you are on a long vacation and have at least a week to dedicate to the countryside town, than it may be worth looking into renting a car.

TO CONCLUDE: Make sure you can drive a manual transmission, because it is not guaranteed you will get an automatic, even if you requested one. Also, if you do get an automatic, you will be charge a premium. Pack light and don’t bring huge suitcases, as Italian cars are smaller (and that’s a good thing, because if you were given a hummer, you wouldn’t be able to driver through certain streets). Even if you reserve an SUV, it will still be smaller compared to one you’d find in the USA. Stop at red lights and go with green lights (unlike here, in Italy you cannot turn RIGHT with a red light!!!). Italian cities are very crowded, and consequently so are the streets: mopeds, cars, motorcycles, buses, trucks, bicycles, pedestrians and.. strollers?! Just about anything you can imagine! So you really want to develop “360” degree vision and always use your signal lights. Brace yourself with a lot of patience and have a “buon viaggio”!!

Some useful websites chosen by Nada’s Italy:

<www.nationaldrivesafe.com> - road rules of foreign countries. <www.viamichelin.it> - maps of Italy, itineraries, road tolls, and much more.  <http://www.italiantourism.com/transp.html> more tips offered by the Italian tourism board.

USEFUL PHRASES FOR DRIVING IN ITALY:

1. Destra – Right – day-strah 2. Sinistra – Left – see-nee-strah 3. A diritto – Straight ahead – ah-deeree-toh 4. Divieto di Sosta – No-parking zone – deevee-ay-toh dee-sostah 5. Senso unico – One way – sain-soh ooh-neekoh 6. Mi scusi, dov’e’..? - Excuse me, where is...? - mee-skoo-zee doh-vay...? 7. Ho bisogno di un’informazione – I need an information. - oh-beezone-eeh-oh dee oon-een-fore-mah-zee-ohn-nay 8. Parcheggio – Parking lot/deck – par-kayjo 9. C’e’ un parcheggio qui vicino? - Is there a parking lot nearby? - chay-oohn par-kay-jo qoo-ee vee-chee-noh 10. Via – Street – vee-ah 11. All’angolo – At the corner – ah-longo-loh 12. Alla rotonda – At the round-about – ah-lah roh-tone-dah 13. All’incrocio – At the intersection – ah-leen-crocho 14. Al semaforo – At the light – ahl-say-maforo 15. Passo Carrabile – No parking/tow away zone – pas-soh kar-ah-beelay 16. Stop – Stop - stop 17. Uscita – Exit – oo-sheetah 18. Per andare a...? - To go to...? - pair-ahn-dah-ray 19. Lontano – Far – lone-tah-no 20. Vicino – Near – vee-chee-noh 21. Di fronte – In front – dee-fronetay 22. Accanto a – Next to – ah-kahn-toh ah 23. Benzina – Gas – ben-zeenah 24. Diesel/ Gasolio – Diesel fuel – deisel/gas-oleeoh 25. Senza piombo – Unleaded – sane-zah pee-om-bo 26. Distributore – Gas station – dees-tree-bootore-ray 27. Dove posso fare benzina? - Where can I get gas? - dovay-pos-soh fa-ray ben-zeenah

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Lake Garda is the largest, deepest, and cleanest of the Italian lakes. The lake is surrounded by beautiful villages with amazing history dating back to the Roman times, luxurious Venetian villas, and medieval castles. Come see Lake Garda with us on the Nada's Italy-Tours Venetian Splendors tour!

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The gorgeous Castello Scaligero in Malcesine (Lake Garda). On the Venetian Splendors tour with Nada's Italy-Tours!!

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Nada's Travel Tips: How to Find the Perfect Tuscan Villa

So you’ve been craving that Tuscan Sun after reading, and hearing, and watching all the movies, documentaries, TV shows, cooking shows, magazines, and being basically smothered in “Tuscan everything”. Now you’ve decided to finally do something about it and indulge in your own ‘Tuscan heaven’, the perfect vacation among the softly-shaped hills covered with vineyards, olive trees, and cypresses in one of Italy’s most enchanting regions. But what now? Could this dream destination possibly turn into the worst vacation of your life? Don’t make assumptions when traveling abroad, people live differently so you may not find things the way they are in the USA.

Avoid nightmare-like situations with these useful pointers.

1. Location, location, location. This goes not only for business, but for renting a villa in Italy as well. Many have ended up in remote locations, isolated from everything, with no access to main roads for miles. Make sure you look at a map before booking a villa, consider the relations in distances to the major cities, as well as nearby towns. If you’re planning on taking day-trips, make sure you’re not too far from a highway or “autostrada”, in Italian. Keep in mind that most villas for rent are actually part of a working farm, which means, you will not be in walking distance to towns or shops. When you’re on a farm, you can enjoy the wonderful country views, nature walks, and silence. Villas in Italy are usually called “Agriturismo”, which basically means “agricultural tourism”, a farm that offers hospitality services by renting out one or more of its houses on the property, that’s all.

2. An empty house. Yes, that’s what you get when you rent a ‘villa’. Unless you go to a hotel or B&B, villas don’t provide many services for customers, sometimes there is no reception at all. It’s usually a house with basic, traditional country furniture, linens, silverware, dishes, pots & pans, towels, appliances such as a TV, fridge, dishwasher. Hmm... yeah, that’s about it! Some places may provide soap, dishwashing fluid, washing machine detergent, and toilet paper. So, you will be responsible for food, bottled water, juices, wine, and anything else you’re going to need during your stay. If you have particular needs, make sure you ask the booking agent first. Also, Italians don’t use dryers, because they are known to use up a lot of energy, which is very expensive in Italy, so the way Italians dry their clothes is on a clothes line. Sometimes you can find foldable clothes lines that you can use indoors if it’s rainy outside. Washing machines are typically available in a villa, but they are front-loading and sometimes tricky to function. The wash cycle goes on much longer than the average US machine cycle, so don’t be concerned if you’re clothes are being washed for over 2 hours. They will come out really clean!!

3. Look at the big picture. There are litterally hundreds, if not thousands of choices out there.. just try to Google “villa in Italy” and see how many results you get! Pretty scary, huh? The best way to pick one is obviously word of mouth. If your friend got back from a spectacular place and you’ve seen the pictures, try to get the contact information. If you are starting from scratch and you’re randomly picking out photos of beautiful villas from websites, again, make sure you know exactly where this place is in relation to everything. Also, don’t just look at pictures of rooms and interiors, but have the contact person send you pictures of the views around the property. The last place you want to be is overlooking a massive industrial plant or worse, having a high-voltage tower right outside your room!

4. When should I go and how long should I stay? You will be spending most of your days outside, so good weather is key when planning a countryside stay. The best time to rent a villa in central Italy (Umbria, Tuscany, Marche) is in Spring (end of April, May, June) and Fall (September, October). As many villas do not have air-conditioning, I would not recommend going during the uncomfortably hot summer months, not just for the high temperatures, but also for the presence of mosquitos and other bugs. Winter can be cold, rainy, and overall gloomy. The hills are stripped of the bright greens and yellows that you find during the other seasons. If you decide to rent a place (house, apartment, etc.) in Southern Italy, as much as the weather can actually be sunny throughout the year, the best time to go is during the Summer months, because this is when most services (both private and public transportation, ferry boats, guides, tours and excursions, etc.) are available. Many villas are rented by the week, so if you want to stay less than that, sometimes you may be required to pay for the entire week regardless. A common assumption that Americans make is to find screened windows. Italians rarely use screens, windows have all different shapes and sizes, so you may want to pack an extra bottle of mosquito-repellent or even better, your own netting and some double-sided tape. I do not advise to bring thumb tacks, because they will leave holes in the window frame. So, one more reason to go when the weather is cool enough that you can leave the windows closed and keep the bugs out.

5. Renting a car. Consider that most villas are, erhm, in the countryside, which means they could be off completely unlit, unpaved roads, isolated on top of a steep hill, surrounded by nothing but trees. If you are staying for a week or more, you should entertain the idea of renting a car, as intimidating as this may be, it may be a necessary evil. As you will need to buy your own groceries and other consumable goods, your only choice for transportation may be a car. If instead you will not stay that long, the best option is to hire a private driver for a few days, which in the end may actually save you money and time. Private drivers don’t just know all the bumps in the roads, they are licensed professionals with special permits that will allow them to drive you directly in city centers. Usually all expenses are included in the quoted rate: the vehicle, gas, highway tolls, parking fees, the driver’s meals, etc. I think this is a great option if you want to spend more time enjoying the sites, food & wine, and less time trying to figure out where to get gas, and how to get back home after a long dinner of feasting.

6. Kids or no kids? The small hilltop towns can be very fun for children, but keep in mind that there isn’t much to do besides visting farms & vineyards... and towns. Your time at the villa can be very relaxing as you enjoy the views, but for kids who are used to be very active it may turn out to be boring after a while. So make sure you ask the place you intend to stay if they offer cooking classes, excursions, horse-back riding, or other activities for adults and kids.

7. Learn Italian! This is highly advised if you are going to be outside of an urban area, especially if you’re going to do the driving. Getting lost is easier than you think when there aren’t many landmarks around. Also, Italian street signs are often terribly confusing, so knowing some Italian will come in handy when you need directions or need to find a pharmacy/bank/grocery store/gas station/internet access/post office/etc. Most people who live in the country are the elders who don’t speak English, so make sure you do your homework (litterally) and take some Italian lessons before taking that plane!!

Use this list of 20 questions to get the information you need before signing any papers.

Questions to ask when booking a villa:

1. Will someone meet me at the villa and explain how everything works? Whom do I call if I have questions or problems? Whom do I call to arrange local activities and excursions? What are their working hours and when is their day off?

2. Will a “house instructions book” or other binder of instructions await me at the villa? 

3. Insist on driving directions to the villa and a map to illustrate them, a list of what’s at the house and what you’ll need to bring, and information on activities and excursions that should be booked in advance.

4. What day-trips are easily made from this villa? How long a drive is it, in minutes (distance can be deceiving when you are not familiar with what conditions the roads are in), to the things I want to do and see? 

5. What is the weather like in the season when I will be there?

6. How close is the nearest village with stores and restaurants? To get to sights in other towns, is the villa near transportation (e.g., a train station) or will I need a car? 

7. Consider a villa’s location and the driving times to the activities you plan to pursue. An unpaved ten-mile road with hairpin turns, for instance, can take an hour to navigate. Is the villa on an unpaved road? How rough is the road, and for what distance? 

8. What features does the villa have to keep our group entertained (for instance, satellite TV, a DVD player, a pool, a game room, ping pong table, a library)? 

9. Does this villa have any features that render it unsafe for the very young or the very old? Do the staircases have railings? If there’s a pool, is it gated? Is it heated? Are fireplaces screened? Would a traveler with physical limitations have any trouble at the property (e.g., stairs, bathtubs, accessing it from the parking area)? If anyone in your group has special needs, be sure to mention these to the villa agent. 

10. Is the villa staffed? If not, will I be able to hire staff (e.g., a cook, butler, maid) if needed? Do you provide housekeeping services more often than the once-a-week, which is standard for most villas? 

11. Is there a phone? Is there internet access? If so, what is the charge?

12. Is there air-conditioning/heating? If so, what is the charge for using it? 

13. Is the kitchen fully equipped? Is there an American-style coffeemaker? A microwave? An outdoor grill? 

14. Will I need to bring any linens, such as beach towels? 

15. What are the local store hours? If I arrive on Saturday evening, which stores are open on Sunday so I can buy provisions and supplies? How many minutes’ drive are these stores from the house? Is it better for me to stop at the store en route from the airport to the villa? If so, exactly what will I need to buy? Alternatively, can someone stock the fridge for me in advance and buy any household supplies we will need? 

16. Can I pay for the villa with a credit card? What is your cancellation policy?

17. What are all the different extra expenses that I might incur? 

18. Are multiple sets of keys available in case different members of the group wish to split up for the day? 

19. Does a fence separate the property from the main road? Have there ever been security issues?

20. Is a safe or lockbox of some kind provided? Securing valuables and travel documents should be routine whenever you’re away from home.

[nadasitaly-blog]

Nada's Travel Tips Find the right hotel without getting lost among "the stars".

Whether you’re planning to see the major cities or choosing a secluded villa in the countryside, you want to follow some guidelines to make sure you’ll end up in the perfect place for your vacation. Choosing a Hotel. Well, you know what I mean by stars.. not the ones in the sky, but those displayed next to the name of a hotel! The important thing to keep in mind is that all hotels in Italy are rated based on a 1-5 star scale by the local tourism government agency, not by guests! What this means is that stars don’t always equal to excellence, as a matter of fact, many 3-star hotels are actually more charming and have better customer service than most 5-star luxury hotels, which in many cases are out-dated and do not offer as much personal attention compared to smaller hotels. Often the star-rating is based on the number of rooms a hotel has, NOT whether the hotel is actually eye-appealing, clean, centrally located, or overall a quality accomodation. SO BE AWARE of that when booking a hotel, don’t let the star-rating deceive you! It’s better instead to choose your hotel based on guest ratings and a location that is convenient based on what you intend to do in the particular city.

If you’re intention is sight-seeing, make sure you pick a spot that is in walking distance to most of the city’s highlights. If you’re intention is to find a place where you can fly out of, perhaps the best option is to pick a hotel near the airport. If you’re going to pick a base and take day-trips to other Italian cities, make sure you pick a hotel that is in walking distance to the train station. Also, most hotels in city centers do not offer parking, so if you’re planning on renting a car, keep the need for a parking space in mind when looking for a place to stay. Definitely do your research online and read previous guests’ reviews about the hotels that peak your interest.

Bed & Breakfasts have become more and more popular in the recent years, some featuring just a few rooms, often run by a family. They do not go by star-rating, so it is very important to research any feed-back left by previous customers. Some are called “Residence” or “Relais”, but in the end, they’re just other words for B&B. B&B’s often are an apartment-home divided into rooms with a common area for breakfast & reception. As most of them are located in a building that has other businesses or even residences, you will most likely be accessing it by a common entrance and elevator. Actually, many B&B’s do not have elevators and many of the amenities bigger hotels have, which they make up for with plenty of charm and intimacy. Many families have turned their own homes into a place for guests to stay. Rates for B&B’s can be just as high as for larger hotels, so sometimes it’s just a matter of personal preference, rather than a budget-driven decision. Keep in mind that many B&B’s do not have a 24-reception service and there may be a night curfew, after which you cannot get into or leave the hotel, so make sure to ask about that.

Differences between Italy and the USA Air conditioning and heating are not standard in some hotels abroad and are not guaranteed, so if this is important to you, send the hotel an email with your questions. By Italian standards, bathrooms and bedrooms are smaller compared to the equivalent U.S. hotels. Beds are also smaller as there is no king-size. Typically queen-size beds are two single beds pushed together. Also, mattresses are on the firm-side, as well as pillows, so if you need to rest your head on a very soft pillow, you’re better off bringing one with you from home! Always pack light! If you have any type of knee problem or other mobility issue, keep in mind that many hotels do not have elevators or porters, and sometimes there is a set of stairs to even get to the elevator! As a general rule, try not to go below the 2-star rating when choosing a hotel, otherwise you could end up with something you may want to jump out of the second you get there...

Types of rooms. There are actually many types of rooms, even in small hotels. Different hotels give rooms different names based on... I don’t know, the manager who’s working that day? There’s no exact criteria, so how do you choose between the “executive”, the “superior”, the “standard double”, the “deluxe”, the “junior suite” and on and on.... some hotels actually give each room a NAME, like “Lorenzo” or “Leonardo”!! To simplify things, be as detailed as possible about your needs when submitting a request to a hotel. This will give them guidelines about what you want, so they can give you the relative rates for the room you’re looking for. Often times, rooms have higher rates just because there is a view or a tub instead of a shower. Other times, rooms that have obvious aesthetic differences may be equally priced, so if you’re going to book a “standard double”, for example, make sure to request “the best standard double you have”, it’s worth it! As far as making the actual reservation, some hotels require that you pay prior to arrival, others... just need an email! If this is the case, make sure you receive a confirmation email from them.

USEFUL EXPRESSIONS WHEN BOOKING A HOTEL:

1. Mi scusi, parla inglese? = Excuse me, do you speak English? [mee-skoozee | pahr-law een-glaze-ay] 2. C’e’ una camera libera per... una persona/due persone? = Is there a room available for .....one person/two people? [chay | oon-ah | kah-mayrah | lee-bay-rah | pair.... oon-ah pair-soh-nah | doo-ay pair-soh-nay?] 3. C’e’ l’ascensore? = Is there an elevator? [chay | lushane-soh-ray] 4. C’e’ un telefono in camera? = Is there a phone in the room? [chay | oohn | tay-lay-fone-oh | een | ka-may-rah] 5. C’e’ una camera con vista? = Is there a room with a view? [chay | oohn-ah | ka-may-rah | kohn | vee-stah?] 6. Quanto costa una camera? = How much is the room? [koo-ahn-to | kose-tah | oohn-ah | ka-may-rah?] 7. Prendete carte di credito? = Do you take credit cards? [prane-date-ay | kar-tay | dee | kray-dee-toh] 8. Vorrei fare una prenotazione. = I would like to make a reservation. [vohr-ray | far-ray | oohn-ah | pray-note-atsee-own-ay] 9. Vorrei confermare. = I would like to confirm. [vohr-ray | kohn-fare-mah-ray] 10. Vorrei fare il check-out. = I would like to check-out. [vohr-ray | far-ray | eel | check-out] 11. Io ho una prenotazione. = I have a reservation. [ee-oh | oh | oohn-ah | pray-note-atsee-own-ay] 12. La chiave, per favore. = The key, please. [lah-kee-ah-vay | pair | fah-vore-ay] 13. Dove posso parcheggiare la macchina? = Where can I park the car? [doh-vay | poh-so | par-kayjah-ray | lah | mak-eeh-nah] 14. A che ora e’ la colazione? = What time is breakfast? [ah-kay | ore-ah | aye | lah | kola-tsee-own-ay] 15. Avete una cartina della citta’? = Do you have a map of the city? [ah-vay-tay | oo-nah | kar-tee-nah | dale-lah | chee-tah?] 16. Avete una cassaforte? = Do you have a safe? [ah-vay-tay | oo-nah | kah-sah-fore-te?] 17. Posso lasciare il bagaglio fino a...? = Can I leave my luggage until...? [pos-so | la-sharay | eel bagal-yo | feeno a...]