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Post by Emma on Oct 15, 2004 9:12:00 GMT -5
OK, first hi everyone! This site has some really great information, just have a few questions in relation to my actual plans:
I am (hopefully, still have to get in) going to be studying Italian in Perugia this summer. Classes would be June and July, but I am planning on going a little early to see a bit of France and staying about 20 days later to visit family in England. Overall, the dates are looking like May 23 through Aug 23. Because I am travelling I would like to keep my luggage down to one carryon sized bag (to help with running to catch a train, etc.) but have to supply my own linens for the apt. we will be living in.
What would you suggest in the way of things to bring/ leave behind? What is a good way to fit as much as possible in one suitcase (I'm only bringing clothes that I plan on throwing out, so I figure that I will have plenty of space after that to put new purchases in) and I know I'll have to fit: sheets, a towel, Italian coursebooks and possibly a pair or two of shoes.
Also, I know of a few places in the UK to see for familial purposes (Nottingham, Canearvon, Leeds, Lancaster...) but what would people suggest that I not miss? I've been there before, done the London tourist thing, been to Brighton, seen Sherwood Forest, gone to Whitby...
Similar situation in France, the plan is to fly into DeGaul, spend a couple of days in Paris, but then I have a few more days on the way to Perugia... What would you suggest that is on the same route as I would take by train to get to Italy, so that I'm not backtracking?
Thanks so much for your help!
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Post by Eagle on Oct 15, 2004 10:40:46 GMT -5
EMMA, this isn't completely on topic concerning your question, but since you haven't registered on the Board I couldn't send you a PM.
I would be interested on some of the details of the courses you will be taking in Perugia? I've been studying Italian for the past couple of years, but only have the opportunity to take College night school courses. Unfortunately, the courses aren't being offered this Fall so I'll have to continue on my own. I've thought about studying in Italy, something I might pursue further once the time (work!) & money get sorted out a bit.
A few thoughts and questions occurred to me after reading your Post. Just to confirm, are you taking a Suitcase or a Backpack? A Backpack (possibly with companion Daypack) would probably be the easiest thing to travel with, especially if you're "running to catch a train". Some Pack models have a separate compartment at the bottom, which might be ideal to store the Linens; you could use that compartment for souvenirs and/or shoes on the way home.
As far as what to bring, I tend to operate on the principle that one should "pack the same for three weeks as for three months". I tend to use "travel friendly" clothing and do laundry when required. I try to take minimal clothing (3 shirts, 2 prs. of trousers, misc. stuff), but I'm still working on the most efficient packing system (something I will probably never perfect). However, if the "throw away" concept works for you, by all means.
As far as places to visit in the U.K. -- Edinburgh, York, Bath, Cotswolds, the Lakes District and Wales come to mind. I'm thinking I might add the Ironbridge area (Shropshire, I believe) to my Itinerary for the next visit also.
If you're going to be visiting here on a regular basis, you might want to register on the Board? Good luck with your trip planning!
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Emma
Full Travel Member
Posts: 40
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Post by Emma on Oct 15, 2004 15:59:42 GMT -5
OK, the program that I am going on is through my school, but what it does is hook up with the Universita per Stranieri in Perugia, which is there for the purpose of teaching Italian to foreigneres, and I bet you could enroll by yourself.
As for what I am bringing, I actually have an old printer carrying case (no label) that works similar to a softsided suitcase, which fits the carryon specifics, but also has a shoulder strap and worked really well for me when my dad and I went to England last spring.
The plan is to take as much as possible that I can throw away, so hopefully that will give me plenty of space... What would everyone suggest I bring for the apartment I'll be living in for two months?
As for where, I'm definately stopping in Wales, I'll be the first one in my family back in 130 years! Thanks for the advice!
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Emma
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Posts: 40
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Post by Emma on Oct 15, 2004 16:19:39 GMT -5
Also, the holidays are coming up, and I want to ask for things that will be useful... What would you say are the top 3 things you need? What would you suggest that I ask for?
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Post by Kim on Oct 15, 2004 18:11:20 GMT -5
Hmm.. excellent question.
1) Backpack - that is the immediate one that jumps to mind. Maybe decide on the one you like and find who has the best price then let them know so you end up with the one you want.
2) Good walking shoes. You definately, definately need some comfortable (but of course, still cute!) shoes as you will be putting many miles in.
3) A good digital camera, if you don't already have one. If you do, an additional large memory card would be a good gift. Also, if you plan on charging batteries, a voltage convertage and plug adaptors.
Smaller things:
Guidebook
Money belt
Toiletry bag (get one with a hook so you can hang it)
Travel journal
Travel insurance
Kim
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Post by me on Oct 16, 2004 14:23:53 GMT -5
Emma,
if there's an address to which you could mail yourself a package in Perugia, it might be best to just mail the sheets to yourself. that way, you wouldn't have to lug them on your travels. or, maybe just buy some sheets in Italy?
if you sent it far enough in advance, even cheap surface mail (with lower postage) would have the time to get there.
- d
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Post by LHR02 on Oct 16, 2004 15:06:02 GMT -5
My thoughts too....for your linens, either mail them to yourself there or budget to buy them once you arrive. Towels and sheets are bulky and heavy, and not all that expensive so why not just pick them up once you arrive? In fact....I don't think I would even bother with the cost of mailing, just plan to buy them there. They really won't be all that much more in the end.
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Post by Eagle on Oct 16, 2004 16:24:30 GMT -5
Emma, I wouldn't bother mailing anything to yourself in Perugia, as you might get nicked for Customs Duties, VAT (or it's Italian equivalent) or whatever. Your best bet for the linen is to find a budget store and buy them when you arrive.
The other option might be to contact the University, as they may have a source of supply set up for students (after all, the other foreigners that are attending these courses also need linens, so they may have something arranged with a local supplier?).
Just a thought......
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Emma
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Posts: 40
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Post by Emma on Oct 17, 2004 8:09:51 GMT -5
Thanks guys, I was thinking that I would just take something old (and worn out) and throw it out, but I was worried about space and I am definately leaning towards buying some sheets there. I figure I'll bring a towel, cause I'll need it even if I've travelling.
Here's what I've come up with to ask for so far: laundry line, travel guides on Umbria (I thought I was going to Florence earlier, so all my information is based on Tuscany), maybe a packing cube or two?
What else am I missing that you wouldn't travel without? Off the top of my head (in a 7 * 14*21 in suitcase) I have
my Italian books
towel
clothing (whatever I have that it fairly worn out, so I can toss and buy new ;D)
workout shoes
flip flops
toiltries (shampoo, conditioner, face wash, etc.)
or what should I cut out? I'm planning on wearing my jeans if I bring them, as well as a comfy pair of walking shoes. I'm not counting on any space in my carryon bag, because I always have to bring HUGE bottles of water on the plane, so all the space is taken by that.
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Post by Eagle on Oct 17, 2004 18:52:47 GMT -5
Emma, a few questions on the travel items you listed. It would help to know what types of things you have now?Some comments on the items you are asking for, and items you might need: > Laundry line - the best laundry line I've found so far is the one offered by Magellan's ( www.magellans.com ), as it uses good quality surgical tubing, doesn't require clothespins and MOST importantly has loops on the end instead of those goofy suction cups! > Packing Cubes - I'm a big fan of packing cubes. I use both Packing Cubes and Pack-It Folders from Eagle Creek and they really help me to stay organized when travelling. The Rick Steves Cubes are about the same, but they're a mesh construction rather than the standard Cordura nylon. A bit lighter but maybe not quite as durable? > Do you have a Money Belt yet? Don't leave home without it! > Umbria Travel Guides - I've never seen any specfic to the area. The Rick Steves Italy 2004 would probably work well, as it covers all the areas you're likely to travel in. > Towel - were you thinking of a "travel towel" or a normal one? The travel towels work well and dry quickly, but they're not as soft. Again, check Magellan's. > What kind of Camera or electrical gear will you be travelling with? Digital Cameras present special challenges when travelling (check other Posts on this Message Board). As Kim suggested, you will probably need Plug Adapters for electrical gear. Also, MOST important, make sure your electrical devices are capable of operating on a 240 volt electrical system! Hope these few comments will help in your planning. Good luck!
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Emma
Full Travel Member
Posts: 40
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Post by Emma on Oct 17, 2004 19:20:19 GMT -5
OK, what I have: 35 mm camera, towel (one old, soft, worn out regular and also a small chamois, haven't decided, because I don't really like the feel of the chamois, and it doesn't dry as well), I think I have Rick Steve's Italy 2004 at home (but I'm at school, and thus can't check....hmmm.... I should probably ask about that  ) As for the other stuff, I was planning on asking for it, with the exception of the packing cubes, which I am still on the fence about... I have a small space, and if you add in the books/ shoes/ other irregularly shaped items... |
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Post by me on Oct 17, 2004 20:16:07 GMT -5
What else am I missing that you wouldn't travel without? Off the top of my head How about a good hat? I'm not counting on any space in my carryon bag, because I always have to bring HUGE bottles of water on the plane, so all the space is taken by that. can't you just carry that seperately? use the carryon for stuff you'll need! |
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Emma
Full Travel Member
Posts: 40
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Post by Emma on Oct 18, 2004 10:24:01 GMT -5
Kind of like Libby said somewhere else, I look awful in hats so that's not coming. As it stands, I know I will reuse my water bottles (Nalgenes) and I also am trying to limit what I bring as much as possible. If I operate under the assumption that I can't use my carryon, I'll be more descriminating in what I pack, and (hopefully  ) not have to deal with two heavy bags. |
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Post by me on Oct 18, 2004 16:04:57 GMT -5
what i most often do: pack everything in a mid-size backpack w/ detachable daypack. carry it all on, so i don't have to wait for my bag on the other end. this also makes sure i won't have too heavy a load as i travel. - d If I operate under the assumption that I can't use my carryon, I'll be more descriminating in what I pack, and (hopefully ) not have to deal with two heavy bags. |
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Emma
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Post by Emma on Oct 18, 2004 16:50:12 GMT -5
Oh, sorry if I wasn't clear, I'm using a carryon sized suitcase, but also bringing a purse. I was calling my purse my carryon... I'm already planning on only bringing what I can take on with me, because on my last trip we had to turn down a delayed flight (with free tickets attached) because our luggage had already been routed. I'm not missing a chance like that again!  All I meant is that I am not planning on packing anything in the purse, becuase that way, I'll plan on bringing less stuff with me, and it will be easier to deal with at the airport. I usually only plan on having water, tickets, passport, a book and my glasses case in my purse. Sometimes a little food as well. That way if I end up having to fit a little more in I have space in my carryon, without anything threatening to burst. |
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) not have to deal with two heavy bags.
All I meant is that I am not planning on packing anything in the purse, becuase that way, I'll plan on bringing less stuff with me, and it will be easier to deal with at the airport. I usually only plan on having water, tickets, passport, a book and my glasses case in my purse. Sometimes a little food as well. That way if I end up having to fit a little more in I have space in my carryon, without anything threatening to burst.