Read this before going to Italy!

As much as i love the land of pizza & pasta, there are some things i wished i've googled before heading there!

1. Iced coffee is NOT a thing

Italians don't drink iced coffee, majority of their cafes/restaurants don't serve them. The choices of coffee are actually very limited as most of them prefer espresso. So even a cuppuccino is really extra milky and if you're someone who always needs iced coffee to function, it's gonna be tough to find a good one.

Starbucks despite being international, doesnt have many outlets as well, and the menu isnt the full menu. But luckily they DO serve some iced variations (iced latte etc) so if you do walk by one, just grab a starbbie.

2. Transport is EXPENSIVE

I think it's a pretty know fact that transport in europe is expensive. I spent about 2k on transport on this trip. An intercity train ticket costs about SGD20-50 (eg Milan to Florence). Metro costs about SGD3-4 ( i was always charged 2.20 euros when i tapped in with my youtrip card). Booking on third party apps such as Omio & Trainline will incur a small booking fee too.

There might be cheaper modes of transport but trains are the most efficient esp travelling from city to city.

3. Cover charge

A lot of restaurant have a cover charge and it can be as low as 3 euros per person or up to 9 euros per person. This is just something to note esp if you aren't going to be having a full meal cause it might not be as worth to pay. Some restaurants have a min spending as well so always be sure to check before entering!

4. Luggage

People always say italy isnt a country to bring luggage , i do agree to a certain extent but i need my space so i can't rely on just a backpack😂 just be sure to check on the places youre heading to, if youre gg be staying at cinque terre or any remote/hilly kinda place, you'll wanna leave your luggage somewhere else.

The trains have pretty steep stairs too so it will be a lil difficult to carry it up.

5. Scams/pickpockets etc

You'll be fine as long as you ignore anyone who tries to "help you". Most of them will just walk away aft noticing that you arent falling for it. There are alot of people who will try to help you carry your luggage up the train (ppl are allowed to walk in as there isnt a gantry) . A lot will camp around ticket machines and try to "help you" translate or offer to purchase it for you.

Never accept help unless it is from someone in a uniform!

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