And finally, here is the essential information and a few tips:

Flight time: 2 hours 35 minutes.  You need to check in at least 2 hours before departure - most airlines will let you check in online, and if you only have hand luggage you may be able to arrive later, but it’s never a good idea to leave it to chance (yes I have missed a flight to Rome before - it was very expensive).  I am still a bit stumped that so many airlines ask you to re-confirm your booking at least 72 hours in advance of each journey and then always act so surprised when I try to!

Train time: 1 hour 30 minutes from Roma to Chiusi-Chianciano Terme (or more depending on stops). 

Bus time: Around 25 minutes, although our longer journey on the way out was beautiful. 

Passport info: If you have a UK passport you don’t need any visa etc. 

Vaccinations: None needed - however it is always worth checking with the NHS website, as they give up to the minute advice.  It’s also worth taking the European Health Insurance Card (EHIC) which is free.

Currency: Euro

Time zone: Usually 1 hour ahead of London time

Drinking water: Most water in Europe is pretty safe to drink, so you can enjoy ice in your drinks and brush your teeth with the tap water, but I would always recommend drinking bottled water - just because it takes anybody time to adjust to a new water system - and you don’t want that time to be on your holiday!  Take advantage of the spa water - yes it is safe to drink.

Language: Italian.  English speaking is very sporadic in Chianciano Terme.  Although the spa has a great English website, and materials throughout the spa are available in English, the staff did not speak any and this did cause me a few problems.  Staff at the hotel did not speak English either but this didn’t cause any problems - staff at the restaurant spoke great English (thank goodness!)

Safety: We didn’t have any problem at all with safety or security. 

The guide book: I didn’t have a guidebook as such, the spa website is quite helpful, as were the hotel reception and there is also a fantastic tourist office - from the spa head towards the hotel, keep going and it should be directly in front of you, on or slightly to the right of Piazza Italia.

There are also virtual guides which you can download from the website.  Their “The Land Of Water” guide is stunning and details all the many interesting spas in the area, unfortunately it’s not yet available to download.  But drop them an email and they may be able to send you a copy.

The tourist office is also a great place to pick up maps, and local itineraries whether by bus, bike or just nice long walks.

Getting around: Public transport is great if you have the time.  Many people choose to cycle in this area, but it has some pretty serious hills which I found walking up a challenge.

Tipping: In Italy it’s usual to just round up or leave small change for a tip, whether it’s a taxi or a cafe.