Italy Health and Safety

It requires a lot of patience to deal with the Italian concept of service. What for Italians is simply a way of life can be at times immensely trying for the foreigner. Anyone in a uniform or behind a counter (including police officers, waiters and shop assistants) is likely to regard you with indifference. Long queues are the norm in banks, post offices and any government offices. It pays to remain calm and patient. Aggressive, demanding and angry customers stand virtually no chance of getting what they want.

Pickpockets and bag-snatchers, some working on motorini (motor scooters), operate in most major cities and are particularly active in Naples and Rome. The best way to avoid being robbed is to wear a money belt under your clothing. Keep all important items, such as money, passport, other documents and tickets, in your money belt at all times and wear bags or cameras slung across the body. You should also watch out for groups of dishevelled-looking women and children asking for money. Their favourite haunts are major train stations, tourist sights and in shopping areas. If you have been targeted by a group take evasive action (such as crossing the street) or shout 'Va via!' (Go away!) in a loud voice. You should also be cautious of sudden friendships, particularly if your new-found amico or amica wants to sell you or give you something. Parked cars are also prime targets for thieves, particularly those with foreign number plates or rental-company stickers. Try not to leave anything in the car if you can help it and certainly not overnight. Car theft is a problem in Rome, Campania and Puglia. It is a good idea to leave your car in supervised car parks. Service stations along the motorways are often a haunt of thieves. If possible park where you can keep an eye on your car.

A few Italians practise a more insidious form of theft: short-changing. If you are new to euros, take the time to acquaint yourself with the denominations. When paying keep an eye on the bills you hand over and then count your change. In case of theft or loss, always report the incident at the police station within 24 hours and ask for a statement, otherwise your travel insurance company won't pay out.