Too bad I didn’t consult my new blogging buddy, Andi of My Beautiful Adventures about some of the holistic medicine I should have used, before this crud got me down.

However, it is not too late for you if you are planning a trip abroad. Here are some expert tips from avid traveler and Chinese Medicine Doctor, Andi Perullo.

—

Being a health care professional, I always make sure that one of the first things I pack when preparing for a trip is my own personal first aid kit. In it I have combined the best of Western and Holistic Medicine into a little package that has kept me quite healthy on my travels around the world. Since I am a Licensed Acupuncturist, I am going to share my favorite Holistic remedies to bring when abroad. If you are more interested in the Western remedies, I encourage you to consult your primary physician for further advice.

#1 Ginger:

The most common problem that people encounter when traveling to a new environment is an upset stomach or diarrhea. This is because your stomach is not used to the new micro-organisms found in the local food and water. Ginger is an herb that people have been using for thousands of years to treat any kind of digestive issue. It comes in many forms, such as chewable tablets, herbal tea, and crystallized candy. It can also be used for nausea associated with any type of motion sickness. Feel free to use it as a preventive measure.

#2 Aloe

Even if you do not plan on visiting a sunny climate where you might get a sunburn, aloe is useful for other burns, scrapes, or bites. It has strong anti-inflammatory properties and its cooling effect will help ease the pain. Many people are not aware that aloe can also be ingested to help strengthen the immune system and combat digestive issues.

#3 Arnica

Arnica is an herb that can be used as a natural substitute for over-the-counter anti-inflammatory/pain medications. It is incredibly effective in treating any pain, swelling, and bruising. It comes in 2 forms: cream or pills. The cream is best for superficial problems, whereas the pills are best for internalized problems. You can pop a pill or two to prevent a hangover headache in the morning as well.

#4 Tiger Balm

Traveling long hours and carrying heavy luggage leads to muscle soreness, fatigue, and pain. One of the best ways to treat this is by rubbing Tiger Balm ointment, which is a combination of Chinese herbs, on to the affected area. Relief is guaranteed almost instantly.

#5 Lavender Essential Oil

Besides the fact that it smells divine, lavender happens to be a powerful antibiotic. If used on the skin, it can help cure rashes or disinfect scrapes or bites. If used internally, it can help boost the immune system. Put a couple of drops in a bottle of water and drink while on the plane to prevent catching a cold. Another benefit of this essential oil is its ability to relax the nervous system. Therefore, if inhaled before sleep it will help insomnia from jetlag.

Of course your kit will highly depend on your particular health concerns and the destination of your travels, however while I hope you will never have to use one of these five remedies it is better to have them than to not have them. Please remember my suggestions are for non-serious ailments. If your ailments do not get better or they become worse, you should seek more advanced care immediately.

Andrea Perullo is a Chinese Medicine Doctor by day, travel addict by night. When she is not treating patients, she is exploring the world or dreaming of the next place to visit. She also writes travel features for MNUI Travel Insurance and blogs at My Beautiful Adventures.

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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But today, Andrea Perullo of My Beautiful Adventures is going to give us the scoop.

Welcome, Andi.

—

My most useful and favorite travel tip, which is to join the Couchsurfing community, might be familiar to some and foreign to others. For me, it has become an integral part of not only my travels, but also my life. Couchsurfing’s mission statement succinctly sums the project up: Participate in Creating a Better World, One Couch at a Time.

Unfortunately, many people mistake the community for simply free accommodation, when really the goal is to create an international network of friends with the common interest being the love of discovery and exploration. It is true that one of the many benefits of Couchsurfing is that it can make travel more affordable, however the most meaningful benefit is the connection you make with other Couchsurfers. The hope, according to the website, is that this cultural exchange will in some way make the world a better place through: “rais[ing] the collective consciousness, spread[ing] tolerance, and facilitat[ing] cultural understanding.”

Couchsurfing is not only about hospitably exchange. There are approximately 1.4 million members worldwide (even in places such as Antarctica!), thus most cities have a Couchsurfing group. These groups have regular local events that you can participate in and are excellent opportunities to share your travel stories and to make new friends and potential travel partners. Plus, it is a great way to get your travel fix when you are not able to travel!

Another way you can use Couchsurfing is by contacting other members in the city you will be traveling in to see if they can either offer advice on what to do and see or if they might be interested in meeting for a coffee/drink, as well as possibly offering their guide services. You will find that most Couchsurfers love helping you in any way they possibly can. Make sure to also search the online forums for even more invaluable advice.

I promise that if you choose to join this community your travels will be enriched in indescribable ways and I can guarantee you that you will make some of the best friends of your life.

Andrea Perullo is a Chinese Medicine Doctor by day, travel addict by night. When she is not treating patients, she is exploring the world or dreaming of the next place to visit. She also writes travel features for MNUI Travel Insurance and blogs at My Beautiful Adventures.

* Photos: Lab Iulm and Je-Rome.it.

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Trains are so easy to use in Italy. I was nervous the first time riding it alone but once you know the ropes, you will be a confident train traveler. First, we must discuss the differences in the train types.

Regionale trains are the slow trains that travel only in each region, like Tuscany or Umbria. They stop in smaller towns which is why the trains are slower.

Then there is the Intercity which nowadays are few and far between. They require a reservation and travel, you guessed it, between bigger cities. These trains travel between regions as well. But now that there are le Frecce trains, there are only a few Intercity trains that travel on a daily basis.

The Frecciarosso, Frecciaargento and Frecciabianca are the faster version of the Eurostar. Eurostar is now similar to the Intercity train. These don’t run as often as the Frecce trains. They are faster, more convenient, but more expensive. They travel to only the main cities, Florence, Milan, Venice, Bologna, Rome, Naples, to name a few. These trains also require a reservation.

Now that you know which train is which, how to do you purchase a train ticket?

It is quite easy.

The automatic machines like this one cater to the regionale trains only. So for example if you were departing from Florence to arrive in Pisa, this is the machine I would use.

There is never anyone at these ones either.

The machine shown in the top picture is the one that everyone lines up behind. But if you are just traveling to a town in Tuscany I suggest taking my advice and using the first automatic machine.

Now if you are traveling all over Italy and would like to ask questions to the tellers, you must wait in a long line. They are helpful (sometimes) also if you want to practice your Italian, give it a go.

You must remember to validate your ticket before stepping onto the train.

This is the machine you validate your ticket in. If you forget to stamp your ticket you will be fined around €50.

Sciopero is a word that travelers should be aware of when in Italy. Sciopero, which means strike, happens quite often. And when it does it is pure chaos, especially if it is rush hour. Be calm usually there is a back up train that will take over for the original train scheduled to depart. Be aware that these trains will be very crowded as well. Regionale for sure. They pack people in the trains like sardines. I would suggest once you know which track the replacement train is arriving on. I would race to last car of the train just so you can get a seat. People always rush to the first train.

While traveling by train, be courteous when you see someone in your seat, point to your seat number and they should kindly move. When there is an elderly person looking for a seat be kind and offer your seat up. Remember to arrive in the right carrozza or car when you are searching for your posto or seat. Sit back, relax and enjoy the ride along the seaside, through mountains and among the sunflower beds.

Any questions about the trains, head over to the Trenitalia site. You can change the language to English.

Katie Greenaway is a freelance travel writer and is the Local Expert of Florence for Nile Guide where she also provides the secrets of Florence on her blog. She writes about her life in Florence on her personal blog Olio di Oliva e Sogni di Vino and contributes to MNUI Travel Insurance with travel articles.

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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I asked for help in offering tips to soon-to-be expats with a pooch and Karen of Rebtel.com, came to the rescue.

—

Preparing your expatriation is certainly not an easy task. In your long list of things to take along such as credit cards, visas, passports, international calling service and other important stuff, there is one thing which is particularly stressful: your little doggy or kitten overseas trip preparation!

There is a lot to do in the weeks before the trip until you walk out with your luggage, here are few tips to help plan a good trip with your pet.

Laws in your country of destination

* In certain countries you may have to present documents of good health such as veterinary certificates, quarantine, a European passport, etc. So contact your vet or the delegation of your destination to avoid unexpected issues.

* Ask your vet for advice on vaccinations and your pet’s health status with regarding to adjusting to new atmosphere and traveling.

Recognition

* It is very compulsory for dogs and cats, check it before leaving.

Health factor

* Do not decide your pet’s medication on your own. Not all drugs are safe. Some drugs can be very harmful while traveling. Speak to your vet regarding the medical treatment to be given which can help in reducing the stress or sickness.

* A first-aid kit including regular medication can always be handy.

Booking your flight

* Some airline companies permit only a specific number of pets in the cabin per flight; the weight limit may also differ. Hence it is very important to check with them before you book your flight.

* Will your pet be in the cabin or in the cargo compartment? While traveling in the cargo compartment pets should not face any additional stress. Hence it is important to keep them with the ones having similar behaviors. Your pet should be adaptable to the temperature, pressure and lights to experience a safe and enjoyable trip.

* Check for where and when you should drop off your pet before departure.

* Before you fly, call the airlines 3 days in advance to confirm your pet’s ticket.

Direct flight or layovers?

* Limit to the minimum the amount of layovers.

* If you have to travel with several airlines, check if they have same policies for pets flying in the cabin.

* Also confirm if your pet is allowed to travel in the same plane with you.

Which container?

* You should check the size of the container with your airline company.

* The container should have enough space for your pet should to move, lie down and get up. Water and food need to be inside the container.

* It is must that you mention your contact details on the container.

* A few days before you leave, you can test the container and keep a small toy inside or a cloth with your perfume on it.

On D-Day

* Let your pet drink some water two hours before the flight.

* Let him move/run sometime before he gets placed in the container.

At your destination

* Your pet needs to rest and feel comfortable. So find a suitable cozy place. And make sure you don’t leave him alone. Be by his side and pet him so that he does not feel isolated.

* Keep your pet inside your home for a few days to get adjusted to the new environment.

* Use a collar with your current address and phone number.

* Perhaps stress and heat can modify his appetite, so let your pet decide his meal and his eating quantity.

What other tips do you have for moving overseas with your pet?

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Traveling to/from and in and around Italy is always an adventure. Planes, trains and automobiles each pack their own challenges, yet they also present you with an interesting opportunity for adventure.

Planes – Italy is served by major airports in Rome, Milan, Genoa and Florence to name a few and by numerous smaller airports throughout the country. Getting to any of these smaller airports from another European country is relatively easy because many airlines fly direct between London and Naples; Paris and Torino; Barcelona and Venice; and Germany and Pisa. These flights can often be under €100 round-trip. Yet, getting to Italy from the US is a bit more challenging if you want to travel south of Rome to Calabria, Sicily or the popular Amalfi Coast. However, during the summer, Italian carrier Meridiana has direct flights between New York’s JFK and either Naples or Palermo.

Trains – There are many regional trains servicing the entire country. You will often go to a small train station, such as in Chiusi in Tuscany, and find yourself boarding a train that is only 2 cars long. Don’t worry, it’ll still get you there. The great thing is the new high-speed Italian train service which was just launched this summer. Now you can get from Rome to Naples in 70 minutes for just $21 and from Milan to Rome in under three hours. Fantastico!

Automobiles – this is where you can have real fun in Italy if you dare. As I’ve explained here before, driving in Italy is not for the faint hearted in the cities and the country roads also present different challenges. Yet, driving is the only way to become one with the locals……….and the carabinieri. Just be careful on the Autostrada now because I hear there are cameras somewhere. There are speed limits posted (although no one pays attention to them). Manual transmission cars are the norm in Italy but it’s getting easier to rent an automatic car and I have been the happiest renting and getting good rates from AutoEurope.

Lisa Fantino is an award-winning journalist and attorney and the creative force behind Wanderlust Women Travel and the destination wedding Italy portal, Wanderlust Weddings. She also writes travel features for MNUI Travel Insurance and blogs as Lady Litigator.

* Photos: Welcome Tuscany and Salvatore Vuono

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So today, I invited my photo-snapping friend, Cecil, to share some tips.

—

What are some tips can I share when traveling to Italy?

Hmm … tough question.

Cherrye has covered many general travel tips here on My Bella Vita, but since my experience-and passion-are in travel photos, that’s what I’d like to talk about today.

For a travel snapper like me who takes as many photos as possible when traveling, planning well-and planning ahead!-is critical.

If you are traveling independently in Italy, ie., you have control over when you visit various attractions and cities, then I recommend the following times for visiting and photographing some of Italy’s most photogenic icons.

1) River Arno

River Arno is the most scenic river cutting the old city of Florence, with the Ponte Vecchio (Old Bridge) crossing overhead. This is a favourite for photo snappers. The best time of day to capture this scene is in the late afternoon when the evening sun is shining onto the row of buildings along the Arno.

2) The Duomo

The Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore or the Duomo is the fourth largest cathedral in Europe and is the highest iconic architecture in Florence. You should avoid going there in the morning if you want to capture the magnificent white marble main facade of the Duomo on your memory card.

3) Piazza Signoria and David (replica)

If you couldn’t beat the long queue into the Academia Gallery to view the original David statue, then head to Piazza Signoria in the afternoon-after 3 PM-when the sun will be at the ideal angle.

4) St. Peter’s Square in Vatican City

The most iconic Vatican landmark is St. Peter’s Square. The best time of day to visit the square is in the morning when the sun is behind you and shining onto the more than 140 statues that top the pillars. Remember to bring along your long zoom lens as well!

5) Trevi Fountain

If you haven’t snapped photos of the Trevi Fountain, you can’t even say you’ve been to Rome! If you want to capture the best lighting of the fountain and surrounding scene, go in the afternoon, around 3 PM. Get your wide angle lens ready so you can stand in front of the crowd and still capture the entire fountain in your photo.

6) Colosseum

Though you can snap the Colosseum from any angle, the best location is from the west side, inside the small field, where you can see the dividing sections of the building. The best time to photograph the Colosseum is in the evening.

The above photo was taken in the morning when the sun was in front, so I had to make some adjustments to my camera to compensate for the direct sunlight.

Good luck with your next set of photos in Italy, or as they say there in that beautiful country … in bocca al lupo!

Cecil Lee is an avid traveler who is also a passionate travel blogger and travel photographer living in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. He writes about travel for MNUI travel insurance and on his own travel photo blog, Travel Feeder.

* Italy Photos property of Cecil Lee.

***
Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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L.A. Times Travel Editor Catharine Hamm covered this last year but let it suffice to say that the big difference between the two is expertise.

Still, in today’s Internet age, travel consultants aren’t for everyone. If you are wondering if you should hire a travel consultant, here are five questions you should ask yourself.

1. Am I traveling to a well-known destination?
If the country or region you plan to visit is well-known, then you will likely be able to find guide books, blogs and websites that can help you plan your itinerary. Maybe you have friends or family members who have visited or you have read about the area in newspapers or magazines. If you are traveling to a very well known region, you might not need a consultant.

2. Is the destination too well-known?
On the other hand, if you are visiting an overly touristy country, your risks are equally as high. More tourists mean more tourist trap hotels, restaurants and one-size-fits-all tours. And that’s not good, either. An expert travel consultant can steer you from the crowds or recommend less-traffic areas for your vacation.

3. How much time do I have before my trip?
Time is money and if you are spending all of your time in the office, you likely don’t have the time-or energy- to properly research your trip. If you have less time than money, then it’s a no-brainer-as a travel consultant will save you both. Hire an expert.

4. How much time do I have on my trip?
While it is true you always want to maximize your time during a vacation, if you are planning an international trip and only have a week or two, you can’t afford to waste precious vacation time. A travel consultant will tell you which trains to take, where to rent a car and which days are better spent for various activities on your itinerary.

5. Do I speak the language or will the locals speak mine?
If you are traveling to a less-touristy area where they don’t speak English a travel consultant will be able to help you secure your hotel bookings and reservations. If you speak the language or can find a hotel or B&B that speaks several languages, you are in luck.

There are many benefits to hiring a travel consultant that I didn’t list in this post-these five questions are listed to help you decide if a travel consultant is right for you. If you are traveling to southern Italy or Calabria and are considering hiring a travel consultant, click here to see how I can help you plan your itinerary.

Speaking of consultants, don’t forget to visit Robin at My Melange and see what travel tips she has today.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio.

This post is written on behalf of Affordable Calling Cards.net. Click here to read other posts written by expats from around the world.

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So, for the next month or so, I’m opening this column up to guest bloggers who will share some travel tips of their own.

Today, I’m happy to welcome Laura, of Ciao Amalfi!

Thanks for stopping by, Laura.

—

If you’re a traveler like me, when you arrive someplace new you want to see it all. The museums, churches, neighborhoods, parks and local foods—everything is at the top of your to do list. The problem with this type of traveling is that it often leads to particularly exhausting trips. (Yes, I used to be the classic person who needed a vacation after my vacations.) Another even more unpleasant side effect is that funny feeling upon returning home that I didn’t actually see or fully experience the place I went to amidst the whirlwind sightseeing.

One thing living in Italy has taught me is the value of slowing down and truly savoring the experience of traveling. It’s no longer about seeing everything at a mad dash, but rather about seeing a few things in finer detail. It’s about finding out what makes a place unique, and I’ve found that the only way to do that is by slowing down, but letting myself experience not only the sights but also the sounds, smells and moments of daily life. The la dolce vita lifestyle here in Italy has just about cured me of the need to see everything all at once.

My tips for those traveling to Italy are to resist trying to see every museum and sight, especially if you only have a short time in one place, and to take time each day to sit, relax and watch daily life go by. This not only connects you with the pulse of a place, but also is a chance to give yourself a much needed break so you don’t return home worn out. If you look closely, the Italians and their lifestyle will teach you all you need to know about slowing down and savoring each and every moment of your journey.

Getting away from the crowds and discovering a park full of children playing and Venetians chatting about their days is one of my most memorable moments from a week in Venice. Joining in the evening passeggiata with friends while enjoying a gelato was a highlight from a recent trip to Florence. Yes, I also saw museums and churches and plenty of other sights. But, more importantly, I saw the place.

Don’t forget to visit Robin at My Melange and see what travel tips she has today.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio.

Laura Thayer is an American writer and art historian living on the Amalfi Coast. She writes about life on the Amalfi Coast on her site, Ciao Amalfi and about travel for MNUI Insurance.

Traveling south? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

Photos: RalphUnden and Vittoria Benedetti

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Well never fear.

Here is a list-or three-to help you prepare your beach bag for a Calabrian summer.

Many women in Calabria use an over-sized beach bag, oftentimes choosing one that accents their swimsuit or cover up. It’s not necessarily an expensive bag-but it is functional.

Some things to put in your bag if you are single include:
- Creams, lotions and oils for your face, body and hair
- A hat
- Big sunglasses
- Lip balm
- A big towel
- Book or magazine
- iPod or MP3
- Bottled water
- Tissues, because you just never know
- Your cell phone
- Small wallet

If you are packing a beach bag for you and your family, also include:
- Fruit
- A knife to peel your fruit, since Italians never eat the skin
- Extra hand towels for the kids
- A Frisbee
- A volleyball or other kind of bouncy ball
- Pencils and paper
- Pail and shovel and other assorted beach toys

Other things I’ve noticed that men and women carry to the beaches in Calabria are:
- Snorkel gear
- Earplugs
- Eye drops

If you are planning to spend the day at the beach, consider packing sandwiches in addition to your fruit and water or plan on having lunch at one of the beach kiosks that are found on busier beaches.

What other items do you suggest travelers pack in their beach bags?

This post is written on behalf of affordablecallingcards.net. Click here to read posts written by other expats in the ACC expat community.

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

Photo: Bella Bags

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You know what I mean?

No?

That’s ok. I know I’m different.

For those of you who don’t love researching-and can’t afford a travel consultant-here are five tips to help you get started researching your trip.

photo credit: jkfid

1. Get Organized
I’m always slightly amazed-and admittedly jealous-of the people who come to our B&B with all of their trip organized. Some of them have a three-ring binder, complete with full-color maps, tabs and stars of the places they want to see, the hotels and restaurants they’ll visit and notes from the research they did before they took flight.

Getting your organizational tools together is the first step in researching a trip.

2. Google Images

If you are planning a trip to Italy but aren’t sure which part of the bel paese you want to visit, then go with Google. In the search box, enter the names of some Italian cities and villages and look at the images on the first few pages.

Start making notes of interesting photos and keep them in your notebook. When you stumble upon a good website, write it down in your notebook or make a note of it if you are keeping your research online.

You won’t remember no matter how great the site is … trust me. I learned this lesson the hard way.

3. Speaking of Stumble

I’m slightly addicted to StumbleUpon and usually turn that blue thumb green several times a day. It is a great tool for quickly searching the Internet for the most relevant websites and is invaluable if you are researching a trip.

For example, if I was going to use SU to research a trip to Italy, I’d narrow the search to “Italy” and start stumbling. I actually did this as I was writing this post and in less than two minutes, I found a video of Venice, a villa rental in Maremma and … ha-the third stumble was my own post about Calabrian fortresses.

Now, ain’t that a hoot?

4. Scout Flights and Hotels to Help You Set a Budget

Now that you have a general idea of what you’d like to see and where you plan to go, you should start setting your budget. Check some of the big sites such as Kayak and Cheap Tickets to get an idea of your ticket price and check sites like Venere or B&B Planet for ideas on hotel rates.

5. Read Blogs and Websites About Your Destination

Travel bloggers are a great source of local information and are one of the first places I look when researching my own trips. It makes sense that an expat in Rome, will have great restaurant and bar recommendations, a consultant in Liguria will have insider tips and a travel writer on the Amalfi Coast will know the best routes. More so than TripAdvisor or travel forums, blogs written by people who live or travel often to Italy are your best source of information.

What other tips do you have to help travelers research their trips?

Speaking of great sites to read, don’t forget to visit Robin at My Melange and see what travel tips she has today.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio.

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan your trip to Calabria or southern Italy.

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If you ever find yourself stuck in southern Italy, here are a few tips to get you by.

photo credit: Abhisek Sarda

1. Relax
No matter how much you like to control your life, when a natural disaster strikes there is nothing you can do. Yes. I’m talking to you.

Putting the situation in proper perspective will lower your stress-and your blood pressure-and can make the difference between a vacation nightmare and a good excuse for an extended stay.

If you are having a hard time relaxing, take a stroll near the beach, hike along a mountain trail or grab a coffee/wine/limoncello and people-watch in a busy piazza.

2. Get Organized
Keep your B&B or hotel in the loop regarding your travel plans and ask them about extending your stay. They may be able to let you extend your reservation on a day-by-day basis or can offer you good alternatives if they are fully booked.

Your B&B staff will be a great source of information for you if you find yourself stuck in a foreign country.

I also recommend you stay in the same bed and breakfast, if possible. B&Bers are a well-traveled and empathetic group and the more you can connect with the owners, the better chance they’ll go out of their way to help you.

You should also stay in contact with your airline and stay updated on the latest news regarding the event that has you stranded.

3. Hop on a Train
There is nothing worse than paying for a vacation you can’t enjoy, so if you are stranded and forced to extend your vacation, get out and have some fun. I promise there are interesting things to see that weren’t in your original travel plans. Grab a map, hop on a train and go see something new. If you are here in Calabria, consider taking the ferry into Sicily and exploring Messina. Don’t let something like a little volcano ruin your fun.

4. Self-Cater
Extra meals and hotel nights likely weren’t in your original budget, so if things start getting tight, consider a little self catering. Go to the market or local grocery store, stock up on fresh fruit, bread, cheese and wine and either picnic or eat in your room.

What other tips do you have for people who find themselves stranded in southern Italy?

Check out Robin’s travel tips, too.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio.

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

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1.  Camera and memory card
If you’ve never been to southern Italy, you might be surprised by the rocky landscape, green mountains and blue, blue, blue seas … and you’re going to want to remember it. Make sure your camera is fully charged when you take off and ensure you have plenty of memory.

2. Battery charger
… for obvious reasons.

photo credit: Pi.Gra

3. Sturdy walking shoes
Many of southern Italy’s medieval villages are full of steep hills and winding streets, so be prepared to walk by packing (or better yet, wearing) a pair of comfortable shoes.

4. Sandals, flip flops or house shoes
If you are traveling in beach season, you’ll need a pair of sandals or flip flops to wear to the beach, but you’ll also need a pair of shoes to wear inside. Italians always wear shoes in the house, so if you are staying in a cozy bed and breakfast or agriturismo, you’ll need a pair of shoes you can easily slip on and wear inside.

5. Wine bottle opener
Eating out every meal in southern Italy will not only pack on unwanted vacation pounds, but more importantly, will eat up your travel time. Meals are celebrated in southern Italy and lunches and dinners-when done correctly-can take hours and hours (and hours.) Plan a few picnics during your trip and be prepared with a wine bottle opener and knife. *Note: You should pack this in your checked luggage. If you travel carry-on only, consider purchasing an inexpensive opener in Italy.

My last picnic was underneath the shadows of my favorite Calabrian castle … so it’s not necessarily “roughin’ it.”

photo credit: alessandraelle

6. Travel clothesline
A traveling clothesline is super thin, can easily fit into your luggage and can be placed in your hotel’s shower or bathtub, making it easy for you to hand wash your unmentionables and wear them the next day.

7. Pocket dictionary
If you don’t speak Italian and plan on traveling in non-touristy sections of Italy’s south, then carry a small pocket dictionary to help you decipher menus or nail down directions from the locals.

8. Notebook and pen
Like many of my Italy travel writing buddies, I, too, am in love with my iPod. For a list of apps to download for your trip to Italy, you can visit Italofile or Why Go Italy but for every day note-taking, carry a good notebook and pen. Click here for more ideas on using a travel journal.

You might notice I didn’t include a laptop, hair dryer or flat iron … you can read why here.

What other travel gear do you think people need when visiting southern Italy?

Speaking of travel tips, don’t forget to see what Robin has for you today.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio.

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

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Here’s what she had to say.

A few years ago I started a travel journal but didn’t keep up with it on a regular basis. It has journal entries from various trips I’ve taken over the course of a couple of years. Last year my husband and I started another travel journal during our honeymoon, both adding to it throughout the trip.

My dilemma is, I can’t decide if I should I keep a solo travel journal since I periodically travel alone as well as a couple travel journal for when we travel together, or if I should merge all of my travels into one journal?

Also, what size travel journal do you like best and would you recommend to people and what types of things do you include in your journal-for example, just writing or do you include ticket stubs and receipts, postcards, pictures, etc)?

Those are some great questions, Andrea, thanks! I’m gonna do my best to answer them and I’m hopeful other readers will offer comments on their experiences, as well.

There is not a right or wrong way to keep a travel journal, so my suggestion would be to decide on a system of journaling you’ll remember to use.

* Since I know you-and know you often travel for work without your husband-I’d recommend you keep two separate books. Your memories from your travels will be different and one day when you want to look over your journals, you’ll have all of the vacation memories with your husband in one place and your solo adventures in another.

* As for size, I prefer a 5X8 when traveling abroad-any smaller and I find it uncomfortable, any larger and I wouldn’t want to pack it. When I’m out and about here in Calabria, I use a smaller book that will easily fit into my purse or bag.

* When I lived in Paris, I kept ticket stubs and receipts and eventually put them into a scrapbook, but I rarely keep such things now. Many people do though, and again, it is a personal choice.

Here are a few more tips to keep in mind.

* Don’t forget to date your journal. I write on the hard back of the front cover and list the places I visited while journaling in that book. Sometimes my writing for a particular place flows into another book. No problem. Just write (Austria 1 of 1 / Austria 1 of 2) on the books.

* Many people recommend getting an unlined book, but since I can’t write in a straight line, I need the guide.

* Try out your journal before you buy it … without the ink, of course. Make sure it opens all of the way and is easy and comfortable to use. Check the weight of the pages and make sure you could write on both sides of the paper if you wanted to.

* The journal I’m currently using has a page marker, making it easy for me to find a blank page in a hurry.

Do you keep a travel journal? If so, how would you answer Andrea’s questions.

Speaking of travel, let’s see what tips Robin has today.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio.

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

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So I’m gonna try to make that up to you today.

There is food, fun and adventure-so stay tuned … here are five more reasons travelers should visit the bottom of the boot.

photo credit: Krissyho

1. Your Piggy Bank Will Thank You

As Barb and Traci pointed out in their comments, most of southern Italy is a steal compared to the north. In fact, just this morning I was talking to one of our loyal guests who raved about a restaurant in downtown Catanzaro where she dined on antipasto, pasta, fruit and wine for only €16.00. That wouldn’t even get you a pizza and beer in many northern cities.

2. So Will Your Stomach!

As Lisa and Kathy mentioned, the food in southern Italy rivals anything you’ll have-anywhere else in the world. We love our fresh fruit, vegetables and spices and many restaurants feature seasonal specialties. The fact that I left it off of the list the first go around says nothing about the food, rather, it just goes to show how quickly one can grow accustomed to, expect and take for granted a good thing.

3. And for That Matter-so Will Your Eyes

I felt like I was in a movie the first time I took that nine-hour train ride down Italy’s east coast and into southern Italy and Puglia. There was a  mountain, then the ocean, then a mountain … all depending on which way I turned my head. It also had that familiar warm-toned hue that seemed to blanket the area, making it all the more enticing. It was serenity, romance and nostalgia, all wrapped in one.

4. Unexpected Surprises

Us non-Italian Americans have heard of Florence, Rome and Venice since we were kids so it is often a welcome surprise to visit-and fall in love with-southern Italy. I had friends visit us a few months ago after they’d spent a three-week stint in other parts of the boot. As I suspected, they planned on “enjoying their Italian vacation,” for three weeks, then “visiting their friend, Cherrye,” the last six days.

I’ll give you three guesses what their favorite part was … and no, it didn’t have everything to do with me. In fact, I think part of the reason they loved Calabria so much was because it was unexpected and unexpected surprises really are the best.

5. Sense of Adventure

It is easy to visit the well-known tourist areas in Europe, but by continuing on to southern Italy instead of stopping in Rome, you can stretch your sense of adventure. It’s fun being a trail-blazer … won’t you join me?

What other reasons can you think of to visit southern Italy?

Let’s see what travel tips Robin is dishing out today.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio. (And happy birthday, Mom!)

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

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Here, we’ve talked about things to pack, things not to pack and even tips for packing light … but we haven’t yet talked about some of the most basic things travelers should bring-but not pack-with them to Italy.

They are going to seem pretty common sense. They are going to seem like things all educated travelers should know. They are going to seem like things we shouldn’t have to say.

Yet, time and time again, in both my personal travels and in our B&B business, we see them left at home.

1. A Sturdy Travel Partner

… and of course, by sturdy, I mean good. And by good, I mean, good for you.

Traveling to Italy with an unpleasant travel partner is as bad as booking a bug-infested bedroom with no cancellation policy. Be sure the people you ask to join you have a similar travel style, are easy-going and are people you can spend days and days and days next to without going loco.

2. A Spare Sense of Humor

One of the reasons we travel is to experience a new culture and with that comes a certain amount of potential stress and uneasiness. If you’ve inadvertently left your humor at home, you really will feel that stress and it will have an irreversible effect on your vacation.

photo credit: Danielle Scott

3. A Second Set of Give and Take

Flexibility is the key to your fun-filled family vacation so be sure to bring it along for the trip. Know that the best laid plans sometimes go awry, so plan for delays, strikes or misunderstandings that could alter your original plans. Just go with it-you never know what Italy is hiding behind that next turn.

4. An Extra Pair of Patience

… one for you and one your sturdy travel partner. Millions of people vacation in Italy every year, so you are bound to have some company at the main tourist spots on your itinerary. Remember, many travelers leave the things on this list at home, so have patience with them, have patience with the long lines and be patient with the Italians you meet on your trip.

It’s not for them.

It’s for you.

5. An Emergency Attitude Adjuster

Most of the things on this list boil down to one thing-a good attitude. Go one step further and promise yourself-before you ever leave home-that you’ll keep a positive attitude throughout your trip and ask your sturdy travel partner(s) to do the same.

It just might save your trip.

What else do you think people should bring with them to Italy?

Don’t forget to check out Robin’s travel tips today.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio!

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

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The world is full of well-meaning travelers and professionals dishing out travel tips and advice to would-be vacationers. But it’s not always useful.

In fact, I often hear less-than-helpful advice being passed on to Italy-bound travelers, advice I know will put a dent in their trip if they follow through with it. I hesitated to write this post because people pass on tips that are based on their experiences and they do so, I believe, to be honest and helpful to future travelers. The problem with that is their advice doesn’t always coincide with-oooh, how do I say this?-the law or even the norm for the country they visited.

It is also doesn’t take into account differences in personalities, travel preferences, money or time allowances and it assumes all travelers are the same.

photo credit: Alex Castellá

Some of the most reckless tips I’ve heard regarding traveling to Italy include:

- “Technically you are not supposed to fillintheblank, but I’ve  never gotten caught doing it.”

- “I saw most of Italy in a couple of weeks, I think you can do everything on your list.”

- “You can go swimming in Calabria in November.”

- “Don’t waste your time in XYZ … there is nothing there but a crooked tower anyway.”

Last week I quizzed my Facebook friends and Twitter followers about the worst travel advice they’d ever received and here’s what they had to say.

Spencer Spellman of Carolina Nomad said his worst advice was being told his group could easily walk to their hotel from the train station. After two miles, up hills and along bumpy sidewalks-with their luggage-he added this tip to the worst tip file.

Lisa from Wanderlust Women’s Travel Dreams said her worst advice came from a travel guide that sent her-along with a Russian couple-on a search through Rome for the Porta Portese market.

Other misdirected advice included:

- “Go to insertcityhere.”

- “Don’t go to insertcityhere.”

- “Just reading one guidebook (or travel site’s) advice, read: ads!”

What was the worst travel advice you ever received?

Don’t forget to check out Robin’s travel tips today.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio!

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

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Southern Italy has it all. There are ancient Medieval towns, peaceful fishermen villages, stretching beaches and swooping mountains. There are even Roman and Greek ruins. We learned about some of the most famous places in southern Italy as children and some of us grew up dreaming of the day we’d visit our grandparents’ homeland. But that doesn’t mean we know it all.

My then-boyfriend/now-husband grew up here in southern Italy and I was still surprised at some of the assumptions I made that were downright wrong!

With that in mind, here are three things I wish I’d known before I traveled to southern Italy.

(c) Leanne (pictured above) of From Australia to Italy

1. It Gets Brrr … Cold

Calabria has this fabulous reputation of being a hot, steamy, tropical getaway for northern Italians and other Europeans. Unfortunately, it’s crap. It gets downright cold here in southern Italy and depending on when and where you visit, you might see a lot of snow.

It’s true. Laura at Ciao Amalfi! recently posted some videos of a thunder snowstorm on the Amalfi Coast and Leanne of From Australia to Italy was recently snowed in near Cosenza (Calabria.)

2. All Restaurants/Trattorie/Pizzerie Were Created Equally

Regardless of what you may have heard, you *can* get a bad meal in southern Italy. I know. I’ve done it. Still, it is surprising to me when I hear people proclaim sweeping generalizations like, “It doesn’t matter where you eat-you are in Italy,” or “You can’t get a bad meal there!”

Trust me. You can.

If you are traveling to southern Italy and don’t want to be victim to an overcooked pizza or tasteless ragu, then search the Internet for recommendations made by locals or consider hiring a travel consultant who can help with the details.

3. Don’t Assume Anything

Seriously.

Anything.

For example, many restaurants in the US offer free soda refills, in Italy, you will pay full price. Also, don’t assume that just because opening hours are posted on a museum’s website that they are correct, or that the museum is even open. Oh yea, and don’t assume that your hotel will have washcloths. In fact, they probably won’t. Italians don’t use them.

What other things do you wish you’d have known before you visited Italy?

Don’t forget to check out Robin’s travel tips today at My Melange.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio!

Traveling to southern Italy? Click here to see how I can help you plan the trip of a lifetime.

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Last week Andrew Whittaker of Speak the Culture wrote a post about coping with culture shock. It was interesting because Whittaker didn’t take the stance of an expat or long-term traveler trying to adjust to a new culture but rather that of an average traveler.

Although I’m slightly obsessed with culture shock and the stages expats endure on our path to security, I’d never given much thought to what travelers experience when they enter a new country.

Whittaker is right on when he describes the sensation of disorientation we  experience in their first few days of a foreign vacation. Adjusting to the new sounds, a new language, eating habits, climate and customs can be exciting for some travelers, but most would agree that the vacation really starts once your comfort level rises and feel a sense of security.

Speak the Culture listed five tips for helping travelers adjust to culture shock. I’d love for you to read the article-so I’m not going to list his tips here, but I am going to add a few of my own.

Here are five more tips to help you quickly adjust to culture shock so you can get on with your Italian vacation.

photo credit: acearchie

1. Read Books Set in Italy

Most travelers agree nothing gets them “in the mood” for an upcoming trip more than a good novel or nonfiction book that is set in the country they are planning to visit. While it is a good way to learn history of an area  or get an idea for a new place to visit, books are also a great way to introduce you to the country.

The more you learn before you get here, the easier your transition into Italy will be. To get you started, here is an extensive list of books that are set in Italy.

2. Interact with Bloggers

and don’t dismiss the negative things they say.

Many Italy-bound travelers dismiss negative comments made by expat bloggers and I’ve been personally-well, virtually-attacked for alluding to Italy’s flaws.

However, by reading and interacting with bloggers who are based here, you can be conscious of the country’s eccentricities before you arrive, thus taking the shock out of culture shock.

3. Follow Twitterers and Facebook Fan Pages of People Who Live (or Travel Often) to Italy

Take your research one step further by following Twitter users who live or travel often to Italy or by joining their Facebook Fan Pages.

Here is a list of Italy Twitterers you should follow if you are heading to the bel paese.

4. Don’t Dive In

As I’ve said before, you shouldn’t jump into your Italian vacation without taking a day or so to get settled.  Don’t plan anything big the day you arrive in Italy. Instead, get settled into your hotel, then take a stroll around town, enjoy an apertivo at a nearby bar or sit in a busy piazza and people watch.

While this helps you feel more relaxed and ready for your adventure, it also serves as a way to slowly introduce you to Italy’s culture.

5. Document It

Journaling is therapeutic for many people and can serve as a way to help you connect your home culture to the new experiences you are having in Italy. It can help you release any frustrations by getting them on paper and will later serve as a fond reminder of your vacation.

What other tips do you have for travelers wanting to quickly acclimate to Italy?

Don’t forget to check our My Melange’s travel tips today.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio!

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A few days ago I received an email from a guy who is planning his first trip to southern Italy. He’ll be visiting his grandfather’s homeland in Calabria-just about 50 minutes north of me in Catanzaro-and like any would-be international traveler worth his passport, he’s researching the area.

He bought my Calabria travel tips ebook-thanks, Robert!-and browsed through the travel tips and Calabria travel sections on this site.

But he still had a problem.

“I saw your post on How Not to Look Like a Tourist in Southern Italy,” he told me, “but that seemed more geared towards women. Do you have some tips for guys? I get the sense my Pittsburgh Steelers t-shirts won’t be a good choice!”

Well, Robert. You are right. I’d leave the Steelers t-shirt out of my bag. Of course, I’m a Cowboys fan, so I’d leave the Steelers out of any bag, for any trip, regardless of the destination, culture or climate.

But maybe that’s just me …

With that in mind, here are three more travel tips for men traveling to southern Italy.

1. Follow Robert’s Rules

and by that, I mean the Robert who mentioned the sports shirt. He was right on target with that idea, but in addition to ditching American sports paraphernalia, you guys should also leave out graphic t-shirts that talk about how much beer you can drink, when you went to Hard Rock Cafe and why or why not you voted for “the other guy.”

And really, nobody cares if you are with “stupid,” or if she’s with you.

2. What’s Good for the Goose

also goes for her well-dressed gander. Even though the post about dressing in southern Italy seemed like it targeted women, many of the tips apply to men. They still dress in season-translation: no shorts in winter months, carry bags instead of backpacks and are pretty big on designer sunglasses.

Men in Italy take pride in being well-dressed and rarely go out in slouchy sweats.

3. Think Solid Colors (and long pants)

I knew a guy who came to southern Italy last year who was hell bent on fitting in with the locals. The problem? “I’m American,” was stamped on his forehead (and no amount of over-the-counter bronzers or hours basking in the Calabrian sun would fade it).

Personally, I think that is ok. I love American tourists, remember?

But if you really want to look the part, wear long pants, dark-colored jeans and solid colored t-shirts or polos. (Please forgo the red and purple pants, even they can’t pull them off all of the time!) Add dark socks and dark shoes and you’ll be on the right path to southern Italian style.

What other tips do you have for men who want to blend in with the locals in Italy?

Be sure to check out Robin’s travel tips today.

Until next time … Buon Viaggio!

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A couple of months ago I was contacted by a producer at KPAM Portland Radio. He wanted to know more about my favorite little region in Italy and asked if I’d be interested in talking to them about Calabria.

Me? Talk about Calabria?

Now, that’s not fun at all.

photo credit: Dave Kleinschmidt

Due to time zones and sleeping habits, we decided to do the interview once I was on American soil, so one day after my flight(s) home for Christmas, we got down to business.

Via the great telecom system of AT&T (and least on my end), I met with radio talk show anchor and host of The Azumano Travel Show, Pat Boyle.

The segment aired the day after Christmas in Portland, but for all the rest of you, it is right here.

Enjoy!

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