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If you do have a smart phone, you can save on the cost of cell-based data by using the wi-fi capability of your phone when wi-fi is available, as it frequently is in public establishments in cities and towns throughout Italy. Your smart phone can also allow you easily to use the GPS tracks available for this walk (see Maps, GPS and Way Marking below).

As with most of the world, Italian electricity operates at 220v. With the dawn of international electronic appliances, most phones, cameras and computers have a 110/220v transformer built into the ‘power brick’. This means that only a plug adapter is necessary for those coming to Italy from places that use 110v or non-Euro plugs.

Business hours and the riposo

Northern Europeans and Americans are often surprised to find Italian stores and businesses closed midday. This is the riposo, the mid-afternoon rest observed in much of Italy. If you live in Italy during the summer you’ll see the purpose of this custom – the Italian sun can be excruciatingly hot in the mid-afternoon. Businesses typically close around 1.30pm and reopen around 4.30–5.30pm, once the day has cooled off.