What to Expect

Temperature and Climate: Autumn daytime average maximum temperatures are 16-22 degrees.

Daylight hours: In autumn the sun rises about 6.30 am and sets at 5.30 pm.

 

Language: It is helpful if you know some basic Italian expressions. The local people are friendly and like to talk, so the more you know the better. They are also very courteous. If you have an opportunity to attend a language course, we recommend it highly. John and Jacqui are intermediate level Italian speakers and can help with language, communication and translation.

Currency: The Euro is common across all European Union countries. The exchange rate generally sits around the 50c. That is, NZ$1 = €0.5.

Getting around: We will meet you at Ancona Airport or Railway Station. If you are travelling from Rome by train you can also stop at Jesi Railway Station. Throughout the tour we will have two vehicles capable of carrying all group members. The tour price includes the cost of vehicle hire and fuel. You will be transported to each of the photography locations, plus there will be walking tours of the local environment.

Accommodation: We are staying at Parva Domus in Montecarotto, near Jesi. There are three fully-equipped apartments, with pergola, bbq area, swimming pool, and a shared laundry. Depending on the makeup of the group (maximum 6 persons) there is sufficient room for each person to have a separate bedroom, while bathroom, lounge and cooking facilities may be shared. Rooms are not serviced. As you could be sharing an apartment it is important that, in consideration of others, you keep common areas tidy and clean. See more at: www.agriturismoparvadomus.it

Additional nights: You are welcome to stay additional nights before or after the tour dates. The tour covers 10 nights from 27 September 2010 to 7 October 2010 inclusive. Additional nights will cost $100 per person per night.

Food: The cost of meals is additional,although there will be a welcome meal and a shared meal with the accommodation's owners. There is a cafe/bar in the village, an inexpensive restaurant and a fine dining restaurant. The apartments are fully-equipped for cooking, so you can buy your food from supermarkets and the local markets and cook for yourself. A typical breakfast at a cafe/bar costs approximately €3. Dinner at the inexpensive restaurant costs approximately €15.

Local shops: The village of Montecarotto has a population of 2,000 and boasts bakeries, pizzeria, cafe/bars, restaurants, supermarket, butchers, fresh pasta shop, fish market.

Clothing: Italians are known for their sense of style. If you don't want to stand out, dress smartly. A pair of sturdy walking shoes will be needed.

Fitness: All trips are optional. We will spend time at both the Adriatic Coast and in the Apennines. A reasonable level of fitness for walking will add to your enjoyment of the tour. It is common for us to be on foot, around hilltop villages, for several hours at a time. You need to carry your own camera equipment and need sturdy walking shoes or lightweight boots. There are usually cafes nearby where you can have a break and enjoy a drink and a snack.

Travel Insurance: We recommend purchasing travel insurance at the time you pay for your air tickets. Our experience is Southern Cross Travel Insurance, which you can book online, is the cheapest full cover.

Passports: Check your passport will remain current for the entire period of your travel. Further, ensure that your passport is valid for six months after the date you intend to leave Italy.

Smoking: The accommodation is non-smoking. Bars, restaurants, cafes and shops have been non-smoking since January 2005.