TOURIST TRAPS (As in any major city...)

Rome is no different to any other major city in the world, so as long as you aware of the problems you will be able enjoy this beautiful city.

Pickpockets (generally referred to as "gypsies") are extremely active around the the main tourists sites, even inside major churches! The number 64 is a favourite for pickpockets running between the main train station, Termini and St Peter's. If you see mothers holding babies with a blanket and/or rough-looking kids showing you an old newspaper or a piece of cardboard, hold on to your possessions! Do not keep all your money in one place. Do not have your backpack on your back on public transport and be extra careful in crowded areas.

Centurions (gladiators) at the Colosseum will ask you if you want to take a picture with them . It is a fun thing to do but be aware that they will expect a tip! The more people in the photo, the larger the tip should be.

Leather goods shopping in the street. Do be aware that all these goods are copies. Still lots of good purchases to be made. Make sure you bargain and do not pay the first price asked even if you have to walk away.

TaxisAlways take a licensed cab or taxi (they are white with a taxi sign on top). Make sure that the driver turns on the meter on and check the amount on the meter before paying. For taxis that are telephoned for, the meter starts from when the driver receives the call and not from when they pick you up. You can flag down a taxi anywhere as long as the light is on. The starting rate is higher between 10pm and 7am. A luggage charge applies to taxis to and from the airport.

THE WEATHER IN ROME

Rome enjoys long summers and mild winters. It has a very short Autumn and Spring. The coldest month is February, although the temperature never really drops below +4 degrees Celsius. There can be four seasons in one day in March and November, so bring your umbrella! During winter, it is not uncommon to have a minimum temperature of 12 degrees Celsius and a top temperature of 18 degrees. Summers are hot and sunny with a top temperature that can range from 28 to 38 degrees. Remember not many places have airconditioning. Always carry a bottle of water so you do not dehydrate. The drinking water from the many fountains around the city is probably the cleanest in the world!

PUBLIC TRANSPORT

The ATAC buses (orange or green ones) are quite efficient and will take you to the major sites. The Metro train network is a fast service, with stops at the Colosseum, St.Peter's, Spanish Steps, Termini Station and St.John's in Lateran. The bus/Metro fares are valid for 75 minutes costs 0.77 Euro, a ticket valid for 24 hours costs E3 Remember to validate your ticket before you take the trains and immediately on the bus.

INTERNET SERVICES

There are many Internet points around Rome. The most popular (and probably the cheapest) is EasyEverything at Via Barberini No 2. Open daily 24/7. Get a card from the machine at the entrance. There is also a café.

OPEN MARKETS

Via Sannio in San Giovanni (Metro A line) Clothes, shoes and accessories in are available daily (except Sunday) from 8.30am to 1.30pm. Porta Portese market (Trastevere) is open on Sunday mornings until approx 1.30pm Here you can find pretty much anything you could possibly want. However watch out for the many pick pockets around the market. Campo dei Fiori market . Famous market right in the historical center. Sells freshfruit and vegetables, fish, spices and a few items of clothing. A little more expensive than the others.