Trip FAQs: Southern Europe Multisport
- What is the packing list for this trip?
- How is this adventure different from the rest?
- Do I need to speak French or Italian to go on this adventure?
- Do I have to get to Rome on my own?
- Where will I be sleeping?
- What is the weather like?
- Can my family meet me in Paris at the end of the adventure?
- What is the hiking like?
- What if I get sick?
- What about money?
What is the packing list for this trip?
Each program has a specific packing list that has been designed to fit the trip's activities, length, climate and cultural differences. Please click here to view the Southern Europe Multisport Packing list.
How is this adventure different from the rest?
This adventure is a unique balance of cultural experiences and time in the backcountry. Spending so much time along the Italian coast and in the mountains of France, Italy, and Switzerland will be a most memorable experience. As we travel through these countries we will be immersed in the local culture, all the while taking in some of the most amazing Mediterranean and mountain scenery in the world.
Do I need to speak French or Italian to go on this adventure?
Your leaders will speak French or Italian, or both. You do not need to speak a foreign language in order to go on this international adventure. However, if you speak French or Italian (or even German!) you will have ample opportunity to speak these languages. Enrolling in this adventure is a unique way to experience a new language, or enhance a language you may already be studying.
Do I have to get to Rome on my own?
No. We offer an optional escorted flight that leaves from New York JFK. The trip officially begins in Rome, but every year about 85% of students choose to take the optional escorted flight. This option is available from Paris back to JFK as well. If you choose to meet the group in Rome on the first day, you will be met at the airport by one of your leaders.
Where will I be sleeping?
While we are in towns and cities we will either sleep in tents at campgrounds or in hostels. While we are backpacking we will be sleeping in refuges. Refuges exist because in most parts of Europe they don’t allow camping in the backcountry. They have built huts along the trails designed for travelers just like us. These huts have beds and bathrooms with hot showers and many of them are full of mountain history. This unique way of travel is a once in a lifetime experience.
What is the weather like?
In Rome and along the Italian coast, the weather will be hot and sunny, with a cool breeze blowing off the Mediterranean. In the mountains the weather behaves much like it does in our own Rockies. The sun shines very bright and it is very warm. In the afternoon, clouds may form and we will get the occasional afternoon shower. It usually clears by the evening, and the sky will open up so we can sit back and enjoy watching shooting stars from our high alpine perch.
Can my family meet me in Paris at the end of the adventure?
Yes. Several families each year decide to use the countries visited by ARCC adventures as destinations for family vacations. If you and your family plan to do this, give us a call at the ARCC office and we can arrange meeting places and times.
What is the hiking like?
As with most ARCC trips, on this adventure we assume that students have little or no backpacking experience. Therefore, we always give a backpacking orientation and we begin our hiking sections with a short day (often a couple of miles). Our longest day in the Alps is the final one - 9 miles. On average, we hike about 5½ miles a day, and have layover days built into the itinerary. Our pace is leisurely, with plenty of time for snack breaks and to absorb the beautiful scenery.
What if I get sick?
Europe is a relatively clean and safe place to travel. Students rarely complain of sicknesses. Our leaders carry a full first aid kit, and are each certified Wilderness First Responders (WFR). Hospitals or clinics are rarely far away. In the event that you do need to visit a clinic, you should expect to pay for clinic fees and/or prescriptions as necessary. Pharmacies are readily available and can fill any prescription drug needs.
What about money?
We suggest you bring $75 per week on your trip. This is for souvenirs, laundry, and other incidentals. ARCC pays for all meals, lodging, transportation and activities. There is time to shop for souvenirs in Rome, Paris, and many small towns along the way.
We recommend an ATM card or traveler’s checks as the best way to bring money. ATM’s are widely available in Europe, Cirrus and Visa/Plus being the major international money networks. Traveler’s checks are available in Euros in the U.S., as well as American dollars (for which you are charged a small fee to exchange). Credit cards are also widely accepted, but be aware that you will need a four digit PIN to withdraw cash.
As with any international trip please check with your bank to avoid any surprise fees or card cancellations due to suspicious use.
