What kind of scooter rider should go on this trip?

Italy is known for crazy drivers. I recommend a rider that can drive defensively and is an intermediate or advanced rider.

Can I legally ride a Vespa in Italy?

Yes, if you have a legal driver's license to drive a scooter in the U.S. AND you get an International Driver's Permit. 

What is an International Driver's Permit?

An International Driver's Permit basically validates that your license works in the U.S. and you can drive the same licensure in 100+ countries with this. You can get it through AAA for $20 and is good for a year. You will need your current license, application, 2x passport photos. You can go to a AAA office to get the paperwork done. For more information go to AAA.

Can you explain the costs on the trip?

Your biggest expenses will be flight, scooter rental, and lodging. This is subject to change based on the economics of fuel and supply/demand. Emily is keeping tabs on any major shifts. We can expect to pay a little more because we are at the beginning of the tourist season in Italy.

Where will be renting the scooters through?

When Emily was in Naples she rented a Vespa GTS 300 CC for 2 days through Vespa Enjoy. They were great to work with and said they would setup Vespas for a group to ride. Titta at Vespa Enjoy is connecting us with a local guide to take us around the Amalfi area and get away from the tourist traps. The cost will be 520 euros for two days and will cover the Vespa rental, gas, tolls, and guide.

We will be using Florence Station Rental for our scooter rentals in Florence. They have a limited amount of Vespas so you will want to book your scooter sooner than later. Otherwise, you're going to be riding 2-up or in a Fiat.

What about lodging?

Emily is currently working with travel companies to secure lodging that is easy to get to, comfortable, great rate, and we can keep our scooters safe at night. We'll be basecamping in three cities during the trip: Naples (May 6-9), Rome (May 9-12), and Florence (May 12-15).

Current bookings for the group so far:

• Naples: Spira Mirabalis

• Rome: Near Roma Termini Station (Emily booked at Hotel Villa delle Rose)

• Florence: Near Grandi Stazioni (Emily booked at Hotel Nuova Italia) 

What's the food like?

My gosh, it's unbelievably good.

Will we have a tight itinerary?

Nah, the goal is to visit Italy by Vespa. Which means scenic rides and exploring the land of the Vespa. Some most-see places include: Pompei, Amalfi Coast, Rome Colliseum, Vatican, Tuscany, and basically every gelato shop!

When do I have to commit to the trip?

Your commitment is centered around the reservations you will be making. Emily will be making her reservations and letting the club know via the BBSC website and Facebook Event Group. With enough notice and planning, you can decide to join in on things like shared lodging and getting on the exact flights. You very well find a better deal on a different flight but the goal for the trip is to arrive at the same time in order for everyone to travel in Italy together.

How should I pack?

We are basecamping at three hotels in three cities and traveling via train. We don't have to pack super light this trip but you will need to get your stuff from the train to the hotel so plan on walking a few blocks with your stuff.

Emily's Luggage: Probably a 45L or 60L roller bag and backpack + scooter helmet. Laundry will be done at a hotel in Rome.

*scooter shops can provide helmets and smartphone mounts. 

Can I ride 2-up on a scooter?

For sure! You can request that option and both scooter rental places allow for a top box as well.