Travelling with teens

I've travelled with two cute teenage girls and never had a problem. They stick with us and don't go drinking at Campo dei Fiori in Rome. The older is fluent in Italian and the Italian waiters enjoyed flirting with her in their own language. One wanted to met after work but she didn't. I think they're a bit young to have to worry about the boy issues. I would make sure they always know the name of the hotel if they ever do get separated from you. I would probably choose a hotel not by the Termini in Rome as even if it's safe it is a long walk from the fun evening spots and you might not feel comfortable. Summer evenings in Italy are lovely and there are alot of people out and about.

They are 18. Blonde. and will not be leaving my sight!

They are 18. Blonde. and will not be leaving my sight!

Italian men have generally mellowed since their Casanova reputation days so you don't need to worry on that score, especially since the girls won't be out drinking on their own.

Italy's also a lot safer than here when it comes to violent crime. Your biggest issues are going to be pickpockets and getting mowed over by Roman traffic. Money belts and common sense take care of the former. Common sense and prayer take care of the latter ;-) Or use the strategy I adopted: find an Italian mamma with a stroller and follow her across the street.

I agree Liz. I once watched an Italian Nun attempt to cross a street in Rome and they didn't stop for her either. I always try to stay in Pedestrian only zones and hope a Vespa doesn't take us out.

18 and blonde?

Stories of Italian men being past their Casanova days are greatly exaggerated...

At 18 you can coach them on being wise -- but should brace them for being flirted with.

In those locations, especially in the touristy zones, safety is not really an issue. Pickpockets outnumber safety concerns 1,000 to 1.

A couple of watch areas are: Southwest and south of Termini STation in Rome; West of the train station in Florence. Both are where seedy people can find seedy activities if so inclined (not sure where the seediness breeds in Venice).

You should be fine as a sole parent -- the simple fact that you are thinking ahead tells me you pay attention to your surroundings. An aware traveler is a safe traveler.

I traveled in Rome / Florence / Venice when I was 22, and did so as the only male with some female freinds who were 19/20 at the time (that's been 20 years ago). Teach your girls to use firm flirty rejections for the funnest way to keep the few overly outgoing Italian men at a distance... responses like: "Oh, you are so sweet! It's a shame you'll be going out alone tonight." then walk away... is clever enough to earn a chuckle, but flirty enough not to seem like an ugly tourist.

You and your girls will be fine!!

Have a great trip.

The worst we had was at an international vintage car event at an expensive Italian beachtown. A very old elegant Italian man came up to our 22 year old and patted her hand and told her in Italian she was beautiful. She courteously smiled and thanked him and then he swiftly grabbed her breast. She was astounded, told him he was a dirty old man in perfect Italian and walked away.

Sorry. I would have had to slap him, stomp on his foot and/or grab his nipple and twist...
You are much more gracious...

Sorry. I would have had to slap him, stomp on his foot and/or grab his nipple and twist...
You are much more gracious...

Tell dds to watch out for pickpockets,, I mean that,, that will be the hardest thing to keep on about. Especially anywhere crowded, buses, tube, anywhere that anyone can stand or get within an arms reach of you without you thinking anything of it,, thats when you keep your purse close, and nothing much in it for them to steal!

I have spent a few days in Rome ,, alone with a 11 yr old,, and I did feel very safe,, all except for the pickpockets. We were fine though,, so its not that bad,, I am used to being wary as I have travelled alone with my kids, and alone too.. Europe is way safer feeling then alot of other places we visit, including the many places in the States and Canada.