Make sure before you leave home that you have your passport and various forms of currency (Euros, Canadian dollars, debit and or credit cards)!!
All travellers are responsible for getting to the airport ON TIME (9am sharp)!
We will meet in front of the Air Canada Check-in counter on the departures level. Look for Mr. Gray and Ms. Smid.
Do not have full water bottles or drinks with you due to security regulations.
There are no meals on the Air Canada flight to Montreal (unless you purchase with a VISA card). Please bring a non-liquid snack for lunch, as our flight departs around noon and arrives in Montreal at 5:46pm. The layover in Montreal is two hours, but that does not guarantee that you will necessarily have time to purchase a meal at the airport in Montreal. You may not find yourself eating a meal until well after 8pm (EST) when you get on the flight to Munich.
When you arrive at the Calgary Airport,
Chaperones will:
check you off their attendance list
check for your passports and signatures (please sign them ahead of time)
give you a baggage ribbon to tie onto your baggage
You will:
make sure you have your passport and money
watch your belongings at all times (NEVER leave baggage unattended!)
remove or tuck any straps from your luggage inside
We will then all proceed to check-in and security together. Mr. Gray will have your airplane tickets.
Don't worry about seat assignments too much at this point, as we can do some changing when we get on the plane.
Plane Etiquette:
When moving around the cabin, please be respectful of others and their space. Try to keep in your seat. Let people around you sleep if they resting. Rest and relax on the plane. You should try to get some sleep on the flight from Montreal to Munich if you can.
Arrival Day:
When we arrive in Munich, we will remain in the secured part of the airport. You will have a few hours to get a meal, stretch, etc. etc. etc.
When we arrive in Milan, we will have to clear Italian customs. Have your passport handy. Our tour guide will meet us outside of customs. She will guide us to the bus. We have a few hours of driving before we arrive in Florence. You will likely be very tired and ready to call it a night so that you are refreshed for the next day - which will be very exciting and busy.
What do I need to know about money/currency on the trip?
The currency used in both Italy and Greece is the Euro. Do not bring travelers cheques. You can use a credit card or ATM card. An ATM card must be attached to a chequing account and have a four digit pin number. While in Europe, get in the habit of getting money from ATMs a day or two before you need it, just in case you cannot find a machine. Don't forget to bring some Canadian currency for the airport in Calgary and our layover in Montreal. Euros will work for our layovers in Germany. It is a good idea to get some Euros ahead of time, as it may not be convenient to get to an ATM at all points of the trip. Also notify your bank and credit card company ahead of time of your travel plans, so that they do not get suspicious and cancel your cards. Please purchase a money belt to keep valuables concealed under your clothing.
Travelers are reminded to keep non-used currency at the hotel in the safety deposit box! Also, only keep part of your currency on person.
Another alternative is the Visa Prepaid Card:
This is a plastic alternative to travellers cheques! A new PIN and signature based prepaid card that is a smarter and more convenient way to carry your spending money with you while travelling. It can be used to withdraw cash at Visa ATMs and merchants worldwide who accept Visa cards.
Funds will be replaced if the card is lost or stolen. (subject to terms and conditions)
24hour free access to account information via the Internet.
24hour access to customer support and account information by telephone and email.
Unlimited reloads, with a maximum load of $9,000 per reload, up to a maximum $39,000 value during the life of the card.
PIN and signature protected.
A second card is available for a travelling companion, who may access the same funds – up to 2 additional cards permitted. The secondary cardholders will share the same prepaid value as the first card.
24 hour instant access to cash in local currency.
Accepted at over 1,000,000 Visa ATMs and millions of merchants worldwide
How much spending money is recommended?
The recommendations below refer to spending money per day of tour. The “minimum” only covers enough for lunches, soft drinks, postcards and stamps, while the “standard” would also cover some extra museum entrances during free time, on-tour special excursions organized by your tour director and a few souvenirs. These guidelines do not include gratuities (we have already taken care of this through fund raising) and many people elect to bring more.
Keep each days spending money separate from your main bankroll so you don't have to "dig" for funds in a public place. Cash can be kept in the hotel safe. Wear a money belt under your clothes. No fanny packs. Guard against pickpockets and purse snatchers by carrying your day pack or purse across your chest, especially on public transit, in crowded markets or squares, etc.
215, 6455 MacLeod Trail S.W. Calgary, Alberta T2H 0K8
How should I pack for the trip?
Packing suggestions for your carry-on bag/day pack:
Whatever you wear on the plane there, don't plan to wear it again - but BE COMFY! Bring a change of clothes on the plane with you (in case luggage gets lost)!
Safety Wallet for Passport & Passport Copies (Carry on your body at all times)
Debit Card (Carry on your body at all times)
Currency (Canadian and Euros) (Carry on your body at all times)
Camera (with SD cards and batteries/charger)
Hotel & Tour Info. (WGM Europe Trip 2011 Travel Guide & Lanyard with phrases and hotel information)
Pen/Paper
Journal (it may be the being of an epic novel)
Snacks (Lunch for day one as meals are not included on first flight)
Prescriptions (in original bottle)
gravol (if prone to motion sickness)
toothbrush
empty water bottle (can be filled once you pass through security)
iPod and earphones(keep on person, must be charged when passing through security)
Books/Cards - anything to kill time!
Sunglasses
WATCH! (you will need to know WHEN to meet!)
Students who wear contact lenses or glasses should bring a back-up pair and a copy of their prescription.
*Re: Liquids on the plane - everything must be 100mL or less to a MAX of 1L.
*Carry-on luggage allowance is:
-1 standard article (Maximum size: 23 cm x 40 cm x 55 cm (9 in x 15.5 in x 21.5 in) Wheels and handles included. Maximum weight: 10 kg (22 lb) and -1 personal article (Maximum size: 16 cm x 33 cm x 43 cm (6 in x 13 in x 17 in) Maximum weight: 10 kg (22 lb)
Packing suggestions for your checked in luggage:
Packing suggestion ~ LAYERS!
Two words: pack light! Participants will be responsible for loading their luggage on and off buses and trains, through airports and into hotels, so baggage should be limited to one suitcase and one carry-on bag per person. The airline standard is 23 kilos (50lbs) (includes all bags) per person. If your luggage weighs more, you might be charged a fee. Your bag should not exceed 158 cm in linear dimension (length x width x height). Lifting a suitcase off the floor at home is not the same as carrying it through a large airport!
Every bag should have an identification tag attached to it and the name of the traveller clearly written on the inside - avoid full addresses (name and phone number is better). If your luggage is the standard black bag, you should tie something that makes it unique to the outside. You should also label your luggage inside as well (in case the exterior tags get ripped off). Roll your clothing up to keep it from wrinkling.
Umbrella
A windbreaker that is waterproof
A hoody/sweatshirt (or two)
Two pairs of pants (max. recommended is three - dark pants can be work more often) (At some religious sites, visitors will be required to wear clothing that covers their shoulders and upper arms, and shorts may not be permitted.)
a few pairs of shorts (weather could be quite warm by then -*see weather details above*)
A good pair of walking shoes (that you have broken in) and a second pair for the end of day when your feet need a rest - wear one of these on the plane to save baggage space
Extra batteries (or the charger) and extra memory card for camera
Alarm Clock
Power Adaptor for electronics
an empty laundry bag - put a dryer sheet in to keep it less smelly
sunscreen
hat
Gravol (if you have a tendency to get motion sickness)
*Leave valuable jewelry at home.
Packing Like a Pro:
What are some of the rules of the road?
These are the EF tour regulations and also expectations set from Mr. Gray and Ms. Smid, WG Murdoch and Rockyview Schools:
Being part of a group:
Successful group travel is dependent upon considerate, unselfish behaviour by all members of the group.
When we have "free time" in any location, students must adhere to the "rule of four" (that means remain in a small group, unless you are accompanied by an adult), and let a chaperone (Mr. or Ms. Gray, Ms. or Mr. Smid) know where you are going.
Punctuality:
Tempers soon fray if the group is kept waiting for a few people who are always late for sightseeing tours, meals and other activities. Every day, your EF Tour Director will outline planned activities. All participants should take careful note of the schedule and always be on time. This is particularly important on the mornings of travel days—a late start may prevent you and your group from seeing and doing everything you’d hoped.
Neatness:
All participants should keep themselves and their belongings clean and orderly. Be considerate—don’t leave your hotel room or the sightseeing bus in disarray.
Meeting others:
You will be traveling with students and group leaders from Lampman, Saskatchewan. Getting to know them will be an added bonus of your educational tour.
Listening:
Listen carefully to all instructions you receive from your group leader, EF Tour Director, other guides and teachers. There will be nightly mandatory meetings to let you know of the next days plans, wake-up times and to reflect on the experiences of the day.
Please carry the name and numbers of hotel with you at all times - just in case you get separated from the group.
EF tour regulations:
• All scheduled activities are obligatory. A participant unable to attend due to a physical ailment must inform his or her group leader, who in turn should notify the EF Tour Director.
• If students wish to visit friends or relatives in a destination country, the group leader must be informed before the tour begins. (A detailed and signed letter from the parents is required prior to departure.)
• Visitors or group members of the opposite sex are not permitted in students’ rooms. Students are expected to respect the nightly curfew for their own safety and security. Chaperons will conduct room checks each night.
• Smoking is not allowed by minors on the tour. Smoking is not allowed by adults on the bus, in hotel rooms, or in the proximity of other travelers.
• Hitchhiking and the driving or renting of any motor vehicle are strictly forbidden for all students.
• The consumption of alcohol is strictly forbidden. Any participant who is drinking will result in disciplinary action, which may include dismissal from the
tour at the participant’s expense.
• Shoplifting and the possession of illegal drugs will not be tolerated and are punishable by immediate dismissal from the tour. All costs to return home are at the participant’s expense. Should the authorities be involved, participants will be subject to the laws of the country they are visiting.
• Participants are required to pay for any phone calls or incidental personal expenses incurred at hotels. These will be payable the evening before departure at each hotel.
• Compensation for damage done to hotel rooms or to buses is the responsibility of the participants.
Participants not conforming to any of these regulations risk disciplinary action and possible dismissal from the tour, returning home at their own expense. This decision is reached in consultation with group leaders, the EF Tour Director, the EF Director of Operations and the student’s parents.
Keeping in touch with home:
Students will receive an EF phone card at the departure meeting. There will be a few minutes loaded onto the card, but you can load more time onto the card prior to your departure. We will also encounter the occasional internet cafe, where you can send an email or update a blog or Facebook. Please do not rely on these, as we will have very busy days and not be at the hotel or a phone until late (which may not be a convenient time to call home due to the time change). Parents please remember - "no news is good news." Please do not bring your cell phone. The charges would be huge.
Also avoid making calls from your hotel room, as you will be responsible for the charges (which could be surprisingly high).
Parents can call EF in case of an emergency: 1-800-263-2806
Parents must keep the telephone chain chart (distributed at the departure meeting) with them at all times while we are gone. The reason for this is for a quick method of contacting all families in event of an emergency or unforeseen changes to our travel itinerary.
Tour Link: (This is a website that students can use to update family about their travels)
Who is our Tour Director?
Our tour director is Francesca Vacca. She will be with us from the time that we arrive at the airport in Milan until we catch the plane home from Athens.
"I am from the South of Italy, the town of Naples and I have been working for EF for the last 7 years. I enjoy walking, singing, dancing, discovering Europe with you." Francesca
How to deal with Jet Lag:
If you have flown to Europe, Australia or the Far East, or even just across the United States, you are probably all too familiar with the feeling of disorientation that results - better known as jet lag. When flying, jet lag occurs because we are crossing different time zones in a shorter time than the normal time our body's natural rhythms would need to adjust to the new time.
The most common symptoms of jet lag are exhaustion or insomnia, disorientation, loss of appetite, mood swings and dizziness. For women, it can also cause disturbances in the normal menstruation pattern. Around 70% of people who fly experience some degree of jet lag, particularly the elderly. Children are less likely to suffer from it.
Usually, you experience jet lag if you are flying across at least 5 different time zones; and jet lag is usually worse if you are flying eastwards; for example, from the West coast to the East Coast; or from America to Europe. To some degree, jet lag simply can't be completely avoided; it's the price we pay to be able to travel huge distances in such a short time. The dry and cramped conditions of most airplane cabins don't help to improve things either. However there are some things you can do during your flight and after you land to help alleviate the symptoms of jet lag.
While on an overnight flight, try to sleep if you can, especially if traveling eastwards. Try not to take sleeping pills or other medication to help you sleep. If you can, avoid caffeine and drink lots of water. Try walking around the airplane cabin regularly and doing basic stretching exercises, especially for your calf muscles. To help you sleep you may find earplugs and/or an eye mask useful. Take off your shoes once you are settled, to minimize swelling of the feet. You can ask the cabin crew not to disturb you; you may also be able to get your meal served sooner so you can sleep as long as possible.
Some people use small psychological tricks such as immediately setting their watch forwards (or backwards) upon boarding the plane, so that they are immediately in the frame of mind for the new time on arrival.
Once you arrive at your destination, try to adapt to the normal routine of your destination as quickly and effortlessly as possible. If it is time for breakfast when you arrive, have breakfast even though your internal clock is telling you it is dinner time. Some doctors say that daylight helps you adjust to the new time - spend as much time outdoors as you can, and try to stay active. If you arrive in Europe in the early morning, try to stay up and not be tempted to take a nap; go to bed as close as you can to your normal bedtime and you will probably sleep fairly well and be rested the next day.
In theory it takes one day to recover completely from jet lag for each one hour time zone crossed; for example if you fly to Europe and the time difference is 6 hours ahead, you won't completely recover until 6 days - although most people are alright after a day or so.
Italy may be very tourist-friendly and known for fashion, but it is generally considered rude to walk around town in bikinis, beach attire, short shorts, and skimpy outfits.
Greeks are very aware of their strong historical and cultural heritage. Traditions and customs differ throughout Greece, but overall a strong sense of unity prevails. The Greek Orthodox Church has a strong traditional influence on the Greek way of life, especially in more rural areas. The throwing back of the head is a negative gesture. Dress is generally casual.
If there is an emergency, dial 113. It is the Italian equivalent of Canada's 911.
If in distress, yell AIUTO (pronounced ay-you-toe), which is Italian for HELP!
Serious crime is rare, however pickpockets and purse-snatchers are common in large cities. Crowded tourist sites all over the world are at pickpocket and gypsy risk and Italy is no exception. One should always be on alert for these petty thieves, but a good offence is the best defence. Keep your money hidden preferably in an inside pocket or money belt.
Italian tap water is sometimes heavily chlorinated, so it's best to drink bottled water. Also mineral water is available in all flavors : gassata (bubbly) naturale (non-bubbly) and semi-gassata like Ferrarelle -somewhere in the between
Don't wait for the check, you must ask for it.
Tipping is usually done with cash, and is usually 'servizio' is included but a small tip is always appreciated.
Although normally shops are open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3:30/4 p.m. to 7:30/ 8 p.m., in large cities and tourist areas there is a tendency to stay open from 9.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. with possible variations from town to town.
The electrical current in Italy is AC - the cycle is 50Hz 220 V. A tourist carrying electrical appliances to Italy should have a transformer, either obtained before leaving your country or bought at an electrical appliance shop in Italy. Plugs have round prongs, not flat, therefore an European Plug Adapter (round pin) is needed.
As part of our ongoing commitment to ensure the safety and security of travelers, the Italian Government Tourist Board strongly recommends that tourists do not, under any circumstances, attempt to purchase any counterfeit items, as this may end up costing them well more than an authentic product. As of May 2005 a new legislation was implemented (which carries fines of up to 10,000 Euros for people caught purchasing counterfeit products, and criminal charges for anyone caught selling counterfeit goods.) It aims at a national wide crackdown on the sellers and buyers of counterfeit items, i.e. purses, sunglasses, watches, belts, etc bearing luxury labels such as Prada, Gucci, Fendi only to name a few.
Departure Day Information - Friday, April 22nd:
Make sure before you leave home that you have your passport and various forms of currency (Euros, Canadian dollars, debit and or credit cards)!!
All travellers are responsible for getting to the airport ON TIME (9am sharp)!
We will meet in front of the Air Canada Check-in counter on the departures level. Look for Mr. Gray and Ms. Smid.
Do not have full water bottles or drinks with you due to security regulations.
There are no meals on the Air Canada flight to Montreal (unless you purchase with a VISA card). Please bring a non-liquid snack for lunch, as our flight departs around noon and arrives in Montreal at 5:46pm. The layover in Montreal is two hours, but that does not guarantee that you will necessarily have time to purchase a meal at the airport in Montreal. You may not find yourself eating a meal until well after 8pm (EST) when you get on the flight to Munich.
When you arrive at the Calgary Airport,
Chaperones will:
check you off their attendance list
check for your passports and signatures (please sign them ahead of time)
give you a baggage ribbon to tie onto your baggage
You will:
make sure you have your passport and money
watch your belongings at all times (NEVER leave baggage unattended!)
remove or tuck any straps from your luggage inside
We will then all proceed to check-in and security together. Mr. Gray will have your airplane tickets.
Don't worry about seat assignments too much at this point, as we can do some changing when we get on the plane.
Plane Etiquette:
When moving around the cabin, please be respectful of others and their space. Try to keep in your seat. Let people around you sleep if they resting. Rest and relax on the plane. You should try to get some sleep on the flight from Montreal to Munich if you can.
Arrival Day:
When we arrive in Munich, we will remain in the secured part of the airport. You will have a few hours to get a meal, stretch, etc. etc. etc.
When we arrive in Milan, we will have to clear Italian customs. Have your passport handy. Our tour guide will meet us outside of customs. She will guide us to the bus. We have a few hours of driving before we arrive in Florence. You will likely be very tired and ready to call it a night so that you are refreshed for the next day - which will be very exciting and busy.
What should I expect for weather?
Rome Weather in April
Current Weather Forecast in Rome
Athens Weather in April
Current Weather Forecast in Athens
What do I need to know about money/currency on the trip?
The currency used in both Italy and Greece is the Euro. Do not bring travelers cheques. You can use a credit card or ATM card. An ATM card must be attached to a chequing account and have a four digit pin number. While in Europe, get in the habit of getting money from ATMs a day or two before you need it, just in case you cannot find a machine. Don't forget to bring some Canadian currency for the airport in Calgary and our layover in Montreal. Euros will work for our layovers in Germany. It is a good idea to get some Euros ahead of time, as it may not be convenient to get to an ATM at all points of the trip. Also notify your bank and credit card company ahead of time of your travel plans, so that they do not get suspicious and cancel your cards. Please purchase a money belt to keep valuables concealed under your clothing.
Travelers are reminded to keep non-used currency at the hotel in the safety deposit box! Also, only keep part of your currency on person.
Another alternative is the Visa Prepaid Card:
This is a plastic alternative to travellers cheques! A new PIN and signature based prepaid card that is a smarter and more convenient way to carry your spending money with you while travelling. It can be used to withdraw cash at Visa ATMs and merchants worldwide who accept Visa cards.
Funds will be replaced if the card is lost or stolen. (subject to terms and conditions)
24hour free access to account information via the Internet.
24hour access to customer support and account information by telephone and email.
Unlimited reloads, with a maximum load of $9,000 per reload, up to a maximum $39,000 value during the life of the card.
PIN and signature protected.
A second card is available for a travelling companion, who may access the same funds – up to 2 additional cards permitted. The secondary cardholders will share the same prepaid value as the first card.
24 hour instant access to cash in local currency.
Accepted at over 1,000,000 Visa ATMs and millions of merchants worldwide
How much spending money is recommended?
The recommendations below refer to spending money per day of tour. The “minimum” only covers enough for lunches, soft drinks, postcards and stamps, while the “standard” would also cover some extra museum entrances during free time, on-tour special excursions organized by your tour director and a few souvenirs. These guidelines do not include gratuities (we have already taken care of this through fund raising) and many people elect to bring more.
Minimum: 35 $CAD
Standard: 75 $CAD
Online Currency Converter
Euros look like this:
Some Money Tips:
Keep each days spending money separate from your main bankroll so you don't have to "dig" for funds in a public place. Cash can be kept in the hotel safe. Wear a money belt under your clothes. No fanny packs. Guard against pickpockets and purse snatchers by carrying your day pack or purse across your chest, especially on public transit, in crowded markets or squares, etc.
Check this Blog for tips on avoiding pickpockets
Currency Exchanges in Calgary:
Albern Coins & Foreign Exchange Ltd
1615 Centre St NW, Calgary, AB T2E 2S2
Calforex
215, 6455 MacLeod Trail S.W. Calgary, Alberta T2H 0K8
How should I pack for the trip?
Packing suggestions for your carry-on bag/day pack:
Whatever you wear on the plane there, don't plan to wear it again - but BE COMFY! Bring a change of clothes on the plane with you (in case luggage gets lost)!
Safety Wallet for Passport & Passport Copies (Carry on your body at all times)
Debit Card (Carry on your body at all times)
Currency (Canadian and Euros) (Carry on your body at all times)
Camera (with SD cards and batteries/charger)
Hotel & Tour Info. (WGM Europe Trip 2011 Travel Guide & Lanyard with phrases and hotel information)
Pen/Paper
Journal (it may be the being of an epic novel)
Snacks (Lunch for day one as meals are not included on first flight)
Prescriptions (in original bottle)
gravol (if prone to motion sickness)
toothbrush
empty water bottle (can be filled once you pass through security)
iPod and earphones(keep on person, must be charged when passing through security)
Books/Cards - anything to kill time!
Sunglasses
WATCH! (you will need to know WHEN to meet!)
Students who wear contact lenses or glasses should bring a back-up pair and a copy of their prescription.
*Re: Liquids on the plane - everything must be 100mL or less to a MAX of 1L.
*Carry-on luggage allowance is:
-1 standard article (Maximum size: 23 cm x 40 cm x 55 cm (9 in x 15.5 in x 21.5 in) Wheels and handles included. Maximum weight: 10 kg (22 lb) and -1 personal article (Maximum size: 16 cm x 33 cm x 43 cm (6 in x 13 in x 17 in) Maximum weight: 10 kg (22 lb)
Packing suggestions for your checked in luggage:
Packing suggestion ~ LAYERS!
Two words: pack light! Participants will be responsible for loading their luggage on and off buses and trains, through airports and into hotels, so baggage should be limited to one suitcase and one carry-on bag per person. The airline standard is 23 kilos (50lbs) (includes all bags) per person. If your luggage weighs more, you might be charged a fee. Your bag should not exceed 158 cm in linear dimension (length x width x height). Lifting a suitcase off the floor at home is not the same as carrying it through a large airport!
Every bag should have an identification tag attached to it and the name of the traveller clearly written on the inside - avoid full addresses (name and phone number is better). If your luggage is the standard black bag, you should tie something that makes it unique to the outside. You should also label your luggage inside as well (in case the exterior tags get ripped off). Roll your clothing up to keep it from wrinkling.
Umbrella
A windbreaker that is waterproof
A hoody/sweatshirt (or two)
Two pairs of pants (max. recommended is three - dark pants can be work more often) (At some religious sites, visitors will be required to wear clothing that covers their shoulders and upper arms, and shorts may not be permitted.)
a few pairs of shorts (weather could be quite warm by then -*see weather details above*)
Nine t-shirts/long sleeve shirts
Underwear and socks (for nine days please!)
PJ's
swim suit
Toiletries (shampoo, brush, soap, toothbrush, toothpaste, deodorant, etc.)
A good pair of walking shoes (that you have broken in) and a second pair for the end of day when your feet need a rest - wear one of these on the plane to save baggage space
Extra batteries (or the charger) and extra memory card for camera
Alarm Clock
Power Adaptor for electronics
an empty laundry bag - put a dryer sheet in to keep it less smelly
sunscreen
hat
Gravol (if you have a tendency to get motion sickness)
*Leave valuable jewelry at home.
Packing Like a Pro:
What are some of the rules of the road?
These are the EF tour regulations and also expectations set from Mr. Gray and Ms. Smid, WG Murdoch and Rockyview Schools:
Being part of a group:
Successful group travel is dependent upon considerate, unselfish behaviour by all members of the group.
When we have "free time" in any location, students must adhere to the "rule of four" (that means remain in a small group, unless you are accompanied by an adult), and let a chaperone (Mr. or Ms. Gray, Ms. or Mr. Smid) know where you are going.
Punctuality:
Tempers soon fray if the group is kept waiting for a few people who are always late for sightseeing tours, meals and other activities. Every day, your EF Tour Director will outline planned activities. All participants should take careful note of the schedule and always be on time. This is particularly important on the mornings of travel days—a late start may prevent you and your group from seeing and doing everything you’d hoped.
Neatness:
All participants should keep themselves and their belongings clean and orderly. Be considerate—don’t leave your hotel room or the sightseeing bus in disarray.
Meeting others:
You will be traveling with students and group leaders from Lampman, Saskatchewan. Getting to know them will be an added bonus of your educational tour.
Listening:
Listen carefully to all instructions you receive from your group leader, EF Tour Director, other guides and teachers. There will be nightly mandatory meetings to let you know of the next days plans, wake-up times and to reflect on the experiences of the day.
Please carry the name and numbers of hotel with you at all times - just in case you get separated from the group.
EF tour regulations:
• All scheduled activities are obligatory. A participant unable to attend due to a physical ailment must inform his or her group leader, who in turn should notify the EF Tour Director.
• If students wish to visit friends or relatives in a destination country, the group leader must be informed before the tour begins. (A detailed and signed letter from the parents is required prior to departure.)
• Visitors or group members of the opposite sex are not permitted in students’ rooms. Students are expected to respect the nightly curfew for their own safety and security. Chaperons will conduct room checks each night.
• Smoking is not allowed by minors on the tour. Smoking is not allowed by adults on the bus, in hotel rooms, or in the proximity of other travelers.
• Hitchhiking and the driving or renting of any motor vehicle are strictly forbidden for all students.
• The consumption of alcohol is strictly forbidden. Any participant who is drinking will result in disciplinary action, which may include dismissal from the
tour at the participant’s expense.
• Shoplifting and the possession of illegal drugs will not be tolerated and are punishable by immediate dismissal from the tour. All costs to return home are at the participant’s expense. Should the authorities be involved, participants will be subject to the laws of the country they are visiting.
• Participants are required to pay for any phone calls or incidental personal expenses incurred at hotels. These will be payable the evening before departure at each hotel.
• Compensation for damage done to hotel rooms or to buses is the responsibility of the participants.
Participants not conforming to any of these regulations risk disciplinary action and possible dismissal from the tour, returning home at their own expense. This decision is reached in consultation with group leaders, the EF Tour Director, the EF Director of Operations and the student’s parents.
Keeping in touch with home:
Students will receive an EF phone card at the departure meeting. There will be a few minutes loaded onto the card, but you can load more time onto the card prior to your departure. We will also encounter the occasional internet cafe, where you can send an email or update a blog or Facebook. Please do not rely on these, as we will have very busy days and not be at the hotel or a phone until late (which may not be a convenient time to call home due to the time change). Parents please remember - "no news is good news." Please do not bring your cell phone. The charges would be huge.
Also avoid making calls from your hotel room, as you will be responsible for the charges (which could be surprisingly high).
Parents can call EF in case of an emergency: 1-800-263-2806
Parents must keep the telephone chain chart (distributed at the departure meeting) with them at all times while we are gone. The reason for this is for a quick method of contacting all families in event of an emergency or unforeseen changes to our travel itinerary.
Tour Link: (This is a website that students can use to update family about their travels)
Who is our Tour Director?
Our tour director is Francesca Vacca. She will be with us from the time that we arrive at the airport in Milan until we catch the plane home from Athens.
"I am from the South of Italy, the town of Naples and I have been working for EF for the last 7 years. I enjoy walking, singing, dancing, discovering Europe with you." Francesca
How to deal with Jet Lag:
If you have flown to Europe, Australia or the Far East, or even just across the United States, you are probably all too familiar with the feeling of disorientation that results - better known as jet lag. When flying, jet lag occurs because we are crossing different time zones in a shorter time than the normal time our body's natural rhythms would need to adjust to the new time.
The most common symptoms of jet lag are exhaustion or insomnia, disorientation, loss of appetite, mood swings and dizziness. For women, it can also cause disturbances in the normal menstruation pattern. Around 70% of people who fly experience some degree of jet lag, particularly the elderly. Children are less likely to suffer from it.
Usually, you experience jet lag if you are flying across at least 5 different time zones; and jet lag is usually worse if you are flying eastwards; for example, from the West coast to the East Coast; or from America to Europe. To some degree, jet lag simply can't be completely avoided; it's the price we pay to be able to travel huge distances in such a short time. The dry and cramped conditions of most airplane cabins don't help to improve things either. However there are some things you can do during your flight and after you land to help alleviate the symptoms of jet lag.
While on an overnight flight, try to sleep if you can, especially if traveling eastwards. Try not to take sleeping pills or other medication to help you sleep. If you can, avoid caffeine and drink lots of water. Try walking around the airplane cabin regularly and doing basic stretching exercises, especially for your calf muscles. To help you sleep you may find earplugs and/or an eye mask useful. Take off your shoes once you are settled, to minimize swelling of the feet. You can ask the cabin crew not to disturb you; you may also be able to get your meal served sooner so you can sleep as long as possible.
Some people use small psychological tricks such as immediately setting their watch forwards (or backwards) upon boarding the plane, so that they are immediately in the frame of mind for the new time on arrival.
Once you arrive at your destination, try to adapt to the normal routine of your destination as quickly and effortlessly as possible. If it is time for breakfast when you arrive, have breakfast even though your internal clock is telling you it is dinner time. Some doctors say that daylight helps you adjust to the new time - spend as much time outdoors as you can, and try to stay active. If you arrive in Europe in the early morning, try to stay up and not be tempted to take a nap; go to bed as close as you can to your normal bedtime and you will probably sleep fairly well and be rested the next day.
In theory it takes one day to recover completely from jet lag for each one hour time zone crossed; for example if you fly to Europe and the time difference is 6 hours ahead, you won't completely recover until 6 days - although most people are alright after a day or so.
http://www.essortment.com/deal-overcome-jet-lag-29972.html
Some Travel Tips for Italy and Greece:
Italy may be very tourist-friendly and known for fashion, but it is generally considered rude to walk around town in bikinis, beach attire, short shorts, and skimpy outfits.
Greeks are very aware of their strong historical and cultural heritage. Traditions and customs differ throughout Greece, but overall a strong sense of unity prevails. The Greek Orthodox Church has a strong traditional influence on the Greek way of life, especially in more rural areas. The throwing back of the head is a negative gesture. Dress is generally casual.
If there is an emergency, dial 113. It is the Italian equivalent of Canada's 911.
If in distress, yell AIUTO (pronounced ay-you-toe), which is Italian for HELP!
Serious crime is rare, however pickpockets and purse-snatchers are common in large cities. Crowded tourist sites all over the world are at pickpocket and gypsy risk and Italy is no exception. One should always be on alert for these petty thieves, but a good offence is the best defence. Keep your money hidden preferably in an inside pocket or money belt.
Italian tap water is sometimes heavily chlorinated, so it's best to drink bottled water. Also mineral water is available in all flavors : gassata (bubbly) naturale (non-bubbly) and semi-gassata like Ferrarelle -somewhere in the between
Don't wait for the check, you must ask for it.
Tipping is usually done with cash, and is usually 'servizio' is included but a small tip is always appreciated.
Although normally shops are open from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. and 3:30/4 p.m. to 7:30/ 8 p.m., in large cities and tourist areas there is a tendency to stay open from 9.30 a.m. to 7.30 p.m. with possible variations from town to town.
The electrical current in Italy is AC - the cycle is 50Hz 220 V. A tourist carrying electrical appliances to Italy should have a transformer, either obtained before leaving your country or bought at an electrical appliance shop in Italy. Plugs have round prongs, not flat, therefore an European Plug Adapter (round pin) is needed.
As part of our ongoing commitment to ensure the safety and security of travelers, the Italian Government Tourist Board strongly recommends that tourists do not, under any circumstances, attempt to purchase any counterfeit items, as this may end up costing them well more than an authentic product. As of May 2005 a new legislation was implemented (which carries fines of up to 10,000 Euros for people caught purchasing counterfeit products, and criminal charges for anyone caught selling counterfeit goods.) It aims at a national wide crackdown on the sellers and buyers of counterfeit items, i.e. purses, sunglasses, watches, belts, etc bearing luxury labels such as Prada, Gucci, Fendi only to name a few.