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Italy

About

• CIA World Factbook - basic facts and figures
• Embassy website - visitor information including visa requirements
• Educational and cultural information from IIE - educational and cultural information
• Arcadia's Library Lounge - recommended reading/viewing

Health and Safety

• See the U.S. State Department Consular Information Sheet for information about security within the country, for any Travel Warnings that may have been issued, as well as information about visas and other travel documentation you may need before you leave.
• See the Center for Disease Control's Travelers' Health page for information about health concerns or required vaccinations.
• Study abroad students are advised to register themselves with the U.S. Embassy in the host country, either in person or online at https://travelregistration.state.gov/.

Student Experiences

Student Blogs

• Goodbye America, Ciao Italia (Study Abroad Italy - Florence, spring 2010)

Messages from Past Students

• "It was slightly difficult to get used to the smaller, fresh produce grocery stores and lack of large American convenience centers, and cooking everyday- but it wasn't too difficult."
• "I found that dressing nicely to fit in with Italians (who tend to dress up more than Americans) helped me fit in more.  If I was dressed more American, they tended to not be as helpful or welcoming. But with a little effort shown trying to speak the native language, they were receptive and helpful by speaking English back."
• "Walking was great exercise and I got to know the city really well."
• "Save your money- there will be so many things you will want to do and buy that you just won't be able to- and there are too many things that you cannot miss out on if you are there. Don't stress about living in a foreign country- most Italians speak English and are very helpful."
• "[Italians] were very kind, in general. Much more receptive if you attempted to use basic Italian phrases/courtesies."
• "There's not a better place for any student/lover of the arts/history. Florence is the preeminent city of the Renaissance."
• "Don't simply surround yourself with those people you already know."