Highlights |
Independent Package Includes
- Flights NYC-Rome, Munich-NYC
Other departure cities available. Click on date of departure for selection and prices
- Airline fuel surcharges
- 6 nights accommodations
- Transfers to/from Oberammergau
- 1 lunch, 1 dinner
- Breakfast daily
Special Features
- Category 1 seating arrangements for the Passion Play
- Basilicas of St. Mary Major & St. John Laterano, Rome
- The Holy Stairs, Rome
- Catacombs of St. Domitilla, Rome
- Papal Audience at the Vatican (subject to Holy Father's schedule)
- Whisper technology enhanced touring while in Rome
Also Available
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Itinerary |
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 DAY 1, Saturday - Depart USA
Depart the USA on your flight to Rome, Italy. Your flight includes meals, drinks, and in-flight entertainment for your journey.
DAY 2, Sunday - Arrive in Rome
Arrive in Rome and transfer independently to your hotel. Balance of the day at leisure
Optional: Dinner with Opera Singers and Illumination Drive
Overnight: Rome
DAY 3, Monday - Christian Rome Tour
Morning at leisure. This afternoon join us for an exhilarating tour of Christian Rome. This tour departs from the Piazza San Bernardo, adorned by Moses' Fountain and heads to Piazza della Repubblica, previously known as "dell'Esedra." We'll continue along the Via Nazionale towards the Basilica's of St. Mary Major. Here you can view the manger baby Jesus was laid following his birth. Then proceed to St. John in Lateran. Dedicated to John the Baptist and John the Evangelist, this basilica is ranked first among the four major basilicas of Rome. Continue on to visit the well preserved site of the Holy Stairs, the 28 marble steps climbed by Jesus Christ to stand trial before Pilate's Palace. From this age-old pilgrimage site, the tour continues by coach, crossing the Piazza San Giovanni and Via Latina, to the Ancient Appian Way, where you will find the sacred Chapel of "Domine Quo Vadis." The tour concludes with a visit to the legendary Catacombs of St. Domitilla. Return to your hotel passing the ruins of the Baths of Caracalla en route. Enjoy the balance of the day at leisure
Optional: Vatican Tour (AM)
Overnight: Rome
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 4, Tuesday - Full Day in Rome
Spend a day at leisure in Rome. Explore the city on your own or perhaps take advantage of the optional tour of "ancient Rome" taking you to the Roman Forum and the Colosseum
Optional: Ancient Rome Tour (PM)
Overnight: Rome
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 5, Wednesday - Papal Audience
This morning enjoy a panoramic tour of the Eternal City including the Piazza San Bernardo, adorned by Moses' Fountain, Piazza della Repubblica with the Fountain of Naiadi, Via Veneto, Piazzale Flaminio, Via Flaminia, the Olympic Village, Ponte Milvio, Lungotevere, Foro Italico, and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Enjoy a short stop at the Stadio dei Marmi, before continuing along the Lungotevere toward Castel Sant'Angelo, arriving in Piazza San Pietro. Venture inside Nervi Hall to attend a Papal Audience and receive the Blessing of the Holy Father (subject to Holy Father's schedule). Here, you'll admire the round hall, the Hall of the Greek Cross, and the Tombs of St. Helen and St. Constance. Afternoon at leisure
Overnight: Rome
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 6, Thursday - Flight to Munich
Travel independently to the airport in Rome for a short flight to Munich, Germany. Upon arrival in Munich, transfer independently to your hotel. Optional transfers are available. Balance of the day at leisure
Overnight: Munich
Meals: Breakfast
DAY 7, Friday - Travel to Oberammergau, Passion Play Performance
Begin with a drive to South to the Bavarian Alps Region. Drive via Ettal to nearby Oberammergau and spend the rest of the day in this delightful village. Lunch will be served at a local inn. View the pretty chalets with flower balconies and painted facades as you head to the famed Passion Playhouse to take your seat for this "once-in-a-lifetime" event. The history of the Passion Play at Oberammergau goes back to 1634, when the village of Oberammergau was miraculously saved from the ravages of the Black Death. Since that date, the play has been performed every ten years on the decade. There will be ample time for hunting down a hand carved wooden figurine, a special craft from this area, or perhaps a cuckoo clock. Continue to the Oberammergau area
Overnight: Oberammergau Area
Meals: Breakfast, Lunch, Dinner
Day 8, Saturday - Depart for the USA
Transfer to Munich airport for your departure flight
Meals: Breakfast
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Optionals |
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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| #8 Illuminated Rome by Night with dinner 8:00 PM |
Day #2 |
01 Jan 2010 - 24 Dec 2010 $112
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This evening, depart Piazza San Bernardo for an illuminated tour of the Eternal City. Along the way to the famous Piazza della Repubblica, enjoy flood-lit views of the Via Veneto, Palazzo Margherita, Porta Pinciana, Villa Borghese, Piazzale Flaminio, Via Flaminia, Piazza del Popolo, Piazza Augusto Imperatore, and Via del Corso. Arriving at the Piazza della Repubblica, visit Trevi Fountain, the largest and most exquisite Baroque fountain in Rome. Continue to Piazza Venezia and enjoy charming views of the Capitol, Imperial Forum, Colosseum, Palatine Hill, Aventine Hill, and Circus Maximus. Compliment this fascinating tour of Rome by night with traditional Roman cuisine in a typical restaurant, accompanied by folk music.
Departs at 8:00 p.m. from Via V. E. Orlando, 95. Pick-up from hotel 45 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off at hotel if in the city center, or near a taxi stand if your hotel is located outside the city center.
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| #3 Vatican Museums |
Day #3 |
02 May 2010 - 28 Jun 2010 $85
30 Jun 2010 - 13 Aug 2010 $85
16 Aug 2010 - 31 Oct 2010 $85
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This morning, depart from the Piazza San Bernardo, site of Moses' Fountain, and travel along Via Bissolati and Via Veneto. Pass by Villa Borghese, one of Europe's most elegant parks, and previous estate of the noble Borghese family. The tour continues to the Vatican Museum and Galleries, where you will find galleries of chandeliers, tapestries, geographical maps, the Sobiesky Hall and the Immaculate Conception Hall. From here, visit the Sistine Chapel and behold the great frescoes by Michelangelo. Passing through the Vatican Hall, continue to the Basilica of Saint Peter, one of the four major basilicas of Rome, and burial site of its namesake, Saint Peter.
Please note that on Wednesdays during the Holy Father's Audience, the visit inside St. Peter's Basilica will not take place.
Departs at 7:30 a.m. (Mar 16-Nov 15); and 8:30 a.m. (Nov 16-Mar 31) from Via V. E. Orlando, 95. Pick-up from hotel 45 minutes prior to departure time (between 6:30 a.m. and 7:15 a.m for Mar 16-Nov 15 and between 7:30 a.m. and 8:15 a.m for Nov 16-Mar 31). Drop-off in city center.
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| #2 Ancient Rome |
Day #4 |
01 Apr 2010 - 31 Mar 2011 $76
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Today's tour will feature the classic splendor of the Roman Empire. Leave Piazza San Bernardo, adorned by Moses' Fountain, and head to Piazza Venezia where you will admire the Memorial to King Vittorio Emanuele II and the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier. Continue to the square of the Capitol, and admire the unique sight of the Forum, Colosseum and Palatine Hill, one of Rome's most ancient districts. Walk along the pavement of the original Roman grid, which crosses the ruins of the Roman Forum, the Curia, and the Reggia. Enjoy views of the Temple of Vesta, the Arch of Titus and the Triumphal Arch of Constantine. Continue with an inside tour of the Colosseum, a giant amphitheater used for gladiatorial contests and public spectacles, and the largest building ever built in the Roman Empire. The tour concludes with a visit to the church of St. Peter in Chains, where Michelangelo's famous statue of Moses is housed.
Departs at 3 p.m. (Mar 16-Nov 15) and 2.30 p.m. (Nov 16-Mar 15) from Via V. E. Orlando, 95. Pick-up from hotel 60 minutes prior to departure time. Drop-off in city center.
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Book your Optional Tours before you travel and see more, save time, save money, and protect your investment. Tours purchased while traveling may cost an extra 10% or even more! Tours often sell out - avoid disappointment! Save your cash - many countries do not accept credit cards. Travel insurance only covers services purchased prior to departure.
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Rates & Hotels |
Step 1: Select Your Featured Hotels Step 2: Click a Date to Book Online
OR: Click here to create your own flexible vacation
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| Dates & Prices |
Land Only |
Air & Land |
| Dates & Prices |
Land Only |
| Dates & Prices |
Air & Land |
| 2010 |
May 15 (Sold Out) | $2189 | $3099* |
| Jul 10 | $1999 | $3469* |
Jul 24; Aug 7; 21 (Sold Out) | $1999 | $3469* |
| Aug 28 (Sold Out) | $1999 | $3469* |
Sep 11 (Sold Out) | $2189 | $3099* |
| Create Your Own Flexible Vacation |
*Not Included:
Airport taxes & fees, arrival transfer, optional tours, and gratuities.
Additional Information:
Land only price does not include arrival/departure transfers, nor does it include flight Rome-Munich.
There will be 2 return transfers scheduled from Oberammergau to Munich airport for prebooked passengers only. Exact pick up times to be advised by our representative at the hotel. Oberammergau is approximately a 90 minute drive from the Munich airport.
Entry Requirements:
US citizens require a passport valid for six months beyond travel dates.
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| Although most of the planning and preparation is taken care of for you, there are still a few things you should know and some details you should take care of to ensure your comfort, safety and peace of mind. Please review the following information before your departure to ensure that any surprises along the way will only be pleasant ones. | |
| Passports and Visas | It is each traveler's responsibility to have a passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of departure and a visa if required. Please check the information at www.gate1travel.com/visas.aspx for the specific country/region you are visiting for more details. Passengers who are not U.S. citizens must check with the respective consulate or a visa agency to determine what personal identification is required. Passport applications are available at most U.S. Post Offices, as well as at regional Passport Agencies.
| | Trip Preparation | A little pre-planning can make your trip go a lot smoother. Several weeks before your trip, make a list of what you will need to take with you. Make sure your personal documents (passports, visas) are in order and that you have enough prescription medications to last through the trip. We suggest that you make photocopies of passports, visas, and any other important travel documents and pack them separately from the originals. Pack a list of medications including dosage and generic names. If you lose the originals while traveling, you'll have copies for easier reporting and replacement. We recommend that you pack a portable alarm clock.
| | Health Information | Check with your personal physician for the latest overseas travel health information, or contact the Center for Disease Control’s travelers’ hotline at 404-332-4559, web site www.cdc.gov.
| | Climate & Clothing | Italy - Spring and Fall: 55-75°F; Summer: 70-85°F; Winter: 40-55°F. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. On cruises, informal dress is the general rule though on formal nights, a cocktail dress for women and a suit or coat and tie for men is required. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Italy Average Temperatures: http://www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#italy-weather
| Germany - Spring and Autumn: 40 – 60ºF, Summer: 65 – 80ºF, Winter: 25 – 40ºF. Bring comfortable walking shoes, a sweater, clothes you can layer and an all-weather jacket. Some religious sites may require modest dress to enter (no shorts, short skirts, or sleeveless tops).
Germany Average Temperatures: www.gate1travel.com/weather/europe/default.aspx#austria-germany-europe-weather
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| E-Tickets & Check-In Procedures |
Please review the flight itinerary included in these documents. Print and carry a copy of the air itinerary which contains the record locator (airline reservation number) and e-ticket number(s). At check-in, be prepared to provide your government issued identification (valid passport) and your e-ticket itinerary/ ticket numbers to the agent in order to receive your boarding pass.
An e-ticket (electronic ticket) represents the purchase of an airline seat. This form of ticket has replaced almost all formerly provided paper tickets. The e-ticket exists only as a digital record in the airlines computers. In most cases your reservation will be confirmed solely on the basis of your government-issued identification. However it may still be necessary to present the e-ticket itinerary which contains your specific reservation code and ticket number(s). Once confirmed, your luggage will be checked-in and a boarding pass provided.
Advance online check-in is available on some airlines. If available, you may enter your airline confirmation number at the airline's website, and print the boarding pass on your home printer within twenty-four hours of departure. Airlines without advance online check-in require you to present your identification and e-ticket numbers at the airport self-service kiosk or check-in counter.
When e-tickets cannot be issued, you will receive paper tickets.
If your tour program includes foreign domestic flights, and those tickets are not included together with the e-ticket itinerary in these documents, a separate voucher(s) confirming those services will be included. You will receive those tickets at your destination from a Gate 1 representative.
| | Airline Flights | Please check in at least three hours prior to the scheduled departure time to allow for security steps. Passengers connecting from another point within the USA may check their luggage through to their final destination, and although problems with lost luggage have been minimal, it is a possibility. Certain carriers do not allow baggage “interlining,” and luggage must be checked separately for each flight. If you are connecting from a domestic flight which is delayed for any reason, causing you to miss your international flight, you must ask the airline for assistance in getting you to your destination. Since all airline tickets are issued on special fares which carry restrictions and penalties if changed, you must have the airlines responsible make alternate arrangements on your behalf as Gate 1 has no authority or control over airline activities and policies. Do not leave the airline check-in desk until an alternative itinerary has been confirmed for you.
Flight schedule changes are common and may occur anytime until departure. Therefore it is the responsibility of each passenger to reconfirm their flights 72 hours prior to departure for all flights.
| | Airline Luggage Restrictions | Most international airlines are consistent with regard to the number and weight of the pieces you may check and bring onboard. Domestic carriers however, typically on small aircraft, differ. Therefore, we suggest that you check in advance if you are concerned about size or weight restrictions. Many airlines have begun to apply charges for checked bags. Please contact your airline or refer to its website for detailed information regarding your airline's checked baggage policies. Airline policies vary and may change at any time. Gate 1 Travel is not responsible for any excess luggage/ weight charges levied by an airline.
| | Airline Seats | Airline seats are confirmed whenever possible. Some airlines and/or fare types do not allow for pre-seating and require this be done at airport check-in only. Even when seats are pre-assigned however, we recommend that you contact the carrier one to two weeks prior to departure to reconfirm your seats. In many cases there are equipment changes after your initial booking which can cause airplane seating reconfiguration.
| | Airline Tickets | Most airline tickets are issued using special fares which cannot be changed or canceled without incurring additional cost. Should you lose or misplace your tickets while traveling, you should immediately notify the airline. In most cases they will have you complete a Lost Ticket Indemnity Form, and for a fee, issue replacement tickets.
| | Code-share Flights | Many airlines participate in alliances and special agreements with other airlines which permit passengers to travel from one point to another using more than one carrier. While your ticket may indicate that you are flying with one carrier (eg: Delta), you may find that you are actually seated in a plane belonging to another carrier (eg: Alitalia). Please review your airline itinerary carefully to determine which airline you should go to for check-in; if your flight is operated by a carrier other than the primary airline indicated on the itinerary, your itinerary will state "Flight Operated by (Airline)." If you have any concerns regarding which airline to check-in with, you may contact the airline directly or Gate 1 Travel for clarification.
| | Luggage | All Gate 1 tour packages allow one piece of luggage per person, plus carry-on bag. Additional baggage will be subject to airline handling charges of up to $100 per piece. As Gate 1 will not be responsible for loss or damage to luggage and personal belongings, you MUST report any loss or damage immediately at the time of the incident and obtain a written report from the local authority for submission to your insurance provider. If your luggage is lost or damaged by the airlines, a baggage claim form MUST be filed with the carrier before leaving the airport. See www.gate1travel.com/luggage.aspx for Important Baggage Information for U.S. Travelers.
| | Alitalia Flights | Please note flight schedules can change or may be cancelled while you are traveling. It is best to re-confirm your flights 48-24 hours prior to travel.
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| Arrival Procedures | Upon arrival, please complete immigration formalities and claim your luggage. If your program includes airport arrival transfers, check your voucher for specific instructions, as they vary with every destination. In most cases, you will be met after passing through Customs by the local representative who will be holding a Gate 1 Travel sign and/or a sign with your name on it. In some instances you will be instructed to walk a short distance to a transportation counter. The company's name and location will be printed on your voucher. If for any reason you do not connect with the Gate 1 transfer personnel, go to the Tourist Information Desk and ask them to page the Gate 1 Travel representative or phone the number on your voucher.
| | What To Do When Your Flight Is Delayed | Airlines do not share flight manifest information. Therefore, the only way we may learn of a delay or schedule change while you are traveling is from you, the traveler. The sooner you are able to contact one of our offices, overseas or in the USA, the better we can respond. Gate 1 Travel is only able to guarantee pre-reserved arrival transfers for up to one hour from the scheduled time, no matter the cause. In case you are delayed for any reason, and are unable to follow the instructions on your voucher, please make independent transfer arrangements and retain your receipts. Unused tour services, including transfers and hotel nights are not refundable. Upon your return home you will need to contact your airline and/or insurance carrier to investigate the possibility of reimbursement for any unused tour services.
| | Departure Procedures | If your program includes departure transfers, instructions will be stated on your voucher or provided locally.
| | Transfers | Due to local traffic and other extenuating circumstances, we ask that you allow 30 minutes from your scheduled transfer time for our representative to arrive. This includes hotel, airport and cruise transfers. Such possible delays are taken into consideration in scheduling transfers and you should therefore have no concerns about arriving late for your tour, flight or cruise. For transfers from a hotel, let the hotel reception desk or concierge know that you are waiting for a transfer. In the case of a missed transfer, reimbursement for your out-of-pocket expenses will be considered provided you obtain a written statement from the hotel's front desk verifying the length of time you waited, and the time you left the hotel, and a receipt for your transportation with time and date.
Escorted tour programs include transfers, providing you have purchased airfare from Gate 1 to arrive and depart on the scheduled tour dates. If you are traveling independently, you may purchase the transfers from Gate 1 or contract your own method of transportation to the hotel or cruise ship. The cost of a transfer will generally be more expensive than hiring a taxi as the pre-arranged transfer necessarily includes round trip service, or a 'dead-leg'. Additionally the driver may have to wait at the collection point for up to an hour.
| Departure Transfer Oberammergau to Munich - There will be 2 return transfers scheduled from Oberammergau to Munich airport for prebooked passengers only. Exact pick up times to be advised by our representative at the hotel. Oberammergau is approximately a 90 minute drive from the Munich airport.
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| Hotels | Gate 1 Travel has carefully selected each hotel based on overall quality, location, price, food, service, and cleanliness. All rooms are standard rooms with two single beds and private facilities, unless you have specifically requested and paid for an upgrade. Room selection is strictly at the discretion of the hotel management. We reserve the right to make hotel substitutions with those of equal standard.
| | Hotel Check-in/ Check-out | Check-in time is usually 4pm or later. Check-out time is 12 noon. If you will be arriving early in the day or departing in the evening, hotels will usually allow you to store your luggage in their luggage room. Ask at the front desk if the hotel can check you in earlier, or let you stay later.
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| Eco & Sustainable Tourism | We support global efforts to create a more eco-friendly world, intolerant of any forms of cruelty, abuse and intentional environmental destruction. To that end we ask that our clients maintain a watchful eye as they travel, and report any abuses they may encounter. One of the many benefits of tourism is the shared cultural knowledge and ultimate elimination of negative behavior through education. We rely on your good feedback to enable this element of symbiosis. As you travel to and learn about foreign cultures, we ask first and foremost that you practice tolerance and respect for local customs.
| | Land Only Passengers (Escorted Tours) | Your tour manager will contact you after your arrival at your hotel. Passengers who have not purchased arrival transfers from Gate 1 Travel should proceed directly to the hotel for checkin. The details of the hotel can be found in your documents.
| | Shopping | Shopping in a foreign country can be a wonderful experience. We do include a few stops at recommended popular shops on every escorted tour, intended to enhance your cultural experience. As you explore the country independently, you may find fantastic, one-of-a-kind merchandise. You may get terrific bargains. However, we advise you to exercise care and common sense when making any purchase. Always get a formal receipt. And remember that, just like in this country, if a deal seems too good to be true, it probably is!
| Italy - Shops are generally open Monday through Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 3:00 to 8:00 p.m., with some variations in Northern Italy, where the lunch break is shorter and shops close earlier. In the major cities, large stores and souvenir shops remain open throughout the day.
Italy is renowned for its fashion industry, with fine clothes for men and women, lacework, jewelry, and leather accessories. Other quality goods include ceramics, gold and silver items, alabaster, woodwork, embroidery, glass and crystal ware. Major credit cards are usually accepted, though cash is preferred for small purchases.
| Germany - In addition to large department stores featuring a wide range of goods, Germany has many specialized shops that feature high quality items such as optical instruments, knives, glassware, china, handcrafted toys, and antique books and maps, among many others.
| | Currency | We suggest getting a small amount of currency for the first country you're visiting before you leave the U.S. It is a good idea to carry a chart with you to help you convert U.S. dollars to the local currency. It's also a good idea not to carry too much money. Many countries have ATM machines that accept most U.S. ATM cards, but be sure you know your ATM password in numbers-the keypads on foreign ATMs don't always have letters. ATM machines will only dispense cash in local currency. Check with respective consulates to learn current currency allowances and requirements. Use your credit card whenever possible. Should you decide to carry cash or travelers checks, exchange them at banks where the rate is more favorable than at hotels or exchange bureaus. Please note that many banks and most vendors will not accept or exchange $100 bills. We suggest to carry $20 bills or smaller.
| Italy - The Euro is the currency of Italy.
| Germany - The Euro is the currency of Germany.
| | Purchasing Tours Locally | On escorted tours, the guides will generally sell optional tours to passengers who have not pre-purchased them. Payment can be made by cash or credit card, unless otherwise noted below. This does not apply to Independent packages. Please see Gate 1 Terms & Conditions for more information. http://www.gate1travel.com/terms.aspx#optional
| | Credit Cards | While credit cards are accepted in most destinations, it is advisable to carry local currency. Inform your credit card company that you are traveling to avoid your card being blocked for security reasons.
| | Gratuities | This is a matter of personal discretion. You may use the following as a guideline:
- Tour escort (Coordinator; may or may not act as a guide):
$6 or $7 per person per day
- Driver (Provides chauffeur services and limited assistance with luggage):
$3 per person per day
- Local Guide (Offers in-depth information at specific locations. There may be one or many guides along a tour program):
$2 per person per half day of sightseeing (2-3 hours)
- River Cruises:
$6 or $7 per person per day as indicated by each cruise line (see details regarding European River Cruises)
- Hotel Porter:
$1 per bag per person
- Wait staff:
$1.50 per person (lunch or dinner)
Tipping is considered by many locals to be a part of their normal remuneration and some may approach you for additional "compensation." There is no need to be intimidated by the request, nor should you feel pressured to pay more than recommended. If you become uncomfortable by any behavior you encounter, please advise your tour escort or phone our local office. Numbers have been provided in your documents for your convenience.
| Italy - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge.
| Germany - Gratuities are appreciated and expected for good service in restaurants and other places that cater to tourists. Restaurant bills often include a service charge.
| | Your Safety is Very Important | Every effort has been taken by Gate 1 Travel to ensure your safety. However, it is important that you do not allow your common sense to take a vacation while you're on your trip. Be aware of potentially dangerous places and situations as you would at home. Avoid wearing expensive jewelry and carry your valuables concealed in inside pockets or hidden pouches. Don't put all your valuables (money, credit cards, passports, etc.) in the same place. (In case that one wallet is stolen, you should have other valuables and identification in another safe place.) Don't leave valuables laying loose in your room-use the hotel safe. Keep copies of your passports, credit card numbers and travelers checks numbers in the hotel safe. If you've purchased an escorted tour program, your travel documents will include telephone numbers of local Gate 1 Travel representatives who will do their utmost to assist you in the event of an emergency. The numbers are printed on your Gate 1 Travel vouchers. Please copy the numbers. Once you relinquish the voucher, you will not have this information. Passengers traveling independently should employ the services of hotel concierges and local authorities.
| | Local Emergency Phone Numbers | Italy
- Ambulance/Medical: 118
- Fire: 115
- Police: 112
| Germany
- Ambulance/Fire: 112
- Police: 110
| | Languages | Italy - Italian is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| Germany - German is the local language. English is generally spoken in tourist areas.
| | Electricity | Please note: The U.S. uses 120 volts and you can purchase a converter and transformer at most hardware stores for your 120V appliances.
| Italy - The voltage used is 220 volts.
| Germany - The voltage used is 230 volts.
| | Code of Conduct | Italy - Family and social ties are, broadly speaking, stronger in Italy than in other Western European countries, and the Roman Catholic church retains a strong cultural influence. Common courtesies should be practiced. Casual dress is appropriate, but beachwear should be confined to the beach and poolside. Conservative clothing should be worn when visiting religious buildings, meaning legs and shoulders should be covered. While the cities are very safe, pickpocketing can occur. Avoid conspicuous expensive jewelry and be mindful of your wallet or handbag. Even though many Italians smoke, smoking is prohibited in all public buildings, public transport, cinemas and restaurants.
| Germany - Shaking hands is a customary greeting and normal courtesies should be observed. First names are not used when being introduced, but after a relationship exists, using first names is appropriate. Politeness is highly valued, and saying hello and goodbye is important even in shops and restaurants.
| | Holidays - Italy |
| Holidays 2010 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
Jan 6 |
Epiphany |
Apr 4 |
Easter |
Apr 25 |
Liberation Day |
| May 1 |
Labor Day |
Jun 2 |
Republic Day |
Aug 15 |
Assumption of the Virgin |
Nov 1 |
All Saints Day |
| Dec 8 |
Immaculate Conception |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day |
Dec 26 |
St. Stephen's Day |
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Please note that in addition, local feast days are held in honor of town patron saints, generally without closure of shops and offices. These include:
| Catania: |
February 3 - 5 (St. Agatha) |
Sorrento: |
February 14 (St. Antoninus) |
Florence, Genoa & Turin: |
June 24 (St John the Baptist) |
Amalfi: |
June 27 (St. Andrew) |
| Rome: |
June 29 (St. Peter & Paul) |
Siena: |
July 2 & Aug 16, Palio horserace |
Palermo: |
July 15 (St. Rosalia) |
Como |
August 31 (St. Abbondio) |
| Naples: |
September 19 (St. Gennaro) |
Bologna: |
October 4 (St. Petronius) |
Trieste: |
November 3 (St. Giusto) |
Venice: |
November 21 (St. Mark) |
| Montecatini: |
December 4 (St. Barbara) |
Bari: |
December 6 (St. Nicholas) |
Milan: |
December 7 (St. Ambrose) |
| | Holidays - Germany |
| Holidays 2010 |
| Jan 1 |
New Year's Day |
Jan 6 |
Feast of the Epiphany |
Apr 2 |
Good Friday |
Apr 4 |
Easter |
Apr 5 |
Easter Monday |
May 1 |
Labor Day |
May 13 |
Ascension Day |
May 24 |
Whit Monday |
| Jun 3 |
Corpus Christi |
Aug 15 |
Feast of the Assumption |
| Oct 3 |
Day of Unity |
| Oct 31 |
Day of Reformation |
Nov 1 |
All Saints' Day |
Nov 17 |
Day of Prayer and Repentance |
Dec 24 |
Christmas Eve |
Dec 25 |
Christmas Day (First Day) |
Dec 26 |
Christmas (Second Day) |
Dec 31 |
New Year's Eve |
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*Please note: Feast of the Epiphany, Corpus Christi, Feast of the Assumption, Day of Reformation, All Saints' Day and Day of Prayer and Repentance are not observed in all areas.
| | | Papal Audiences, Vatican City - Italy | General audiences with His Holiness the Pope are usually held once a week (Wednesdays at 11 a.m.) in Vatican City. They may be held inside the Basilica itself or in the hall of the Papal Audiences (Aula Paolo VI, Seating 7000), and in summer in Saint Peter's Square or in the papal summer residence at Castel Gandolfo. Please note that Castel Gandolfo is located approximately 20 miles south-east of Rome, not in Vatican City.
Catholics are requested to have a letter of introduction from their parish priest. For this audience women should dress modestly, with arms and head covered. Dress should be dark or subdued in color. Men are requested to
wear a tie and jacket. | | Food and Meals | As specified in each itinerary. Meals are based on the hotel's or restaurant's buffet or set menu. In general, beverages are not included, unless specifically stated. Although Gate 1 cannot make guarantees, every effort will be made to honor special dietary requests submitted in writing at least 72 hours prior to departure to info@gate1travel.com.
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