Food & Clothing:

If you do not love Italian food, what on earth are you doing in Italy?

Even if you do, however, figuring out where and what to eat in Italy can pose delicious quandaries for the traveler. Our advice: determine whether you desire a meal or snack, consider your time limitations, and ponder the following choices:

• Bar: The place to have espresso and all its caffeinated variations, rolls or small sandwiches, alcoholic or non-alcoholic drinks. Pay first and give the receipt to bartender with your order. Stand at the bar, or pay a service charge to sit at a table. Bars in Italy are open from early morning to late night.
• Panineria: A sandwich bar, where a quick meal can be had.
• Trattoria: Less formal than a ristorante, but a step up from most bars. Often where local specialties are served.
• Ristorante: The most formal type of place to eat when one is not in a hurry. The order of courses is antipasto, pasta or soup, main course, salad, and dessert - all accompanied by good wine.

Water in Italy is safe to drink. You will find public fountains (usually button- or tap-operated) in squares and city streets everywhere, though look out for "acqua non-potable" signs, indicating that the water is unsafe.

Tipping: in restaurants and cafes, 15% is usually added to your bill to cover most charges. An additional tip isn't expected, but it's nice to leave a euro if you've been pleased with the service. Participants are responsible for their own meals.

Dress in Italy is typical for a Western country. When teaching, be sure to adhere to the local working culture and basic ideas of professionalism. Business Casual is a safe bet.