Battlefields of Italy - Covid

A quick update for those who are thinking about visiting any of the Second World War battlefields of Italy in the near future.

As required, I sorted a PCR test as mandated for entry into Italy. I used Randox and the results came back well in advance of my flight. I was pleased with that.

I also ensured that my two Covid vaccinations were on the NHS App and visible when required.

I also completed a Passenger Locator Form for Italy.

At Manchester, I breezed through baggage deposit and security - it was quiet at both. The nice lady at Ryanair check in for baggage has a cursory look at my PCR test, my two vaccinations and my Passenger Locator Form but nothing more. If I had not had luggage, I would not have shown anyone these three requirements.

At aircraft boarding, the Ryanair staff only wanted my boarding pass and passport. I wore a mask throughout the flight.

At Rome Ciampino, I was expecting to have to present the three requirements but only got asked for my passport. It all took minutes.

Italy insists on masks in buildings but apart from that you would not believe that Covid was around.

Now that Boris has dropped the Amber List, I no longer have to do a PCR test whilst in Italy which is a joy.

All in all, it has been a painless and irritation free battlefield tour experience so far.

Regards

Frank

 

Frank,

Good news... Monte Spaduro, the Senio, Argenta and the road via Tarvisio onto Austria is on the agenda for 2022.

Enjoy the trip...

 

Richard.

I am looking at Senio and Santerno crossings and the advance through the Argenta Gap on 17-18 Oct 21. I have done all the research and will now walk the ground. If you need any info, I am happy to give you all my briefing notes and maps.

Regards

Frank

 

Two days looking at Salerno and have now pushed on to Cassino where we will spend two days. We are free to go wherever we want. Zero Covid restrictions other than masks in buildings.

F

 

As always, a very generous offer.

If (a big if) you're around next Monday (11th October at 6 pm BST), my brother, Edmund, is hosting a Zoom session to review the Irish Brigade's role in the April 1945 battle period and the Kangaroo Army's advance through the Argenta Gap. We covered their time at the Senio floodbanks last time. These things are mostly attended by sons/daughters, grandsons/daughters etc and sometimes by a knowledgeable military historian or two (not me, by the way). We had Ron Goldstein on a few times last year/earlier this year and he is sadly missed, particularly as he was present with the 4th Hussars and running a taxi service up towards the river Po for my Dad and his mates.

Here's a link to register:'
You are invited to a Zoom meeting.
When: Oct 11, 2021 18:00 London

Register in advance for this meeting:
Welcome! You are invited to join a meeting: The Irish Brigade in Italy, September 1944 to May 1945. After registering, you will receive a confirmation email about joining the meeting.

After registering, you will receive a confirmation email containing information about joining the meeting.

all welcome.

best wishes