F.A.Q.2024-02-15T12:04:55+01:00

Frequently Asked Questions

Are there hairdryers in the hotels?2021-07-13T08:18:51+02:00

All hotels generally offer hair dryers in the room, and this information will be listed under the hotel name in the day by day.

Are there sanitary (bathroom) services on the bus?2021-07-13T08:34:18+02:00

There are sanitary services exclusively for emergencies. The bus will make stops at rest areas along the route to allow for time to stretch and use of sanitary services.

Can friends or family visit me at the hotel?2021-07-13T08:34:54+02:00

You may see guests, but you must advise the Group Leader prior to departure, and the meeting must be authorized by your parent or guardian.

Can I charge batteries for electronic devices or for cellular phone at the hotel?2021-07-12T18:08:52+02:00

You certainly may, but be sure to take a converter for Italy, as voltage changes from 110 to 220.

Can I make calls from my cell phone to my friends’ cell phones while in Italy?2021-07-13T08:40:35+02:00

It is possible if provided by your service provider. Check with your service provider as this may require additional fees. You may want to limit these calls to emergeny calls only.

Can I make calls from the hotel to home?2021-07-13T08:18:26+02:00

Calls can be placed only by requesting to call overseas with the hotel reception.
The reception will make the necessary connection only if the Group leader will guarantee that you will pay for the call.
Keep in mind that calls placed from the hotel, are very expensive, and it will be less costly for your family to call you.

Can I take food into the room?2021-07-13T08:17:58+02:00

Eating in hotel rooms is generally not permitted, and is allowed only through room service, which is authorized if pre-organized with the hotel.
You can take water and soft drinks, snacks and candy, or food that does not require preparation or can be a cleaning or health hazard. If eating snacks or cookies, please avoid leaving crumbs and pieces that can cause hygienic problems. ALCOHOLIC BEVERAGES ARE STRICKLY FORBIDDEN!

Can I wash clothes in my room?2021-07-13T08:17:21+02:00

Washing clothes  is generally forbidden in all hotels, with the exception of small personal items, which must be placed over the bathtub.

Can my family contact me at the hotel?2021-07-26T13:00:16+02:00

Yes, they certainly may. Remind callers to use the necessary international codes: 011 + 39 + additional area code and number.

Can my guests have dinner with me and the group?2021-07-26T13:00:43+02:00

Yes, your guests can dine with you and the group, but, once again, your Group Leader must be advised at least 24 hours prior so that accomodations can be made at the restaurant of the evening. Guests are responsible for the cost of the dinner and will be billed separately.

Can we make purchases from street vendors?2021-07-13T08:38:23+02:00

Absolutely NOT. These vendors are usually selling without a license and you will have no recourse should you encounter a problem. You can purchase from any stalls in the llocal markets.

Do all stores accept credit and debit cards, including for small purchase amounts?2021-07-13T08:37:36+02:00

Normally, all clothing stores, supermarkets and others: bookstores, sports supplies, gift stores, will accept debit and credit cards. However, magazine and newstands, tabaccherie (for purchase of postage stamps) do not usually accept cards.
Suggestion: prior to making a purchase, ask the clerk what forms of payment are accepted. If the store does not accept cards, you will need to find a bancomat (debit card withdrawal machine) and withdraw the needed cash.
IMPORTANT: be sure to obtain a receipt for ANY and ALL purchases, for any forms of payment used.

Do American cell phones operate in Italy for me to call home?2021-07-12T18:08:51+02:00

All triband cell phones can theoretically function in Italy.
Generally any of the next generation phones will switch to the band in use in the country visiting. Some may require manual switching to band 1800.
However, you may also need to advise your carrier that you will be traveling and your service contract may require upgrading. We suggest you contact your service carrier well in advance so that any changes can be updated in time for your trip.

Do hotels offer air conditioning and can it be regulated?2021-07-13T08:19:10+02:00

All hotels offer air conditioning, but not all offer the possibility of regulating the temperature, and would require a call to the hotel reception.

Does Italian television transmit programs from the US?2021-07-12T18:08:51+02:00

Television reception generally uses SCTellite service, and do offer international channels, such as BBC.
You will find information on the television service in the brochure supplied by individual hotels.

Does the hotel offer internet access? Is it wireless or ethernet/USB? Is it free or requires payment?2021-07-12T18:08:52+02:00

All hotels offer wireless Internet access, and ethernet/wire is the exception. Many offer high speed internet hubs. The Day by Day will list specific service offered by individual hotels.

Does the hotel supply soap and shampoo?2021-07-13T08:18:40+02:00

All hotels provide this service, but we suggest you take any products of your preferance. Cosmetics must be packed in the checked in bags only.

Hospital2021-07-26T12:02:12+02:00
NameCity
Ospedale San Giovanni di Dio
Contrada Consolida - Agrigento AG
tel. +39 0922 442111
AGRIGENTO
Ospedale di Assisi
Viale Valentin Muller, 1 - 06081 Assisi (PG)
tel. +39 075 8139309, +39 075 81391, +39 075 8139273
ASSISI
Ospedale Cardarelli Di Campobasso
C.da Tappino, 86100 Campobasso (CB)
Centralino: +39 0874 4091
CAMPOBASSO
Ospedale Giuseppe Capilupi
Via Provinciale Anacapri, 3, 80073 Capri NA
tel. +39 081 838 1205
CAPRI
Azienda Ospedaliera Sant'Anna e San Sebastiano di Caserta
Via F. Palasciano - 81100 CASERTA
Centralino +39 0823 231111
CASERTA
Ospedale Careggi
Largo Brambilla, 3 - 50134 Firenze
tel. +39 055 794111
FIRENZE
Ospedale regionale San Salvatore
Via Lorenzo Natali 1: località Coppito
tel. +39 0862 3681
L'AQUILA
Presidio Ospedaliero la Spezia
Via Vittorio Veneto, 197 La Spezia SP
tel. +39 0187 533111
LA SPEZIA
Ospedale dell'Angelo
Via Paccagnella, 11/a - 30174 Venezia
tel. +39 041 9657759, fax +39 041 9657775
MESTRE
Ospedale Maggiore Policlinico
Via Francesco Sforza, 33, 20122 Milano
tel. +39 02 5503
MILANO
Ospedale Fatebenefratelli
Piazza Principessa Clotilde, 3, Milano
tel. +39 02 63631
MILANO
Azienda Ospedaliera di Rilievo Nazionale A.Cardarelli.
Via A. Cardarelli n°9, 80131 Napoli
tel. +39- +39 081 5453333 - +39 081 7471111
NAPOLI
Azienda Ospedaliera di Padova
Via Giustiniani, 2 - 35128 Padova
tel. +39 049 8211111
PADOVA
Ospedale Buccheri La Ferla
Via Messina Marine 197, 90123 Palermo
tel. +39 091 479111
PALERMO
Azienda di Rilievo Nazionale e di Alta Specializzazione
Via Lazzaro Carmelo - 90127 Palermo (PA)
tel. +39 091 486398
PALERMO
Azienda Ospedaliera Pisana
Via Roma, 67, 56126 Pisa PI
tel. +39 050 992111
PISA
Policlinico Gemelli
Largo Agostino Gemelli 8, 00168 Roma
tel. +39 06 30151
ROMA
Ospedale Santa Maria delle Scotte
Viale Mario Bracci, 16, 53100 Siena
tel. +39 0577 585111
SIENA
Ospedale S. Maria Della Misericordia
Corso Italia, Sorrento, NA 80067
tel. +39 081 5331111
SORRENTO
Ospedale San Vincenzo
Contrada Sirina - 98039 Taormina (ME)
tel. +39 800 007606
TAORMINA
Ospedale San Giovanni Bosco
Piazza Del Donatore Del Sangue 3 - 10154 Torino
tel. +39 011 2401111
TORINO
Azienda sanitaria ospedaliera
Regina Margherita Via Ventimiglia 1 - 10126 Torino (TO)
tel. +39 011 3134444
TORINO
Ospedale SS. Giovanni e Paolo
6777, Sestiere Castello - 30122 Venezia (VE)
tel. +39 041 5294111
VENEZIA
How can I know which stores are luxury item stores and which are more moderately priced?2021-07-13T08:39:35+02:00

You will need to consult your Tour Leader for this information, and may even sollicit his/her help so that you can make a good choice and obtain an appropriate price.

How can I verify that items I am purchasing are manufactured in Italy?2021-07-26T13:01:05+02:00

Italian law requires that items produced in the country carry a “Made in Italy” label. Again, ask your Group Leader or Tour Leader, particularly if making large purchases.

How can I verify that items I am purchasing are manufactured in Italy?2021-07-13T08:39:50+02:00

Italian law requires that items produced in the country carry a “Made in Italy” label. Again, ask your Group Leader or Tour Leader, particularly if making large purchases.

How do I calculate Italy time versus home time?2021-07-13T08:41:03+02:00

Italian time is 6 hours ahead of US time.
We recommend changing watches as you board your flight, so that you will adjust more easily to the change. Cell phones will normally switch automatically.

How do I know what clothing and shoe size to purchase in Italy?2021-07-13T08:55:48+02:00

Athletic and sport shoes will carry conversion labels on the inside of the shoe. We suggest you carry the conversion table when buying clothing; better yet, try on clothing and shoes before buying.

CONVERSION TABLES

SIZES

Italy 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58 60 62 64 66
France 36 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58 60 62
Spain 38 40 42 44 46 48 50 52 54 56 58 60 62 64
U.S.A. 6 8 10 12 14 16 18 20 22 24 26 28 30 32

MENS SHOES

U.S.A 8 8.5 9 9.5 10 10.5 11 11.5 12
EUR 40.5 41 42 42.5 43 44 44.5 45 46

WOMENS SHOES

U.S.A 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10
EUR 35 36 37 38 39 40 41 42
How should I behave with people who sollicit charity?2021-07-13T08:56:58+02:00

This is solely at your discretion; only be careful and do not stop for long.

If I am ill, am I excused from the day’s activities?2021-07-13T08:35:32+02:00

If you are ill you must advise the Group and Tour leaders immediately, and they will determine the best course of action for you and your health. Do not take any medication that you normally do not use, and consult with the Group Leader for advise.

If I skip a dinner, will I be refunded the meal price?2021-07-13T08:40:14+02:00

No refunds will be made. All meals are pre-paid.

If there are issues between myself and roomates, how should it be handled?2021-07-13T08:35:43+02:00

Firstly, try to rectify any differences and misunderstandings that can occur when sharing living quarters with others. If you cannot resolve your differences, then bring the matter to the Group Leader’s attention, who will decide how to proceed. For your security and safety, you may NOT make any room changes without first advising the Group and Tour Leaders. The hotel holds the room listing and must know of any changes.

Is eating permitted on the bus?2021-07-13T08:33:59+02:00

You may consume only foods that will not soil the bus. Remember that the bus is used by the group for the whole day; it is like your private vehicle. However, it is not only for your family, it is for the the whole group, and as such, it should be kept clean and safe for the whole group.

Is it more cost effective to call from the US or from Italy?2021-07-13T08:40:25+02:00

Calls from the US are less expensive, but a minimal roaming charge is still applied to the incoming call on your cell.

Is there a laundry service at the hotel?2021-07-13T08:17:35+02:00

All hotels offer laundry service, but we remind you to check the time requirement. Since your stay at each location is limited, you may risk being forced to leave your garments if they are not ready before your departure.
Use the laundry service only after verifying time required for the service. Also remember that laundry fees will be charged to you directly.

Is tipping required? Whom do we tip? What amount?2021-07-13T08:40:03+02:00

Tipping is not mandatory, however, if you feel you have received good service, tipping is a form of gratitude.
We suggest tipping bus drivers. They are not required to handle baggage, but always offer assitance in loading and unloading, and therefore, should be compenSCTed. Your tour leader will remind you prior to your journey’s end and will recommend a collection from all participants.

What are emergency phone numbers to call?2021-07-26T12:25:47+02:00

The following emergency contacts are to be used:

Public Emergency: 112
State police: 113
Fire Department: 115
Emergency Medical: 118
Infancy Medical Response (only from land line phones) 114
Emergency at Sea, Coast guard: 1530

What do I do if I loose medication that is prescribed daily?2021-07-13T08:58:41+02:00
Contact your Group Leader and Tour Leader immediately. Have a copy of the prescription and/or drug name so to facilitate replacement.
What downgrade transformer is needed to use electronic equipment from my country?2021-07-12T18:08:51+02:00

The converter / transformer must look like the one in the picture.

What electronic devices can I take with me?2021-07-12T18:08:51+02:00

You are free to take any device you are willing to carry, and to pay for, should it warrant extra baggage fees. Please bear in mind that all electronic devices are unnecessary and superfluous on the type of itinerary you will be following. Our recommendation is to limit devices to a camera, since this will allow you to submit your pictures in the Photo Contest.

What is meant by appropriate attire to enter museums and churches?2021-07-13T08:36:36+02:00

The term, “appropriate attire” implies NO mini skirts, mini shorts, low-cut blouses or sweaters, thin strap sweaters or tees, flip flops.
These rules are strictly enforced, and you will be denied entrance.

What is the conversion of miles to Kilometers?2021-07-13T08:57:10+02:00

One English mile is equivalent to 1.609344 Km.

What is the electricity voltage in Italy?2021-07-12T18:08:51+02:00

Electric plugs are shaped differently – see figure, and use 220volts. Remember to carry a converter for any electronic devices! Hair dryers must be “travel” dryers only, as they can be used with a converter and allow current change.

What postage is required to mail a card to the US?2021-07-13T08:39:07+02:00

Postage for the US is 1.60euro. When purchasing stamps, ask for a stamp for 1.60 euro.

What should I do if I get lost?2021-07-26T11:46:13+02:00

You are reminded to stay with your group and not go off unattended.
Your “free time” entails spending time in small groups. However, should you become separated, immediately use your sell phone to contact your Group Leader or Tour Leader.
You will need to give the exact street name and building number of your location and some reference point closest to you.
DO NOT move from your location so that you may be reached as quickly as possible. REMEMBER, if you need to ask directions or information, refer ONLY to a police officer or public service official.

What should I do if I get motion sicknes?2021-07-13T08:34:32+02:00

If you know that you are prone to motion sickness you should carry with you any medication you use from home.

What should I do if I misplace my passport?2021-07-13T08:35:58+02:00

Make a thourough search of your belongings and room. Try to remember when you last saw it. Be sure to look through all drawers, storage areas and pockets of jackets and pants. Ask your roomates and friends if they may have taken your passport in error.
If these steps do not help to locate the passport, then immediately advise the Group leader who will work with the Tour Leader to obtain a replacement. Always have the photocopy of your passport in a separate location. The photocopy will make the replacement process easier.

What should I do or not do if I am ill?2021-07-13T08:58:27+02:00

Call your Group Leader and Tour Leader, from your cell phone if traveling, and from your room phone if in hotel.

Where can I exchange currency?2021-07-13T08:38:09+02:00

We discourage exchanging currency at exchanges on the local street. If you need a currency exchange, speak to the Tour Leader and he/she will advise a reputable bank that charges minimal exchange fees. Be sure you check the day’s exchaneg rate, and have your Group Leader accompany you for the transaction.

Where can I purchase a newspaper from my home?2021-07-13T08:39:22+02:00

Foreign papers are normally found in train station newstands or in city center stands.

Where can I purchase postcards and stamps?2021-07-13T08:38:35+02:00

Postcards are generally sold at newstands. You may akso find them in tabaccherie, which also sell stamps. Stamps can also be purchased in post offices, which can be identified by the blue and yellows post office sign.

Where may I leave my money for safekeeping?2021-07-13T08:37:16+02:00

If the hotel provides room safes, use them. However, conduct a trial codes change BEFORE placing valuables in the safe.
If no room safes are available, you can leave your money at the hotel desk safe where you will be provided a receipt with amount deposited. Speak to your Group Leader, who may choose to collect all the money and deposit with the hotel front desk as one sum, and one receipt.

Whom do I ask for directions?2021-07-13T08:56:37+02:00

You can obtain information from local police officers that are normally found at street crossings. If none are found, you can ask a store merchant.
Avoid asking other people in the stores. You may also ask directions at taxi depots or bus drivers, or any public official.
DO NOT ACCEPT transport from anyone at anytime. Instead, if unsure, contact your Group Leader or Tour Leader via cell phone.

Will bancomat machines allow withdrawal with American debit or credit cards?2021-07-13T08:37:53+02:00

American debit and credit cards can be used at all bancomat windows 24/7. When using the machines, be sure to keep your transaction private and do not give anyone access either to your card or your private numbers. NEVER use the machine by yourself.
You will require permission of your Group Leader and be escorted by other classmates. We recommend you do not make machine transactions at night – a safety precaution.

Will I be permitted to spend time with my guests?2021-07-13T08:35:21+02:00

You can spend time with your guests only if approved by the Group Leader, and pre-authorized by your parents or guardians.

Will I need to bring a folding umbrella?2021-07-13T08:36:19+02:00

It is a good idea to have a folding umbrella, but, you can always purchase one should the need arise.

“The world is a book and who do not travel read only a page.”

(Sant’Agostino)