Timid Traveler

My husband and I are planning a two week trip to Italy, and we are both excited about it. However, we have fundamentally different ideas how to go about it. He wants to rent a car when we get there, and just go wherever the road takes us, with no reservations. While I don’t want to crush his free spirit, contemplating that kind of a trip scares me to death. We have never been abroad, do not know any of the ropes when it comes to traveling in a foreign country, do not speak Italian, and are pretty much clueless.

I would like to travel with a reputable tour company. It would be so relaxing to have someone else basically tell us where we want to go and then take us there. We would have no transportation or lodging worries, and knowledgeable guides could educate us about what we’re looking at. To make matters even more complicated, my husband is more interested in touring the countryside than the cities. I, on the other hand, would love to see the old churches and other beautiful buildings, and visit art and historical museums, all of which are in the major cities.

I hate to say it, but our differences regarding our trip are almost making me wish we weren’t going at all. Any ideas?

Timid Traveler

Dear Timid,

How about a compromise? Certainly in two weeks you will have enough time to tour the countryside, plus spend a few days in two or three cities of your choosing. Ask your travel agent to arrange for professional tours in each of the cities. They’ll get you to the churches and museums, and arrange for your restaurants and hotels.

I do encourage you to be brave and let your husband drive between the cities. Driving in the Italian countryside is great fun, but can be stressful. If your husband is willing to learn what all the traffic signs mean before you go, a lot of the stress can be relieved. As the navigator, you should learn them, too. Keep a chart of them with you as you travel. Other than that, don’t worry about not knowing Italian. Many Italians speak English.

Do stay at bed and breakfasts while in the country. Most Italian villages have visitors’ centers where you can get your bearings. They will let you know what lodging is available, and the cost, and will make the reservation for you, all at no charge. Spending the night in an ancient stone farmhouse with modern amenities and a fabulous view is an experience not to be missed. Not to mention an Italian farm breakfast!

Don’t try to tour all of Italy in two weeks. Concentrate on one province, such as Tuscany. Florence will surely be one of the cities to visit, with its fabulous art, stunning architecture and beautiful setting. Also visit one or two Medieval walled cities. They are full of tourists, but fascinating. Have a wonderful trip, and don’t sweat the small stuff!