Another suggestion: The advice about eating where the locals eat is good, but there is a caveat: In Siena, we heard Italian being spoken all along the Campo, under all the red awnings. So, if this is good for the Italians, it is good for us. Had the worst dinner anywhere in the world there. As we were grumbling and eating we noticed that the Italians were leaving their tables, leaving us seated among the many various tour groups.
When I told this to our hotel owner she laughed and said that they go to that area to have a drink before dinner, then eat at one of the many restaurants on the streets behind the Campo. Next night Ashley and I did just that, then found a little restaurant somewhere behind the campo.
My feet started swelling almost right away as we were walking quite a bit, even tho we stopped in the middle of the day to relax somewhat. That was a concern for me. I started to take an aspirin everyday. Rome was blisteringly hot. I was quite tired when we got home. My aged body took quite a beating, but I wouldn't change a thing.
So, thanks to all who so generously gave their time and expertise and experience. It really helped.
I paid cash for everything except the train tickets for which I used VISA. The ATM worked wonderfully, I had two cards so I would be able to get as much money as needed in one day. By paying cash, I got a 6-10/% discount in all the hotels except in Zurich and got a discount on earrings; they waived the VAT tax, even tho the amount was less that whatever is usually needed.
Bought most tickets thru the machines, using the cashiers only when I needed to ask a question. Bought most tickets the day we needed them with no problem.
After the first train station, you realize how the system works and had no trouble finding trains.
So good luck to everyone who is taking her first trip abroad. It was wonderful.