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I cannot believe that I will be studying abroad in the beautiful country of Italy in less than a week. My excitement is through the roof and I am so excited to share with you all of my adventures and collaborations I have planned. You will be seeing some guest posts over here for the next month or so, but don’t worry, I am not completely leaving you!
Starting today and each Tuesday after, I will be starting a mini series Tuesday Travels where I will be posting all things travel, from packing to adventures, and all around good happy stuff! Today on Tuesday Travels: Italy Q&A.
Today I wanted to share some Italy questions and answers. Most are questions I had and questions friends have had. If you are planning on traveling to Italy or parts of Europe, I hope these questions will help you.
Q: Should I bring hair tools (blow dryer, curling iron, etc)? A: No, because the voltage is different in Europe, you must have a converter + a dual voltage hot tool for it to work. Most people just buy an inexpensive straightener, curling iron, etc. and avoid damaging their expensive items.
Q: Should I bring my own shampoo/conditioner/face cleanser? A: It is a personal preference, but if you use certain items, I would. A lot of people say the products (especially conditioner) over there are a bit weird!
Q: Do you suggest bringing your laptop? A: Again, it is a personal preference. Wifi tends to work better on laptops, but a lot of people bring their tablets/iPads for convenience of traveling light.
Q: What type of converter should I purchase? A: Invest in one that you has multiple capabilities if possible! Best Buy has some great options, but you can also grab an affordable converter on Amazon. I purchased mine from HomeGoods (crossing my fingers that they work, I will update you!). If all else fails, you can purchase converters there to charge your items!
Q: How is the weather in Italy? (June-August) A: This is one of their hottest and most humid summers. Do not even bother bringing a jacket! Check the weather before you go!
Q: I have allergies, will I survive? A: Allergies around some parts are not so fun. Make sure you pack your allergy medication. Some medications are available at the pharmacies there, but you are definitely in a different atmosphere!
Q: What types of clothes should I pack (June-August)? A: Pack light! Women do not really wear jean shorts here, but I would be sure to pack clothes you are comfortable in, it is really HOT! Also, you walk a lot so bring some comfortable shoes. Don’t forget an umbrella because it does rain sometimes!
Q: Should I buy a train pass? A: Unless you are traveling all throughout Europe for more than a month, it does not seem worth it, because the Italy Train Passes only give you a certain amount of travel days in a month. Plus, it is not to expensive to hop on a train.
Q: Should I invest in a money belt? A: Again, personal preference. If you plan on staying in hostels most of the time, then yes, probably invest in one. If not, just be smart and keep your items close. I have looked into purchasing the FlipBelt, but decided I did not really need it.
Q: Should I bring a refillable water bottle? A: If you have one, GREAT! There are tons of places/fountains to fill up your water bottle instead of spending a fortune on water everywhere you go!
Q: How is the WiFi connection? A: The WiFi works really well with laptops and is easily accessible almost everywhere (sometimes you may need to ask for a password, though).
So there you have it, friends! Who is ready to travel to Italy?
If you have an Italy question you would like answered, leave a comment below and I will find an answer for you. Happy travels, sweet friends!
I would love to visit Italy again. I did it as a babe, and obviously don’t remember much of anything. I would love to go back to Europe.
Nikki, I am so excited to go there since I have never been out of the country! Hopefully, you are able to go again soon!
That would be awesome 🙂
Seems like a great place to visit! Good to know, I’d survive the heat! 😛
Yes, you would definitely survive the heat!
Excellent tips! we will be moving to Europe in January and I am terrified of the voltage change! Everything we own is the American version. Hopefully it all works out.
Trisha, I am sure you will absolutely love Europe! I haven’t even been there yet and I am already in love! There are tons of dual voltage American tools, but I am positive you will find items over there that you love 🙂
Italy is one place I am dying to go to! My 2 best friends and their parents are currently on a cruise cruising around Italy!
Wow, a cruise sounds amazing! I am hoping to bring back lots of memories, tips, and tricks!
I really want to go to Italy! Great post. 🙂
Thanks Angie! I cannot contain my excitement!
All great notes! I just starting piecing together plans for our next trip to Europe. My daughter is 7 now so I want to take her in the next few years. In the past I’ve had no problem finding face wash etc that works well. And the tip about buying a cheap flat iron or blow dryer is spot on! It saved me lots of headaches and space in my suitcase. The first year I went I brought a hair dryer and converter and ended up blowing the motor in the first few days.
Enjoy your trip!
xoxo
Katie
http://beyondtheclothing.com
Your daughter is going to love you for taking her — I am sure she already does! I am so excited and yes, I would have accidentally brought my tools and ruined them if I didn’t read up on it beforehand!
How exciting that you will be studying in Italy! I’ve only traveled a few times to Northern Italy, but would love to travel south to the Amalfi Coast. Good tips. Buying a power converter stateside is definitely key!
I am very excited, I will be venturing down to the Amalfi Coast as well, especially around Pompeii, Capri, etc.
Converters are a must! 🙂
I would love to return to Italy! Please have a great time – soak it all up and take lots of pictures!
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Thank you Claire! It was a blast, I sure do miss it!