jamikins

Also having a guide at places like the Vatican or the Coloseum can bring those things alive - much more interesting that looking at a bunch of ancient buildings that you dont know anything about. We enjoyed www.enjoyrome.com tours or what about a bike tour like this: http://www.bajabikes.eu/en/rome-bike...FYuR3godazIAWw

ellenem

Will you stay in a different hotel every night in Tuscany? Or will you stay in one place and travel from there every day? Tuscany covers a lots of territory and some places we suggest might be too far to travel to for just a day from where you might be staying.

What is t about traveling that you DON'T like? What can you do (or we suggest) that would eliminate or lessen the aspects that you don't like?

JDiff

We were told to research the entire region and let them know what we might like to do, so I am assuming they will adjust to the things we find that we are interested in doing. I will ask this afternoon just to be sure.

JDiff

The bike tour sounds amazing. I'm not sure my grandparents are up to it, but I can ask.

jamikins

If you like photography DEFINITELY bring your camera - that can make any boring place interesting for you! I bring my DSLR everywhere. Just follow normal precautions and dont leave it sitting anywhere - having an ankle or neck strp is best, and keep it out of site while having lunch etc.

You may even be able to find a photography tour - let me see if I can come up with something...

jamikins

I may have missed it - but how old are you and your cousins - maybe an afternoon on your own doing a bike tour is feasible? Give everyone a break from one another?

Fra_Diavolo

Since Pompeii interests you, try to visit Ostia while you are in Rome. It is the ruin of the ancient Roman port. Not Pompeii, but very interesting.

In many Italian towns you'll find a field and an impromptu soccer game. Maybe you can play. You'd better be good!

Rent a bicycle in Tuscany. Great rides through scenic country. Also good hiking.

jamikins

What about something like this: http://www.rome-phototours.com/galleries.php

JDiff

I don't really care for just SEEING things. I like DOING things. I like physical activity. If I were able to plan a trip completely on my own, it would be to go hang gliding, kayaking, biking, camping, fishing, and watching a sports event. I also have a problem with motion sickness when I am in a moving vehicle for more than a short time, but you guys can't do anything about that.

jamikins

Good suggestions - here is some info on Ostia Antica:
http://www.ricksteves.com/plan/desti...taly/ostia.htm

Also Lucca is a good place to go biking - you can bike the ancient walls: http://www.bikinglucca.com/

JDiff

Thank you jamikins. Those look like they might be pretty good, especially with my camera. I did not know about Ostia, Fra Diavolo. Thank you. We are 17 through 19, but I don't know if my grandparents will allow us to run off by ourselves.

Finecheapboxofwine

I see you are a first time poster. How did you find Fodor's forums, JDiff? Just want to know if you are for real. )
So your Grandparents sound pretty flexible if they are spending the money and asking you to research the whole entire region of Tuscany!? And your cousins can't come up with any ideas either? Then sounds like you are in charge and the world is your oyster!!!
Pompeii was just to give you an idea that ruins CAN be interesting!
You can take pictures and load them up on Instagram while you are out and about.
Write down a list of things that sound interesting that Jamikins found as links. Don't discount anything at this time.

JDiff

I found it while googling about traveling in Italy.

JDiff

No, my cousins said they couldn't find anything that looked like fun.

jamikins

I understand you like doing things - but as you are with your grandparents you are a bit limited and will likely have to spend some time compromising and seeing things. May as well pick some things to see that somewhat interest you, no?

But again, if you are going to be miserable the entire time and feel like they are dragging you around then everyone will know and you will ruin the trip for everyone. And if all the kids going feel the same I highly recommend you tell your grandparents to save their money. They can likely pay a minor charge to change the flights so they can take another trip themselves rather than waste their precious money on a trip no one is going to enjoy. That is more of a waste than losing the flight costs...

JDiff

Yes, my grandparents are great. I really love them a lot, and that is why I am going and why I am trying to make the very best out of this.

JDiff

I do want to spend time with them. I would have been just as happy to spend time with them at their house, though. BUT this means a lot to THEM (my grandparents) so I want to do it for them.

Finecheapboxofwine

About motion sickness- I get that myself. I take a motion sickness tablet, like Dramamine, the night before the next day's drive and it works like a charm. Those things tend to make you sleepy and if you do take it the night before then you can still enjoy the scenery. Having a little food in your stomach is also a good tip.

You are active-I've been to the Vatican once or twice but many years ago. Can people climb to the top of St. Paul's Cathedral or any other tall structure and have a good workout/lookout?

Take walking tours of cities or towns of interest if biking tours don't work.

Maybe take a look at Lonely Planet guides for ideas. They are geared to budget/younger travelers. Many college students use them.

Keep on a positive attitude for your Grandparents who sound very generous and kind for taking you kids across the world. You might find you actually enjoy traveling if you take charge in some of the planning and keep an open mind.

JDiff

Thank you all so much. Some of these ideas look really helpful. As far as the motion sickness pill, does it still work the next day?

Finecheapboxofwine

Yes! It works for me that way.