Hi dawn,
https://www.allianztravelinsurance.com/quote. (They have senior plans too.)
Canes are allowed on plane in case one of you use one. Another option is a folding cane. Folds twice or three times. Make sure it's locked into position before use. Fits into front pocket luggage. Canes are allowed at most major tourist sites. Check official websites.
If you're new to foreign travel:
Be aware not scared.
Be vigilant about your valuables in crowds, buses, trains.
Cross body bags are good - worn in front.
Men should not put wallet or passport in back or side pockets.
Nothing in loose jacket pocket.
Keep phones/cameras on you. Don't leave on tables. Don't hang purse on back of chair.
Don't entertain people selling bracelets, flowers, baby holding, or asking for petition signatures.
Get your bus tickets at tabacchi shops. When you board a city bus, you MUST validate the ticket or be subject to a fine. There are usually two validating machines. Sometimes they don't work...
If so, on the back of your ticket, write the date, time, area, bus number (usually above driver.) If an inspector boards the bus, they will check - ticket validation or broken machine. Check YT on how to validate.
Use only the Roman Official white taxi. Check before you leap in. Look up on net or YT what they look like.
Always use Official websites for securing tickets or reservations. Read fine print/policies.
If you secure tix to Vatican, St. Peter's is free to enter afterwards. If you don't get Vatican tix, St. Peter's is still FREE to enter. Walk away from those trying to sell you tix for St. Peter's.
Security check at both.
No large bags, backpacks, luggage, umbrellas, strollers. Small day bags or totes ok - 12 - 14"
Canes okay. No hiking sticks.
No food. Bottled water okay.
Roma has cold water drinking fountains - fill empty bottle for free. Need to locate on city map. Some are Not drinkable = NON potable. Look up sign pictures.
Covered knees and shoulders for men and women to enter all churches.
Rome is a very walkable city. Around every corner is an architectural surprise and delight. Some suggestions.
*Piazza San Pietro - St. Peter's Square
*Borgo (rione) neighborhood
*Cavalleggeri (rione)
*Prati (rione)
*Stato della Città del Vaticano - The Vatican
*Piazza della Rotondo - The Pantheon (sometimes a small fee is incurred)
*Colosseo - Colosseum
*Piazza di Spagna - The Spanish Steps - 135
*Trinita dei Monti - Church above Spanish steps
*Piazza Navona
*Castel San'tAngelo - (about 10 minutes from St. Peter's)
*Fontana di Trevi - Trevi Fountain
*Largo di Torre Argentina - Cat sanctuary, Julius Caesar killed
*Galleria Borghese - Borghese Gallery
*Saint Paul's Within The Walls
*Basilica San Giovanni di Laterano - Saint John Lateran
*Piazza Venezia
*Campo de Fiori - Famous statue of Giordano Bruno
Read up on these major and important Churches and sites. Perhaps make an organized list of what you'd like to visit. All have a rich and very interesting history!
Wander. Stop in to a mom and pop eatery. Usually good, inexpensive food. Try not to eat at restaurants that line the piazzas serving expensive, mediocre food.
No tipping necessary at restaurants.
Happy planning and enjoyable travels!
