First impressions

For those of you who having been living under a rock (not on the rock that's and entirely different thing) I have been planning a backpacking trip and it's finally here. So this blog is for anyone thinking of backpacking italy or anywhere else in europe for a short amount of time (and for my mom... hi mom). So things I've learned thus far:

A 35l pack is perfect. I have all the necessary items and some extra room for possible purchases. It's also not too heavy and will work for a carry on (no lost luggage huzzah!). Got mine from amazon for abour $100 with back support.

Don't forget your adaptors.  If you are anything like me you can't survive without your phone or tablet or other electronic devices. To charge these in europe you need an adaptor. Glad a friend brought one. You do not want to sit next to this girl on a 10 hour flight when my nook is dead and I have nothing to read.

Careful not to get hustled. We got to rome and had to buy a metro ticket to get to our place for the night. A woman noticed us and pulled us away from the train tickets and told us to follow her to the metro tickets.  This south carolina thought this lady was the nicest person alive taking us to where we needed to go. Wrong. Right after we got our ticket she pestered us for money. I gave her 2 euro.  Not good enough. My friend gave her 4 more before she would leave. Grant it we would never in a million years found the place we needed to be but still...

Airbnb. Nough said. This site is perfect for packers. Sure you think hostels must be a cheaper option. Wrong. Hostels while sometimes are cheaper not always. For instance, we are here in italy in august... their month vacation.  The hostels are close to $40 a night in the city. The amazing little flat that we are sharing is $28 a night. Be have breakfast and a safe place to keep our things during the day. And the luxury of no lock outs and private  bath. Just check it out and compare your options.

Lastly have some fun and take it all in. These places are breath taking enjoy every second.

Picture of the jurney and first impression.  Headed to the Vatican now. More posts to come. Chiao.