1. Money: The exchange really isn't too difficult. A Euro equals about $1.33. You can either round down to $1.25 or up to $1.50 to quickly figure out about what you're spending. Most things that you buy will cost about the same as they do in the US. The one major difference to that that I found was beverage. Over $4.00 for a glass of Coke, and no free refills. Be prepared to carry around a bunch of coins. You will have to convert your money. If you try to hand someone a US dollar they're going to look at you like you're paying with rocks. You can change money at the airport, train stations, and there are usually currency "vendors" in the middle of town. The ATMs, for a fee, will also take an American debit card and dispense Euros. You will also incur a fee if you use your debit or credit card for purchases, but they are accepted.
2. Language: You will run into a lot of people who speak English, but not nearly as often as you might think. Some waiters will grasp enough English for you to order, but that may be it. Tour guides are well versed in English, but people working ticket counters, small stores, and perhaps even at your hotel may not be. Our biggest issue with language barriers occurred in train stations. Figuring out where you want to go and where you need to be while purchasing a ticket and finding the correct platform can be difficult when there's no one you can ask. However, don't underestimate how far hand signals can get you. And never be afraid to ask someone if they speak English and if they can help you. Extra tip - ask people who don't look like they work wherever you are. The local people on the street are friendly and often speak English (of course use your own judgement on who to ask and how much about your plans to share).
3. Food and Drink: Not a single restaurant I went to in Italy offered free refills (other than THC), so if you're really thirsty, get water. Tipping your waiter/waitress is not a common practice. However, when you receive your bill you will notice a "sitting fee" added that is usually around 4 Euros. This covers the tip, the bread you are served, and any complimentary drinks you may receive (we did in fact receive complimentary wine in Rome).
4. Transportation: If you are traveling between cities trains are definitely the way to go. Very cheap, and fast. Try Rail Europe. Make sure you arrive at the station at least 45 minutes before your train is scheduled to leave. You might have a difficult time finding the platform if the station is very large. Cabs are also an easy way to get around and cost about as much as they do in the US. A cab driver can give you an estimated cost to where you want to go before you get in. The subway system in Rome is very simple, gets you most anywhere you need to go (or within easy walking distance) and a day pass is cheap.
5. Hotels: Hotels in Italy are very small. The bathrooms are even smaller. Showers can be smaller than the average US standing shower. Also, beside the toilet will be the bidet. Don't get them confused. And no, it is not a sink. Many hotels will give you an actual key instead of a swipe card (loved the quaintness of that detail) and some hotels may require you to leave the key at the front counter before leaving for the day. Hotel elevators (called lifts) are very small. Usually only large enough for two people, without too much luggage. And don't be surprised if your hotel doesn't even have an elevator and get ready to hike a few floors. The beds are small and close together and yes, that thing that looks like a vacuum hose in the bathroom is your hairdryer. Although no formal concierge, the person at the front counter can help you find your way or help you book a tour.
*Also, some areas of the Vatican and St. Peter's Basilica are off limits for a woman if you do not have your shoulders and knees covered. A scarf or shawl over your shoulders is sufficient.
Pretty much all of the same things. But a few extras/differences:
1. Our hotel room was normal size, the bathroom too.
2. Things seem to cost much more in Switzerland. A Burger King value meal cost the equivalent of nearly $14. Souvenirs that would cost about $5 here, cost around $10 there.
3. The language is much more difficult. And it's not simply Swiss that they speak. There are three different languages spoken in Switzerland and the written language is not easy to figure out, key words are not anywhere close to English. However, you're still very likely to run into English speaking people who will help.
4. Take note of the traffic lights. It won't help you, it's just cool. They go green, yellow, red, yellow, green.
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