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Rome Handbook - St. John's University

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<strong>Rome</strong> <strong>Handbook</strong><br />

Fall 2008<br />

OFFICE OF GLOBAL STUDIES


<strong>Rome</strong> Undergraduate Programs<br />

Dru Burtz<br />

Associate Director<br />

Tel +39-06-9799.6767<br />

Juliet Manto<br />

Assistant Director<br />

Tel +39-06-9799.6768<br />

Domenico Ferraro<br />

<strong>St</strong>udent Affairs Coordinator<br />

Tel +39-06-9799.6768<br />

Office of Global <strong>St</strong>udies<br />

Queens Campus<br />

Marillac Terrace<br />

Tel (718) 990-6105<br />

Fax (718) 990-2321<br />

globalstudies@stjohns.edu<br />

Matthew Pucciarelli<br />

Executive Director<br />

(718) 990-6105<br />

Karl Rutter<br />

Director of Recruitment<br />

Rosanna D’Urso Sanders<br />

Assistant Director of Recruitment<br />

Mark Eckman<br />

Assistant Director of<br />

Global <strong>St</strong>udent Services<br />

<strong>St</strong>acey Thomas<br />

Coordinator of Global<br />

<strong>St</strong>udent Services<br />

Annalisa Sacca, Ph.D.<br />

Faculty Coordinator<br />

<strong>St</strong>. John Hall, Room 434 L<br />

(718) 990-5204<br />

<strong>St</strong>aten Island Campus<br />

Rosati Hall, Room 106<br />

(available on Tuesdays)<br />

(718) 390-4035<br />

<strong>St</strong>. John’s <strong>University</strong><br />

<strong>Rome</strong> Undergraduate and Graduate Programs<br />

Via Marcantonio Colonna, 21<br />

00192, <strong>Rome</strong>, Italy<br />

Tel +39-06-9799-6767<br />

Building Hours<br />

Monday – Thursday ..............9:30 a.m. – 10 p.m. Saturday ........... 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.<br />

Friday ....................................10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday ............. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.<br />

Computer Lab/Library Hours – <strong>Rome</strong> Campus<br />

Monday – Thursday ..............10 a.m. – 10 p.m. Saturday ........... 10 a.m. – 5 p.m.<br />

Friday ....................................10 a.m. – 5 p.m. Sunday ............. 10 a.m. – 1 p.m.<br />

The computer facilities at the undergraduate campus allow students access to<br />

online databases, library resources, e-mail and internet. There is also a wireless<br />

connection throughout the undergraduate campus where students can connect their<br />

own <strong>St</strong>. John’s laptops to the internet. If you need any information prior to your arrival<br />

regarding technology issues related to the <strong>Rome</strong> campus, please contact Martina<br />

Mascarenhas via e-mail @ mascarem@stjohns.edu.<br />

Collegio Leoniano Housing Complex<br />

Via Marcantonio Colonna, 21A<br />

00192, <strong>Rome</strong>, Italy


Packing and Baggage<br />

Airlines restrict the amount of baggage that passengers are<br />

allowed to carry. In general, passengers are allowed to check<br />

in two bags, each weighing 50 pounds or less. Also, neither<br />

bag can exceed 62 dimensional inches in size. However,<br />

airline requirements vary from carrier to carrier; it is your<br />

responsibility to be aware of these requirements.<br />

When packing, eliminate items that are not essential. Do not<br />

bring anything that you would hate to lose. Leave home any<br />

unnecessary credit cards, expensive jewelry or irreplaceable<br />

objects. Make sure to leave extra room in your bags for items<br />

acquired abroad.<br />

You are also allowed one piece of hand luggage to take on the<br />

plane with you. This should not weigh more than 10 pounds.<br />

When packing your carry-on, include:<br />

1. An extra pair of eyeglasses or contact lenses<br />

2. A sweater or sweatshirt<br />

3. Needed cosmetics, toothbrush/toothpaste<br />

4. A book<br />

5. Needed medication — keep medications in original<br />

labeled containers to make customs processing<br />

easier; if any medications contain narcotics, carry a<br />

letter with you from your physician attesting to your<br />

need to take them<br />

6. Do not pack liquids in your carry-on unless they are<br />

according to airline standards; refer to the airline<br />

Web site for details<br />

7. An extra change of clothes for back up, in the event<br />

that your luggage is lost<br />

Pre-Departure<br />

Checklist<br />

What to pack in your luggage<br />

Most travelers pack too much clothing. Avoid overpacking.<br />

Bring your favorites, but make sure they are practical. Take<br />

only what is necessary and what you expect to wear.<br />

The first rule of packing is “less is definitely better.” You<br />

know best what you consider essential. First, put everything<br />

you intend to bring with you on the bed or floor — then put<br />

half of it back in the closet because you won’t need it. You<br />

will probably buy a few things in Italy and if you are packed<br />

to the hilt, it can make your trip back difficult. As long as<br />

you meet the following voltage guidelines, you may bring<br />

electronics such as hairdryers, showers, curling irons, etc.<br />

Voltage in Europe is 220v — your appliance must be able to<br />

switch from 110 to 220. Plugs are shaped differently and the<br />

power level is different in Italy so bring a plug adapter and<br />

converter if necessary.<br />

Many students suggest that you purchase your hairdryer<br />

and flat iron in Europe instead of bringing one with you.<br />

They say that the electronics purchased in Europe are more<br />

compatible with the European voltage system.<br />

Pre-Departure Packing List<br />

Here’s a list of suggested items — remember that many<br />

of these items can be purchased in Europe to minimize<br />

luggage weight:<br />

Clothing<br />

• One business<br />

casual outfit<br />

• One pair of good<br />

walking shoes<br />

• One pair of shower<br />

flip-flops<br />

• Two pairs of shorts<br />

• Bathrobe<br />

• Hat, gloves, scarves<br />

• Heavy winter coat<br />

• Light spring jacket<br />

• Pants<br />

• Rain jacket<br />

• Shirts<br />

• Slippers<br />

• Sneakers<br />

• Socks<br />

• Sweaters<br />

(wool and cotton)<br />

• Sweatpants<br />

• Sweatshirt<br />

• T-shirts<br />

• Underwear


Toiletries<br />

• Antiperspirant<br />

• Comb, brush<br />

• Contact lens cleaning solution<br />

• Cosmetics<br />

• First Aid kit<br />

• Prescription medicines<br />

• Shampoo/conditioner<br />

• Sunscreen/moisturizers<br />

• Toothbrush, toothpaste<br />

Miscellaneous<br />

• Adapter and voltage converter<br />

• Alarm clock<br />

• Camera<br />

• Day backpack<br />

• Good guidebook to Italy<br />

• Italian/English Dictionary<br />

• Money belt or neck wallet<br />

• Notebooks<br />

• Phone book (keep important<br />

contact numbers on you at<br />

all times)<br />

• Sewing kit<br />

• Umbrella<br />

Pre-Departure<br />

Travel Documents: Make certain<br />

that you have a valid passport and visa.<br />

Purchase round trip airline tickets and<br />

check that all dates and information<br />

are correct.<br />

Important Addresses and Phone<br />

Numbers: Bring with you the following<br />

addresses and phone numbers:<br />

Collegio Leoniano Housing<br />

Via Marcantonio Colonna, 21A<br />

00192, <strong>Rome</strong>, Italy<br />

<strong>St</strong>. John’s <strong>University</strong><br />

<strong>Rome</strong> Campus<br />

Via Marcantonio Colonna, 21<br />

00192, <strong>Rome</strong>, Italy<br />

Tel +39-06-9799-6767<br />

Fax +39-06-9799-6769<br />

Photocopies: Make two sets of<br />

photocopies of your airline ticket,<br />

passport, insurance information, student<br />

ID card, travelers’ checks and credit cards<br />

that you are taking with you. Leave<br />

one set at home with your parents or<br />

relatives, and keep another with you in a<br />

separate place from the originals. Never<br />

pack your passport and other important<br />

documents in your checked luggage<br />

or carry-on luggage. These documents<br />

(passport, credit cards and money)<br />

should be worn around your neck in a<br />

pouch or a money belt as close to you<br />

as possible.


Personal Documents: ALL students should carry copies<br />

of ALL important documents at ALL times, and it is<br />

suggested that you carry in your wallet the addresses and<br />

phone numbers of <strong>St</strong>. John’s <strong>University</strong> and the Collegio<br />

Leoniano Housing.<br />

Parent Information<br />

1. The address and phone numbers of the <strong>St</strong>. John’s<br />

<strong>University</strong> campus in <strong>Rome</strong> should be given to<br />

your parents.<br />

2. Leave the names, addresses and telephone numbers<br />

of all important <strong>University</strong> contacts at your home<br />

institution for Financial Aid, Registrar, etc.<br />

3. Also, remember to leave your return dates and times<br />

with your parents. They will want to know when<br />

they can expect to have you back home!<br />

Medical Issues: Have a physical, dental check, eye<br />

examination, etc. prior to your departure.<br />

Money: The best way to get cash abroad is using the<br />

ATM machines that are part of the Cirrus/Plus network.<br />

You can take up to €250 per day from your account and<br />

there are banks conveniently located throughout the city,<br />

airports and railway stations. It is highly recommended that<br />

students bring a credit card with them as well in case of an<br />

emergency. It is also a good method of payment at grocery<br />

stores and department stores. This means you do not have<br />

to carry a lot of cash with you. If you are bringing along<br />

travelers’ checks, make sure to leave a copy of the numbers<br />

at home so any lost or stolen checks can be easily replaced.<br />

Money Transfers (USA – Italy)<br />

Western Union<br />

Money can be wired from any Western Union office in the<br />

USA to Italy in one hour. You must have your passport with<br />

you for identification purposes.<br />

Western Union offices are located at:<br />

Angelo Costa SpA<br />

Via Del Babuino, 51<br />

00187 Roma<br />

800 220-055<br />

Finint SpA<br />

Via Amendola Giovanni, 48<br />

00185 Roma<br />

800 464-464<br />

American Express<br />

An American Express “Money gram” can be sent from<br />

the USA to <strong>Rome</strong> from any U.S. bank that sells AmEx<br />

Travelers Cheques. The charge for wiring money is 10%<br />

of the amount being sent and takes about 24 hours. No<br />

commission is charged on exchanged AmEx Travelers<br />

Cheques when exchanged at the American Express office. If<br />

your AmEx Travelers Cheques are lost or stolen, please call<br />

167-872-000.<br />

The American Express Office<br />

Piazza di Spagna, 38<br />

+39-06-679-5222<br />

Office hours are: Monday – Friday: 9 a.m. – 5:30 p.m.<br />

Saturday: 9 a.m. – 12:30 p.m.<br />

Banks<br />

Most banks are open 8:30 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. and 2:45 – 3:45<br />

p.m., Monday – Friday. Personal checks drawn on U.S. banks<br />

are very difficult to cash in Italy and are charged very high<br />

bank fees. Your best bet is to bring travelers’ checks with you<br />

or to use an ATM card that is part of the Cirrus/Plus network.<br />

These can be used all over Europe. Banks will cash travelers’<br />

checks and will charge you a commission fee. You must bring<br />

your passport for identification purposes. You can access up to<br />

€250 every 24 hours. Most Italian Bancomats and ATMs take<br />

the Cirrus card.


Getting Settled<br />

in <strong>Rome</strong><br />

Collegio Leoniano Housing<br />

Via Marcantonio Colonna, 21<br />

00192, <strong>Rome</strong>, Italy<br />

The Leoniano housing is a newly renovated<br />

dormitory-style residence located on the<br />

top of the <strong>St</strong>. John’s <strong>University</strong> campus<br />

which is situated in a bustling area with<br />

restaurants, movie theaters, grocery<br />

stores, clothing and shoe stores, etc. It is<br />

within walking distance to the historical<br />

center and only a few blocks from the<br />

underground Metro. Shared dormitorystyle<br />

rooms with two to four beds are<br />

available. There is a common lounge with<br />

a refrigerator and a microwave for each<br />

floor. The floors are coed, but the rooms<br />

are single sex. Separate male and female<br />

bathrooms with private stalls and showers<br />

are located in the hallway. Rooms are<br />

furnished with the following items: twin<br />

beds, one desk per student, bookshelves<br />

and separate wardrobes. Individually<br />

controlled air conditioning and heating<br />

units are provided in each of the rooms.<br />

Wireless internet is available throughout all<br />

locations of the building.<br />

Directions around the Collegio<br />

Leoniano Housing and the<br />

<strong>Rome</strong> Campus<br />

The Collegio Leoniano Housing and<br />

the <strong>Rome</strong> campus are in a bustling<br />

neighborhood in the heart of <strong>Rome</strong>.<br />

There are many cafes, restaurants, ice<br />

cream shops, movie theaters and stores<br />

all around the campus.<br />

They are a short walk to some parts of the<br />

historical center and are also conveniently<br />

located next to the Metro and close to<br />

many buses. To get to the historical center<br />

of <strong>Rome</strong> from Leoniano housing, you can<br />

walk across the bridge from Piazza Cavour<br />

(10 minute walk) and you will be in Piazza<br />

del Popolo. You can also take the Metro A<br />

from Lepanto and the Spanish <strong>St</strong>eps stop is<br />

just two Metro stations away.


Transportation<br />

Metro and Buses<br />

The city of <strong>Rome</strong> has a comprehensive<br />

transportation system comprised of two<br />

subway lines, a tram service and a bus<br />

service — making it very convenient to<br />

explore <strong>Rome</strong> in your spare time. Travel by<br />

subway (METROPOLITANA) or bus costs<br />

1€ and is valid for 75 minutes on the bus<br />

or one metro ride.<br />

The ticket should be stamped in the<br />

machine of the first bus you take and<br />

stamped again if you get on a bus just<br />

before the 75-minute limit is reached.<br />

The metro stops are shown on your<br />

official maps by a red circle. The broken<br />

red line connecting each circle denotes<br />

the route taken. All students should buy<br />

a monthly bus/metro pass (TESSERA)<br />

which permits the holder to travel on any<br />

Getting<br />

Around <strong>Rome</strong><br />

bus, tram or metro for the entire month.<br />

The pass may be purchased at the end<br />

of each month for the following month’s<br />

use. A monthly pass costs €30. Those<br />

who choose not to buy the pass must<br />

buy a supply of individual tickets, sold at<br />

most tabacchi stores and bus and metro<br />

information booths.<br />

Attenzione: There is an expensive fine<br />

for using public transportation without a<br />

ticket or pass. You must pay a €50 fine on<br />

the spot.<br />

Bus <strong>St</strong>op Signs: Read the sign downward<br />

to determine which way the bus is<br />

traveling. The bus stop where you are<br />

waiting is framed with a rectangle. Look<br />

at the bottom of each route to make sure<br />

that the bus for which you are waiting is<br />

running at that time. Buses have different<br />

schedules depending on the day and time.<br />

Some buses stop running early; other<br />

buses are only night buses and some<br />

only run on Sundays. Read these<br />

schedules carefully.


If you are waiting for the bus, be sure to wave down the bus<br />

driver. If there are no passengers who are departing at that<br />

stop, the bus will continue onward without stopping.<br />

The bus (ATAC) service generally begins at 5:30 a.m. with<br />

the last departure at 11:30 p.m (atac.roma.it). The Metro<br />

(ACOTRAL) begins around 5:30 a.m. and the last departure<br />

around 9 p.m. Metro trains pass every five minutes. Some<br />

buses have night service, SERVIZIO NOTTURNO. The random<br />

departure times from each stop are indicated on the time<br />

schedule written on the bus signs, under Servizio Notturno.<br />

Getting<br />

Around <strong>Rome</strong><br />

Taxis<br />

Taxis are white with a taxi sign on the roof. In<br />

addition to the metered taxi fare, there are extra<br />

charges for a number of services. There are night fees<br />

from 10 p.m. – 6 a.m., a fee per piece of luggage and<br />

an extra charge on Sundays and holidays. If you call a taxi<br />

from your home, payment begins from the time the taxi<br />

is dispatched to your home or location. The numbers to<br />

call are 06-3570 or 06-5551; most of these taxis are<br />

air-conditioned. They will ask for the address from which<br />

you need to be picked up and the telephone number you<br />

are dialing. Taxi stands are denoted by the sign “TAXI.”<br />

It is difficult to obtain a taxi unless you are at a taxi stand,<br />

because taxis are not supposed to pick up passengers that<br />

hail them down. Regardless of what anyone tells you,<br />

never get into an unmarked car. These unmarked taxis<br />

cost double the price of a regular taxi.<br />

Airport Service<br />

It is possible to get to and from the airport by train. The<br />

Leonardo Express runs every 30 minutes and travels between<br />

the airport and the Termini <strong>St</strong>ation and costs 11€. Trenitalia.<br />

com has Leonardo Express scheduling information.Taxis to<br />

the airport cost approximately 40€.<br />

IMPORTANT — When at the airport, DO NOT take a ride<br />

with anyone with an unmarked car who approaches you and<br />

claims to be a taxi driver. They are illegal and will charge you<br />

double. When exiting the airport turn to your right and you<br />

will see a line of official white taxis, get in line and wait until<br />

one is available. Be sure to confirm the rate of €40 before<br />

getting into the car. Many drivers do not understand English,<br />

so save yourself some hassle and have the address to which<br />

you are going written down along with some brief directions<br />

and landmarks.<br />

Trains<br />

The <strong>St</strong>azione Termini is the main train station in <strong>Rome</strong>. Trains<br />

going throughout Italy and to all other European countries<br />

depart from here. You can purchase train tickets at the station<br />

or at travel agents, for no extra charge. Train schedules can be<br />

found on the Internet — www.trenitalia.it or at the train station<br />

itself. The schedules are written and displayed on yellow<br />

and white glass-covered signs. On these posters you should<br />

not only check the final destination column but also the city<br />

you want to reach. This can be found in the “PRINCIPALI<br />

FERMATE” (major stops) column or “ANNOTAZIONI” (notes).<br />

Remember to validate your ticket at the yellow boxes<br />

before boarding the train, or you will be fined. There is an<br />

information office at the station where English is spoken.<br />

They can tell you any departure or arrival time to or from<br />

any destination.


Pharmacies<br />

Pharmacies can be identified by a sign with a red or green<br />

cross on it. They are open during normal business hours,<br />

with a rotation system for night and holiday service. A<br />

closed pharmacy keeps a list in its window with the address<br />

of the nearest pharmacy open in the area. The International<br />

Pharmacy (Farmacia Internazionale) is located at Piazza<br />

Barberini, 49 and will be able to supply you with most<br />

American prescriptions or at least the Italian equivalent.<br />

All staff members speak English. The telephone number is<br />

06-487-1195.<br />

Doctors<br />

If you require medical attention, all hospitals have a first aid<br />

or emergency division, “PRONTO SOCCORSO.” The closest<br />

hospital to the Collegio Leoniano Housing and the <strong>Rome</strong><br />

campus is Ospedale Santo Spirito.The EMERGENCY ROOM<br />

number is 06-633-606. ISOS can also provide you with a list<br />

of English speaking doctors in the area.<br />

ISOS (Emergency Services) +33 01-55-63-31-55<br />

<strong>St</strong>. John’s <strong>University</strong> ISOS<br />

Membership #11BSGC000069<br />

Private Doctor<br />

Dr. Tobias Wallbrecher<br />

Via Domenico Silveri, 30<br />

00165, Roma<br />

06-638-0569 (secretary speaks English)<br />

The City and<br />

How It Works<br />

Dr. Susan Levenstein<br />

Dr. Catherine <strong>St</strong>ainier<br />

Aventino Medical Group<br />

Via della Fonte di Fauno, 22<br />

06-578-0738 (secretary speaks English)<br />

Hours:<br />

Monday – Friday: 8 a.m. – 8 p.m.<br />

Saturday: 8 a.m. – 1 p.m.<br />

*By Appointment Only*<br />

Emergency Numbers<br />

Carabinieri 112<br />

Police Emergency 113<br />

Fire 115<br />

Ambulance 118<br />

Road Breakdown Service 116<br />

Highway Police 06-55441<br />

First Aid 06-482-6741<br />

Eye emergency 06-362-081<br />

(Dr. Robert <strong>St</strong>eigerwalt)<br />

Dental emergency 330-624-715<br />

(Dr. Lino Calvani)<br />

Orthopedic emergency 335-621-1414<br />

(Dr. Marcus Frolich)<br />

Gynecological emergency 335-834-2737<br />

(Dr. Luigi Don Francesco)<br />

Poison control 06-490-663<br />

Important Numbers<br />

<strong>St</strong>. John’s Undergraduate campus 06-9799-6767<br />

School Fax 06-9799-6769<br />

<strong>St</strong>. John’s Graduate campus 06-393-842<br />

Taxi 06-3570/4994<br />

Fiumicino Airport 06-65951<br />

Termini Train station info 06-47301 or<br />

atac.roma.it<br />

ATAC (Public Transportation) 06-46951<br />

Customs 06-6595-6647<br />

American Embassy<br />

The American Embassy is located in the historical center,<br />

on Via Veneto, 119. The telephone number is 06-46741.<br />

The Embassy offers a number of services for U.S. citizens<br />

abroad.<br />

Overseas Citizens Services (in the U.S.)<br />

Crises abroad involving American citizens<br />

(202) 647-5225 (24 hours)<br />

Passport Services (in the U.S.)<br />

Inquiries about the passport application process or the<br />

status of an application or emergency 1(900) 225-5674.


Telephones<br />

Local telephone calls cost around € .10 for a call to a land<br />

line and €.30 for a call to a cell phone. Local calls can be<br />

placed in a public pay phone by using a phone card, a<br />

SCHEDA TELEFONICA. Schede telefoniche are “debit” cards<br />

that can be purchased at most tabacchi stores and bars.<br />

There will be a sign outside of the location, with a “T” on<br />

it. Remove the upper left-hand corner of the card and insert<br />

into the slot. It is reusable until its “time” runs out. Pay<br />

phones can be found on the street and in most Italian bars.<br />

Other types of prepaid calling cards, used for international<br />

calls, are also available at tabacchi. (The best one to buy<br />

is probably the Europa phone card, which costs 5€ for 90<br />

minutes and 10€ for three hours. On this card use the 800<br />

number at the top, not the local <strong>Rome</strong> number — otherwise<br />

they charge you for the local call!).<br />

Cellular Phones<br />

<strong>St</strong>udents often choose to purchase cell phones upon their<br />

arrival in Italy. Inexpensive cell phones can be bought<br />

for 50-75€ with 10€ of call time included. U.S. Tri-band<br />

cell phones may operate with an Italian SIM card, but it<br />

is recommended that you consult your local cell phone<br />

company to be sure that your cell phone would operate<br />

with an Italian SIM card.<br />

It is more common in Italy to purchase rechargeable SIM<br />

cards instead of a monthly calling plan. The three most<br />

common cell phone companies in Italy are TIM, Wind, and<br />

Vodafone. Once you have a SIM card, you can purchase<br />

rechargeable minutes at most tabacchi stores. Unlike cell<br />

phone plans in the United <strong>St</strong>ates, cell phone users are not<br />

charged for received calls, but only for dialed calls. If a cell<br />

phone is out of minutes, the user is still able to receive calls.<br />

International Telephone Calls<br />

Other types of prepaid calling cards, used for<br />

international calls, are also available at tabacchi stores.<br />

The best card is the Europa phone card, which costs<br />

€5 for 90 minutes and €10 for three hours. On this<br />

card use the 800 number at the top, not the local <strong>Rome</strong><br />

number — otherwise the residence will charge you for the<br />

total time of the local call.<br />

Calling to and from the United <strong>St</strong>ates<br />

If calling collect to the United <strong>St</strong>ates, you can call the AT&T<br />

operator directly by dialing 1 (800) 172-444. When using<br />

a public phone, you must first deposit a .10€ coin or insert<br />

a telephone card, which will be returned to you upon<br />

completion of your call. Those preferring to use MCI<br />

must dial 1(800) 172-401. To use U.S. SPRINT, you must dial<br />

1(800) 172-405.<br />

To Dial the USA from Italy<br />

001 + area code and number<br />

To Dial <strong>Rome</strong> from the USA<br />

011-39-06 and number (06 is <strong>Rome</strong>’s area code)<br />

Vatican Mail<br />

The Italian mail system is often slow. However, the Vatican<br />

Post Office is said to be more reliable, has longer hours of<br />

operation and only takes six to seven days for letters to<br />

arrive to the U.S. It is also cheaper than the Italian post.<br />

The Vatican Post Offices are located on either side of<br />

<strong>St</strong>. Peter’s Basilica and inside the Vatican Museums.<br />

Letters mailed from the Vatican Post Office<br />

must bear the Vatican stamp. These stamps<br />

can only be purchased at the Vatican Post<br />

Office. If the wrong stamp is placed on the<br />

letter, the letter will not be mailed and will be<br />

discarded. Office hours are Monday – Saturday,<br />

8:30 a.m. – 6 p.m.<br />

Italian Mail<br />

If the Vatican Post Office is inconvenient for you,<br />

you may use the regular mail system. Postage stamps<br />

(francobolli) can be purchased at a tabaccaio, recognized<br />

by a “T” sign, or at any post office (recognized by the<br />

yellow “PT” sign). Mailboxes are usually located outside<br />

the tabaccaio. There is one slot for local mail (per la<br />

città), and one slot for all other destinations (tutte le altre<br />

destinazioni). Italian Post Office hours are usually from<br />

8:30 a.m. – 2 p.m., Monday – Saturday.<br />

Shipping and Mailing Packages to and from the U.S.<br />

Please avoid, at all costs, receiving and mailing packages<br />

(regular mail and overnight courier) with any sort of electronic<br />

equipment, cameras, computers, peripherals, medicines,<br />

vitamins, etc. These packages are always stopped in the<br />

customs entry point in northern Italy. Before the package is<br />

released, you must fax the completed form back to the customs<br />

office and pay a processing fee (approximately $50) and a tax<br />

that is equivalent to 20 percent of the value. Medicines and<br />

vitamins are often not allowed through customs.


It can also be very expensive and difficult to mail packages to<br />

the U.S. <strong>St</strong>. John’s <strong>University</strong> cannot intervene or be responsible<br />

for outgoing packages that are blocked in the post office or<br />

for incoming packages that are held up in customs.<br />

Security<br />

In a recent survey of major European cities, <strong>Rome</strong><br />

was voted the safest in terms of crime and violence.<br />

Violent crime is extremely rare. Unfortunately, petty<br />

crime is a problem. PICKPOCKETS are active at railway<br />

stations, tourist areas and on public transportation,<br />

especially on tourist bus routes such as the 62, 64 and<br />

46. If someone comes towards you with a newspaper or<br />

a cardboard sign asking for directions, move away quickly<br />

because they may be trying to pick your pocket. SAY “NO”<br />

FIRMLY! Should a gang of noisy gypsy children surround you<br />

on the street, HOLD ON to your purse or wallet. This is the<br />

most popular method of robbing tourists.<br />

Precautions<br />

The following are some steps that should be taken<br />

to make your stay in <strong>Rome</strong> pleasurable:<br />

1. Make copies of all your documents, credit cards and<br />

travelers’ checks and keep the copies separate from<br />

the originals.<br />

2. Keep all valuables in your front pockets.<br />

3. When walking, keep your purse on the building side of<br />

the street. (Purses have been snatched by people<br />

on motorcycles.)<br />

4. Carry only enough cash and documents you will need for<br />

that day.<br />

5. When traveling on overnight trains, always stay in a<br />

compartment with other people. Make sure to use the<br />

night lock located at the bottom of your compartment<br />

door and keep all money and documents close to<br />

your person.<br />

6. Always be conscious of your surroundings.<br />

Police Reports<br />

You must report all stolen items to the QUESTURA,<br />

Ufficio <strong>St</strong>ranieri, Via San Vitale (bus #75) or at the nearest<br />

CARABINIERI or POLIZIA station. You will have to fill out a<br />

police report listing all stolen items. This report is necessary<br />

in order to obtain passport and travelers’ check replacements<br />

and can be used for insurance claim purposes.<br />

Shopping<br />

Porta Portese is the largest outdoor market in <strong>Rome</strong>. Here<br />

you will find all sorts of goodies and rare items. The market is<br />

open every Sunday morning and takes place in the old streets<br />

around Porta Portese. To get there, take any bus that goes<br />

to <strong>St</strong>azione Trastevere and get off three stops after Piazza<br />

Sonnino. It is best to be there by 9 a.m. to avoid the crowds.<br />

The market closes at about 1 p.m. Carry your money in a very<br />

safe spot; the market is a breeding ground for pickpockets.<br />

Make sure to bargain with all vendors. They are willing to<br />

lower their prices.<br />

The San Giovanni market at Via Sannio takes place every day<br />

but Sunday. It is the clothes-only version of Porta Portese. It is<br />

extremely cheap and has lots of different kinds of apparel and<br />

trinkets. To get there you can take the Metro and get off at<br />

the San Giovanni stop or take the bus to Piazza Venezia and<br />

then switch for San Giovanni. It closes at 2 p.m. Once again,<br />

you can bargain down any item.<br />

Department stores, Grande Magazzini, are dispersed<br />

throughout <strong>Rome</strong>. COIN, LA RINASCENTE and STANDA are<br />

the most popular department stores. STANDA is located on<br />

Via Tritone. COIN is located on Via Cola di Rienzo, near the<br />

undergraduate campus. LA RINASCENTE is located on<br />

Via del Corso.


Good overall shopping streets are Via Cola<br />

di Rienzo, Via del Corso, Via Nazionale,<br />

Via Sistina, Via del Babuino and Via<br />

Candia. All designer boutiques are found<br />

on Via Condotti, Via Frattina and their<br />

surroundings. (Gucci, Prada, Valentino,<br />

Bulgari, Ferragamo, Fendi, Armani, etc.)<br />

The Flower market, which sells wholesale<br />

flowers, is located on Via Trionfale and is<br />

open on Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. – 1 p.m.<br />

The largest fruit and vegetable market<br />

is located on Piazza Vittorio Emanuele<br />

II. There is also another large fruit and<br />

vegetable market located close to the<br />

residence on Via Andrea Doria, where<br />

you can buy fruits, vegetables, fish,<br />

meat, cheese, etc. It is open from<br />

7 a.m. – 1 p.m., Monday – Saturday.<br />

GS Supermarket is a grocery store chain<br />

similar to those in the U.S. This is located<br />

close to the residence.<br />

Other English Language Libraries<br />

(in addition to <strong>St</strong>. John’s library)<br />

Santa Susana Church Parish Library<br />

The Church of Santa Susanna<br />

Via Venti Settembre 15<br />

00187, Roma, Italia<br />

John Cabot <strong>University</strong> Library<br />

(with <strong>St</strong> John’s ID)<br />

Via della Lungara 233<br />

00165 - <strong>Rome</strong>, Italy<br />

Other English Language Bookstores<br />

The Corner Bookshop<br />

Via del Moro, 48<br />

Trastevere<br />

06-583-6942<br />

Feltrinelli International<br />

Via V.E. Orlando, 84/86<br />

06-482-7878<br />

The Anglo American Bookshop<br />

Via della Vite, 27<br />

06-679-7636<br />

Cultural Events Listings<br />

WANTED IN ROME is an English<br />

publication with listings of pubs,<br />

apartments, jobs, etc. It can be found<br />

in most English bookstores and at most<br />

newspaper stands. Wanted in <strong>Rome</strong><br />

also has a Web page which provides<br />

information about life in <strong>Rome</strong> and<br />

adjusting to life in Italy.<br />

www.wantedinrome.com<br />

TROVAROMA is a supplement to La<br />

Repubblica, an Italian newspaper that has<br />

an excellent weekly listing of films, concerts,<br />

and events. It comes out every Thursday.


Movies<br />

There are a few cinemas in <strong>Rome</strong> that show films in their<br />

original language (usually English or American films) with<br />

subtitles in Italian. You can check the local paper, Wanted in<br />

<strong>Rome</strong>, Roma C’è or ABCroma at www.abcroma.com/cinema<br />

Mass in English<br />

Santa Susanna<br />

Via XX Settembre, 14<br />

06-488.2748<br />

Santa Susanna is located near Piazza Barberini and<br />

Via Veneto.<br />

Mass in English is offered once a week at the <strong>Rome</strong> campus.<br />

Dates and times will be posted.<br />

Recommended<br />

Restaurants<br />

Almacrì (Near the Trastevere <strong>St</strong>ation)<br />

Via F. Benaglia, 3/5/7. 06-589-5651<br />

This restaurant serves pizza, pasta, and second courses.<br />

They serve huge portions, all at VERY reasonable prices. It’s<br />

a fun and young crowd.<br />

Pastarito (Via Veneto and in Trastevere)<br />

Huge portions. You may pick any type of pasta from<br />

a list of 20 and choose any topping from a list of 15.<br />

Il Bucatino (Testaccio)<br />

Via Luca della Robbia,<br />

06-574-6886.<br />

Closed Mondays<br />

Pizza Ciro (Off the Via del Corso)<br />

Via delle Mercede<br />

This pizzeria serves typical pizza and other traditional dishes<br />

from Napoli and is a little more expensive.<br />

PizzaRè (Piazza del Popolo)<br />

Via del Ripetta, 14. 06-321-1468<br />

Call in advance for reservations, there is always a line.<br />

Oliphant (Near the Pantheon)<br />

Via delle Coppelle, 31. 06-686-1416<br />

This is a Tex Mex place, one of the most American places in<br />

<strong>Rome</strong>. Here you can also watch American sports.<br />

Il Buco<br />

Via S. Ignazio, 7/8.<br />

06-679-3298<br />

(Cucina Toscana) @ €25 per person<br />

Bruni<br />

Via Germanico,<br />

06-397-23373<br />

Girarosto Toscano.<br />

BEST steaks in town<br />

€25 per person<br />

Very nice restaurants<br />

I Due Ladroni (near Piazza Navona)<br />

€35 per person<br />

Superb cuisine! Order anything and you will be completely<br />

satisfied. “Amazing Fish” – suggestions:<br />

a) the moschardine affocati antipasto<br />

b) spaghetti alla pescatora<br />

c) fish of your choice


Italian Food<br />

Vocabulary<br />

ALIMENTARI<br />

Food stores that are found in abundance throughout all<br />

neighborhoods. They sell general foods and no produce.<br />

Meats and cheeses are bought in denominations of etti<br />

(One etto equals 100 grams or enough for two sandwiches).<br />

Please keep in mind the differences in the measuring system<br />

used in Italy.<br />

SALSAMENTERIA<br />

Sells cold cuts, cheeses and specialty items.<br />

FORNO or PANETTERIA<br />

Sells fresh baked breads and pastries.<br />

MACELLERIA<br />

A butcher shop.<br />

PESCHERIA<br />

A fish store.<br />

PASTICCERIA<br />

A pastry shop.<br />

ENOTECA/VINI OLII<br />

A wine shop.<br />

BARS<br />

Sell coffee, sandwiches (panino), drinks, candy and ice cream<br />

(gelato). At most bars you must pay at the cash register first<br />

then take your receipt to the counter and hand it to the<br />

man/woman behind it (Barista). They will fill your order. If<br />

you want to sit at a table, you will most likely pay an extra<br />

cover charge. Most Italians have cappuccino with a cornetto<br />

(pastry) for breakfast at these bars.<br />

PIZZA RUSTICA/PIZZA A TAGLIO<br />

Offers pizza slices sold by weight, as well as calzoni, supplì<br />

and tramezzini.<br />

TAVOLA CALDA<br />

A bar that has pasta, rice and bean dishes, roasted meats<br />

and salads and cafeteria-style seating. The food is usually<br />

very good and the prices are reasonable.<br />

ROSTICCERIA<br />

Has an elaborate choice of foods to either eat in or take out.<br />

The most popular items are roasted chickens and potatoes.<br />

PIZZERIA<br />

Offers pizza, salads and some other dishes. Usually about €6<br />

to €10 per pizza. Surcharge per person is usually €2 to €5.<br />

TRATTORIA<br />

Offers pasta and meat dishes; usually simple fare. Most are<br />

specialized and concentrate on one type of food. A coperto<br />

(cover charge) of 1€ to 4€ per person is usually charged.<br />

RISTORANTE<br />

The most expensive of categories, this eating establishment<br />

has a complete menu, with four-course meals. Check prices<br />

on the menu displayed outside before you enter.


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