MileHacker Logo
Resources & References

Resources & References

Puglia, Italy

Digital Resources

Essential Travel Apps

  • Google Maps

    Navigation and service locating.

  • Google Translate

    Real-time translation and phrasebooks.

  • Trenitalia

    Italy's train service schedules and tickets.

  • Moovit / AMTAB

    Local public transport in Bari.

  • TheFork

    Restaurant reservations with discounts.

Connectivity & Info

  • WhatsApp

    Communication with hosts and operators.

  • Your Bank's Mobile App

    Monitor transactions while abroad.

  • Weather App

    Check daily forecasts for Bari and Puglia.

  • Official Tourism Sites

    Information on attractions and events.

  • Travel Forums

    Advice from seasoned travelers.

Print Resources

Guidebooks & Maps

Acquire a reputable travel guidebook for Southern Italy or Puglia. Carry a detailed city map of Bari for orientation.

Regional Literature

Reading books on Puglian history, cuisine, or Italian culture deepens your appreciation of the region.

Local Publications

Local newspapers like "La Gazzetta del Mezzogiorno" offer current news and event listings. Free local tourist brochures are also valuable.

Language & Practical Info

Phrases

  • Learn basic Italian greetings
  • "Grazie mille" (thanks a lot)
  • "Prego" (you're welcome)
  • "È delizioso!" (It's delicious!)

Visitor Etiquette

  • Always greet shopkeepers
  • Expect a leisurely dining pace
  • Modesty at churches is appreciated
  • Use "Scusi" for politeness

Cultural Deep Dive

Regional Food

  • Orecchiette pasta
  • Fresh seafood
  • Local olive oil
  • Puglian wines

Local Customs

  • Midday riposo (closure)
  • Aperitivo tradition
  • Polite greetings always
  • Leisurely meal times

Historic Charm

  • Bari Vecchia's narrow streets
  • Castello Svevo
  • Basilica di San Nicola
  • Lungomare strolls

Emergency & Medical Information

Emergency Numbers

All Emergencies

  • General Emergency: 112
  • Ambulance: 118
  • Police (Carabinieri): 112
  • Police (Polizia di Stato): 113

Specific Services

  • Fire Department: 115
  • Coast Guard: 1530
  • Embassy/Consulate contacts (in Rome)
  • Local Hospital: Policlinico di Bari

Document & Safety

  • Lost document procedures
  • Report to local police
  • Contact your embassy
  • Stay informed on advisories

Health & Well-being

Medical Facilities

  • Ospedale Policlinico di Bari
  • Ospedale San Paolo
  • Pharmacies (farmacia) for minor issues

Health Advice

Safety Measures

General Safety

  • Maintain awareness of surroundings
  • Avoid poorly lit areas at night
  • Stay in centrally located accommodations

Document Protection

  • Photocopies of documents
  • Digital images stored separately
  • Police report for lost documents

Local Customs & Driving

Local Customs

  1. Always greet shopkeepers upon entering.
  2. Do not expect quick service at meals.
  3. Modesty in dress at churches.
  4. Order espresso after meals.
  5. Polite small talk finds appreciation.

Driving & Tickets

  1. Always validate bus/train tickets.
  2. Avoid ZTLs (Limited Traffic Zones).
  3. Parking outside ZTLs is advised.
  4. Midday shop closures (riposo).
  5. Do not over-tip; not a cultural norm.

Travel Beyond Bari

Coastal Explorations

Explore the Amalfi Coast or Cinque Terre if Puglia's coastline captivates you.

Food & Wine Journeys

Continue your gastronomic journey in Emilia-Romagna or Tuscany.

Regional Extensions

Dedicate more time to Itria Valley (Alberobello) or Salento Peninsula (Lecce).

Secure Document Storage

Keep photocopies or digital images of your passport and visa (if applicable) separate from the originals. This aids replacement if documents vanish.

Further Reading & Exploration

Digital Immersion

Media & Learning

  • Documentaries & Films

    Understand landscapes.

  • Music & Art

    Explore Pizzica, Taranta.

  • Italian Art History

    Appreciate architecture.

Language Skills

  • Duolingo / Babbel

    Learn basic Italian phrases.

  • Online courses

    For in-depth preparation.

  • Local language classes

    Before your trip.

Community & Planning

Online Forums

Utilize forums on reputable travel sites (TripAdvisor) or dedicated travel blogs for advice.

Social Media

Follow official tourism accounts for Bari and Puglia for event updates and local insights.

Content Exploration

Search for specific travel blogs or online articles focusing on Bari for hidden gems and tips.

Dive & Specifics

Travel Insights

  • Common tourist mistakes to avoid
  • Local customs and social norms
  • Phrases that impress locals
  • Solo traveler safety advice

Group Travel

  • Family-friendly adaptations
  • Kid-specific activity tips
  • Managing group logistics
  • Accessibility considerations

Additional Resources

Essential Gear

Planning Tools

  • Offline maps for connectivity issues
  • E-books or entertainment for downtime
  • Inform contacts of itinerary
  • Check baggage restrictions

Document Copies

Keep photocopies or digital images of your passport and visa (if applicable) separate from the originals. This aids replacement if documents vanish.