Hello, Charming Chatter Readers!
After studying abroad in Rome for a week, I thought I would make a mini-series highlighting the sights and experiences I found most worthwhile. This can be an excellent guide for prospective travelers or curious study-abroad students looking to immerse themselves in the Italian culture. Despite the brevity of my trip, my class packed a lifetime of activities into our schedule so we could truly experience the eternal city to the max. In classic Charming Chatter fashion, I will cover food (duh, this is why you visit Italy!), art and culture (to cultivate the mind), and fashion (to blend in with the locals). Side note: this piece is unofficially sponsored by Pocket Coffee, my newest favorite Ferrero product that provided a convenient and tasty caffeine rush throughout my trip. The caffè and dolci are enough reasons to return to Italy!
Additionally, I want to thank my professor, every St. John’s Rome coordinator, friends and family, and tour guides and wait staff who made this trip one I will remember forever. Your hospitality, enthusiasm, and personability made this a once-in-a-lifetime holiday abroad.
To start this series off right, I bring you the dos and don’ts of what to pack for a trip abroad (during the winter season), so hopefully, you can learn from my successes and mistakes.
Do Pack a Belt Bag
A belt bag is crucial if you are traveling abroad so your belongings remain close to your body and beyond the reach of pickpockets. The Lululemon Everywhere Belt Bag in size Large 2L proved the ideal size and model for my trip. I could comfortably fit all of my essentials, such as my passport, wallet, phone, and camera, without the fear of unknowingly being robbed since I wore it across my chest under my coat. A belt bag is also ideal for museum tours and shopping to avoid bumping into artwork or clothing displays. Choosing a more neutral color, such as black and navy blue, will ensure your bag stays hidden and doesn’t draw the attention of pickpockets.
Pro tip provided by my aunt: If your belt bag has a buckle strap, zip tie it closed to avoid it being clipped open.
Don’t Pack Flashy Designer
In conjunction with the suggestion above, avoid packing flashy designer valuables that could make you a target. While I found Rome relatively safer than NYC, being in an unfamiliar city instantly alerts those around you that you are a tourist susceptible to scammers and pickpockets. Leave the Loui at home, and opt for quieter fashion.
Do Pack Fleece-Lined Stockings
My friends and I ordered fleece-lined leggings from Amazon before our trip and are eternally grateful we did. The current temperature in Italy is warmer than the snow-ridden, brick NYC winter; however, when attending extensive walking tours on windy mornings, I promise the cold will get to you. Fleece-lined leggings ensure you don’t sacrifice style for comfort. Wear them under jeans or under skirts and dresses and be warm while doing it.
Don’t Pack Heels
I sadly learned this the hard way. While walking uphill on cobblestone streets to a distant museum, I unfortunately wrecked the heels of my favorite leather boots. Let’s all have a moment of silence for the destroyed fashion. I cannot stress this enough: ONLY PACK FLAT SHOES. I am as stubborn as the next; however, when in Rome, expect to walk everywhere. My group would clock in at about 25,000 steps daily. Trust me, your entire body will feel it if you wear the wrong shoes.
Do Pack Flat/ Comfy shoes
After this trip, I am becoming more open-minded to exploring fashionable and comfortable shoes. You don’t need to be extreme and get a pair of cross-country running sneakers, but a cute fashion sneaker or flat boot will do just fine. Something neutral in color is preferred to match with more outfits.
Do pack a Disposable Camera
After returning home from such a wonderful trip, having a disposable camera is a great memento to look forward to. Even though I have only been back for less than 24 hours, I am already missing my croissant breakfasts and the breathtaking view I was greeted with every morning while the sun emerged from the horizon. Luckily, I took pictures with my disposable camera and now look forward to developing the photos and looking through them sentimentally.
Don’t Pack Hair Tools from Home
I purchased an American dual voltage hair tool and a European outlet adaptor, especially for this trip, and was greatly disappointed when my blow drier did not work properly. Don’t waste space packing hot tools from home, and perhaps purchase a cheap curling iron from a local beauty supply store so you do not risk burning your hair off.
Do Pack Scarves and Gloves
Since most of your day will be spent in the elements, a cute fluffy scarf and warm gloves are a must for a winter trip. I also noticed that almost all Italian locals wore elegant scarves, so it’s the easiest way to adapt to the style of the region. If you forget to pack one, there are dozens of local boutiques and shopping stores with an endless variety of scarves just in case you want a functional souvenir to take home.
Don’t Pack Leggings
I referenced athleisure in my “How to Live the Good Life” series, and feel this rule deserves a second mention. Aside from being cold, leggings stick out in Italy because everyone is very conscious about looking presentable to society, a practice I adamantly subscribe to. If you are worried you may be cold, leggings are great for underneath jeans or dress pants, but not ideal if you want to respect social rules. Leggings are great for home and working out; however, opt for something more elevated for walking around town, attending cultural tours, and dining out.
Saving this for Monte Carlo
so accurate. wish i could’ve read this before my trip!!!
This is such good advice, and I can't wait to hear more about your trip!!