IRELAND

Below you will find some specifics about Ireland as a whole.  Also, the optional excursions are further explained and researched for your convenience.

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8 Optional Sightseeing Excursions
Irish breakfast at hotel. Today you will have three options (additional costs apply for options #1 and #2).

• Option #1- You will enjoy a day trip to Galway and the Cliffs of Moher. Situated on the Atlantic Ocean and bordering the Burren Area, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights. Standing 230 meters above the ground at their highest point and 8 km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara. Later we’ll arrive in Galway, known as the City of Tribes. You’ll have free time for lunch, shopping and dinner before we return to Dublin ($95 extra per person which includes admission to Cliffs of Moher and full-day bus transportation).

• Option #2- You can elect to visit the Guinness Storehouse Brewery this morning and spend the remainder of day with free time in Dublin ($30 extra per person which includes admission to Guinness Storehouse Brewery and bus transfer from hotel to attraction and drop-off in Dublin).

• Option #3 – Free day to spend in Dublin. 

• A load of craic! No, it is not what you think.  This is referred to as "fun", so it is natural to be taken aback at first, but you'll catch on!
• Famous symbols of Ireland will be visible and often found in all parts of the country.  Keep your eyes peeled!
• Harp - National symbol; also found on the Guinness logo
• the Celtic cross - possibly introduced by Saint Patrick, combining the symbol of Christianity with the sun.
• The shamrock - some believe it was Saint Patrick's tie from Roman Catholic church to nature in the 5th century.  Three leaves = Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.
• Ireland is greatly famous for literature.  Many famous authors, poets, and playwrights were Irish. For example: Oscar Wilde, Emma Donohue, Bram Stoker - Dracula and James Joyce - Ulysses and Finnegan's Wake.  If you're big into literature, try checking out some popular bookstores.
• Look out! Drivers are on opposite side of road that we are used to. Look both ways, but look right first!

ITALY

Below you will find some specifics about Italy as a whole.  Also, optional excursions are further explained and researched for your convenience.

FRIDAY, MAY 10 Optional Sightseeing Excursions
Breakfast at hotel. Today you will have three sightseeing excursion options. These are available to you at no extra charges, with the exception of admissions. You will receive an email in April requesting your choice of excursion.

Option #1 – Pompeii. The city of Pompeii is a partially buried Roman town-city near modern Naples in the Italian region of Campania. Along with Herculaneum, Pompeii was partially destroyed and buried under 13 to 20 ft. of ash and pumice in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Pompeii was lost for nearly 1700 years before its rediscovery in 1748. Since then, its excavation has provided an extraordinarily detailed insight into the life of a city during the Pax Romana. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Italy, with approximately 2,500,000 visitors every year. Purchase dinner on own before returning to our hotel in Rome.

This excursion will be very informative with lots of history.  If you are interested in viewing the culture as a historical aspect, this choice is for you. 

 

Option #2 – Explore Tuscany. We’ll stop at San Gimignano, a famous Italian hill town in the heart of Tuscany. After some lunch and shopping, we’ll head north to the city of Pisa, where you will see and have the opportunity to ascend the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.

 This excursion will be packed with sight seeing and picture taking opportunities.  If you are interested in seeing the famous monuments of Italy and viewing culture in everyday life, this excursion is for you.

Option #3 – Florence. The capital city of Tuscany is the destination of this excursion. In this medieval city, you can visit the famous Uffizi Museum, see Michelangelo’s sculpture, David, and explore the Duomo - Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. 

This excursion will be very cultural from the aspect of art and religion. If you are interested in this and viewing culture community-based, this excursion is for you.  

ROMAN CATACOMBS

• Due to Christian practice, when a loved one would parish they would honor the deceased by burying them in these underground tunnels located outside the city as a way to avoid the Roman law that stated: the deceased must be cremated and the ashes placed in an above ground necropolis (cemetery or tomb).  The law forbade burials of all faiths inside the city limits.  Although 60 have been found throughout the country, it is believed that there are many more buried them beneath the streets that locals walk on everyday.  

• Italy is known for its high-end cars and their love to drive... FAST!.  Keep your eyes peeled for brands like Alfa Romeo, Lamborghini, Maserati, Ferrari, Lancia, and of course the Fiat.

• Watch out! Other than cars, lots of people drive scooters and motorcycles as a way to conserve.  European countries are very watchful of their usage of electricity, heat, and water.

Ohio University Marching Band and Wind Symphony Ireland & Italy Performance Tour Itinerary

SUNDAY, MAY 5                Departure for Ireland 

We will depart on our trans-Atlantic flight to Dublin, Ireland this afternoon or evening. Upon arrival at your departure airport, we will immediately check-in for our flight. You will need your passport at this time and upon check-in, your luggage will be tagged and checked at the counter for loading onto the plane. You will not see your luggage again until you arrive in Ireland, so be certain to have everything in your carry-on bag that you will need for the flight. 

MONDAY, MAY 6                Arrival – Dublin
Our flights will arrive at Dublin Airport this morning. Upon arrival, collect your baggage and instruments and meet with your driver/guides who will escort you to the waiting motor coaches. We’ll visit O’Connell Street where you’ll have some time to browse, shop and purchase lunch, before we check-in to our hotel where we will stay for the next three nights. This evening we’ll enjoy a “Welcome to Ireland” dinner. (D)

TUESDAY, MAY 7               Dublin City Tour

• Irish breakfast at hotel. Dublin City Tour – tour of Ireland’s capital city with visit to Trinity College, which houses one of Ireland’s greatest treasures, the Book of Kells, a famous illuminated manuscript depicting the four gospels. A tour of St. Patrick's Cathedral will be included along with a visit to Christ Church Cathedral. You will again have time on O’Connell Street to purchase lunch and shop. You may wish to visit Kilkenny Shop, a very popular store and restaurant. 

The Ohio University Marching 110 will be featured in a special performance this afternoon. 
This evening we will schedule a special performance by the Ohio University Wind Symphony. Dinner will on your own this evening. 

WEDNESDAY, MAY 8    Optional Sightseeing Excursions
Irish breakfast at hotel. Today you will have three options (additional costs apply for options #1 and #2).

• Option #1- You will enjoy a day trip to Galway and the Cliffs of Moher. Situated on the Atlantic Ocean and bordering the Burren Area, the Cliffs of Moher are one of Ireland’s most spectacular sights. Standing 230 meters above the ground at their highest point and 8 km long, the Cliffs boast one of the most amazing views in Ireland. On a clear day, the Aran Islands are visible in Galway Bay as well as the valleys and hills of Connemara. Later we’ll arrive in Galway, known as the City of Tribes. You’ll have free time for lunch, shopping and dinner before we return to Dublin ($95 extra per person which includes admission to Cliffs of Moher and full-day bus transportation).

• Option #2- You can elect to visit the Guinness Storehouse Brewery this morning and spend remainder of day with free time in Dublin ($30 extra per person which includes admission to Guinness Storehouse Brewery and bus transfer from hotel to attraction and drop-off in Dublin).

• Option #3 – Free day to spend in Dublin. 

THURSDAY, MAY 9                 Dublin to Rome
Check-out of hotel and transfer to Dublin International Airport for flight to Rome. Upon arrival at Rome International Airport, we’ll meet our English-speaking tour guides and enjoy a panoramic sightseeing tour of Rome. Stop at the Spanish Steps, famous meeting place of Rome. We’ll see the Roman Forum and the Colosseum. See the Trevi Fountain on your way to Piazza Navonna where you’ll have time to purchase lunch. Later visit the Pantheon, ancient Roman temple of Christian Worship. Later we’ll transfer to our hotel and check-in. Dinner will be provided this evening. 

FRIDAY, MAY 10          Optional Sightseeing Excursions
Breakfast at hotel. Today you will have three sightseeing excursion options. These are available to you at no extra charges, with the exception of admissions. You will receive an email in April requesting your choice of excursion.

• Option #1 – Pompeii. The city of Pompeii is a partially buried Roman town-city near modern Naples in the Italian region of Campania. Along with Herculaneum, Pompeii was partially destroyed and buried under 13 to 20 ft. of ash and pumice in the eruption of Mount Vesuvius in AD 79. Pompeii was lost for nearly 1700 years before its rediscovery in 1748. Since then, its excavation has provided an extraordinarily detailed insight into the life of a city during the Pax Romana. Today, this UNESCO World Heritage Site is one of the most popular tourist attractions of Italy, with approximately 2,500,000 visitors every year. Purchase dinner on own before returning to our hotel in Rome.
• Option #2 – Explore Tuscany. We’ll stop at San Gimignano, a famous Italian hill town in the heart of Tuscany. After some lunch and shopping, we’ll head north to the city of Pisa, where you will see and have the opportunity to ascend the famous Leaning Tower of Pisa.
• Option #3 – Florence. The capital city of Tuscany is the destination of this excursion. In this medieval city, you can visit the famous Uffizi Museum, see Michelangelo’s sculpture, David, and explore the Duomo - Basilica di Santa Maria del Fiore. 

SATURDAY, MAY 11                Rome/Vatican
Breakfast at hotel. This morning we’ll have a a guided tour of the Vatican Museums, including the Sistine Chapel, with its breathtaking frescos by Michelangelo, and the Raphael Rooms, which established Raphael's reputation in Rome.  See St. Peter's Square, the largest part of the Vatican City, the world's smallest city. 

This afternoon the Ohio University Marching 110 will present a special performance in front of the Roman Colosseum.
This evening the Ohio University Wind Symphony will be featured in a special performance in a local church.   

SUNDAY, MAY 12                    Rome
Breakfast at hotel followed by a free day to enjoy all that Rome offers. Lunch and dinner on your own.

MONDAY, MAY 13                   Departure
Check-out of hotel and transfer to the airport for our flight home to the USA. 

Souvenirs

Souvenirs are such a great way to remember the places you have visited. There are easy, simple, cheap things you can find, and there are items that are renowned as being Irish or Italian.  Travelers usually research the delicacies of those areas and seek out their favorites.  For example, here are some delicacies and classic memoirs of your travels and some tips for smart spending. 

• IRELAND
• AVERAGE COST
• Guinness glass from Brewery
• If you're of age to bring it back to the US, original Irish Whiskey 
• Neck scarf
• Ireland Flag
• Ireland is known for its crystal. This is not recommended because of risk of damage during travel
• Ireland is known for rag dolls
• CHEAP/FREE
• Postcards
• Sand/shells
• Coffee Mug
• "If you're lucky..." tokens
• Shot glasses
• Pictures are the cheapest and, frankly, the best souvenirs. 
• ITALY
• AVERAGE COST
• Italy is known for its leather
• If you're of age to bring it back to the US, Italian wines. 
• Neck scarf
• Italy flag
• Italy is known for cashmere 
• Italy is known for Murano glass (usually as jewelry)
• Italy is known for olives and olive oil
• CHEAP/FREE
• Postcards
• Sand/shells
• Coffee Mug
• Shot glasses
• Pictures are the cheapest and, frankly, the best souvenirs. 
• SMART SPENDING
• Local markets and shops will negotiate a price with you if they aren't very busy and you make yourself seem friendly.  Do not attempt on food, drinks, or commercial items.  
• Although we will be in Ireland 3 days and Italy 4 days, don't wait until the last minute to purchase those mementos that you were eyeing up at the corner shop.
• If you have a specific gift or treasure in mind, try to shop around a bit during free time to get the best price.  Chances are if it is a common item, shops will be competitive in price and will gladly take your business.  Period.

Remember to leave space in your suitcase for souvenirs.  If you don't have enough room, you must make sure it is eligible to go on your carry on or classify as your personal item.  The TSA provides this information online and can be found here. 

Also, please be aware of the things you are and are not allowed to bring back into our country.  The U.S. Customs and Border Protection has a posted list and description of restrictions and prohibited items that may be found here.

Money

Rome is the #2 city in Europe known for petty theft and pick-pocketing.  Below are tips to help you save (and keep) the most money while experiencing the most and worrying the least.  

• DIVERSIFICATION
• Keep the money that you take with you in two different places.  Some people put a bill in their shoe and some coins in their pocket and a normal amount of money in their wallets.
• GUYS:  put your wallet in your front pocket or somewhere more visible to you.  My friend's wallet was stolen right out of his jeans because it was in his back pocket in broad daylight.  He felt something missing right away and accused the guy behind him. He admitted to doing it and gave it back. But 50% of the time, you won't recognize that its gone when someone ELSE is distracting you.  If you catch them doing it, don't get violent.  Violence-related crimes are not as prevalent as they are here.  They aren't looking to hurt you; just to get some extra cash.  
• You don't need all of your money with you at all times.  Take what you think you'll use on food, drinks, souvenirs, and possibly entrance fees to attractions during free time and leave the rest somewhere safe in the hotel.  
• Shops will try to rip you off with your change if you haven't been a respectful customer (especially in areas that do not speak your native language or speak really fast).
• TRAVELERS CHECKS
• These are very uncommon anymore and not widely accepted. This is not recommended.
• EXCHANGE
• Both Ireland and Italy use the Euro.  Exchange rates fluctuate constantly but as of right now, the EUR equals $1.30, or you will get €0.77 for $1.00 As you can see, the exchange rate is not excellent, therefore negotiating prices at more local shops and especially markets is doable.  Learning to negotiate prices like this is a great skill to have.  This will be a learning experience for you!
• LOCAL BANKS
• It is suggested that you exchange your money to EUR in the US only in the amount that is needed for travel, transportation, food, and other purchases made just after arriving.
• Exchanging here is convenient and relatively low-cost.
• Always check current exchange rates before going and exchanging.
• EXCHANGE AT HOTEL OR AIRPORT
• There are usually exchange banks in airports, however the exchange rate is usually very inflated.  Also, you can't always count on hotels to even have currency.  This is usually recommended a last resort if no ATM is available either.  

• CASH
• Always have it with you.  
• Coins are worth a lot more than our change.  If you lose a 2 EUR coin, that's a whole bottle of water.  Also, if you all you have are bills, places may not have proper change for you.  Coins are important, use them!  Very common for bars and small snack stands.
• It is your best bet to withdraw USD here (ATM charge free) and exchange, or withdraw there at any ATM, receive EUR, but pay a fee from our bank and that bank that owns that ATM.
• If you're withdrawing €200 that is not the same as $200.  Do the math before hand if you choose to withdraw in Ireland or Italy.  Take into consideration the fees, and the exchange rate.
• CALL BANKS AND CREDIT CARD COMPANIES
• If you're planning to use plastic (which some of you may choose not to at all) call the number on the back of your card, tell them the countries that you will be visiting and the dates (May 5 - May 13).  Other wise, if they notice a charge from a different country, that is a red flag to them and they will freeze your card, and if used at an ATM it will be rejected, eaten, and chewed up.
• Bringing plastic is recommended.  At least one card for emergencies is a good idea.  Solely relying on cash is a very risky and dangerous choice.  You may say "I'm only there 8 days, what could happen?  I've gone 8 days here with just cash."  It is highly recommended by many professional world travelers and vacationers with the travel-bug to always have at least one card with you.
• COMMON CREDIT CARD COMPANIES
• Visa and MasterCard are the most common.  If you have a Discover card or American Express, their entrances into Europe have had a slow starts and are not common.  On the phone, ask if it is taken there and its acceptance in Ireland and Italy while updating your traveling information.  
• Beware with using them frequently, foreign transaction fees are either a certain percentage of your purchase or a flat rate - they vary from company to company. If you have to use it, use it sparingly, on one large purchase, or not at all (and of course emergencies).
• THE AMOUNT YOU RETURN WITH
• If you are looking to convert your EUR back into USD when you return, be sure that you have a substantial amount left.  Each place is different.  Very small amounts are non-excahngeable. Either spend as much as you have on you and come back with change left, or use it carefully and exchange once again.  
• Re-exchanging is not recommended but for those people not planning to return and use the euro again but have a lot of cash left, it is beneficial.  
• UNATTENDED ITEMS
• Just as you would anywhere, do not leave your jacket or purse anywhere unattended.  Do not leave it in a booth or at a table when you want to dance, go to the bathroom, get another drink.  In the smallest amount of time, someone could have been eyeing you with it and the moment you leave it, they move it.  A friend of mine had her entire purse stolen while she went to the bathroom and had to replace credit cars, a camera with pictures, a local phone, an iPhone, any many other valuables. Although its a hassle to hang on to it while you go everywhere, it is more of a hassle to replace everything.

Bring information or know how to contact your bank should something happen and you need assistance.  

Packing

On a commercial aircraft, you are allowed one carry-on and one personal item.  For this trip, you are allowed to check only one bag weighing less than 50 lbs.  One regular sized and lockable suitcase should suffice for 8 days.

The dress in the UK and Eastern Europe is noticeably different from our American, college-esque ways.  Neutral colors, conservative and non-revealing, and more or less dressy-casual is the majority of what you will see. Versatility will be your friend when packing. What I am going to explain below is by no means a tactic to disguise yourself from being an American, but to blend in smoothly, present yourself respectfully, and abide by their cultural norms.  These are solely suggestions.

• DARK DENIM JEANS
• You will definitely see denim.  However, light-colored, bleached, and "distressed" jeans are not common and are seen as lazy.  Dark Denim is popular everyday casual attire.  Definitely pack your favorite pair to re-wear if desired.
• BLACK/COLORED DENIM
• Black and other "dyed" denim is popular, both here and there, but remember that it will be May.  Ireland will be anywhere from 35º F in the evening to 60º F with some sun.  Italy will be warmer, with 50º F in evenings, and as high 75º F in the day.
• SHORTS
• Comfortable, neutral, and re-wearable
• Nothing very short. Ladies, see note below about "short dresses"- think back to middle school/high school days. 
• Distress and cut offs are not recommended.
• Guys: cargo shorts are absolutely fine.  Camo printed, maybe not.
• SHOES
• Comfortable shoes for walking - LOTS of cobble stones, you'll get tired and sore quickly.
• Sperry's
• Flats
• SANDALS for outings - not flip flops! These are looked at as shower shoes or beach wear (almost like waring your bikini around.  Also not recommended.)
• Heels are HARD to walk in when you're on cobble stones - take my word ladies... and you gents out there.
• SHIRTS
• Keep it classy.  To us, their regular day is our "dressy-casual". 
• Ladies - tank tops are alright, but very thin straps are risky.  Remember that it will be warm, but not sweltering hot.
• Conservative/non-revealing/short DRESSES
• As mentioned above about weather, shorts and capris might be more appropriate.  
• Ladies: dresses, skirts, and shorts shouldn't be short or  cut up.  You will be seen as... um... easy.  Think back to middle school and high school - bermuda shorts are a great investment ;-)
• If we visit a religious place, KNEES AND SHOULDERS MUST BE COVERED OR YOU MAY NOT ENTER CERTAIN PARTS.  This happened to me in Barcelona:  I wore a dress but I was not wearing tights that covered my knees and I was turned away from a certain part of a famous Basilica called La Sagrada Familia.  All my friends went ahead, and I had to stay back.  Plan ahead with a light jacked or capris instead for the day that we visit the Vatican.  
• JACKETS
• Choose something rather versatile that can be worn at night, on a chilly day, possibly rainy day, and the plane ride.  
• Avoid hoodies, as they are not very common (especially ones that say something on it).
• NEUTRAL COLORS
• These can be paired together and you'll pack less in your suitcase.  They re-wear outfits there so if you wear the same shirt/polo twice on the trip, no one will criticize you.
• A warm sweatshirt with a hood for the plane ride
• Comfortable sleep wear
• UMBRELLA
• Rain is just as predictable in Ireland just as it is here in Ohio.  Pack a small, skinny umbrella or rain coat. An umbrella will take up less space.
• TOILETRIES
• Don't plan to buy your liquids over seas to avoid heavy luggage - they will be more expensive, especially in touristy places. And you can plan on leaving some of those items there to accommodate more space and less weight.
• Pack anything that could explode in high pressure or spill in a ziplock bag.  Should it explode or spill, your belongings are dry and untouched.
• If you need to take these on a plane, it has to be in a quart-sized bag in a 3 oz. container.  Click here for more information for those first-time air travelers.
• HEAT PRODUCING ITEMS
• Ladies, curling irons and flat irons do not do well with the electricity conversion.  If you plug in a straightener or curling iron, changes are it start to smoke and heat up rapidly and melt either the item or your hair. It has happened.  It can even blow the fuse.  Recommendations:  don't bring them, 8 days will go by in no time.  I didn't use a single flat iron or hair drier for 3 months in Spain.  It can be done!
• Hair driers may be available at the hotels.
• "AMERICAN CLOTHING"
• Sport/athletic shirts, large commercial writing, billed hats, cut offs, ragged jeans or short shorts/skirts will make you stand out. I've been gawked at on the street for wearing a shorter dress one day and let me tell you, it is embarrassing and uncomfortable.  My friend's entire wallet was stolen the day he wore an "Under Armor" hoodie to a shop - in broad daylight, it isn't just during the night.

To maximize space and avoid wrinkling your clothes, fold them in half once and roll it tightly.  You'd be surprised.

Electronics and Valuables

International travel has skyrocketed within the past 10 years. Our age group (18-24) is becoming very independent in the international travel world, with education as the leading reason for departure.  First-time international travelers may feel overwhelmed with so much information people throw at you.  We are trying to keep you safe and make sure that you getting the fullest experience and not worrying.  

Below I have included a few things you will need to know about so you can use your favorite electronics abroad.  Also, tips for acclimating yourself to the less Internet-dependent areas to which we will be traveling.

• WI FI
• Wifi is not as attainable as it is here.  There, you will need to go to a local coffee shop, McDonald's, or other place that displays it.  I'm not sure about our hotels having WiFi.  I believe they are US-friendly and will be equipped with it, but still TBA.
• PHONES
• Most of the US cell and data providers are not covered over there.  You can call your provider to see if they offer cellular signal (which they might) but data is near-impossible and incredibly expensive.  I understand, "We will only be there 8 days, can't I activate international signal with my provider?"  Yes, you may if you so chose if your signal is available.  But, think about that... you will be there 8 days.  Is a huge cell phone bill worth it?  Maybe. If you think you can survive on a smart phone turned onto "Airplane Mode" and surviving on WiFi, do it.  I did that for 3 months in Spain.  Granted I bought a local pre-pay phone.  If you choose to do that, turn off cellular and data signal in your settings just in case you turn off airplane mode by accident. If this happens and your phone find a signal to connect with, you (or your parents) will not be happy with the next bill.
• My suggestions:  Turn off data and cell signal on a smart phone, turn on Airplane mode and connect wifi whenever applicable.  Communicate via Facebook with your friends to make plans.  Even better? Walk to their room in the hotel.  No smart phone but paranoid about being in an emergency? Purchase a calling card to use anywhere. Local cell phones will not be worth it for 3 days in Ireland and 4 days in Italy.
• MOBILE DEVICES

• iPads, netbooks, and tablets are awesome. They are great ways to stay connected, entertained on long travel days, and a way to communicate to friends there or family at home when space and weight are tight.  However, keep them locked up in the hotel room. You won't need them on a day trip into the city.
• COMPUTERS
• Fantastic idea if you want to upload pictures right away, stay connected with everybody (if WiFi available), and a way to stay entertained on long travel days.  I would absolutely not recommend taking this with you everywhere.  If you HAVE to get WiFi somewhere else than the hotel, make it a quick trip, carry very little, and go with somebody.
• ADAPTERS AND CONVERTERS

• Adapters are absolutely necessary if you bring something that takes a charge - amazon.com sells them CHEAP.  Make sure it is universal.  I used my MacBook charger in my adapter without a converter and it worked just fine.  It is a grounded plug and that's what my adapter allowed.  Converters will take care of wattage and amperage, and usually include the adapter plug to fit a US plug to the appropriate wall outlet.  IRELAND AND ITALY HAVE DIFFERENT OUTLET DESIGNS.

• BATTERIES
• Bring them with you.  Buy them in bulk - there is nothing worse than getting somewhere breathtaking, you want to take pictures and you're out of battery.  You're not going to have a good rest of the day.  Also, they will be more expensive there.  Although they will add weight to your suitcase, it is worth it.  Take them everywhere you take your battery-dependent devices.
• Rechargeable may be an option for you, but you have to count on having enough for the day, let alone an available converter and adapter.
• HEAT PRODUCING ITEMS
• Ladies, curling irons and flat irons do not do well with the electricity conversion.  If you plug in a straightener or curling iron, changes are it start to smoke and heat up rapidly and melt either the item or your hair. It has happened.  It can even blow the fuse.  Recommendations:  don't bring them, 8 days will go by in no time.  I didn't use a single flat iron or hair drier for 3 months in Spain.  It can be done!
• JEWELRY
• If you have very valuable jewelry (engagement rings, heirlooms, real diamonds), I advise not to take them.  The 8 days you will be away from them won't be unbearable.  If it is damaged, lost, or stolen - you wouldn't want that to be what you remember from this amazing trip.  Think safe.
• CAMERAS
• DON'T FORGET ONE! I used both a small point and shoot and my iPhone.  Depending what was more convenient.  This will be very memorable and you will want to capture it.

Should you decide to bring these things, always keep them in a safe place that no one can easily see it, snatch it, or realize that it is worth a lot of money and that you might have other similar things to steal. 

Travel Safe and Comfortable

In 2012, only 21% of Americans owned a passport - meaning had they want to travel abroad soon or had already traveled internationally. You are now apart of this statistic - whether you have already been outside of the U.S. or if this is your first time leaving the county, leaving the region, or even the first time traveling by aircraft.  Welcome to the world of Travel...

For those of you who have never been outside the country, air-travel, public transport, and city walking may not be something that is often carefully pondered.  Some people find this to be the easiest, some may find this the most nerve wracking.  Pay attention to these facts and you'll feel safe, comfortable, and you'll enjoy the trip more by experiencing more and worrying less.

• AIR TRAVEL:  
• To Ireland, it will probably be around 7-8 hours.  Get up and walk around as much as possible.  The altitude messes with your blood and you can start to feel really crummy.  
• DRINK WATER!  I know that alcohol has a "different" effect at a higher altitudes, but 8 hours is a long time.  Think before you drink.  
• In the night, it gets cold, especially if you're by a window. Bring something on your carry-on that will be warm, easy to put back, and *BING BING BING* has a hood.  You'll be surprised how much that will help, especially while trying to sleep.  
• Try to dress comfortably, but still respectable. Not sweat pants, but not iron-pressed slacks and a tie either. 

• TAXI:  
• In Ireland, although English is widely spoken, the locals can still pull the Gaelic-Card on you.  Taxi drivers may try to rip you off by telling you a totally different toll compared to what your meter read before it was turned off.  Keep your eye on it, and keep your money handy.  Locals may be in a hurry and try to take your cab when you've arrived so quickly that you haven't even exited the car yet.
• In Italy, the language card would be even easier for them to pull on you.  If you speak the language at a beginner or intermediate level, they can still speak slang, let alone very rapidly.  ASK IF THEY SPEAK ENGLISH FIRST.  Make sure they know exactly where you're wanting to go.  If they try to make conversation with you, join!  They're only human.  Be friendly!  
• Not everyone out there is a bad guy - some are very polite locals and want to practice their English with you ;-) Just make sure they aren't distracting you from something else.

• PUBLIC TRANSIT:
• Be natural, just like in the US.  
• Subway (Metro) and Bus lines are a little hard to adjust to, but take your time.  The extra 2 minutes you take to look at the map carefully is better than getting on the wrong line and it cost you an extra 30 minutes or another ticket.
• In Metro especially, keep an eye on your things.  If you're carrying a considerable amount with you and you're noticeable, wear your back pack on your front (not kidding, I know its dorky). But many people actually do that there.  This is due to petty theft.  If you're being robbed and you've caught them, yell "Thief!"  I've seen it happen and other onlookers help you.  Again, not everybody is out to get you. 
• On a bus, be sure to press the stop button/pull a cable to let the driver know that the next stop there is someone who needs to get off.  Otherwise they will keep driving.  Pay attention to the screen that shows what the next stop is, if present.
• If there aren't any seats left and you have to stand - that's fine!  Be kind, natural, and hang on to a poll. And don't forget to put a hand on your things.

• CITY WALKING:
• ENTERING A SHOP/STORE:
• Always greet them, thank them, and say goodbye.  Even if you're only interested in looking.  They think it is respectable and polite.  If you have picked up enough language, try it out!
• BACKPACKS:
• Getting a luggage lock isn't such a bad idea for your back pack.  Combination locks are best so that you don't have to worry about a key.  Keep everything valuable in that locked compartment.  Wearing it on your front is not ALWAYS necessary, as well.
• PURSES:
• Your purse should be something that you wrap around your body. Hand bags and shoulder bags can be easily swiped in one motion.  If your bag is wrapped around your body off your shoulder - say a hipster/messenger bag - the harder it is to snatch.  
• Try to find something you may already have or something in stores that has both a zipper and a flap over the opening (these are pretty popular right now, so they're not to hard to find.)  It is harder for a pick-pocketer to get in it.  Just a simple bag with one button or magnetic clip is easy to get in and out of without you knowing.  
• Keep it in front of your body, a hand on it if you wish.  It shows that you're not messing around!
• Put your money in more than one place. The smallest EUR bill is the 5.  You will have a ton of hard change jingling in your pockets.  There are 2 EUR, 1 EUR, and all the way down to 1 EUR cent in coins.  Try keeping them in a zippered compartment and bills in another, let alone in two different wallets/places.  I had two of each in my purse - or one with me and one at home/in the hotel with the majority of my money in it.  See MONEY for more helpful hints.
• A PHOTOCOPY of the passport.  Some places will take your photocopy instead of the real thing.  Carrying the real thing brings the risk of losing it.  Losing your passport abroad is probably the worst thing ever.  Even worse than having your wallet stolen.  Keep it the SAFEST.

Finally, always make others perceive you as comfortable.  There is no reason to pretend you're a native.  You are American and you should not feel ashamed. Walk with a purpose, be kind, don't look confused or frightened.  Asking for directions is better than holding up a huge map that could be blocking something very important in front of you. Also, if you know how to ask something in that language, be sure you know how to interpret the response! Otherwise you'll have to ask again in English.