Rome Italy: A Plate Full of Coins

At a restaurant in Rome when ready to pay the bill we were told no credit cards. Probably not true but we didn't press the issue.

We gave 50 euros and expected 13 euros in change.

What we received was a plate full of coins.

Of course we were cheated by more that 3 euros.

When called to task immediately two 5 euro biils and correct change appeared.

Be ever alert. Never accept a plate full of coins.

Italy Travel: The Great TrenItalia Robbery

One of the great and convenient ways of travel in Italy is by train on TrenItalia. However, be ever vigilant.

Case in point 1. While you are getting settled in, gypsies jump aboard selling water, sandwiches, etc. But what they really do is, in the commotion of everyone settling in, they take off with your change and leave the train.

DO NOT PURCHASE ANYTHING UNTIL THE TRAIN IS RUNNING.

And even then, only from an officially uniformed employee..

Case in point 2. Eating in the restaurant car is a fabulous experience and great fun. But remember as the train makes various stops, the gypsies can jump on and jump off and sometimes with your handbags or luggage.

YOU NEED TO WATCH YOUR LUGGAGE AND YOUR HANDBAG DURING YOUR ENTIRE TRAIN RIDE, MOST ESPECIALLY WHEN STOPPED AT A STATION.

By the way, we have traveled for the past 3 weeks in Italy via train and have only had good experiences, including a delightful lunch.

So use the trains and enjoy, but be alert.