Italy Travel Advice

• There are confirmed cases of Swine Flu (H1N1) in Italy. Enhancing personal hygiene and wearing a face-mask can help to protect against Swine Flu. If you have flu symptoms, you are advised to stay home and avoid any travel until fully recovered.

• The Italian island of Sardinia has been suffering from wildfires after an intense heat wave in mid Sept 2009. You are advised that the fires are under control and there is no threat to tourists. Please check with the local authorities and your tour operator before travelling.

• You are advised not to travel to L'Aquila, located in the Abruzzo Region (58km North East of Rome). The city was hit by an earthquake measuring 6.3 on the Richter scale on Monday 6 April 2009, which has caused severe damage to buildings in the area; over 270 people have died and up to 28,000 are homeless. The area has also experienced a number of aftershocks.

• There is a general threat from terrorism in Italy. Attacks could be indiscriminate, including in places frequented by expatriates and foreign travellers.

• There is currently a risk of unannounced wildcat strikes by municipal transport workers in cities across Italy.

• Levels of crime in Italy are generally low, but there are higher levels of crime in the big city centres. Beware of pickpockets and bag snatchers when traveling on public transport and in crowded areas. You are advised to pay extra care particularly to groups of children who may try to distract your attention whilst trying to steal your belongings.

• If you plan to drive in Italy, you must carry with you a valid driving licence, insurance and vehicle documents at all times. If the vehicle does not belong to the driver, written permission from the registered owner may also be requested.

• Travellers driving in Italy should be aware that private cars and hire cars are not permitted to enter the historic centre of many Italian cities without an official pass.

• You are recommended to obtain a comprehensive travel and medical insurance policy before travelling. You should check any exclusions, and ensure that your policy covers you for all the activities you want to undertake.