Booked..and reading too much now I am scared

Don't be scared. Wear a money belt or money pocket under your clothes to safeguard your credit cards, passports and cash. Read up on the scam artists so you know what to avoid beforehand. Plan on taking a siesta in the afternoon to recoup from the heat. Wear loose fitting light weight clothing and comfortable, well-broken in footwear. The RS website has lots of useful tips and tricks which will help you. You will have a wonderful time. Enjoy!

No, it isn't that bad. From a European perspective, travelling in the USA is much more scary (they have guns there, and they mug people). Things always look worse from a distance, crime rates are lower in most of Europe than in the USA.
Walking through a crowd in a tourist area with a thick wallet sticking out of your back pocket, I would not do that.

I don't know why I worry so much. I appreciate the kind words. I hope to put this behind me soon and start planning our free days.

Don't be scared! The only crime you have to watch out for is pickpocketing.
What you don't carry around, can't be stolen. Limit yourself to the money you're likely to spend on that day and your ID. Put those in a money belt, or somewhere deep down in a zippered bag. Leave the rest at the hotel in a safe or in your suitcase.

Be excited!

You are actually steps ahead of many who travel as you have found this collection of smart, savvy, friendly travelers! Just be smart about your valuables - get a money belt and keep valuables in there. Put nothing you can't afford to lose in your pockets. If you set your day bag/purse down keep an eye on it, if at a restaurant run a strap through an arm of the chair, put a backpack on the ground between your legs - do this always on a subway or bus. Spend some time with a map of your destination and routes to places you will go - this will help cut down on the being lost and looking like deer in the headlights time. Pickpockets like easy targets - do not be one.

Here is a great thread to read - lots of tips!

Go - relax - have a great time!

Just for your info, my 80-years father has spent all his life in Italy, but for two 1-year jobs in the USA - one in California in early sixties, one in Texas in late seventies. He has been mugged once at gunpoint during the single year he spent in Texas, but never in the 78 years he spent in Italy.

Is it really that bad?

No. Yes, there are some pickpockets but they're nothing to worry about at all if you proactively take the proper precautions with your valuables. We don't use moneybelts - there are multiple ways of keeping your goodies away from light fingers depending on personal preference - and have never had a problem. Best advice? Quit reading about all the stuff to be afraid of and read a lot more about how NOT to have be afraid of those things.

Great country; you'll have a terrific time!

Your post made me laugh.

On one RS tour, the guide told us the story of warning her group about the need to be aware of one's surroundings when walking around in Rome. Apparently, she did too good a job because the group was elated when they "managed" to make it back to the hotel without being accosted!

Seriously though, practice good situational awareness and enjoy your trip.

Millions upon millions of people vacation every year in Italy (and all over Europe) with no crime issues whatsoever. I'd say your chances are very low. Just don't do something stupid (like carry all your money in your wallet in your back pocket or flash wads of cash) and you'll be fine. I'm assuming if you have a free day, you will just take the money you would need for the day and not carry a wad of cash.

I've been to Italy 4 times and never had an issue. I had two girls try something on an escalator in Paris, but I realized what was happening and they didn't get anything. Just be aware of some of the scams that can be pulled (found gold ring, petition girls - ugh, the worst) and try to be aware of your surroundings. I can honestly say in 5 trips to Europe, other than the inept girls in Paris, I have never been worried for my safety or possessions (and I wasn't during the Paris incident either).

I am more concerned about your visits Rome Florence and Venice in 1 week .Did I read this right? That's a lot of touring in a small amount of time. As for security concerns common sense will guide you as many travelers already mentioned. I will be on my 2nd visit to Italy in August and stay for 2 nights in Rome. I also read up about people that pick your pockets and invested in a money belt. My last visit to Italy I experienced no problems however I was in smaller towns. I will be there in August as well and may I suggest for you to bring a hand held battery operated fan for your father? I always bring one when I go to Africa it helps a lot lol. They are fairly inexpensive. Happy Travels.

How wonderful that you've booked this trip for you and your Father! I'm 72 and my husband is 82 and we spend 5-6 weeks in Europe twice a year. Sometimes on a tour, sometimes on our own or a mix of the two. Right now, we're traveling on our own in France. The two biggest suggestions I can offer are be flexible and allow for down times/naps for your Dad. The heat can be tiring. If you see him becoming weary, head for a cafe and enjoy a drink and some people watching. It's amazing how that will get us re-energized. We always walked or used public transit until the past few years. Now, we save our energy and take a taxi or Uber in some situations.

Now, about safety. We pack light and wear money belts and have never felt any reason for fear. My husband wears a money belt, but, also, wants that billfold in his pocket. Because of this, he's donated to the local economy three times. In spite of being sure that no one could possibly get into his pocket without him knowing, he never noticed any of these incidents when they happened. I'm telling you this so you know that there was no danger to him - they just wanted his money and it was easy pickings.

I can't tell you the number of times people have stepped in and helped us as we've traveled. One time, my husband fell on the street leading to the Vatican. Immediately, four young men were there to help him to a bench and make sure he was okay (he was). One of them ran into a cafe and came out with a glass of water for him and another made sure I knew where the nearest hospital was. The kindness we've experienced while we've been traveling far outweighs the pick picking experiences.

Go to Italy and make some wonderful new memories!

My 80 yr old dad and I travel and we have never had any problems in Italy.
FOCUS ON BOOKING TICKETS FOR WHAT You want to do. That will save you time and standing in heat.
In Florence: book tickets in advance for the Accademia (Statue of David) and Ufitzzi ( sorry about spelling)
If Rome; if you want to see the Sistine Chapel and Vatican, I would highly recommend the Pristine Sistine Tour. gets you into Vatican Museum ahead of most tourist, very good guide and made the experience so easy.
Rick's book detail most of these and others on this site will have great suggestions and better spelling.
( We also did the Hop On Hop Off bus in Rome - stayed on for whole loop and then got off where we wanted)
Enjoy ( dont forget a hat, water bottle and dont pass up any gelato stands!!)

Now, about safety. We pack light and wear money belts and have never felt any reason for fear. My husband wears a money belt, but, also, wants that billfold in his pocket. Because of this, he's donated to the local economy three times. In spite of being sure that no one could possibly get into his pocket without him knowing, he never noticed any of these incidents when they happened. I'm telling you this so you know that there was no danger to him - they just wanted his money and it was easy pickings.

Nancy, this made me laugh! We, too, have "contributed to the local economy," but we never were hurt and never lost more that a couple of euro. In fact, one particularly deft pocket picker actually returned the tiny tote bag he had lifted from my day bag! I didn't even know my zipped bag had been breached until the pickpocket pointed to my "wallet" on the floor.

Gallos5oh: Please don't be afraid. You will not be hurt, and you don't need to spend the whole time looking over your shoulder. As others have suggested, don't carry more in your pockets or visible bag than you'll be needing for that day's excursion. Replenish your pocket cash when you go back to the hotel for rest time.

I, too, am concerned that you're trying to pack too much into one week. You're already anxious, and I think trying to cram three attraction-full cities, plus travel between them, into one week is overdoing it. How about dropping one of those? Frankly, if it were me and I only had one week, I would pick one of those cities and enjoy myself. Which city is the one you really want to see. Or your Dad: does he have Rome or Venice on his wish list? Florence is less frenetic than either of those, and would make a lovely week's sojourn.

One of my favorite Rick quotes is "Assume you're coming back." In other words, don't try to squeeze too much into your precious time. Have a wonderful trip, and chill. Buon viaggio!

Thank you!!!! All the kind words and your time to post them is appreciated.

Money belts will get ordered soon! and the hand held fan I love that idea!

I appreciate the concern for our busy week. we are on a tour. The one we chose has a free day in each city. I thought this was important to give us a leisurely day to rest. I didn't think we could handle touring from different locations if we had to do our luggage on our own. I want to keep it as low key as I can but also offer Dad the chance to see the big things on his list. I am hopeful he won't get too exhausted and if he does we will taxi back to the hotel and chill. The trip is all about him getting to see Italy. If we miss something no big deal to me. I appreciate all your ideas and your making me feel better about the trip. Thanks everyone!

If you are really worry about body injury or dangerous situation, then walk to your airport. Your greatest risk of body injury will be the drive to and from you airport. And you don't think twice about the drive. And remember on the internet, it is far more exciting to discuss the bad things that happen rather than non-events. Over the past 20+ years we have spent nearly a year in Europe including some of the great pickpocket cities of the world, with no lost of anything and cannot really say that even saw a pickpocket. Ya, a couple suspicious situations but no damage. Stay alert, and use common sense and you will be fine.

All pickpockets want is your cash. Credit cards, billfolds and pocketbooks can get them caught.
I seldom carry very much cash--at home or abroad. And when traveling to places with known pickpockets, I don't carry with billfolds and any possessions are carefully hidden.
You just have to be pro-active and not leave yourself open to be "a mark."

What gets me is that in many places, like the Paris Underground, the security forces see the same faces all day long and they know who the pickpockets are. And they do nothing about combating them. It's almost like they're an accepted profession in some places.

Gallos5oh,
I think your choice of a tour is a good idea considering your father's age. The tour will get you from A to B with a minimal amount of hassle so your father can rest during transport days. You can then join the tour at the location or not, depending on your father's likes and interests. While all the forum comments on scams and pickpockets are interesting to read, they are overly alarming. I can't see where you live, but if you are used to any urban environment, you will be fine. Money belt or zippered compartment in cross body purse will be fine (cross body because it can stay attached all day if out and about). My family has one international pickpocket story (the other was here in Boston): My 30 year old step daughter showed me her money belt in the airport. I said it wouldn't do any good in her purse. She put it on. Hours later leaving Rome's central train station with back pack on, she had Rick's tour book in one hand and her hip bag in the other, waving them around. I refrained from saying anything because she was 30 years old and I was't going to nag her the entire trip. We weren't out of the station a block when some little old ladies converged on her and lifted her address book, but because she had her money belt on she was fine and had a fun story. A zippered compartment in her purse would have provided the same protection. A pac safe or travelon purse would have also worked, or if her behavior was less flamboyant... My point is she was waving a red flag to all pickpockets that she was there, a tourist, and hands full so come get me! On the other hand, my neck pouch broke in the middle of Florence's train station and contents spilled all over the floor...no one approached while I picked everything up. Or, a friend left her purse on an Italian train when she got off (no money belt and obviously she hadn't had it cross body). She reported it and waited. The purse was removed at the next stop and sent by train back to her with nothing missing. In other words, don't be afraid, people are people everywhere, good and less good. Some slight urban precautions and you will be fine. (BTW, I don't wear a neck pouch any longer, LOL.) You both will have a great trip! Wray

I had a long gap between trips to Italy and scared myself reading about troubles for tourists. Stop reading those things! You now have enough info on how to stay safe, just concentrate on the lovely thing you are doing with your Dad.

😀 breathe deeply and have fun. I am trying to concentrate on all of the fun we will have. I will stop reading the reviews on the tour company and the pickpockets. It is all so darn creepy, and your all right I should be reading the good stuff. I have traveled to Mexico and the reviews you read about going there would make your hair turn grey, unless you are Already grey like me.

Thanks ...you are all fantastic

Definitely do not be scared!
The warnings are just to make you aware of where your belongings are.
Pick pockets make money off of people that are not paying attention and overall crime level is probably less than in your hometown.

It is natural to feel that way now, but once your boots are on the ground, I assure you will feel much more secure and safe!
Given your father's age, my one concern would be the heat and how much walking / moving around you may be doing visiting 3 cities in as you describe it a short timeframe so if you can make sure the plan has time for ample breaks worked in or things listed that you are fine with not getting around to.

I think someone else mentioned taking an afternoon siesta. I'll second (or 3rd or 4th) that. We generally travel mid-late Sept, but a few years ago went the first few weeks of Sept - Amalfi/Rome/Venice (me and hubby and my mom - she was 67 then and loves to walk). Things had cooled some when we hit Venice, but it was so blasted hot in Rome and Amalfi. Luckily, our accoms were pretty central, so my mom and I would get up and go out early (7am) for an hour or so, come back, have breakfast and collect the non-morning person and head back out.

Usually from 2-4pm, if we were nearby to our accoms (about half the time) we'd go back to the room to get a respite from the heat (and sometimes to take a 2nd shower to get the sweat off). Hopefully the tour hotels are fairly central in case you have to do this. Carry some empty water bottles with you as well - Rome at least is pretty good about having public drinking fountains where you can fill up your bottles. I can't tell you how many times we filled our bottles. You will want to stay hydrated for sure, and buying bottles of water can get pricey if you do it a few times a day. Also - eat gelato!

As Nicole mentioned, don't be afraid to drink tap water!

I do have to comment on David's assumption that the Paris Metro police indifferently allow the pickpockets to ply their trade. First, they have to catch them in the act, or victims have to press charges if the thief is caught. Remember that they are also dealing with flashers, gropers, jumpers, and terror suspects, in addition to the pickpockets.

Interesting new tourism and safety idea from Frank -- walk to the airport. Would that be a guided tour or "on your own"? One would need to carry plenty of water, I imagine, wear good walking shoes, and be careful crossing those highways. If anyone does that, be sure to file a Trip Report on the forum!

Hydrate, hydrate, hydrate. You don't say where you are from, but heat can be different in different places. Lack of hydration affects your concentration and energy, and therefore situational awareness. You may have to encourage your dad to drink more liquids then usual.

We are in Ohio just outside of Cleveland, go Cavs!. It's pretty warm here this time of year but can vary a lot. One day mid 80s next 90 next 60. I did explain to Dad that it will be hot, and I have checked with the tour to see if we are worn out if they will help secure a cab for us to return to the hotel. They said yes.... I will if they don't. I do worry it will be too much but o fine with skipping tours and just wandering.

Do most hotels have a/c? I am assuming they do but I guess I should have asked. Ugh so many things to consider. Dad went last year to Scotland and froze in July. He had a hard time with the hills there but was sick too. Hoping he is healthy for this adventure.

Do most hotels have a/c?

No.

Those which do have it will say prominently. Expect that even if they do offer it you may be disappointed by the strength of cooling.

Seriously? Where are you from? There is virtually no violent crime involving tourists in Western Europe. Virtually every incident involves someone getting drunk at 3 am and getting into a bar fight which I am not sensing is part of your plans. . PIckpockets are ubiquitous in Europe; so what? If you don't carry valuables carelessly (nothing in pockets, nothing valuable in a backpack -- stow valuables in hidden pockets, in money belts in transit (not for access in public) or in the hotel safe) then no one can steal them. Most of the time you would not even notice until you went for your wallet and it was gone. These are not muggings. The places you are going are a paradise in terms of safety compared to pretty much any US city. So if you are from the US then the safest week your father will experience this year will be this trip.

I have spent months in Florence, weeks in Rome and a week in Venice. Never saw any signs of crime except 35 years ago some children tried to get in my bag by holding a newspaper out to me while the sibling got his hand in my bag. He got nothing because I didn't carry valuables there. These little thieves are probably in their 40s and 50s today and are probably better at it now.

You won't get mugged, shot or eaten by an alligator in Italy. Much safer than church, the mall, the theater or school in the US.

Ouch....I simply said I am scared, i am traveling with my father and I need to aware of him as well as me. And since I speak no Italian I think it's normal to be nervous about travel. I am grateful for the kind people here who took their time to answer my questions. I hope we have a great trip and that all goes well. Thank your for your input.

You and your dear father will have the most wonderful time! My husband and I took his 80 year old mother on a one week guided tour of Venice, Florence and Rome a few years ago. Two nights in Venice, two in Florence, and three in Rome. Our bus stops in between those destinations included Assisi and Pisa. We crammed in a lot of sightseeing in a short amount of time! Would we have liked a longer vacation with more time to explore each of these cities in a more leisurely fashion? Of course. But this short trip was all our budget could handle at the time. My mother in law got her first-ever passport and she was so excited to be going to Italy! We tried to tell her that while on the trip, she should not carry a purse. It would be extra weight to carry around, could involve some risk of theft, etc. We certainly could carry anything she might need. She stubbornly refused to be without her purse, but did bring one that she could wear cross-body and she carried no valuables in it. We never had any scary incidents of any kind. We didn't use any buses or subways, however. That particular tour group stayed in hotels that were very centrally located, and there was a lot that we could do within walking distance of each hotel on our free time. My mother in law never stopped singing the praises of that trip to Italy for the rest of her life. She loved every minute of every day. The tour company that we picked was perfect because they offered airport transfers, door-to-door service while on tour (e.g., the bus always dropped off right in front of the hotel), baggage handling, etc. Prior to the trip, we learned of a place in Rome that would rent a wheelchair to us for a day, delivering it right to our hotel, and we did arrange for this, as we thought it would be a great way to spend our free day in Rome, seeing things that were within walking distrance for my husband and me, but might be too much walking for his mother. The rental of a wheelchair was a mistake. It was very difficult for my husband to push the chair over cobbled streets and on crowded sidewalks that didn't level off at the street corners. The ride was very bumpy for his mom! So if this idea occurs to you, my advice is to not act on it! I'm very happy that we were able to give my mother in law the opportunity to experience Italy when she was 80. You are not going to ever regret this trip!

If you can possibly learn a few basic phrases in Italian, it will boost your confidence and add to your enjoyment. In addition to being able to communicate better, you'll understand a little more of what's going on around you.

I've found that Italian people are vastly appreciative when a tourist makes an effort to speak Italian, even just to say "please," "thank you," "hello," and "goodbye."

Of course, "where is the lavatory?" is also useful ("dov'e la toilette?" "dov'e il bagno?" or "dov'e la convenienza?").

Thank you Vickie, I appreciate your sharing your lovely trip.

gallos,

It's normal to have a sense of trepidation when venturing into an unknown and unfamiliar environment. My suggestion would be.... don't be scared, be prepared! You can do that by using a Money Belt, practicing situational awareness and doing a bit of research on the usual scams and the manner in which pickpockets operate. There will be pickpockets about, but if you take a few precautions, you shouldn't have any trouble.

A few other tips......

• DON'T access your Money Belt where others can see. It's for "deep storage" and not to be accessed for minor purchases.
• Split your cash and other valuables into several locations. If a theft does occur, you won't have lost everything.
• Be vigilant for "disruptions" in places like Escalators (ie: someone ahead of you trips and falls, causing everyone to bunch up behind you. That's a classic tactic used by pickpockets.
• If you haven't travelled in italy before and are planning to use public transit (ie: Metro, Buses, Vaporetti), there are a few potentially expensive caveats to be aware of. If you need further information, post another note.
• If you have any other concerns or questions, the well travelled group here can certainly help with those.
• Even though you're on a tour, you may find it helpful to have a look at the RS Italy guidebook, as there's a lot of good information there.

Now that we've got that covered, it's time to start being excited again!

Thank you... I am trying to get excited☺️. I guess I am a bit of a control freak and need to know all my facts/variables up front.

gallos5oh, if you try to measure ALL the variables, you'll go nuts. Try not to do more than necessary and just exacerbate your anxieties further? As well prepared as one can be there's always the chance of something that may not go according to plan. It's best for your sanity to be mentally prepared to just roll with things we simply have no control over!

I can't remember if this was mentioned earlier but when those belts arrive, test them out by wearing them for some hours, and some of that time outside in the heat, if possible. See how comfortable they are for both of you? As mentioned earlier, some of us simply can't tolerate the things, and there are other ways to get the job done if you and/or Dad end up feeling the same. If they DO work, then you're good to go!

I would be sure to purchase trip insurance which covers both medical evacuation and trip cancellation. Check your current policies to see what they cover and then supplement as necessary.

I haven't seen this mentioned, but HATS for everyone!! My husband gave in and bought one in Italy in late April because the sun was fierce. I also carry and use a "cooling scarf" which is soaked in water and helps dissipate body heat (sporting goods store, about $10) And as mentioned, lots of water. Gelato whenever possible, too ;-)

Gallos5oh, I'm so happy that you have received such good advice, and in particular the real-life experiences of older travelers with your question. I hope they have reassured you and I agree, you're truly offering your father (and yourself) the trip of a lifetime! I hope you have a great time.

Gallos5oh..you will have a wonderful trip with your father and the memories will be priceless! I have travelled to Italy/Europe many many times with my husband and 2 kids and never had any incidents. Have also done 3 girls trips to Italy with my 2 sisters & niece all without incident. You are going with the right attitude that it is about your father and you will see what you see. Buon viaggio! P.s. the battery operated fan is a great idea. In summer months I always throw 1 in & have used it. pked up at Walmart but $ Tree may have too. Throw in extra batteries too.

We just made it back from the trip you are considering with everything intact. Even with a 13 and 16 year old in charge of their own phones, sometimes passports and cash! Do the moneybelt thing, be aware of your surroundings and realize that these scenarios that you're envisioning are recoverable from. Especially if you are in the care of a tour company. Enjoy!

Thank you!!!!' I hope you had a lovely time. I am getting excited now. I think i have my brain wrapped around all the worries. Now if I only knew what to pack....lol

I dress here in Chicago the same way I dress in Italy, I wear a RS money belt or RS neck wallet cause the cops won't let me wear a purse or bag of any kind.

Mostly I wear the RS neck wallet, and I wear it long under my shirt and tuck it inside my panties so it acts like a money belt, but easier for me to use.

I reach under my shirt, lift the wallet up slightly, unzip the compartment where my card is, use the card, put it back in its pocket, and tuck the whole thing back inside my panties. I do this facing a counter.

So for me, going to Italy is no different than walking outside my door in Chicago. So start now practicing using the neck wallet and money belt.

crime rates are lower in most of Europe than in the USA

I doubt that this is true, but statistics on tourist type crime are not uniform so it is impossible to say for sure. Since Europeans are a lot more blase about petty crime (pickpocketing, stolen phones, car break ins) than Americans, this implies to me that these types of crimes are a worse problem in Europe than the USA.

As a older male (65 last trip), I had read all the concerns for pick pockets in Rome and some other places. After the first day or two I stopped wearing the money-belt and carried my wallet in my back pocket with about $100 US and my debit card and drivers license. I mostly wore jeans or docker pants. We rode the "bandit bus" in Rome, the Metro in Rome, walked all over and never had a problem. Just be smart and aware of your surroundings. Never flash a lot of cash or walk away from your day bag. We rode the trains and used RS Backpacks an always kept our bags at our feet or side. Pack extra light especially for August. Follow Ricks tips no more than 4-5 changes of clothes, 1 comfortable pair of shoes. Carry your bank card info with you in case you do lose your card. Both should have copies (duplicates in case you lose one and email a copy of all you info to yourself at gmail or yahoo so that worst case scenario you can use any computer to get another copy of any emergency information. Wireless is everywhere. Relax, the trip will be great. Take it slow and don't feel you have to see everything. Ciao!

Gallos5oh,
I've taken three trips to Italy with my elderly mother (she's in her 80's) & have not had any issues.
You've received great advice thus far but I will add my 2 cents:

• Make sure your dad stays well hydrated on the plane as well as on land.

• Make sure your dad exercises his legs, by walking up & down the aisle of the plane every couple of hours.

• Make sure he packs any necessary medications (prescription & OTC), an extra pair of glasses (if indicated) & a pair of comfortable walking shoes.

• Check what his medical insurance covers (overseas), & get travel insurance.

• Take as many breaks as necessary.
  I've learned to travel at my mom's ( slower) pace.

• If you will need to get cash from ATM during your travels, use a bank ATM during business hours.

• Keep your valuables in the money belt, worn under clothes.

• Take lots of photos... And have a
  wonderful trip!

The thing that some people fail to realize is that you are in complete control of whether you get pickpocketed in Italy. Put your wallet in your back pocket (like a recent response) and don't be surprised if someone steals it. Keep your money and credit/debit cards where a pickpocket can't reach them and you'll be fine.

And consider using bank ATM machines inside an Alcove which contains the entrance door to the bank. That way the bank employees can see you at the ATM.

I find Alcoved ATMs much safer than ATMs built into a side wall away from doors and windows.

Ok, Sandra, why can't you carry a bag? I'm just curious. Are you a police are security officer? Don't answer if it's too personal or private; you just whetted my curiosity.

Gallos5oh,

I'm going to echo a few here. We just got back from a couple weeks in Rome - Florence - Venice.

No issues of petty crime. Travel safe and smart. Have a blast. Drink lots of water.

Just to add other Italians are Terrific stories ....

I have left my cross body bag in a restaurant bathroom in Narni. The owner turned it in immediately to the Poliza. Then took me the next day by the hand and directly to the office and would not leave until (finally) my bag was located. I've had complete strangers on a back road in Tuscany stop and help me get my car out of a ditch (yes, I didn't realize there was a drop off until my front wheel slid into it and the rear end of my car was up in the air about 4 feet). I even met the owner of a vineyard when I ended up lost in a tiny village outside Montalcino who got in her car and lead me down the narrow lanes and to her vineyard (and pulled out a very special Riserva Brunello for me as a gift for being tenacious at finding her vineyard).

I've had strangers hand me parking meter coins when I didn't have enough, and I've done the same for many American tourists who have no idea that the city meters take only coins. The sheep farmer down the road has helped me get my dog back out of the herd of sheep (where he thinks he is a lamb and wants to play with all the other little cute lambs). When my train ticket blew right out of my hand, the conductor smiled and told me no problem and helped me up with my bag.

I am 60 years old, stand out as a 6 foot tall American woman, and I travel all over Italy by myself by car and train. I have never felt the least bit nervous except in Naples and once in Rome at the train station when there was an obvious group of "distract and grab" pick pockets. Just don't call attention to yourself and walk with confidence!

If your dad needs a rest, I am willing to bet you have people coming to offer you help, a cold glass of water and the seat with the best breeze.

Hotels don't always have air conditioning -- it is a luxury here. If yours do not, ask that the bus stop at a large grocery store or hardware store and buy a fan for 16 Euros. Maybe one for each of you to keep you cool at night. Keep your window shutters closed during the heat of the day, and open them at night if you get a breeze. Rome is extremely hot these days. Most of Italy is predicted to have temperatures in the mid 90's to low 100's starting next week, so just make sure you always have water and a hand held fan. I carry a washcloth so I can dip it in any fountain I come across for a cold compress on the back of my neck, forehead and wrists. It really helps.

And one more tip: If your tour is not going to your preferred destination in the morning slot, consider arranging it on your own. By mid afternoon the streets are extremely hot, especially in older sections of the cities. See churches in the afternoons, and walk to destinations or outdoor attractions in the mornings. There is a good reason restaurants are closed typically between 4:00 and 7:00. It is just too hot to eat!

Have a fantastic time! Your father is a lucky man ---- he's going to have a fabulous trip!
Ciao!
Catherine

Thank you all so much. My anxiety is much better these days and I am getting excited. I will be sensible when traveling between cities and use a cross body bag or money belt, hotel safes etc to keep the passport safe. Otherwise it will all be fine!

I can't thank you all enough for you kind words and offers of info. I will be sure to post when we return from our grand adventure!

PS I bought the little hand held fan, works great!

I just want to say Catherine, your post totally rocks! I am 60 too, so could relate.
Cynthia