Countdown to Departure

We met last night to discuss some details about the trip. As students come home for midwinter weekend, I hope that they remember to discuss these details with you. In case they miss something, here are the main points:

- Packing. We talked about the weather in Rome and the need for some layers. It won't be so cold that they'll need heavy coats, but they will need a sweater or a fleece along with a raincoat. They will also be in charge of their own luggage, so they should be able to carry everything they bring. Good walking shoes are essential. We'll have an opportunity to do laundry in Rome, so they won't need ten different outfits for the ten days. Checking that they have the proper adapters (voltage and plug) for electorinc devices is important.

- Money. There are lots of options here, but perhaps the easiest is an ATM card and a credit card. As long as you check with both the bank and credit card company before we go, they should be fine. Some banks charge high fees, so you should check that as well. Of course traveler's checks and cash will be fine, of course.

- Readings. Several of you have asked about readings for the trip. We have not asked the students to do anything to prepare, although I did remind them last night that almost all of them studied Rome in Third Form Seminar and that I'll expect them to remember something about buildings they studied. There are historical novels about Rome and Pompeii which students have enjoyed in the past, including those by Stephen Saylor, Robert Harris and Barbara Yourcenar.