Since I decided to share timely updates, thoughts, tips, as well as random thoughts and observations (and, of course, a few opinions!) on what’s happening here and now in this ever changing landscape…here’s another update direct from your Boots on the Ground in the Boot to YOU!

Timely TipZ #2: Please temper, revise, re-examine your expectations!

Yes, travel is coming back but please know that it’s been an extremely unsettling time in Italy (as everywhere).
For months, there were weekly changes/updates in COVID-related policies, restrictions and rules.

Yes, WEEKLY! Although it was necessary and it worked, it was unsettling and made life and running a business pretty frustrating and challenging (e.g. restaurants, museums, shops, stores) to comply with “fluid” rules and, well, stay in business (and many didn’t)!

Now that it has vastly improved over the past months, it doesn’t mean that everything is operating “back to normal”.

This means that information, especially on websites may not be current/up-to-date…which leads me to my TipZ:

⇓ The most important item on your packing list! ⇓

⇒ Your patience, please!
And that includes empathy and compassion…in other words, consideration and kindness…and just being nice! (Taking a deep breath and smiling even when you’re a little frustrated…)

And a few more friendly reminders:
• Yes, there will be lines. No one likes them but it’s a fact. Visitors, tourists are BACK and in numbers! Plan accordingly. (And especially next spring promised to be VERY busy!)
• Yes, you will want to take lots of photos and selfies but please be considerate: don’t block sidewalks and thoroughfares or take forever  to pose in front of sculptures, paintings, etc.          •Yes, you will get lost, confused and frustrated because it’s “not like home” – a little advance preparation can help you avoid a lot of that.
• Yes, there are COVID rules and restrictions that are in place. Masks really are REQUIRED and MANDATORY where indicated. Mandates are generally enforced so please note and comply accordingly.

Green Passes, masks & even free swabs (tampone)…there are rules – the message is clear.

• Please remember that there are people who LIVE here so be considerate and follow local protocols and customs.
• Yes, dogs are allowed everywhere (and I do mean everywhere!) so don’t be surprised whe you see them in the restaurants, shops, and even in the shopping carts at the markets and last evening I saw one at mass in a basilica! (And, as a rule doggie poop is scooped but it’s still a good idea to watch your step!)

• Yes, people smoke. It’s only allowed outdoors but there will probably be more than you’re used to.
• Yes, it’s good to have a plan, reservations, an itinerary…but it’s also advisable to be (very) flexible “just in case”…
• Yes, there will be lavori in corso (work in progress), i.e., including renovation and restoration, maybe even closures. (Case in point: A few weeks ago on a visit to the Piazza dei Miracoli in Pisa, it turned out that the Baptistery was closed for restoration work and yet there was no information about that on the official website.)

“Work in Progress”

• Yes, many local businesses still close in the afternoons. Once again, plan accordingly and be sure to check to avoid disappointment. (And have a “plan B”.)

Restoration is very common…

• Yes, there are local holidays here and they are usually actually observed. Take note of dates since restaurants, museums, stores, and sites could have modified hours or be closed.

I hope you enjoy, benefit, share and, of course, please comment!

My best tips:
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My “Friends” and I are here for you!

In case you missed it!
Timely Travel TipZ #1- Italy Then & Now

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