One summer my friend and I decided to go to Italy during the summer holidays. Having read information about the tours we decided to do without travel agencies. We didn’t want to stick to strict programs, to be in the crowds of tourists, losing lots of possibilities to get acquainted with the country more intimately so we started to think over our trip.
We managed to do quite well: six days in Rome with a day-long journey to Florence. Italy took us by storm! We’ll try to go there again! We spent less than we expected. Of course, we spend nerves and time to arrange the trip, but Italy was worth that! Of course I was afraid lest something goes wrong, I was especially anxious about the visa. But everything went quite smoothly. So here’s my story)))
The most difficult was to get a visa without an invitation. In the Italian consulate one must hand in the documents confirming the hotel reservation and also a certificate about your income.
Then we had to solve the ticket question. Airlines often sell discount tickets. We bought ours good in advance. The next step was to find and book a hotel. We searched the Internet and particularly liked the site http://www.hotelsrome.net. There are many lodgings in Rome, from big world-famous hotels to small private boarding houses (Bed and breakfast), so everyone can find something to his or her liking. We decided to book a lodging in thirty km away from Rome. And in fact that was the right choice. Every day we took a train that delivered us to the heart of Rome, to Piazza del Popolo. After hustle capital our spacious house surrounded by the forest was a rare gift. Fresh air and absolute silence, interrupted only by the songs of the birds, breathtaking views, hospitable hosts, comfortable living conditions, tasty and hearty breakfasts – these are our impressions of "Selva Grande". Besides we were very lucky that our mistress was Russian. She gave us a lot of pieces of advice that were of great use. She told us what transport to choose, where to go, etc.
The last pain in the neck was a certificate about our income. Luckily one must not necessarily be a millionaire to be allowed to enter the country so we didn’t have any problems.
Don’t be afraid to arrange the trip by yourself. It’s not difficult! Even the visa question is easily settled. All you need is time (and nerves;-)))
Italy shook me, I’ll certainly write about it next time. The only thing I’ll say right now is that we really enjoyed to travel by ourselves. We walked with a map and a guide-book wherever we wanted. And we met our fellow countrymen just two or three times. So if you’re also planning such a “single” trip, don’t forget to take a Russian-Italian phrasebook as people in Italy are not that fond of English preferring to speak only in their native tongue.
Related Articles
Strolling Through Rome
By: Vasilisa | 25/01/2008 | Destinations
Rome in winter is no less interesting than in summer. Besides there’s no sticky heat which is a characteristic feature of the summer Rome. When chilly outside it’s much nicer to drop in at a café and have a cup of hot chocolate!
After reading several guide-books a head is in a muddle: the Colosseum, the Pantheon, Piazza Venezia…But the experienced travelers and Rome-admirers say it’s better to get acquainted with the city leisurely, step by step looking round Rome.
My Journey to Rome
By: Vasilisa | 10/12/2007 | Destinations
I decided to share my impressions about the trip to Rome as my emotions still linger…
The decision to go to Italy was made shortly before the journey, so we didn’t have much time to prepare for that. But we managed to organize the trip as quickly as possible. And, as it turned out, we planned everything very well.
Happy Birthday, Rome!
By: Vasilisa | 04/04/2008 | Destinations
Every year on April, 21, Rome is celebrating its birthday. On this day the doors of numerous museums and archeological sights are open to public, and the streets, richly decorated with flowers, are flooded by sumptuous processions of gladiators, senators, and other heroes of the Roman many-century history.
Classical Italy
By: Vasilisa | 12/02/2008 | Destinations
I’ve always dreamed to go to Italy. Luckily, dreams do come true. One day my boyfriend and I went to the travel agency and purchased 2 tourist vouchers. To. The. Wonderful. Italy. I was beside myself with joy. “Classical Italy”- Venice, Padua, Florence, Rome and San-Marino. We were told there were 17 people in our group, one guide and a witty driver. Quite a company...
6 Places to Visit in Rome
By: Vasilisa | 18/04/2008 | Travel
They say there are as many attractions in Rome as there are people. That is even more amazing taking into account the fact that the historical center of Rome is comparatively small: it occupies the space between the Tiber in the East and Termini railway station in the West. Here one can see the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi fountain, the Spanish Steps, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican.
Shopping in Rome (pt Ii)
By: Vasilisa | 10/01/2008 | Destinations
Winter sales (saldi) last from 15 January to the first week of March, summer sales go on from 16 July to the middle of September. The leading designers considerably reduce the prices for their goods. Cheaper clothes, shoes and accessories are sold in the shops of less famous designers.
National Park Called Rome
By: Tatyana Kogut. | 20/05/2008 | Destinations
Rome has a rich fauna: 110 bird species, 26 mammals, 15 species of reptiles and fish...
Medicine in History: Baths of the Ancient Rome
By: Tatyana Kogut. | 29/05/2008 | Destinations
In ancient world, there were no hospitals, no injections and other “charms” of modern life. How did people take care of themselves then? Let's talk about the medicine of Ancient Rome, or, to be more exact, Roman baths.
Got a Question? Ask.
Ask the community a question about this article:
Frequently Asked Questions
Hotel voucher
By: adme | 20-11-2008
My uncle passed away and I don't have enough money for a hotel. Does anyone have a free hotel voucher asap
.
Travel in Scotland or Italy?
By: AimeeRed | 20-11-2008
I have 2 weeks in either April or May to travel with my boyfriend. I am thinking either Scotland or Italy... what do you recommend?
Travel in Scotland or Italy?
By: ElexaAnn | 17-11-2008
I want to travel for a week and a half in Europe in April... do you recommend Scotland or Italy? I want a good combination of culture, fun, nature and beauty. I'd appreciate any suggestions. Thanks :)
What might i expect in italy? and what might i ...
By: x-kay-x | 17-11-2008
what might i expect in italy? and what might i see?
What ever happened to the Renaissance hotel on St ...
By: Jerie | 15-11-2008
What ever happened to the Renaissance hotel on St. Thomas near Coki Beach and Coral World? What is it called now?
How can i find the different train stations in ...
By: danny | 14-11-2008
how can i find the different train stations in Bologna? i'm meeting my granddaughter but she is coming in by train from Milan and I don't know which station to tell her to get off at.
Q&A Powered by:
Latest Travel Tips Articles
Why Biking to Work Saves Money on Travel and Gym Fees
By: Melanie Click | 30/11/2008
Exercise and savings at the same time!
Unfair Embassy
By: ishara | 29/11/2008
Now embassy has moved to chennai India. visa is very strict from srilanka. I have applied for a student visa. my friend got visa but i didn't . Although the documents are correct they refuse our visa. Some says they are doing this to give chances to Tamils and Muslims
Euro-2012 in the Ukraine - Arrangement in the New Hotel "central" in City Bila Tserkva !
By: Alex Russ | 28/11/2008
EURO-2012 in the Ukraine - ARRANGEMENT in the new hotel "Central" in city Bila Tserkva !
Washington Dc Events - 6 'must See' Annual Events
By: Joe Deacon | 28/11/2008
Washington DC is the Nation's capitol and there is plenty to see and do in addition to seeing the Capitol Building, the White House, the Washington Monument and the Lincoln Memorial. You can also enjoy many of the annual events that are open to the public in Washington, DC. Some of these events include the following.
Vancouver Events - be a Witness to a Cultural Hotpot
By: Joe Deacon | 28/11/2008
Vancouver is located in British Columbia in Canada and is one of the most scenic of all of the provinces of Canada. Vancouver is a very historic city located in the Pacific Northwest and is very picturesque most of the year. Unlike other areas of Canada, the weather is usually mild and events take place in Vancouver all year long. When visiting Vancouver, you might want to check out the following.
Toronto Events - the Best Ways to Get a Feel of Canada
By: Joe Deacon | 28/11/2008
Located in the province of Ontario in Canada, Toronto is and is home to many festivals and events. When you are visiting the city of Toronto, be sure that you check out some of these festivals and events so that you can get the true feel for this Canadian city. When visiting Toronto, be sure to check out the following:
Seattle Events - a Taste of the Unusual
By: Joe Deacon | 28/11/2008
Seattle is one of the most beautiful cities in the United States and offers mild weather all year long. There is a bit more precipitation in this city in the Pacific Northwest and many of the annual events take place indoors or in areas that provide a covering, just in case. Some of the events that you can expect to enjoy when you visit Seattle, Washington include the following:
San Francisco Events - a Potpourri of Cultures
By: Joe Deacon | 28/11/2008
San Francisco is a city that is filled with culture and just about something for everyone. The people who live in San Francisco are very laid back and easy going and this is a place that you can enjoy yourself with your significant other, family or even on your own.
Some of the annual events that are open to the public and are worth seeing in the city of San Francisco include.
More from Vasilisa
6 Places to Visit in Rome
By: Vasilisa | 18/04/2008 | Travel
They say there are as many attractions in Rome as there are people. That is even more amazing taking into account the fact that the historical center of Rome is comparatively small: it occupies the space between the Tiber in the East and Termini railway station in the West. Here one can see the Roman Forum, the Colosseum, the Pantheon, the Trevi fountain, the Spanish Steps, St. Peter’s Basilica and the Vatican.
Shakespeare and Co
By: Vasilisa | 16/04/2008 | Destinations
The Notre Dame, the Louvre…fortunately, these are not all the Paris sights, but unfortunately the tourists often don’t have enough time to study all the attractions of the French capital. To be in Paris without a guide can be a big luck because it allows to have a closer look at the capital, especially if you’re, as the Frenchmen say, “artiste”.
Happy Birthday, Rome!
By: Vasilisa | 04/04/2008 | Destinations
Every year on April, 21, Rome is celebrating its birthday. On this day the doors of numerous museums and archeological sights are open to public, and the streets, richly decorated with flowers, are flooded by sumptuous processions of gladiators, senators, and other heroes of the Roman many-century history.
France. Life-long Love
By: Vasilisa | 14/03/2008 | Destinations
The acquaintance with France begins, of course, in Paris. All the most Europe-shocking innovations took place there, all the creative ambitions of the geniuses were realized in the French capital. If all roads lead to Rome then all dreams lead to Paris.
Classical Italy
By: Vasilisa | 12/02/2008 | Destinations
I’ve always dreamed to go to Italy. Luckily, dreams do come true. One day my boyfriend and I went to the travel agency and purchased 2 tourist vouchers. To. The. Wonderful. Italy. I was beside myself with joy. “Classical Italy”- Venice, Padua, Florence, Rome and San-Marino. We were told there were 17 people in our group, one guide and a witty driver. Quite a company...
Montmartre’s Famous Cafes
By: Vasilisa | 05/02/2008 | Destinations
Long ago the Montmartre used to be famous not for Bohemian cafes and cabarets, cancan and polka, and even not for tourist restaurants with disgusting food. It used to be known for…nunneries. The name to the area was given by the students who also lived there. A nice neighbourhood. For the both sides…
Spleen Remedy
By: Vasilisa | 31/01/2008 | Travel
A sad woman is a serious problem for a man. It’s no good to leave her in such a sorry sight. But to try to help her is really dangerous...
Paris Glorious Cafe
By: Vasilisa | 29/01/2008 | Travel
Paris café is not just a place where one comes to drink a cup of coffee...
Travel 
