How to Pronounce Ischia?
Italian Pronunciation: "EES-KEE-AH”
English Pronunciation: “ISS-KEE-AH”
Why We Chose Ischia?
Travel has always been something we’ve enjoyed together. Some of our biggest moments – from Daniel asking Nora to be his girlfriend, and later, his wife – have happened during trips. So, a destination wedding felt like a natural continuation of our love story. With Daniel’s lineage tracing back to the Naples region of Italy, discovering Ischia felt like stumbling upon a hidden gem meant just for us. The island’s beauty and history reflect the life we're building, rooted in deep connection and full of adventure. We look forward to bringing our closest friends and family together for an unforgettable vacation!
What Will the Weather Be Like in Ischia?
Ischia will offer gorgeous summer weather, with warm, sunny days and pleasantly mild evenings. Expect daytime temperatures around 82 – 85°F and evenings cooling to a comfortable 68 – 74°F. We’ll enjoy long summer days with around 15 hours of daylight. Plus, the Mediterranean Sea reaches its warmest temperature of the year, around 75 – 79°F, perfect for swimming.
Passport and Travel Documents?
Italy requires a valid passport for entry, so please double-check that yours is up-to-date. Also, ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your travel dates, as many countries, including Italy, enforce this rule. If you need to renew, do so as soon as possible, as processing times can be long. Italy does not require a visa for U.S. citizens staying under 90 days.
Are Children Welcome?
Absolutely! We welcome children to be part of our celebration and want everyone, including our youngest guests, to have a wonderful time. However, we completely understand if parents prefer to attend on their own. Whether you bring your little ones or choose to enjoy a vacation without them, we’re excited to celebrate with you.
How Can I Combat Jet Lag?
Traveling across time zones can be exhausting and the effects of jet lag are real. Don’t underestimate it — your first day might feel like a bit of a blur as your body adjusts to the time difference. To ease the transition, consider arriving a day or two early, stay hydrated, and try to adapt to local time as quickly as possible. Rest up for all the fun to come!
Should I Rent a Car in Ischia?
It’s not necessary to rent a car in Ischia. We’ll be providing transportation for all wedding-related events. Outside of that, the island is walkable with plenty of taxis to get around easily. If you prefer the freedom to explore at your own pace, renting a scooter is a fun way to see the sights.
What Currency is Used and Should I Bring Cash?
The local currency throughout Italy, including Ischia, is the Euro (€). Credit and debit cards are widely accepted at most places. However, it’s a good idea to carry some cash, particularly when visiting family-owned businesses, local markets, tipping, or transportation services. ATMs are readily available on the island, so you can easily withdraw cash as needed during your stay. Let your bank know you’re traveling to avoid any issues.
Dining and Tipping Etiquette?
Meals in Italy are typically a leisurely experience, so expect to take your time and enjoy. Tap water is safe to drink, however, it’s common for restaurants to serve bottled water by default at an additional charge. If you prefer tap water, you can ask for “acqua del rubinetto”. Tipping at meals in Italy is different from the U.S. – a service charge (listed on the bill as “coperto”) is often included in the total, so tipping isn’t expected but appreciated for exceptional service. For taxis and smaller services, rounding up the fare is polite and customary.
Will I Need a Power Adapter for My Devices?
Yes, if you are traveling from outside of Europe, you’ll need a power adapter, which are widely available for purchase online. Italy uses Type C, F, and L plugs with a standard voltage of 230v. Most personal electronics like phone and laptop chargers are dual voltage, meaning they can safely switch between different voltages (typically 110–120v for the U.S. and 220-240v for Europe). For hot tools like hair dryers, make sure they are dual voltage to avoid damage; otherwise consider purchasing a model designed for the 220-240v system that won’t require a converter.
Cell Phone and Data Use?
Before traveling, check with your mobile provider about international roaming plans. Most providers offer international day passes that allow you to use your regular plan for a daily fee (usually $5–$10 per day), which can be convenient for short trips.
If your phone supports eSIM, you can activate an Italian data plan without needing a physical SIM card, which can be a quick and easy option. eSIM plans can be purchased online from providers like Airalo before or during your trip, giving you immediate access to local data upon arrival.
If you prefer not to purchase a plan, you can rely on Wi-Fi, which is widely available in hotels, restaurants, and cafes. For communication, WhatsApp is commonly used and great for free international messaging and calls over Wi-Fi. To avoid high roaming charges, it's smart to turn off cellular data when not in use and download offline maps (such as Google Maps) before traveling for easy navigation without data.
How Much Italian Do I Need to Know?
The primary language spoken in Ischia is Italian. While many locals working in hotels and restaurants will likely speak some English, especially during the popular summer season, English may not be as commonly spoken in smaller shops or local markets. Learning a few basic Italian phrases can go a long way in enhancing your experience and interactions. Simple greetings like "Buongiorno" (Good morning), “Buonasera” (Good evening), "Grazie" (Thank you), and "Per favore" (Please) will be appreciated.
For those less comfortable with the language, consider downloading a translation app like Google Translate — it works offline if you download Italian ahead of time, and it has a conversation mode that can translate speech in real-time. Menus may be available in both Italian and English, but if you’re dining at a more local spot, you might encounter Italian-only menus.
For quick translations, you can use the Google Lens feature in the Google app to translate text or menus on the spot by simply pointing your camera. Don’t worry if you’re unsure how to pronounce something — locals in Ischia are friendly and happy to assist. Even with a language barrier, you’ll easily get by with a mix of English and a little help from technology!
U.S. Embassy Contact Information?
In case of medical emergencies or any urgent needs, here are the contact details for the nearest U.S. Embassy in Italy:
Address: Piazza della Repubblica, 80122 Naples, Italy
Phone: +39 081-583-8111
Email:
uscitizensnaples@state.gov
Website:
This navigator will guide you through a series of questions to get you to the right contact in the U.S. Consulate Naples faster.