Always ask a policeman/woman for directions, they all know a little bit of English.

Google maps can be challenging. Try a map as back up.

Ask millennials for directions and help. They are accommodating.

Keep several one euro coins in your pocket for the bathrooms.

Burger King and McDonald’s are familiar and understanding to foreigners/tourists. Learn the order kiosk by discreetly looking over someone’s shoulders to find the appropriate language menu.

Try the Say Hi or Google translate app. Some are Italians are amenable to this.

If Italians get frustrated, and start yelling at you raising their hands, just walk away. Don’t engage.

Take a tour, it may be more expensive but it’s easier.

I have been warned of pickpockets in Rome Vatican area. Beware and protect yourself.  Sellers can be aggressive.  Protect yourself, conceal wallets, and keep a photocopy of your passport in the hotel.

When I asked for a cup of hot chocolate I got just that, liquid chocolate. Unsure of the calories, but food is different in Rome. Go with the flow. 

Make sure you have oodles of cell data on your phone when visiting. EU countries are not like America where we have cell data in city subways, and streets.. Try hotels, electronic stores, McDonald’s, Starbucks.  To use less data only turn on Data Roaming when using then shut off immediately after usage. This will save beaucoup bucks.. 

Bring sunscreen despite the time of year when you visit.  Also sunglasses, several pairs because they break.

Need mini chargers and electronic devices to hook into EU outlets. I bring a half dozen of devices as you never know what kind of outlet you will need. Check out Amazon and read all the fine print. Buy several types. Practice putting them together prior to the trip.

Put arch sports in your sneakers and make sure you watch your step on the stony streets and sidewalks. Getting healthcare assistance on the road is a real challenge, however pharmacies abound, and are helpful. 

Recommend taking 1000 mg of vitamin C every day on the trip. Also don’t forget a kit of things you might need should you get sick for headaches, body aches and G.I. upset, band-aids. If on prescriptions bring extra pills.

Always know where your passport and cellphone are.  Bring charged chargers with you always. I pack 3, and carry 2 on daily excursions. These are your lifelines.

Well, that said, enjoy your trip and plan ahead.

Special thanks to Frederika in D’Este, Tivoli, who helped enormously, and Mara, of I Love Rome on the Pompeii trip. We need those little angels along the way. 

Last comment, layer clothing, and remember to…

WEAR A SMILE !!!