Siracusa is waiting. Are you ready?
Congratulations! To help you prepare for your time in Italy, we’ve compiled a bunch of essential information and some logistical details into this guide. Find a comfy chair, grab your favorite beverage and take 20 minutes to go through this information. We’d also encourage you to share this guide with anyone important to you.
Thank you for trusting us to be your partner in this journey. We’re eager for you to meet the MADE team when you arrive as well. Reach out if you need anything and safe travels this summer to Italy!
Let's hop to it,
YOUR TEAM@HOP
essential documents
Passport: The big one! Numero Uno! This is the single most essential piece of documentation you’ll need during your time abroad. So it goes without saying that it is important to know where it is at all times and especially when traveling.
HOP HINT: Identify a place in your carry-on, or backpack where it goes and check EVERY TIME you move. Do the big three check - Passport, Phone and Wallet/Purse.
Students have left passports on check-in counters and airline seat backs multiple times before creating unnecessary stress to start the journey. When not in use, it is equally as important to stow your passport away in a safe place at your housing. We advise taking a pic of your passport and storing it on your phone in your favorites. If you were to ever lose your passport, it’s easier to obtain a new one if you have copies of the old one. When you move into your housing, some students choose to lock their passport into their unused luggage to keep track of it. You can also now buy passport holders that incorporate air tags as an additional security measure.
Student Visa: This program does not require a student visa. The program length is short enough that you do not require this type of visa for travel.
Health Insurances: You are covered under insurance through Chubb/AXA that is arranged for you by Hop Education Abroad. Your insurance certificate will be emailed to you prior to your departure to Italy. You may also have coverage with your U.S. institution or otherwise; more on health insurance functionality below. Please print and keep copies of your health insurance identification information for each policy you have.
Prescriptions: If you are traveling to Italy (Schengen Area) with any prescription medications, you are instructed to keep the original prescriptions readily available in your luggage to show TSA officials if asked for.
Remember:
Do not lose your passport.
Make copies of your student visa, passport and health insurance identification information.
Check your medications before travel.
health insurance
You likely have more than one insurance policy you can use while in Italy. One is provided by Hop Education Abroad and the other may be from home university or your parents' coverage. If you ever have questions on which policy to use, please reach out to Hop and we can guide you. Generally we would encourage using our policies to request reimbursements. Please ensure you have receipts for all expenses you wish to claim when using the policy.
In partnership with the CHUBB Group of Companies and AXA Travel Partners Assistance, Hop enrolls all students in our combined Health and Travel policy. Should you be traveling outside of your host destination during the program, you are advised to use this insurance (or any other relevant coverage you may have with your home institution or personally).
Below is a summary of included Hop benefits:
BENEFIT | MAXIMUM | NOTES |
|---|---|---|
Total Accident and Sickness | $USD 500,000.00 | Deductible $0 |
Hospital Room and Board | Included Above | Semi Private Room Rate |
Mental Health | $USD 5,000.00 | In Patient Treatment |
Prescription Drugs | 100% of Expenses Covered | In or Out Patient, Co-insurance |
Emergency Medical Evacuation | 100% of Expenses Covered | |
Emergency Medical Reunion | $USD 12,500.00 | |
Home Country Emergency Care | $USD 10,000.00 | Extension Benefit of further $10K (Up to 30 days) |
Security Evacuation | $USD 25,000.00 | Aggregate Limit of $250,000.00 |
Chiropractic Care | $USD 500.00 | $USD 50.00 per Visit (Up to max of $USD 500.00) |
Accidental Death | $USD 50,000.00 | Includes Dismemberment |
Repatriation | 100% of Expenses | |
Personal Belongings | $USD 1,000.00 | |
Cancellation/Delay/Interruption | $USD 6,000.00 | Max of $2,000 each Category |
Lost Luggage | $USD 500.00 | $500 per Bag |
Lost Credit Cards or Cash | $USD 500.00 | Cash Limit of $250.00 |
Hop Education Abroad carries Commercial General Liability Insurance through the CHUBB group of $USD 5,000,000.00 with a $USD 3,000,000.00 amount for each occurrence.
Crisis24 Horizon
At Hop Education Abroad, student safety is always a top priority. That’s why we provide access to Crisis24 Horizon, a powerful global travel risk and assistance app designed to help keep you informed, supported, and prepared wherever you are in the world. Crisis24 Horizon delivers real-time security alerts, health updates, and detailed country and city risk insights—all in one easy-to-use platform.
Available on iOS and Android, the Crisis24 Horizon app puts critical support right in your pocket. Students can receive location-specific alerts, stay up to date on evolving situations, identify nearby medical providers, and access multilingual assistance when it matters most. The app mirrors the robust tools available on desktop, ensuring reliable support on the go.
Backed by a dedicated global intelligence team and an international network of more than 40,000 vetted medical providers, Crisis24 Horizon offers 24/7 access to timely information and assistance. We’re proud to offer this essential resource so students—and their families—can feel confident knowing support is always within reach.
Key features include:
Health, medical, safety, and security insights by location
Country and city risk ratings with detailed profiles
Real-time news and security alerts with customizable notifications
Travel tips to help you prepare and stay informed
Access to a global network of trusted medical providers
With Crisis24 Horizon, Hop students can explore the world with greater confidence—knowing help and information are always close at hand.
Remember:
You have health coverage with multiple insurance providers for the full duration of your program.
Depending on the situation, one insurance policy may be preferred to use over the other.
When traveling outside of your host destination, you have health coverage with Hop’s coverage via CHUBB/AXA, but not the policy chosen by your host university.
Save receipts for any payments you make on reimbursable health expenses.
Please download the Crisis24 Horizon app.
medications abroad
Traveling with Prescriptions:
You may bring up to three months’ worth of prescription medications with you to Italy and the Schengen Area for personal use. Medications should be:
Clearly labeled with your name
In their original pharmacy packaging
Packed in your carry-on luggage (strongly recommended)
Keeping prescriptions in your carry-on allows you to easily answer any questions if airport security or customs officials inquire. Birth control medications and vitamins are typically permitted in larger quantities.
We strongly recommend bringing:
A copy of your prescription, and/or
A doctor’s letter explaining the medication and dosage
This is especially important for controlled or regulated medications.
Controlled Medications
Medications containing amphetamine or other controlled substances (such as Adderall or other ADHD medications) are more strictly regulated in Italy and the EU.
For these medications:
You may bring up to a 30–90 day supply for personal use, depending on the medication.
You must carry:
The medication in original packaging
A doctor’s letter stating:
Your diagnosis
The medication name and dosage
That it is prescribed for your personal use
Do not travel with THC products to Italy, even with prescription. These products require extensive documentation to bring in legally and may be confiscated if found.
You may be required to declare these medications at customs upon arrival. Requirements can vary, so documentation is critical. It’s also possible your medication is not scrutinized or checked. Packing your medication properly and having your prescription documentation available is the best way to ensure you’re prepared in the event you’re asked about it while moving through customs.
Health and safety related government websites to review:
Remember:
Keep any prescription medicine in its original packaging and bring your original prescription.
Pack medications in your carry on luggage.
Do not bring more than a 90 day supply of medication.
Do not bring THC products.
personal wellness abroad
Studying abroad is meant to take you out of your comfort zone and shake up your way of thinking and doing. It can feel like an emotional whirlwind at times, so we want to encourage you to prioritize your health and wellbeing.
We’ve partnered with a mental health and lifestyle organization in Australia, GreenX7, who focuses on connection as the best means of supporting overall wellness. Connection to others, to place, to yourself, etc. Below we are sharing their 8 pillars of wellness so you can think about how to support and nourish yourself in these areas of life during and after your program.
Purpose: Having a clear "why" and aligning your daily actions with your core values and long-term goals.
Sleep: Prioritizing restorative rest as the primary way to recharge your physical and mental "battery." Going to sleep from 10 or 11 pm can dramatically influence your quality of sleep.
Physical Health: Moving your body regularly and maintaining the functional fitness needed to perform daily tasks without strain. Take walks throughout the day instead of traveling by car.
Nutrition: Fueling your body with quality food that provides steady energy rather than temporary spikes. Eating locally grown, fresh foods that are in season.
Mindset: Cultivating a growth-oriented, resilient perspective and managing your internal dialogue.
Fun: Intentionally making time for play and activities that bring genuine joy. Essential for creativity and stress relief.
Relationships: Focusing on deep, intimate connections (partners/family) that provide emotional security.
Friendships: Building a broader social support network of peers and community to foster a sense of belonging.
communications abroad
You have several options when it comes to using your phone while living in Italy. Some of the most common options are outlined below.
International phone plan: Your U.S. phone carrier likely offers an international plan that works in Italy. Since your program is short, these plans may be the best option as they’re the most convenient. Many U.S. carriers charge around $100 USD per month for international access, sometimes with limited data.
eSIM card plan: eSIMs allow you to connect to local Italian networks digitally, without needing a physical SIM card. You can set this up before departure or after arrival. Data plans vary based on usage, but many students find options averaging $15–30 USD per month, making this a flexible and affordable choice.
Italian SIM card: If your phone is unlocked (able to work with carriers other than the one it was purchased from), you can purchase a physical Italian SIM card once you arrive. Popular providers include WindTre, TIM, and Vodafone. This is often one of the most reliable and budget-friendly options, especially for longer stays. If you have an older unlocked smartphone, it can be a great option to use it with a local SIM.
Our recommendation: Generally, we recommend using an eSIM plan but since your program is 6 weeks, using an international phone plan on your U.S. carrier may be easiest. These options tend to offer the best balance of flexibility, coverage, and affordability for the length of your program.
Local emergency numbers to keep handy:
SERVICE | NUMBER | DETAILS |
General European Emergency | 112 | For medical emergencies, fire, or rescue services. All purpose emergency similar to 911. |
Police (Polizia di Stato) | 113 | For reporting crimes or needing police assistance. |
Emergency Medical | 118 | For urgent medical emergencies or ambulances. |
Fire Brigade | 115 | For fire department emergency. |
Coast Guard | 1530 | Any water / maritime related emergencies. |
These numbers are available 24/7 and have multilingual support. Calling 112 connects you directly to general emergency services. They are the equivalent to the U.S. number 911.
Basic Italian Words for Survival:
ENGLISH | ITALIAN |
|---|---|
Hello | Ciao! |
Goodbye | Arrivederci! |
Thank you | Grazie |
Please | Per favore |
You're welcome | Prego |
Yes | Si |
No | No |
Where is the bathroom? | Dov'é il bagno? |
How much is it? | Quanto costa? |
I don't understand | Non capisco |
I would like | Vorrei... |
Excuse me | Scusi |
important contact information
Be sure to save these numbers in your phone in case you need them!
24/7 Hop Emergency Number
+1 (256) HOP-CARE (467-2273)
Remember:
We recommend purchasing an eSIM or international phone plan as the most convenient and cost efficient ways to use your phone abroad.
112 is the local emergency services number; the equivalent of 911 in the U.S.
budget & finances
Cost of Living Estimates: Designing a personal budget you’re comfortable with prior to your arrival will be helpful in guiding you on how you’d like to spend leisure and social time during the program. Please review the table below for our recommendations!
EXPENDITURES | ESTIMATE BUDGET RECOMMENDATION (USD) |
|---|---|
Food (Groceries & eating out) | $550 |
Personal leisure spending (social activities, etc.) | $250 |
Local transportation (buses, trains, riding sharing apps) | $90 |
International plan, eSIM card or internet data | $120 |
Please be reminded these are estimates that are heavily influenced by personal behavior. Depending on the funds available to you or your preferences, you could reasonably spend less or more on each expense.
Credit Card Usage: Major credit cards such as Visa and MasterCard are most commonly accepted in Italy. Be aware that most credit card companies charge approximately 2-3% for foreign currency transactions. This may vary from card to card, so you are advised to confirm what your specific credit card’s fees are prior to arrival. Be sure to notify your credit card company you will be using your card overseas to avoid any fraud alerts when using your card.
Local Currency: The primary form of currency is the Euro (€). Most establishments accept electronic forms of payment, but cash is still good to have for markets, small local eateries, or taxis. We don’t recommend traveling overseas with large amounts of cash on you for security and safety reasons. If you’d like to have some euros on you in advance as a precaution, your local bank may have some available for purchase.
Exchanging Funds: Alternatively, you could exchange U.S. dollars for Euros at an airport currency exchange upon arrival, but please be aware their exchange rates may not be the best available. You can elect to withdraw directly from an ATM, but be mindful of any ATM withdrawal fees associated with your home bank or local ATM. The exchange rate changes daily but is about 1 USD is 0.84 euros, 10 USD is 8.50 euros, and so on.
Emergency Funds: We advise having a plan in place for accessing money in the event of an emergency or unexpected disruption. You could bring a second credit card that is meant to be used only for this purpose, but otherwise locked away in your housing. Or, ensuring you have access to two separate bank accounts may be most preferred. However it may work best with your family and individual circumstances would be sufficient. Should you lose access to your funds and need emergency assistance, please contact us for assistance!
Remember:
Prepare a personal spending budget you and your loved ones are comfortable with prior to arrival.
Consider the logistics of how you may prefer to spend money, via a local bank account, ATM withdrawals, credit cards, etc.
Have a secondary way of accessing funds in the event of an emergency.
Contact your local bank & credit card companies to tell them you’ll be traveling internationally for an extended period.
Be aware of international transaction fees on your credit cards, and any ATM withdrawals fees associated with making withdrawals or purchases
packing essentials
Packing Recommendations: It is extremely easy to become overwhelmed when trying to decide what you need on the other side of the world. Almost every student will say in retrospect that they bought too much with them. It is advised to pack no more than what you can carry individually. It’s a long journey overseas and lugging around too much baggage can certainly make the trek more difficult and incur unwanted fees while flying. You are advised to pack as light as possible, as you’ll want to take souvenirs or new clothing home as well. Most airlines have a maximum baggage allowance of two checked bags, one carry-on and one personal item and they will have weight limits on these items. Ensure you check the policy with your specific airline before packing.
Weather: The weather in Sicily during summer is comfortably hot and dry. There’s usually minimal rain this time of year so sunscreen is a must. The UV index is quite high, so even if it’s cloudy you’re advised to use sun protection. The average daily temperatures range from about 85°F to 75°F (or 30°C to 22°C). The sea temperature is fairly warm by June too so it’s a great time to swim. Linens: Your linens will be provided by MADE. Each room comes furnished with a bed, desk, chair, and wardrobe, and includes a bedding set with a pillow, blanket, and sheets and towels.
Packing List: The following list is a suggested packing list for the summer:
Layered clothing for both cool nights and hot days
Socks & underwear
Comfortable walking shoes
Swimwear
Sleepwear
Shower / beach shoes
Accessories (hats, jewelry, etc.)
A couple outfits of formal wear
Sunscreen
Toiletries
Medications
A weekend bag or smaller backpack for short term travel
Beach towel
Camera
Laptop & other personal electronics (Kindle, iPad, etc.)
Two or more electronic adapters
Journal
Remember:
Pack light, leave room for new clothes and souvenirs you’ll purchase during the semester.
Review your airlines’ baggage regulations.
Review our suggested packing list while you’re getting ready to depart.
Your housing is furnished with linens and towels, so you do not need to bring those with you.
arrival abroad
MADE has arranged your airport pick-up based on the arrival information you shared with Hop. Their staff will be waiting at Catania Airport for your arrival.
You will move straight into your housing. All of the Hop students are roomed near or with each other.
On arrival day, MADE will give you a practical tour of the housing and host a welcome dinner in the evening.
The following day, MADE will host their welcome orientation. You’ll review program information, schedules, information about the area, etc.
If you miss your flight, or your flight is delayed or changed, please notify Hop ASAP by contacting Nick or using our Hop emergency line.
Program Schedule
May 29 | Program Start, Arrivals, Airport Transfer, Housing Check-Ins, Welcome Dinner |
May 30 | Orientation Session, Practical Walking Tour |
June 1 | Orientation: Historical Walking Tour + Survival Italian |
June 2 | Orientation: Archeological Park Tour + Survival Italian |
June 3 | Orientation: Survival Italian |
June 4 | Orientation: Market to Table: Mediterranean Cooking Course + Survival Italian |
June 5 | Orientation: Mount Etna Excursion |
June 8 | Classes Begin: Monday through Thursday with excursions for the Volcanology course of Fridays |
June 13 | Excursion to Agrigento |
June 17 | Overview of the Iliad |
June 18 | Attend a performance of the Iliad at the Ancient Greek Theatre |
June 22 | Program Check-In |
July 3 | Final Celebration/Exhibition + Farewell Dinner |
Classes will be held from Monday-Thursday with field excursions for Volcanology on Fridays.