pack light
Get a plane passport case, it's worth it and keeps you organized through security and the airports.
Luggage- 1 large rolling suitcase and 1 duffle bag that you can transport on top (having 2 large rolling bags on the Vaporetto is a HUGE hassle... you don't want to start out the trip that way)
1 carryon and a personal bag (purse)
Laundry- The closest laundrymat is a 20 minute walk over many bridges so it's easiest to wash in your room. A good tip is to just buy detergent when you get here and split it with your roomies, that way you don't have to lug it here!
Power adapters/ converters are a must have! Most laptops automatically convert power so you would need just an adapter, but check before you leave! Some everyday appliences like an iron need a converter. The rooms have hair dryers too! Also, make sure you always check the voltage on anything you are adapting/ plugging into an Italian outlet!
Versatile walking shoes are important because you will be walking everywhere! So buy comfortable and waterproof and wear them in before you arrive. Flip flops are nice in the summer but don't offer much support so bring sneakers as well.
Bring clothes for sunny summer weather during the day since it will be May, but it does get cold at night so don't forget a sweater or light jacket. Also, the Vaporetto get's cold and the weather changes so layers are KEY!
Jeans are not allowed in some nicer restaurants so bring come nicer outfits to wear out to dinner.
Bring a bathing suit and buy a towel at the grocery store for the Lido, Venice's beach.
be prepared
A watch and a travel alarm clock are important because your cellphone probably won't work in Italy, also write down important phone numbers!
Let you bank and credit card companys know that you will be out of the country so they dont cut you off.
Wait till you get to Italy to buy calling cards, they are a much better deal.
Favorite DVDs, a book, or an ipod are always a good way to keep entertained!
A pocket Italian phrase book comes in handy, but when in dougbt most people can get get by in english.
A EuroRail pass is not nessisary unless you are traveling to other countries as it is a waste of money to travel on it in Italy only, contrary to what people will tell you.
Bring a small notebook for classes.
Bring extra batteries for cameras and any other electronics
Bring blank CDs or DVDs to back up your files as a hard copy. Better to be safe than sorry...
Remeber, you are a guest in a different country you must respect the culture and customs that are in place, that includes covering your shoulders and no short skirts when visitng churches, wich you will do a lot of.
A light raincoat and umbrella are good in case of rain.
from the faculty
It is suggested that, to be well prepared, students take Introduction to Photography (ART U160) at Northeastern before coming to Venice.
Although Art Majors are preferred for the Venice Program, the faculty does admit some students from outside the Department. Please contact Professor Rantoul for more information at:
n.rantoul@neu.edu
or 617-373-2346
May in Venice can be hot, cold and in between. In 2006 the classes had to contend with two days of rain. Also, it's important to pack light as students will have trouble getting to their housing with too much luggage and many students continue to travel in Europe after the program is finished. The faculty suggest one rolling bag and one sturdy carry-on like a small back pack for their computer and camera equipment.
The Program requires the following:
A contemporary Mac G4 laptop in 12, 15 or 17 inch size or a Mac Book computer and a digital camera that makes RAW files, preferably a DSLR. Computers should have up to date software, including the latest version of Photoshop. Students must have a tripod and it would be better if this were lightweight, but sturdy.
As we work with many files, additional storage becomes important. Many students bring extra hard drives for their computers. While this is not required, it is recommended and students must bring CD and/or DVD's to burn of their assignments.