[Idyllchat] Hello Everyone

[Lynanne]

Hi, Barbara,

I am a 73-year-old traveling woman who goes to Venice alone.  

I don't know much about the rest of Italy, but in any city the main
problems - whether traveling alone, man or woman, young or old, or in
groups - are the gypsies who pick your pockets/purses.  They concentrate
in the high tourist areas and seem to go home in the evening when most
tourists are gone. (I think they have a regular work day like the rest
of us, only it's 7 days a week.)  If you catch them in the act, they
just disappear, no violence.  But remember, this is their living, and
they are professionals, and they train their little children to be
professionals also.  Don't feel sorry for those little muppets!

On one visit to Venice, a gentleman told me his friend had his fanny
pack on his stomach, and his hand on it, when it was pickpocketed.  He
didn't know it until later when he went to get his money - that wasn't
there.

I've heard from others that Rome is especially bad for this.  The
pocketbook that I carry is from Eagle Creek that has double zippers that
I use a combo lock on.  It's out in plain view, and I've never had a
problem.

In all the small towns I'm sure you wouldn't have that problem, but just
always be aware of your surroundings, and watch each others' backs.

I can't think of any problem I've had as a woman, or of traveling alone.
Of course, my solo travels have been limited to Venice. 

Don't worry about your questions.  That's why we're here, and we love
helping other Untourists.  So bring those questions on!

Lynanne

BTW - Congrats on your 60th.  Hope you will celebrate all your
milestones with an overseas trip.  Try Venice next time - you'll love it
:-))

---------------- 
Visit my new online journal, or web log (blog) (updated with posts from
me while in Venice) at: www.lynanneg.blogspot.com 
---------------

On Fri, Sep 29, 2006, 2:30pm Barbara wrote:

I am new to this chat as well as to Untours. While I haven't yet made a
commitment, my "girlfriends" and I are planning a 60th birthday
celebration next year in Tuscany! We are seriously contemplating the
9/26 tour but are torn between Southern and Northern Tuscany. Any light
you can shed or the pros and cons of each would be greatly appreciated.
Also, for any travelling women out there, what are your experiences in
Italy? Good? Bad? Things to watch out for? 
I have many more questions so please share with me and excuse the deluge
of questions you will undoubtedly receive from me. 
Thanks! 
Barbara