Travel Tips for Italy – Proper Attire for the Tourist

There are a growing number of Italian cities passing public attire laws. The move stems from the increasing number of tourists who do not know the concepts of Italian décor. Others are finding that with more tourists, trash on the streets is growing. It seems that while at home people will not leave trash on the streets when on vacation anything is acceptable. The latest city to pass city laws regarding conduct is Taormina, in Sicily. While this may seem like common sense, not knowing the laws can be very costly.

People caught walking bare-chested or littering historic sites with food wrappers and leftovers will be fined up to 500 euros, or nearly 700 dollars, the town council said Friday.

"We aim to get rid of sights that hurt the city's image," said Deputy Mayor Eligio Giardina.

However, only "full-scale visual vandalism" will earn the top fine, he said.

Most offences will be punished by the starting fine of 25 euros.

Citizens of Taormina, a pretty town that boasts some of Italy's best beaches and an ancient amphitheatre that hosts an international film festival, have been protesting for weeks over tourists' messy eating habits and scanty dress.

Giardina said a famous fountain of a female Centaur, the symbol of the city, had been turned into "an open-air dining room" for people with snacks and drinks.

Venice waged a successful campaign this summer to smarten up tourists who had been littering its streets and lounging semi-nude along its canals.

To always be safe, think about how you would like people visiting your home to act. A little respect goes a long way.

Tags: Italian Vacations Taormina Sicily Travel Tips Travel Italy Summer+Vacations