Umbria Vacation Rentals at LA VOLPE (Marsciano, Perugia, Italy)

A few tips and suggestions to avoid nuisances and make the most of your holiday in Italy.

Most shops are closed in Italy on Sundays, specially in small town or countryside locations. If your arrival date is on a Saturday, it is a good idea to stop for some basic shopping on the road: most motorway restaurants have supermarket sections inside.

Monday is street market day in Marsciano: although you will have problems in finding a parking place, take some time to wander through the stalls lining up on the main street.

Around lunchtime (12:30 to 14:30) many shops, museums and tourist attractions could be closed: it's a good idea to give a phone call in advance.

National public holidays during our rental season: 1 May (Labour Day), 2 June (Republic Day), 15 August (Assumption Day, also called "Ferragosto"). Local public holidays: 24 June (St John - Florence, Genoa, Turin and Marsciano), 29 June (St Peter and Paul - Rome), 10 August (St Lorenzo - Perugia), 19 September (St Gennaro - Naples).

Mind your dress if you think you might want to go into a church: churches have strict dress codes, although often unwritten, e.g. women must cover bare shoulders and arms, perhaps with a shawl or light sweater, and shorts are not proper for anyone.

European Union citizens with a valid Form E111 are entitled to free emergency medical treatment at any public hospital in Italy. Depending on where you leave, you may obtain Form E111 from local post offices or health offices.

Electrical power is supplied at 220 Volts, 50Hz. Plugs with
3 round pins in a row are used, 2 pin plugs can also be used.

The only official currency in Italy is the Euro. If you need to change your local currency, it is usually better to wait until you arrive in Italy. Avoid change offices because of high commission rates: you will receive the best exchange rate from the banks, which are usually open Monday to Friday, 9:00 to 13:30 and 14:30 to 16:00.

As everyone knows, food is of the highest standard in Italy: you will be surprised by the quality of the food available even from small, low-budget restaurants. Set menus usually offer good value for money. However, vegetarian and ethnic food is not as widely available as in other countries. Although a service fee will most likely be included in your restaurant bills, a 10% gratuity is customary and will always be appreciated - if the service has been good.