Advice and expectations for the trip.

1. We will be walking between 5 and 10 miles a day, wear comfortable shoes! Do not bring new shoes you’ve never worn before-break them in. 

2. Pack a small suitcase with wheels—you need to be able to transport your bag by yourself.  It is recommended that you use a luggage lock, preferably one approved by the TSA.

3. If you are checking your bag, you can bring liquids in more or less any amount. If you are bringing your bag as carry-on (recommended), you are limited by federal law to 3 oz. or fewer of any liquids, gels, or aerosols.  The TSA will confiscate anything that does not comply with this or any other regulations (i.e., no Swiss Army knives, etc.)

4. Do not bring anything you can’t afford to have stolen! Leave your iPod, cell phone, etc. at home.

5. Although you won’t be able to blend in like a local, try not to stand out too much: leave logo shirts, clothing with risqué sayings, etc. behind.  You should also limit the amount of jewelry you wear, you do not want to stand out as a target for thieves.

 Duane Hanson, Tourists, 1970.

6. We will be spending time in churches and other religious buildings which require modest dress.  Make sure you have long pants/skirts, and shirts which have at least short sleeves.  Tank tops, low-cut shirts, short skirts, and shorts are inappropriate.  If you are denied entry because of your clothing you will have to wait for the rest of the group to finish their tour.

7. This is not Spring Break, it is an academic trip.  You will be expected to be on time for all tours and travel departures.  If you miss a tour, train, or other scheduled event we will not wait for you.  It is your obligation to be on time (or even better, a little early) and if you miss a departure it will be your responsibility to catch up to the group, at your own expense.

8.  We are traveling in Italy to experience the local culture.  This means we won’t be stopping at McDonald’s.  Try to expand your culinary horizons, even if it’s just a little bit.

9.  If you are bringing items which require a charger, be advised that you will need an adapter.  Depending on the device you may need a very specific adapter type, so you should check this carefully before purchasing anything.