Frequently Asked Questions

CAN I STAY LONGER?

Absolutely! If you have flexibility in your travel plans, staying longer is definitely an option. Whether you choose to explore more of the local area around Bassano del Grappa or venture to other parts of Italy, there are plenty of possibilities. If you decide to spend some time in Venice, Milan, Rome, Florence, the Amalalfi or any other destination, we can assist in coordinating your travel arrangements and providing recommendations for activities and places to visit. Enjoy your extended stay and make the most of your time in Italy! If you have specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask.

I AM GLUTEN FREE, CAN I BE ACCOMMODATED?

Certainly! Italy is known for its delicious pasta, pizza, and bread, but there are also increasing options for gluten-free dining. It's great that you're mindful of your dietary needs. If you are gluten-sensitive, there may be some Italian wheat products that you can enjoy, as you mentioned. However, if you are celiac and need to strictly avoid gluten, it's important to communicate this in advance so that suitable options can be organized for your meals. Restaurants and accommodations in Italy are becoming more aware of dietary restrictions, and many are willing to accommodate gluten-free diets. By informing them in advance, they can better prepare and provide you with a more enjoyable dining experience. Feel free to discuss with us your dietary requirements or with the places you'll be staying and dining, and they will likely do their best to ensure you have suitable options to enjoy your time in Italy!

ITINERARY

Your itinerary will be customized specifically to you or your group depending on your preferences as well as the seasonal availability of the choices (not all options will be included in the package.) This is Italy so the one thing you must do is go with the flow. Not only can weather affect our itinerary plans, but so can the local Italian ways. Sometimes things close for a few hours, a few days, a few weeks with little or no notice. On occasions, reservations are mysteriously ‘lost’ or they just decided to make changes in the last moment. We will always have backup plans, however, honestly speaking, things taking an unexpected turn can become full of great surprises.

Remember, the beauty of Italy lies not just in its landmarks but also in the spontaneity of its culture and lifestyle. Enjoy the journey and the unexpected surprises along the way!

TRANSPORTATION

We have transportation options available for both arrival and departure.

If you choose to arrive via Venice Marco Polo Airport (or even Milan or Rome) the suggested car services can provide a comfortable and convenient transfer to Bassano del Grappa, alternatively, you can explore train options if you prefer a scenic journey or if you're arriving from a nearby location. We can assist you in any way. Bassano del Grappa has a well-connected train station, making it easy to explore nearby areas using the train system. Local transportation options may include walking, cycling, or using public transportation within the town. When you're ready to leave Bassano del Grappa, the car services can assist in providing transportation to your desired destination or train services can also be a convenient option for reaching your next location making it easy to travel between cities and regions. Flexibility is key, especially when relying on public transportation. Stay informed about any schedule changes or unexpected events. Having a mix of car services and train options provides a good balance between convenience and the opportunity to enjoy the scenic beauty of the Italian landscape. Enjoy your travels!

ACCESSIBILITY

By providing advance notice, you allow for better planning and arrangements to ensure a comfortable and enjoyable experience for everyone. Some aspects to consider when communicating accessibility requirements are: accommodation, transportation, activities and attractions and emergency preparedness. By proactively communicating your accessibility needs, you contribute to a smoother and more enjoyable travel experience. Italy, like many destinations, is increasingly aware of the importance of accessibility, and many establishments are willing to make accommodations to ensure inclusivity. If you have any specific questions or need further assistance, feel free to ask.

CASH

We recommend that you have some Euros ahead of arriving in Italy / Europe, especially for small expenses or situations where card payments may not be accepted. Keep an eye on exchange rates and consider exchanging money at a reliable currency exchange service before your trip for a favorable rate. ATMs are commonly found in Bassano and throughout Italy, but it's wise to be aware of potential fees associated with using foreign ATMs. Check with your bank about international transaction fees and partner networks to minimize additional charges. While major establishments in tourist areas generally accept cards, having some cash is handy for smaller local businesses, markets, or places that might not accept cards. Inform your bank about your travel dates and destinations to avoid any unexpected issues with your credit/debit cards while abroad. Keep your cash secure, use money belts or pouches, and avoid displaying large amounts in public. By being mindful of these factors, you can ensure that you have the necessary resources to navigate your trip comfortably. If you have specific questions about financial matters or any other aspect of your travel plans, feel free to ask!

ITALIAN PERSONALITY

Being Northern Italy , the general personality isn’t the expressive, welcoming laid-back attitude of the south which is what many foreigners may associate with Italy. Up here, they can sometimes be labeled as “cold or snobby”, but truth be told its the complete opposite! Northerners tend to be more direct and reserved, so please do not take it the wrong way as they are kind and warmhearted. While many Italians speak English, learning a few basic Italian phrases can go a long way in building positive interactions and demonstrating cultural respect. By being aware of a few cultural nuances, you can navigate social interactions more smoothly and appreciate the unique characteristics of Northern Italian hospitality and enjoy the rich cultural experiences that await you!

I AM A VEGETARIAN, CAN THAT BE ACCOMMODATED?

Here in the north of Italy the cuisine is very meat focused but most restaurants offer various vegetarian options. Vegan dishes may be a little harder to find but we will investigate. Many of our activities include meat & cheese with wine pairings but if we know in advance, everything is adaptable. Whilst northern Italy is particularly meat focused, the majority of restaurants offer various vegetarian options. Vegan dishes might be a bit more challenging to find, but we will investigate and accommodate dietary preferences. Everything is adaptable and this flexibility ensures that vegetarian alternatives can be arranged for participants with dietary restrictions. If you have specific dietary requirements or preferences, it's advisable to communicate them to the organizers when booking your trip so that they can make the necessary arrangements to cater to your needs.

MEDICAL

Please check with you personal insurance company or purchase separate travel insurance as we do not provide cover. We do not advise on this. Whilst medicines for all illnesses are available locally, it is important to be aware that you cannot buy many of the over the counter medicines you may be accustomed to at home. If you have any favorites for cold n’ flu, headache, or sleep, please bring them with you.

I DO NOT DRINK ALCOHOL, ARE THERE ACTIVITIES FOR ME?

Whilst certain activities are centered around wine and food, we are flexible and can tailor an itinerary to accommodate individuals who do not drink alcohol. There are alternative options available, including outdoor activities and the possibility of substituting non-alcoholic beverages for wine in certain events.

This flexibility ensures that individuals who do not consume alcohol can still fully enjoy and participate in the curated experiences without feeling excluded. It's a thoughtful approach to making the itinerary inclusive for a diverse range of preferences and needs. Travelers with specific preferences, such as not drinking alcohol, can communicate their requirements, allowing for a personalized and enjoyable experience during the tour.

LANGUAGE

While many Italians will speak at least some English, there are also those that do not! Prior to arriving its good to learn a couple of basic sayings like ‘Hello’, ‘Thank You’, and ‘Please’. We do have a Wine & Italian Basics introduction activity that can be included in your itinerary to assist you in familiarizing yourself with Italian language basics. Learning a few basic phrases is presented as a helpful and appreciated effort.

CELL PHONES + WI-FI

Most of your home country carriers will offer an ‘International Day Pass’ which you will need to activate before your departure. Activating the International Day Pass before departure is recommended to avoid roaming charges. ‘Whats App’ and ‘FaceTime’ are suggested as great alternatives, especially since they operate on Wi-Fi. Internet access will be available at most locations including, hotels, cafés and restaurants. Just ask for the password at any of these locations to connect. The recommendation of specific apps that work on Wi-Fi reflects an understanding of the practical needs of modern travelers for communication and internet access.

MARKET

Outdoor markets take place every Thursday and Saturday from 08.00am to 1.00pm in Bassano del Grappa and are a year-round event. The markets offer a range of items, from produce to clothing and everything in-between. Enjoy exploring local markets and experience the vibrant atmosphere and variety of goods available in Bassano del Grappa. It's a great opportunity to immerse yourself in the local culture and possibly find unique items or souvenirs.

SEASONAL

Bassano Del Grappa is a destination with diverse attractions and activities all year round! With such a broad variety of things to do that caters to different interests and preferences.

We invite you to consider visiting Bassano Del Grappa at any time of the year, encouraging you to explore the destination based on your specific interests and the seasonal experiences available. It reflects the idea that the destination is not limited to particular seasons, offering a dynamic and engaging experience throughout the year.

SPRING

A fantastic time to visit as we have great temperatures during spring. The town starts to come alive with the start of the ‘tourist’ season which sees the Austrians, Germans and Australians arriving to explore the local beauty. Notably, it's time for White Asparagus, suggesting a seasonal culinary attraction offering a unique experience for visitors interested in local cuisine.

SUMMER

Summertime can be hot and the town gets busy! There are often outdoor concerts, street performances and activities and Bassano OperaEstate is in full swing within the old castle walls. Keep in mind, mid August does get quiet as the Italians take their holidays so many businesses close for at least 2 weeks.

AUTUMN

A beautiful time of the year when temperatures cool down, everyone is back from summer holidays, the town is buzzing and we plan tours during the grape harvest and crush.

Autumn is a pleasant time to visit Bassano Del Grappa, with comfortable temperatures and the added attraction of tours related to the grape harvest and crush. It indicates a lively atmosphere in the town as people return from their summer vacations. If you are looking for a vibrant and temperate experience, you may find autumn to be an ideal time to visit

WINTER

The weather gets moderately cold or freezing during winter. The Christmas market opens in late November and features mulled wine, local traditional faire, and a variety of unique gifts and crafts. Despite the cold, locals still embrace the outdoor seating at bars and stay warm with blankets and outdoor heating. Several holiday activities take place in town during the winter season. You can be guaranteed of a festive and atmospheric winter in Bassano Del Grappa, with the Christmas market serving as a notable attraction, the town remains lively with outdoor activities and holiday festivities, creating a charming winter experience for visitors.

WHAT SHOULD I PACK?

COMFORTABLE clothes and shoes. We will be walking everywhere and many streets are cobblestone so make sure the footwear you bring is comfortable to have on all day and suitable for uneven surfaces. Important to check your weather app for the regions weather forecast, (we do as well)as it’s hot in the summer and can get cold in winter. It does on occasions rain at any time of year but we never let that dampen our experiences. The Italians are fashionable all year round but that said, anything goes! Don’t forget to bring hiking/walking shoes for river walks or mountain hikes. Be Comfortable!

DO YOU OFFFER SHORTER ITINERARIES?

Yes, we can host shorter itineraries of half, one, two or even three days. Please email us to work out a custom price. The option for customizing the itinerary and pricing reflects a commitment to meeting your specific needs and making the experience more accessible and adaptable to individual schedules.

CAN YOU RECOMMEND PLACES TO STAY THROUGHOUT ITALY?

YES, we certainly can and do! Whilst our speciality is the Region of Veneto and the surrounding areas, we can assist you with onward travel options throughout Italy.

We assist not only with the primary destination but also with your broader travel plans in Italy. It adds a layer of convenience for you whom may be interested in exploring multiple regions during your trip.

CONTACT

phil@livelikealocalitaly.com +39 329 818 3305 / WHATS APP www.livelikealocalitaly.com Facebook @livelikealocalitaly Instagram @livelikealocalitaly