Travel Tips
Every country in the world has its own set of culture and rules and regulations. It is always good to be well informed on such things before you travel, as it will save you a lot of embarrassment and won't get you into any trouble with the local authorities.
Italy is a place of rich culture and they take their art and architecture quite seriously. Museums do not allow photography. It is advisable to enquire about photography norms before you start clicking. Do not use a flash, as it is considered a disruptive practice.
Italians are fashion conscious, but formal in their attire at the same time. Walking around in scanty clothing, beach attire and shorts is not appreciated. If you are buying clothes, most shops do not allow you to wear the garment or to try it on. Topless sun bathing on the beach is quite acceptable in northern and central Italy, but frowned upon in the conservative south.
When eating in Italy, you should know that their dishes use a lot of olive oil and wine. This might cause diarrhea to a person with a sensitive stomach. Always carry your own medicines for common travel ailments. In case of an emergency, Italy's emergency number is 113. Criminal activities are scarce in Italy, although one should be careful of pickpocketers and purse snatching in crowded city areas.
It is better to consume bottled water, and this is freely available all over Italy. There is a heavy presence of chlorine in tap water and can be used mostly for washing and cleaning only. When dining out, the food listed in the menu will be served exactly as described. Most eateries will not entertain any special requests for modification of the dish. Spaghetti based dishes are the most commonly available food in Italy. This is eaten by rolling it on a fork and not by breaking it into smaller pieces. Usually you are expected to order at least more than one course in a meal, excluding the dessert. If you are with children then you should order upfront if you want half a portion of a dish. After finishing your meal you have to ask for the check. Tipping is liked by Italians even when a service amount is charged in your bill.
There is absolutely no restriction on buying alcohol. Wine is consumed by almost everybody, even by people in their early teens. If you are on a business trip then business lunches are more popular than dinners.
It is advisable to rent a car if you want to travel the countryside. Minimum age for renting a car is 21. In the city it is more convenient to either walk or take a cab. Be prepared to pay a toll fee on the highways. Speed limit is 80mph on highways and 70mph on other roads. Driving is on the right side of the road and drinking under the influence of alcohol will invite a very strict penalty.
Make sure all your travel documents like passport and permits are in order and should be produced, when asked for by the authorities.