the naples handbook

THE
NAPLES
HANDBOOK
February 2013
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Table of Contents
FOREWORD/ BENVENUTI A NAPOLI / WELCOME TO NAPLES
PART 1 -NAPLES PROFILE
SECTION 1 - OVERVIEW OF ITALY
SECTION 2 - NAPLES
SECTION 3 – NATO AND JFC HQ NAPLES ORGANIZATION
SECTION 4 - THE CANADIAN COMMUNITY
PART 2 – SPONSORSHIP AND YOUR HHT TO NAPLES
SECTION 1 – SPONSORSHIP SYSTEM
SECTION 2 - HOUSE HUNTING TRIP (HHT)
SECTION 3 – FINDING ACCOMMODATIONS
SECTION 4 – UNIQUE NATURE OF ITALIAN HOUSING
SECTION 5 – FINDING AND SECURING THE RIGHT PLACE
PART 3 – LEAVING CANADA
SECTION 1 – CIVIL OBLIGATION
SECTION 2 – DOCUMENTATION ISSUES
SCHOOL DOCUMENTS
CANADIAN DRIVER’S LICENCE
CANADA CUSTOMS
EMPLOYMENT AND IMMIGRATION CANADA
DND IDENTITY CARD
FAMILY MEMBER ID CARDS
SOCIAL INSURANCE NUMBERS FOR TEENS
SECURITY CLEARANCE
PASSPORTS (Green and blue) / SOJOURNER’S PERMIT
INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATION OF VACCINATION (YELLOW
BOOK)
MEDICAL AND DENTAL RECORDS
MEDICAL AND DENTAL INSURANCE
SECTION 3 – PRE-DEPLOYMENT TRAINING
SECTION 4 – MILITARY CLOTHING / UNIFORMS
SECTION 5 – PETS – IMPORTATION INTO EUROPE
SECTION 6 – SPECIAL ITEMS TO BRING IN YOUR HG&E
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PART 4 – ARRIVING AND LIVING IN NAPLES
SECTION 1 – ARRIVING IN NAPLES
SECTION 2 – SAFETY ISSUES
REQUIREMENT TO CARRY IDENTIFICATION PAPERS
CARRYING IDENTIFICATION
LOST OR STOLEN IDENTIFICATION
EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS
ACCIDENT REPORTING
NATURAL DISASTERS
LEGAL ADVICE
SECTION 3 – HOUSE INFORMATION
ELECTRICITY
WATER (NON- POTABLE)
SECTION 4 – TELEPHONE (“TELECOM ITALIA”)/INTERNET
INTERNET AT HOME
INTERNET AT WORK/CFMRC
SECTION 5 – HOUSEHOLD INSURANCE
SECTION 6 – TRANSPORTATION – YOUR VEHICLE
INTRODUCTION / DRIVING CONDITIONS
YOUR VEHICLE
INSURANCE
DRIVER'S LICENCE
POMV REGISTRATION IN ITALY
SECTION 7 – TRANSPORTATION - PUBLIC
AUTOSTRADA AND TANGENTIALE
AIRPORT
TAXIS
SECTION 8 – EDUCATION
GENERAL EDUCATION INFORMATION
ITALIAN LANGUAGE TRAINING
SECTION 9 – FINANCIAL ISSUES - GENERAL
SECTION 10 – FINANCIAL ISSUES –SPECIAL NAPLES ITEMS
SECTION 11 – MEDICAL AND DENTAL CARE
USN HEALTH CARE FACILITIES
MEDICAL RECORDS
FAMILY MEMBER MEDICAL/DENTAL TRAVEL
NORMAL HEALTH CARE EXPENSES: FAMILY MEMBERS
NORMAL HEALTH CARE EXPENSES: CF MEMBERS
HEALTH CARE EXPENSES: CIVILIAN HOSPITALS
MEDICAL INSURANCE COVERAGE
OPTICAL SUPPLIES AND SERVICES
DENTAL RECORDS
NORMAL DENTAL CARE EXPENSES: FAMILY MEMBERS
NORMAL DENTAL CARE EXPENSES: CF MEMBERS
DENTAL FACILITIES
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SECTION 12 – MILITARY DRESS AND DEPORTMENT
GENERAL
SECTION 13 – SHOPPING
US NAVY EXCHANGE (NEX)
SIZE CONVERSION
MARKETS
SECTION 14 – ENTERTAINMENT
RESTAURANTS
TELEVISION IN NAPLES
MAGIC WORLD
CARNEY PARK
SECTION 15 - FAMILY ACTIVITIES / CMFRC / PSP
CMFRC (CANADIAN MILITARY FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE)
PSP (PERSONNEL SUPPORT PROGRAMS NAPLES)
SECTION 16 - POSTAL
PART 5 – GOING BACK TO CANADA
SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION
SECTION 2 – CANADA CUSTOMS REQUIREMENTS
ANNEXES
Annex A - NAPLES SITE MAP
Annex B – JFC HQ NAPLES BASE MAP
Annex C - LIST OF RECOMMENDED ITEMS TO BRING TO NAPLES
Annex D - REFERENCE MATERIAL
Annex E - PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM
Annex F – SIGHTS TO SEE IN THE NAPLES AREA
Annex G – BASE INFORMATION PROVIDED BY NATO
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FOREWORD
On behalf of all Canadians serving in Naples, the Personnel Support Programme, and your
Canadian Military Family Resource Centre-Naples (CMFRC-Naples), I would like to wish you
a warm welcome to Italy. I hope that your tour will be a positive and rewarding experience for
both you and the members of your family.
Since the establishment of the Canadian military element, the number of families residing in
Naples has seen a steady increase. There are currently 41 members posted to Naples and
Latina, IT. The aim in any overseas posting is to make the experience as rewarding and
enjoyable as possible.
One of the foundations of the Naples Canadian community is the CMFRC-Naples, which was
established in February 1998. It provides the same support programmes as other CMFRCs in
Canada and Europe. Naples is a unique place, as you will find. The lodging and the facilities
are different than in Canada. Canadians are spread out over many kilometres with most living
in Lago Patria, Vercaturo, Pozzuoli, Quarto, Licola and Monte di Procida. The base at JFC HQ
Naples is the one place Canadians go regularly (military members to work, and family
members for shopping, banking, personal administration and meeting other members of the
international community).
The major change afoot is that NATO is in the process of a major structural review of its
Peacetime Establishment (PE) and its functionality. What this means to those posted to JFC
HQ Naples is that most personnel posted to Naples will be called upon to deploy on a NATO
mission for a six month rotation (KFOR, ISAF or African Union) and all personnel will be in a
standby posture at some point to deploy if the case arises. This is a crucial point for both
military members and equally for families to take into consideration when considering a
posting to Naples. These are very exciting times for JFC HQ Naples in terms of this change of
mandate. Opportunities will abound for making this new HQ and structure a great success for
NATO as a whole.
“The Naples Handbook” has been prepared as a joint venture between the military community
and the CMFRC-Naples. It provides a total overview of life in Naples and some helpful hints
on how to adapt and settle in this unique and diverse environment. This booklet is updated
annually. We look forward to members, especially those that will arrive each year, providing
inputs to further enhance its presentation and usefulness. As newcomers, please note areas
where information is outdated or where additional information is required as you go through
the moving process and be prepared to provide your comments this fall to the OPI for this SOP.
On behalf of all Canadians residing in Naples, welcome … benvenuto.
// Signed //
Senior Canadian Officer
BENVENUTI A NAPOLI / WELCOME TO NAPLES (A LETTER FROM DOTT.
ORESTE SCHIANO DI ZENISE)
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The key to a successful posting first and foremost is flexibility and open-mindedness. There
will be many aspects of your life here that will not compare to Canadian ways of doing things,
and it will be up to you and your family, together with the support of the Canadian community,
to see this experience for the wholly wonderful opportunity it can be. Those who have been
here for a while have learned that Naples is a city of amazing contrasts, where picturesque
sites, art treasures, unique panoramas and colourful streets are mixed with some unpleasant
areas and rubbish-filled lanes. A deep contrast also exists within the population. The kind,
helpful and generous character of the majority of the people vanishes in the face of reports on
local robberies and the nasty experiences of some tourists. As for violence, Naples tends to be
safer than many other big cities, such as Milan, London, or New York. However, petty crimes
can occur, and therefore, it is incumbent upon those posted here to be smart, safe and vigilant
with their personal belongings, both in and out of your residences. Your stay here has the
potential to be one of your most memorable, particularly if you remain flexible and adapt well
to change. It is no small feat to move to another country, and your patience will be tried at
first. A good attitude maintained will serve you extremely well while posted to this very
unique environment. Naples may be somewhat challenging at times, but it has a great deal to
offer, which you will discover little by little. There are so many significant sites in and around
Naples: museums, royal palaces, ancient churches, cloisters, the incredible crèche in Santa
Chiara, the intriguing “Spaccanapoli”, a street in old Naples full of things of interest, the Amalfi Coast with its spectacular panorama, the ruins of Pompeii and Herculaneum, the superb
Roman sites rescued from the ashes of Vesuvius, are but few of the sites that must be visited.
A walk around “Solfatara”, the volcanic area of the edge of Pozzuoli, is fascinating. The
Island of Capri is an authentic precious stone in the ring of the Bay. I believe that the statue of
the “Veiled Christ”, in the Sansevero chapel in Naples, is a miracle more than a masterpiece and it alone is worthy of a journey from Canada to Italy!
Obviously, I do admit that robberies take place frequently in these tourist areas, but you can
leave your jewels at home, use money belts and inexpensive cameras. And if, despite these
precautions, something does happen, take it with philosophy and enjoy the adventure of
walking around the back lanes of ancient Naples.
Normally, you may live in nice houses or flats, located in refined residential areas, often with
unrivalled panoramic views. But problems with the electricity or the water pipes might irritate
you. The first phone contact with the electrician or the plumber will result in him informing
you of his visit tomorrow. But what you don’t know yet is that in this part of the world, tomorrow doesn’t mean the following day but any day in the future: “from now to eternity”. If you are lucky, he surely will come a week later and maybe at 11 p.m. while you are asleep.
You must also know that driving in Naples can be a problem for newcomers but not for the
locals, who are normally excellent but very undisciplined drivers. Neapolitans do not like to
stop when the traffic light is “red” and they don’t see cars in the other stream of traffic. They also usually pass when the “green” has just turned into “red”. And what of the yellow light,
you may wonder? That doesn’t mean anything! It is there just like a Christmas decoration! The disregard for traffic rules by Neapolitans reached its peak when the safety belt was
introduced. No one used them and many were heavily fined. A few days later, in the street
markets, T-shirts were sold with the black stripe of a safety belt stamped on!
Neapolitan cuisine is well known and celebrated all over the world. There are hundreds of
little “trattorie” offering local food with more or less the same selections on the menu. The
selection of food is limited but whatever you order will surely be delicious. The atmosphere is
warm and friendly everywhere, the prices are reasonable, but if you make the mistake of asking
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for a “Montreal bouillabaisse” or a “risotto alla milanese” it is advisable not to go back to that restaurant again!
When you come out of a restaurant or a shop, don’t forget to keep the bill or receipt with you because once outside, you could be asked to produce it by the Guardia di Finanza, the Finance
Police, and risk a fine if you cannot.
Neapolitans are generally helpful and love to give information or advice to a foreigner. So if
you get lost in a back street of Naples, don’t hesitate to ask somebody on how to extract yourself. The person you ask will be very informative, largely using hand gestures. Very
often, other persons will join in, and a small knot of people will discuss, for quite a time, the
very best way to help you out of your predicament.
You will better realize, once you leave Naples and get back to your country, how positive the
experience of mixing culturally and socially with the local residents has been. In spite of some
bad press that is not completely deserved, the discovery of Naples and Neapolitans can be a
fascinating experience for people who come from so far.
Welcome to Italy and I wish you a pleasant stay in Naples!
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PART 1 - NAPLES PROFILE
SECTION 1 - OVERVIEW OF ITALY
1.1.1 With its typical boot shape, Italy stretches over
1,300 kilometres southward from Switzerland and Austria
as it moves into the Mediterranean, surrounded by four
seas. Because of this, Italy, a long and relatively thin
peninsula, benefits from a wide variety of landscapes and
climates. Plains cover barely one quarter of its 300,000
square kilometres and the shoreline runs around 7,500
kilometres. The Alps line its northern border and the
eastern and western coasts are separated by the
NAPLES
Apennines mountain range as it runs almost all along the
peninsula. Northern Italy, where you find cities such as
Milan, Turin and Venice, has a continental climate
similar to its neighbours north of the Alps. Winters are
cold (but a far cry from the Canadian winters, unless you
are from the West Coast) and rain falls in the spring and
summer. Central and Southern Italy, home to Rome,
Naples and Bari, on the other hand, have a Mediterranean
climate. Winters range from cold to very mild and can be rainy. Summers tend to be fairly hot
and humid. This is certainly true of Naples where July and August will harbour temperatures
in the 30’s with a high degree of humidity. Italy has around 60 million inhabitants of which 54% are city dwellers.
Naples
weather
Jan
Feb
Mar
Apr
May
Jun
Jul Aug
Sep
Oct
Nov
Dec
Average
Daily ºC
12
13
15
18
22
26
29
29
26
21
16
13
Absolute Max
ºC
20
21
25
28
33
35
38
39
39
31
25
21
Average Daily
ºC
5
5
6
9
13
16
19
19
17
13
10
7
-4
-5
-4
1
1
7
11
12
8
3
-1
-4
Sea Temp
ºC
12
11
12
14
18
21
24
25
23
20
17
14
Precipitation
mm
112
86
63
58
53
28
18
30
91
119
122
122
Days with Rain
11
10
6
6
5
3
2
2
6
9
11
11
Min Temp
Absolute Min
ºC
Temp
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SECTION 2 - NAPLES
1.2.1 Lying on the Gulf of Naples in the region of Campania, 200 km South of Rome, the
city stretches for some 10 kilometres, from the outlying slopes of Campi Flegrei to Vesuvius,
in one of the most scenic settings in the Mediterranean. Already a Greek colony in the 5th-6th
century B.C. (known as Partenope and later called Neapolis), it was fully romanized during the
4th century B.C. and became the principal town in Campania. Partenope was the mythological
mermaid who lived in the Bay of Napoli. In Greek it means “the new city”. After the fall of
the Roman Empire, it submitted to the Goths, then to Byzantium, until 1139, and then the
Normans led by Ruggero II conquered it. With the rise of the House of Anjou, it became the
capital of the Kingdom of Napoli in 1266, and in 1442 passed to the Aragons (Alphonse I,
King of Sicily). In 1504, it passed to the Spanish where it became of increasing economic,
cultural and artistic importance. The Kingdom remained a Hapsburg possession from 1707 till
1734. Following that was the start of Bourbon domination that lasted (except during the
Republican period of 1799 and rule by Murat from 1806 to 1815) until the unification of
southern Italy with the rest of the country in 1860. Over the centuries, the city has spread from
its original nucleus beside the Pizzofalcone promontory, on an orthogonal layout, along the
narrow littoral belt and the high ground behind, exploiting to the fullest every piece of land
suitable for building. The congestion of buildings became worse after 1566, when the city was
surrounded by walls, and more so in the last century, with the construction of industrial
factories. It is not easy to list in such little space all the attractive sights of Naples. Those of
exceptional interest include:
a.
Castel Nuovo or Maschio Angioino (13th century), a majestic trapezoidal
structure and a symbol of Naples, embellished by the monumental Arch of
Triumph (15th century);
b.
Palazzo Reale (17th-18th century, neoclassical), the Duomo (13th century,
originally Gothic) and the Baroque chapel of S. Gennaro, the city’s greatly venerated patron saint;
c.
S. Lorenzo Maggiore church (13th century, Gothic-Provençal), the Certosa di S.
Martino (16th-17th century, Baroque, built over a pre-existing building), the
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church of S.Chiara (14th century, Gothic-Provençal) with the fine adjacent
cloisters of the Clarissa nuns;
d.
The church of San Domenico Maggiore (13th-14th century), the S. Gennaro
catacombs (2nd century, with interesting old painted ornamentation);
e.
Castel Capuano (founded by the Normans, 12th century, now the Law Courts);
f.
Palazzo Gravina and Palazzo Cuomo (Renaissance); and
g.
Other sights include: central and thronged Via Toledo, built by the Spanish in
the 16th century. Scenic Via Caracciolo, with the delightful Mergellina cove.
This is the beginning of the Via Posillipo, which winds through the parks of
ornate villas and leads to the pretty seaside village of Marechiaro, high above
the sea. The Royal Palace, surrounded by the beautiful Parco of Capodimonte,
dominates the whole Gulf of Napoli.
1.2.2 Commerce is the great mainstay of the city’s economy, though often disorganised. Activities centre on what is one of Italy’s most important passenger ports. The industrial sector is well developed and extends to a number of suburban centres. Metalworking, engineering,
chemicals, petrochemicals, shipbuilding, food (pasta, food processing) and construction
materials (cement) are the largest industries. Textiles, footwear, leather works and garment
manufacturing are organised on a semi-craft scale. Naples, with its 2.5 million inhabitants, has
a very high unemployment rate. This results in a high petty crime rate, thriving ‘black market economy’ and large concentration of migrant young people. The beauty of Naples is certainly
not skin-deep and has often been praised by travellers and poets. One will find in the city life a
mix of beauty and ugliness, fantasy and superstition, inextricably linked to the Neapolitan
reality, which sometimes might appear unfriendly.
1.2.3 Until as recently as fifty years ago, Naples was as rich in folklore and tradition as any
place in the world. Some of the small towns outside Naples still keep some of these traditions,
but in Naples itself, they are becoming less common. The Naples area still celebrates many
festivals revolving around the Church calendar. As with other regions of Italy, Neapolitans
have special foods for different feast
days and seasons. Easter has pastiera,
a traditional torta with ricotta cheese
and citrus flavours, and a savoury bread
made with smoked meat and various
types of cheese (and hard boiled eggs).
The Christmas season has struffoli, a
mountain of tiny deep fried balls of
dough coated with a sugar and honey
syrup, and panettone, tall cakes that can
be found in the shops for about a month
before Christmas. These are only some
of the common special treats to be
found in Naples at different times of the
year. Christmas Eve is a special feast
that often starts in the early afternoon
(traditional households fast Christmas
Eve morning) and consists of fish
dishes, a variety of vegetables, and
fresh fruits. Eel is a special dish for
Christmas Eve.
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1.2.4 The family is the predominant social unit in Naples life. Family ties are still very
strong, even in the least traditional families, and the celebrations of life events such as baptism,
confirmation, marriage, and death are extremely important to Neapolitans. Name days onomastico (corresponding to the saint’s day for whom you are named) are also celebrated like
birthdays. Many celebrations are not complete without fireworks. Throughout the summer,
but especially for Ferragosto, fireworks can be seen and heard everywhere in the Naples area.
Nothing though, compares with, or can prepare you for, the fireworks on New Year’s Eve. The saying “out with the old and in with the new” has different and sometimes perilous connotations in Naples, as people are known to throw broken or worn items (even appliances)
out the windows on New Year’s Eve. People are warned not to walk downtown, or drive
between about 11 p.m. and 1 a.m. on New Year’s Eve.
1.2.5 A tradition which began in the 16th century in Italy with the theatre known as the
Commedia dell’Arte, was the depiction of stereotypes of various regions of Italy. Pulcinella
portrays the Naples character. He is generally presented as a hunchback, dressed in an oversized white smock, pants and soft white hat and a black half-mask with a large hooked nose.
His character is jolly but inept, he is always poor and hungry (he is often depicted dropping
large handfuls of spaghetti in his mouth) who makes a meagre living singing songs and playing
the mandolin. Implicit in this character though, is the true court jester, who delights in
snubbing his nose at those in power under the guise of humour.
1.2.6 This is why discovering Naples requires understanding the Neapolitan way of life and
looking beyond the everyday frustrations. Again may we recommend that you read up on
Naples prior to your arrival in order to facilitate your transition to Italy.
.
BASIC EXPRESSIONS
1.2.7 Basic Expressions.
Good morning
Good evening
Good night
Good-bye
See you later
Hello/good-bye
Hi!
How are you?
Fine, thank you
Please
Thank you very much
You’re welcome
Excuse me
Buon giorno (buon joarnoa) (used until mid-afternoon)
Buona sera (buona sayra) (used any time mid-afternoon)
Buona notte (bouna notay)
Arrivederci (ahreevadairchee)
Ci vediamo (chee vaydiamo)
Ciao (chow) (informal)
Salve (salvay) (informal)
Come stai (coamay stah)
Bene, grazie (baynay gratseeay)
Per favore (pair favoaray)
Molte grazie (moaltay gratseeay)
Grazie tante (gratseeay tantay)
Prego
(praygo)
Mi scusi (mee scoozie)
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SECTION 3 – NATO AND JFC HQ NAPLES ORGANISATION
JFC HQ Naples
Further information on JFC HQ Naples and its organization may be found at
www.jfcnaples.nato.int.
Further information on USN activities and the larger NATO community can be found at the
USN base web site: https://www.cnic.navy.mil/Naples/index.htm
1.3.1 Allied Joint Force Command (JFC) Naples was activated on 15 March 2004, when its
predecessor command, Allied Forces Southern Europe (AFSOUTH), was deactivated after
nearly 53 years of successful activity in support of peace and stability in and around its
designated area of responsibility.
1.3.2 Background. The activation of the current command structure was a part of NATO’s transformation aimed at adapting the allied military structure to the operational challenges of
coalition warfare in order to face the emerging threats of the new millennium. The new NATO
Command Structure is leaner, more flexible, more efficient, and better able to conduct the full
range of Alliance missions. The transition process was set into motion through decisions taken
by NATO Heads of State and Government in 2002, when it was also agreed to create a NATO
Response Force (NRF) consisting of a technologically advanced and flexible force, including
land, sea and air elements, ready to move quickly to wherever needed as dictated by the North
Atlantic Council.
1.3.3 JFC Naples Mission. Commander Allied Joint Force Command Naples (COM JFC
Naples) is to prepare for, plan and conduct military operations in order to preserve the peace,
security and territorial integrity of Alliance member states and freedom of the seas and
economic lifelines throughout SACEUR's Area of Responsibility (AOR) and beyond.
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In addition, he is to contribute to crisis management and deterrence by ensuring that assigned
headquarters and forces are at the designated state of readiness for the conduct and support of
operations, and to conduct prudent operational level military analysis and planning that
includes the identification of required forces. He is to contribute to the development, conduct
and evaluation of exercises to train Allied and Partner HQs and Forces in NATO
joint/combined procedures. He shall also contribute to stability throughout the Euro-Atlantic
area through cooperation and dialogue under Partnership for Peace, the Mediterranean
Dialogue, enhanced relations with Russia and Ukraine, as well as other initiatives in the field
of consultation and engagement of non-NATO nations. He shall also work with Allied
Command Transformation, in particular to promote the provision of capable combined/joint
HQs, forces and capabilities.
COM JFC Naples has no permanently designated AOR but SACEUR can designate an
approved Joint Operations Area (JOA) to meet the requirement for exercises and operations.
He will be assigned by SACEUR Areas of Functional Responsibility (AOFR) for day-to-day
activities and the conduct of routine operational and non-operational tasks. COM JFC Naples
can be also assigned Areas of Interest (AOI) beyond NATO's territory to monitor and analyze
regional instabilities, military capabilities and transnational issues, in order to identify their
potential military consequences which may directly or indirectly influence NATO's security
interests.
The assigned mission implies the need for each operational command to be capable of
developing a military response to missions assigned to it for its expeditionary operations. The
JFC Headquarters must therefore be able to mount a Combined Joint Task Force (CJTF) HQ,
or -- from within its own staff -- a smaller Deployable Joint Task Force (DJTF) as the "seed” for larger command and control formations which various missions may require. Each
operational command will, on a rotational basis, assume responsibility to command the NRF
and, during those periods, will constantly maintain the capability of deploying a DJTF
headquarters within five days of notice. This is a critical element that all personnel
contemplating an assignment to Naples must consider. The standby posture is for one year and
at a frequency of one off and one on. In the case of JFC Naples the next NRF period is 2013.
Many members of the HQ will be assigned to a short timeframe readiness level of 2-30 days.
Most others remain at 30 days notice to move. This does not absolve JFC HQ to either lead or
assist in the deployment of military personnel on NATO missions such as KFOR or ISAF. As
an indicator, with a present manning level of 600 (2013), this HQ is tasked to prepare and
deploy 200 personnel to ISAF HQ on six month deployment in the next two years (2013/2014).
This represents one in three and in absolute numbers it is higher as some NATO nations will
not deploy personnel into Afghanistan for political and or financial reasons.
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SECTION 4 - THE CANADIAN COMMUNITY
1.4.1 Naples has its attractions, and the region and Italy as a whole are beautiful. However
newcomers must be prepared for “culture shock”. Things are different and move at a much slower pace than in Canada. The Canadian community in Naples presently consists of 41
military members (one living outside of the Naples area in Latina) and their families. The
Canadian Support Element (CSE) in Naples, manned by one Personnel Administration Officer
(Capitaine-Adjutant), three RMS Clerks and a civilian employee, provides
administrative/financial support and acts as a link with the Canadian Forces Support Unit
(Europe), or CFSU(E), Selfkant Kaserne, located in Geilenkirchen (GK) GE. They look after
most of the administrative requirements for members. Even though small in size, the
community has its own Canadian Military Family Resource Centre (CMFRC) located at Lago
Patria in which you will find a "home away from home". Access to telephone, Internet, fax,
various Canadian magazines and DVDs are available to all Canadians. Children can enjoy a
playroom and for the teens we have a youth room. Part 4 Section 15 covers the facility and its
function. The state of the art centre also includes an impressive fitness area. It is the hub of our
social activities. Two small suites are also available for visitors.
1.4.2. Additionally, we have a Personnel Support Programs (PSP) Coordinator whose office is
co-located within the CMFRC.
PART 2 – SPONSORSHIP AND YOUR HHT TO NAPLES
SECTION 1 – SPONSORSHIP SYSTEM
2.1.1 Upon posting notification, a sponsor will be appointed and he/she will contact you as
soon as possible. His/her mission is to assist you in every possible way in getting settled in the
European environment. The sponsor assumes the responsibility of effecting liaison with you in
Canada and providing general information on life in Naples. The importance of liaison with
your sponsor cannot be over-emphasised. Your sponsor will maintain ongoing contact through
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the months leading up to your move. Sponsorship is a family affair and where appropriate, the
sponsor's spouse can help. Your sponsors have already been through the arrival and settling
process, and will be receptive to and aware of your needs. Sponsorship is a critical aspect that
will ensure the successful integration of newcomers into the local area.
SECTION 2 - HOUSE HUNTING TRIP (HHT)2.2.1
Since Naples is a unique
place, your sponsor will be devoting much time and energy to making your adjustment to the
area as painless as possible. He/she will make all arrangements in regards to your HHT and be
available to answer any questions you may have. He will ensure that your HHT is completed
with minimal difficulty prior to your departure from Naples and will assist in securing
temporary accommodation while you await your Households Goods and Effects (HG&E).
Your sponsor may arrange commercial accommodation for you. Be sure to communicate your
requirements well in advance of your arrival and follow up with a message confirming your
intentions and a firm ETA. For your HHT, you will require a rental vehicle to move around.
Please note that most rental vehicles available in Naples come with standard transmissions.
2.2.2 When to conduct HHT: There is no Crown leasing arrangement in Naples and as a
result, the Canadian community is spread out over a 25km2 area. You will find Canadian
families from Monte di Procida to Lago Patria (on the West side of Naples). Accompanied
HHTs are authorized by the CO/SCO Naples. An early HHT is not advantageous. Most
NATO forces in Naples do not have an Active Posting Season (APS) therefore houses come on
the market year round. Normally landlords will be advised of upcoming vacancies only one
month prior to the existing resident’s departure. This means that if the HHT is taken based on the Canadian schedule, members may be required to pay rent in advance of a move varying
from 2-3 months in order to secure accommodation. Throughout Italy, including NATO HQ,
most services become more limited during August, which is the primary holiday month.
Therefore it is recommended that you plan your move before or after this period, if this is
possible. It is recommended that you take your HHT no more than 60 days prior to your COS
date.
2.2.3 HHT Duration/Local Holidays: The US Naval Support Activity (NSA) Housing staff
and the real estate agents used by Canadians do not work on the weekends. Plan to arrive in
Naples on Saturday or Sunday in order to be ready first thing Monday to start the HHT. Your
first day of HHT will be consumed by mandatory administration such as ID card, Italian
Codice Fiscale, etc, therefore, you will start visiting houses from your second day. Ideally by
Thursday evening you should have selected a house, so terms can be negotiated with the
landlord and an appointment booked at NSA Housing (note – it is a strongly advised to have a
backup house should negotiations fail).
Practical advice: Securing accommodations that will meet your requirements may be
challenging, as there is a wide diversity of possibilities. It is recommended that you plan for an
extended HHT in order to account for the dispersed locations, variable availability and time
consuming bureaucracy that you will encounter.
The US NSA Housing Office supports all Canadians posted to Naples in the process of setting
up housing rental contracts, inspections and any ongoing facilitation between landlords and
tenants. During your HHT you will want to select several houses that may suit your needs, and
prioritize them in the order of your preference. Once a house is chosen, landlords must provide
the Housing Office updated documentation each time a house is rented. The sponsor should
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make inquiries throughout the process, to ensure that the process is proceeding. Once
personnel arrive in Naples, it will be important to reinitiate contact with the Housing Office to
accommodate all requirements.
At some point, NSA site inspection(s) will be required. It will normally become the sponsor’s responsibility to perform that task because of the “turn around” time required by NSA to arrange for these inspections (i.e. a few weeks). Consequently, you will have to sign a Power
of Attorney authorizing your sponsor to perform that task on your behalf. One of the first steps
during the HHT will be for you and your spouse to obtain a “Codice Fiscale” from the local authority. The Codice Fiscale is the Italian equivalent to Canadian SIN, which is required to
rent a house, open a bank account, etc. You are strongly urged NOT to plan an HHT during a
week with a designated Italian or American holiday. You should discuss local holidays with
your sponsor but in general the following is a guideline (subject to annual changes – holidays
that occur on weekend are normally moved to following Monday):
January 1
January 6
TBA
April 25
May 1
June 2
August 15
September 19
November 1
December 8
December 25
December 26
Capodanno (New Year’s Day)
Epifania (Epiphany)
Lunedi di Pasqua (Easter Monday)
Anniversario della Liberazione (Liberation Day)
Festa del Lavoro (Labour Day)
Republic Day
Ferragosto (Assumption of the Virgin Mary)
San Gennaro (festival of the patron saint of NAPLES)
Ognissanti (All Saints’ Day)
Immacolata (Immaculate Conception)
Natale (for Christmas Day)
Second Christmas day (Boxing day)
Other US & Canadian Holidays (that may affect HHT/posting move):
Victoria Day (CSE very likely to be closed)
US Memorial Day (USN support facilities likely to be closed)
Canada Day - July 1 (CSE very likely to be closed)
US Independence Day - 4 July (USN support facilities likley to be closed)
Canadian August Civic Holiday (however this holiday is usually used to offset August 15
holiday noted above and therefore may not be a holiday for the CSE)
SECTION 3 – FINDING ACCOMMODATIONS
2.3.1 Introduction: The real estate market in Naples’ suburbs can become strained and as
such, the availability of acceptable housing is often limited. Housing availability could vary
between villas, which may be 2-storey houses or bungalows, semi-detached or detached
houses, or apartments/flats. Houses are located either individually or in 'Parcos'. Parcos are
the equivalent of small North American sub-divisions and are normally surrounded by high
fences with access controlled by a security guard/gate. All but a few will need to compromise
on their ideal accommodation. For example, detached villas surrounded by green fields and
orchards are available, but this leaves the occupants more vulnerable to burglaries. On the
other hand, houses in Parcos may be close together, and as a result, may offer less privacy,
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especially in the summer when windows and doors are left open. Most Parcos have strong
community spirit, and there is every likelihood that your neighbours will be at least bilingual, if
not multi-lingual. The security afforded by a close community could become important to a
family when the member is away on TD.
2.3.2 Rent Allowance / Rent Ceiling: Like in other countries, housing costs in Naples are
very expensive. Consequently, NDHQ has created a mechanism that will ensure that, wherever
possible, a member can acquire suitable accommodation for his/her family, which is generally
comparable to accommodation in Canada. This mechanism is called “Rent Allowance”. However, it has a limit called the “Rent Ceiling”, which is the maximum approved accommodation charge that NDHQ will pay for the member and his/her family. The CSE
Naples will provide this information as part of your posting to Naples (normally through your
sponsor prior to your HHT). If for any reason you cannot find accommodation within the rent
ceiling, you must contact the staff at the Canadian Support Element Naples. If it is justified,
the Rent Ceiling can be increased, but only with advance NDHQ approval (gained through
CFSU(E) Selfkant) and with the CO/SCO’s concurrence. Until NDHQ approval is received,
your Rent Allowance cannot be increased. Rent Ceiling is established by NDHQ / DCBA 4.
DO NOT, repeat DO NOT agree to a contract, or sign a lease, until you have contacted the
staff at the CSE Naples.
2.3.3 Rent Share. All military members serving
outside Canada are required to pay rent, which, in
general, corresponds to the average cost of a
comparable fully serviced, unfurnished MQ in
Ottawa. This amount is called your “Shelter Share” and is determined by your salary scale and family
size. The Shelter Share rates are published by NDHQ
/ DCBA 4 and are subject to change. Check with
your R & D Section. Prior to summer 2003 the
Shelter Share included a portion for the cost of
utilities. However, as of June 2003, “Utility Share” is now a separate entity and is based on the
average cost of utilities for comparable family housing in Canada. Unborn children are not
considered part of the household size for the purpose of Shelter Share. Shelter Share will be
adjusted to reflect changes in actual household size due to arrival or departure of dependants
with the effective date being the first day of the month following the change. Otherwise, the
rate remains at the initial rate as per the date of occupancy. If promoted, the Shelter Share
remains in accordance with rank held on occupancy unless the member changes
accommodation. Accordingly, once in Naples members are reminded that they must proceed
to the CSE when there is a change in their household size.
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2.3.4 Payment Process. In general, based on the current situation, you will not find civilian
accommodation for less than your Shelter Share. Therefore, your overall rent paid to your
landlord will consist of your Shelter Share augmented by additional money from the Crown.
Accordingly, every month CFSU(E) will deposit the total amount of your rent into your Italian
bank account. Also, monthly NDHQ will withdraw your Shelter Share from your pay (i.e.
your portion of the total rent based on rental costs in Ottawa as explained above).
2.3.5 Rental Contract. At the present time, Canadians secure accommodation through private
leases with the assistance of the US NSA Housing Directorate. Different “landlord representatives” will assist the individual in securing accommodation by showing
accommodations owned by their clients (i.e. the landlord). After the member has found a
house, or houses that meet his/her requirements, the Housing Directorate provides various
services including (but not limited to) property management, legal assistance and NSA
inspection of the residence. Once all criteria have been met, the member is authorized to sign a
lease contract. A lease contract will only be signed through the NSA Housing Office. No
lease contract is to be signed directly between the member and the landlord. All
arrangements between the member and the landlord are to be discussed, agreed upon and
included in the lease. The lease is normally established for a period of 3/4 years, the rental cost
is fixed for that period and the diplomatic clause is included (by NSA Housing office). Be
advised that the CO/SCO will not authorize his CSE staff to assume Power of Attorney (POA)
in order to sign a lease except under exceptional circumstances. Leases must be made effective
the first of the month to assist with monthly fund transfer for rent payment. A recent change to
Italian law requires that all transactions over 1,000 Euro be made either through a Direct Funds
Transfer (DFT), or by cashier’s cheque. Monthly cash payments were the norm prior to the
enactment of this new law on 1 February 2012; therefore, your rent will be transferred to your
Italian bank account (Banco di Napoli), and then it will be transferred/paid to the landlord by
one of the two methods described above. You can mention this requirement to the NSA
Housing Office during your contract preparation process, to ensure that the landlord’s banking information can be solicited, or the option to pay by cheque can be stipulated in the lease
contract.
2.3.6 Financial Commitments. When you find accommodation in Naples during your HHT,
you (or your representative) may have to pay up to three months rent to hold the
accommodation (this amount is claimable with the money being provided by the CSE). As a
minimum, after signing the lease, you (or your representative) will also be required to pay your
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landlord one month’s rent in advance. The CSE in Naples will provide all of these advances.
Given the new Italian law, which came into effect on 1 February 2012, all rental payments over
1,000 Euro shall be paid either through DFT or cashier’s cheque. The landlord’s choice will be
whether or not he/she wishes to receive payment via DFT, through the provision of his/her
IBAN, or via a cashier’s cheque.
2.3.7 Security Deposit. When signing your lease, you will be required to pay the NSA
Housing Office the equivalent of one month’s rent as a security deposit in cash. You will
obtain a cash advance from the CSE in Naples. Given that this deposit is held in trust until
your departure at the end of your tour, it is not considered a payment transaction, and is
therefore NOT subject to the aforementioned Italian law. At the end of the posting, the
member will be required to withdraw this security deposit from the NSA Disbursement Office,
and return it to the CSE Naples.
2.3.8 Finder’s Fees. In some cases, if you use the services of a realtor/landlord representative
who is not associated with NSA Housing, you may be charged a "finder's fee", usually the
equivalent of one month’s rent. This is claimable. However, a far more common practice is
for the landlord to pay the first month’s rent received from you to the real estate agent/his landlord’s representative who has found tenants for the property. It is important to remember at all times that the “agent” is really the landlord’s representative, and therefore is working for
the landlord.
2.3.9 During your HHT, and during your move, you must also consider bringing some cash
from Canada, or ensure that you have access to sufficient cash during these periods (e.g. it is not
possible to cash a cheque in Cdn funds drawn on a Canadian bank account). Traveller checks are
also not recommended. They are difficult and costly to change at the Italian banks. Today,
Canadian bankcards including Interac (with extra fees) are accepted in Italian bank machines and
larger businesses. It is recommended that you establish a Canadian bank account with free
interact transactions (international etc) providing the maintenance of a minimum bank balance.
SECTION 4 – UNIQUE NATURE OF ITALIAN HOUSING
Note: Annex B outlines a checklist for finding suitable accommodations
2.4.1 Building standards: Building standards are not comparable with Canada. Houses are
not built to withstand dampness and don’t have exterior ventilation fans; therefore, periods of
heavy rain are sometimes followed by mould growing somewhere in the house, but this is
normally confined to areas around doors and windows, and basements. Furthermore,
bathrooms can also develop mould if one does not open windows during bathing given the lack
of exterior ventilation. Generally, rooms are large and have high ceilings. Floors are usually
made of ceramic tile or marble and it is advisable to include throw rugs with the HG&E
shipment or purchase them after arrival as the tile floors are cold in winter. Central heating is
available in most modern structures, but it may be unreliable and have to be supplemented by
additional space heater(s) during cold weather. Open log burning fireplaces are common.
Houses are mostly classified as three-bedroom, although even a three bedroom home may have
spare rooms that may be used as bedrooms. Please note that you will be able to purchase gas
or heating oil coupons which are exempt of taxes. Certain monthly limits apply but with some
advance planning there should be no issues in meeting your gas/heating oil needs.
2.4.2 It is important to note that some houses do not have the following items: stove,
refrigerator, washer, dryer, permanent light fixtures and bathroom accessories including
shower rods/curtains, toilet roll holders, medicine cabinets, toilet seats and closets. The CSE
Naples will supply three 220/110 transformers. Regarding AC units, if the house you are
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seeking does not have AC units, in particular in bedrooms, it is recommended you negotiate
with your landlord the installation of permanent AC due both to comfort during the hot weather
period but equally for improved security to enable you to “secure” your home for the night.
Remember that it is unethical to use your rental ceiling as a means of negotiation. Finally, an
alarm system must be installed and available.
2.4.3 In accordance with MFSI 10.05.16, there is an entitlement for members to purchase up
to 5,000 CAD in furniture and appliances not provided by the landlord e.g. stove, fridge,
washer, dryer, dishwasher, and wardrobes. These purchases must be authorized in advance, by
the Approval Authority (AA) within 30 days of the member’s occupancy of the accommodation. This program allows you to purchase these items, and then to receive a 50%
reimbursement on your costs. It is recommended not to bring large appliances as Canadian
equipment functions on 110V. Some members, however, have shipped small freezers, which
they have operated successfully through transformers.
2.4.4 The following should be considered when selecting accommodation (items are covered
to some degree in the Annex B checklist):
a.
Electrical Power. The reliability, numbers of power outages, frequency and
voltage variations should be investigated. Limited entrance is 3KW, but it can
be upgraded to 6KW or 10KW. The 3KW severely limits the usage of electrical
appliances. You cannot use multiple electrical appliances concurrently, or a
clothes dryer on its own since its power requirement exceeds what is supplied.
It is highly recommended that a minimum of 6KW be obtained. A formal
request must be submitted through the NSA at the time of signing the lease.
Invoices received for this upgraded service from ENEL (Electricity company) is
claimable through CSE Naples (easily accomplished as common practice).
b.
Water Supply. All of the houses rented through the US NSA Housing Office
must be on city water; however, wells may supplement this capacity. Be
advised that most wells have contaminated water with a high content of sulphur.
The CF does not consider city water potable due to its high mineral content,
thus bottled water can be bought as part of the utility allowance and will be
reimbursed.
c.
Appliances.. Some points to be considered:
(1) European clothes washers are very small: the capacity is about half of a
normal North American washer;
(2) European dryers: A load can take up to two hours to dry, and most are not
vented to the exterior of the house. They usually have a condenser, which
has to be emptied periodically throughout each drying cycle;
(3) European electrical clothes dryers require a 6KW source of electrical power;
(4) Cooking stoves are gas operated;
(5) Some European ovens are very small and cannot accommodate roasting
pans brought from Canada;
(6) In Italy, unless specified in the lease (which can be added later), the tenant is
responsible for all repairs to supplied appliances, including failures due to
fair wear-and-tear; and
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d.
Cleanliness of Neighbourhoods. The Naples area is not known for its
cleanliness. Some areas can be very noisy at night and stray dogs tend to be a
common occurrence. There could be a sewage treatment plant nearby; its
exhaust may not be filtered and the aroma can be overpowering. In the
proximity of the Solfatara Volcano (Pozzuoli), the volcanic sulphur smell can
also be strong in a still wind period, but it does not last very long (minutes).
Extreme dust makes it very difficult to keep the house clean. It is common
practice for locals to dispose of garden and field remnants through burning.
Door-to-door garbage pick-up for individual houses or central collecting points
for Parcos is available in most locations. There are items such as glass and metal
that must be taken to central collection points located in specific areas in each
community. Notwithstanding common garbage points, garbage is deposited
almost everywhere by some members of the general public which does detract
from the beauty of the environment.
e.
Proximity to Shopping. There are a number of shopping malls that maintain
operating hours like that of Canadian merchants. Some of these malls include
the Auchan (on the route to the US Support Site), the IPERCOOP in Quarto, the
Campania Mall, and the Vulcano Buono Mall, to name only a few. Small store
hours are normally 0900 to 1300 hrs and 1700 to 2000 hrs Monday to Saturday
with an AM or PM closure during the week, and they may, or may not, be open
on Sunday mornings. Those choosing to live in Naples, Pozzuoli, or Monte di
Procida will find that the small store dynamic is more common. Most small
stores close for at least two weeks in July or August, and some of them will close
for up to a month. Normally you have to pay for your shopping bags and there is
no bagging service. Parking can be at a premium in highly congested areas, and
there may be a fee. Though being seen less and less, you might find yourself
confronted by a self-appointed individual at some locations who will vouch to
keep an eye on your vehicle. Refusing to pay a nominal amount (€2) could lead
to vehicle damage or theft.
SECTION 5 – FINDING AND SECURING THE RIGHT PLACE
2.5.1 There is no foolproof method for the selection of a home: much must be left to the
availability of the right property at the time of your HHT. After having toured the Naples area
on a hot day, you will have difficulty distinguishing one house from another. It is advisable to
keep some sort of record of the houses you have seen, taking pictures and notes of their
strengths and weaknesses. If you have a digital camera, bring it! Talk to other CF families in
the area. Their advice will prove useful. Annex B to this Handbook is a table to assist you to
summarize each house. Though a challenge, nearly all those preceding you have successfully
found suitable accommodation within the constraints of time and money. We have high
confidence it will be so for you.
2.5.2 When dealing with real estate/landlord agents, clearly state your housing requirements
in terms of type, size, location, security, transport, shopping, etc., and ensure they adhere to
your stated requirements. One element that is central to defining desired location would be the
decision of where to school your children as some areas are outside the US bus routes. Be sure
to discuss this aspect with your sponsor who will provide you with guidance and will thereafter
be able to guide real estate agents in their preparation for your arrival on HHT. To assist with
this process, Annex C should be completed and passed to your sponsor prior to arriving on
your HHT – this information will then be passed to the landlord’s representative prior to your arrival.
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2.5.3 Do not tell the landlord’s representative your rent ceiling as it will clearly
influence the rent being asked for houses to match your rent ceiling (again, the landlord’s representative isn’t working for you!). Keep your options open. Based on the latest Service
Level Agreement between CSE and NSA Housing Office, CF members should strive to keep
their rental agreement within US rental ceilings, as we are often accused of unfair competition.
In so doing you can look at the listings available from NSA Housing. Take full advantage of
the showings by the various landlord/real estate agents. Remember that the landlord of the
house you have selected is paying the real estate agent/landlord’s representative. So trust him or her but with reservation.
2.5.4 When suitable accommodation is identified, contact NSA Housing Office to determine
whether the last lease was established through them or not. If it wasn't, communicate to the
agent that the landlord will have to contact the NSA Housing Office to determine the specific
requirements for the rental of their house through this agency. Once this process is complete,
the NSA Housing Office should set up a Pre-Contract Signing, usually followed by NSA
Housing Office inspection(s) to ensure that the chosen house conforms to all of their criteria.
If you, or your sponsor, do not hear from the NSA Housing Office after the HHT, contact them
directly for further instructions, or for updates on the next stage of the process. It could take
some time for the NSA Housing Office to schedule the inspection(s), even if the rental house
was already on the NSA Housing Office list, the re-inspections and other mandatory steps may
delay the process, and it will not be completed within the HHT period. This will probably
necessitate giving a Power Of Attorney (POA) to your sponsor for him/her to potentially sign the
pre-contract lease or lease on your behalf. Newcomers are warned to beware of this fact: if the
selected house "doesn't measure up to the NSA Housing Office criteria", the newcomer will either
have to get the sponsor to sign for an alternate choice, or your HHT will be declared a failure.
The impact of a failed HHT and its implications should be discussed with your IRP representative
before your HHT. Therefore, to be safe, make several selections during your HHT, to ensure that
at least one of the choices will be suitable.
2.5.5 Fit-up costs should also be carefully considered and negotiated at time of lease, as it is
becoming more difficult and time consuming to get agreement in principle and formal approval
for upgrading accommodations to acceptable standards (this could include electrical upgrades,
counter space and kitchen cupboards, light fixtures, bathroom fixtures, screens and wall AC).
Once the lease is signed do not expect any improvement to the house from a landlord initiative.
PART 3 – LEAVING CANADA
The aim of this section is to assist you in planning your departure from Canada. All necessary
information will be provided to you either by your losing unit, IRP or CFSU(E) Det Naples
directly.
SECTION 1 – CIVIL OBLIGATIONS
3.1.1 Before leaving Canada it is important to ensure that your civil responsibilities have
been taken care of, including insurance (life, medical (Level III), hospital, baggage and fire
insurance on effects remaining in Canada). It may also be an opportune time to review/renew
your Will.
3.1.2 Canadian Utilities: Utility companies have arrangements for payment of bills at the last
possible moment and this will save future correspondence.
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3.1.3 Canadian Bank Account: You must also retain a Canadian bank account that will allow
you to bank by Internet and continue to receive your pay allotments. You will also be given the
choice of having your pay or part of your pay deposited into a local bank account (Banco di
Napoli).
3.1.4 Telephone services: If you opt for the unlimited land-line long distance phone service to
North America, through Telecom Italia, you will be able to utilize 1 800 numbers without
incurring an additional cost.
3.1.4 Taxes: Check with Canada Revenue Agency (CRA) concerning the taxation
implications of your tour in Italy. One of the most important aspects of your time in Italy, or
on OUTCAN, is that for tax purposes you will be considered a “deemed resident” of your last province of residence. For each tax year while on OUTCAN, you will continue to pay taxes to
that province, despite the fact that your overarching unit is CFSU Ottawa.
See the following link: http://www.cra-arc.gc.ca/menu-eng.html.
SECTION 2 – DOCUMENTATION ISSUES
3.2.1 Members and family members are reminded to bring all documentation regarding birth,
marriage, divorce, custody, etc. A list is provided at Annex C of this Handbook. DO NOT
PACK THESE DOCUMENTS IN YOUR LONG TERM STORAGE. THEY SHOULD
ACCOMPANY YOU ON POSTING TO ITALY.
SCHOOL DOCUMENTS
3.2.2 Your children’s last school reports, immunization records, and other school documents
are required for school registration.
CANADIAN DRIVER’S LICENCE
3.2.3 Italian authorities will require your provincial driver’s licence for the issue of an Italian
translation. Try to ensure that your Canadian licence will remain valid for the duration of your
tour, and ensure that your province of departure will not invalidate your licence during the
course of your posting. Each province has different regulations but for most 30/60 days after
leaving the province the driver’s licence is automatically invalidated, so it is incumbent upon
you to determine these specific requirements prior to your departure from Canada and obtain
assurance from the issuing authorities that the validity will be maintained despite the fact that
you are no longer a resident of that province. It can be difficult renewing a Canadian licence
while in Europe. See the section on transportation in part 4 of this handbook for additional
information on licensing. There is a current initiative to provide DND 404s for all those posted
overseas. The details of this programme are not yet known, so for the interim, ensure that your
driver’s licence will be maintained, while you reside outside of Canada. The International
Drivers Licence, though recognized does not provide the bearer any advantages over the
provincial drivers licence. It cannot be used as a substitute for a provincial driver’s licence
because its validity is linked to the validity of the provincial licence. We do not recommend its
purchase.
CANADA BORDER AGENCY
3.2.4 Personnel posted to Italy should obtain Form Y38 from the nearest border services
office for all major foreign name items (such as cameras, radios, household appliances, etc.)
that they intend to bring with them. If this form is not made out for these articles, you could be
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required to pay duty on them when you return to Canada if you are not able to show the
original receipts. All such items should also be listed by serial number in your
HG&E/household inventory. Please note that items purchased while in Europe must be
identified and receipts must be preciously kept. Taxes will be required for items purchased in
the last six months preceding the return to Canada.
EMPLOYMENT AND IMMIGRATION CANADA
3.2.5 Permanent Resident Card Issues. Recently, Employment and Immigration Canada has
stated that permanent residents must be in possession of a Permanent Resident Card (PRC) in
order to return to Canada when traveling on international flights. This requirement became
effective 1 Jan 04. So if your spouse or any of your dependents are not citizens of Canada,
they must apply for a PRC while in Canada and the completed card must be picked up in
Canada before your departure. Call Employment and Immigration Canada for more details.
DND IDENTITY CARD
3.2.6 Members are to ensure their NDI 20 Canadian Forces Identification Card does not
expire prior to the tour expiry date.
FAMILY MEMBER ID CARDS
3.2.7 Family members (10 years of age and older) of service personnel who are posted to
Naples require a NATO ID Card to gain admission to facilities. NATO ID Cards are issued at
the NATO Identification and Pass Office as part of your arrival procedure process.
SOCIAL INSURANCE NUMBERS FOR TEENS
3.2.8 In order to participate in the Student Temporary Employment Program (STEP),
students need a Social Insurance Number (currently the STEP is open to students who have
reached 16 years of age). Please note that the STEP is not open to students on the year of
arrival as all processes and financial decision-making is performed within the context of the
European Fund in Feb of each year.
SECURITY CLEARANCE
3.2.9 NATO personnel must be in possession of their security clearance message on arrival at
Naples (hand carried). This is required so that you may clear into the base and commence your
NATO duties. Ensure your current security clearance is that which is stated on your posting
instruction. If it is not, contact your Orderly Room and initiate a security clearance upgrading.
Not having the correct clearance may jeopardize your employment within NATO.
PASSPORTS (Green and blue) / PERMESSO DI SOGGIORNO PER STRANIERI
3.2.10 CF personnel and family members are to be in possession of a valid passport in order to
enter any country within Europe. Members and their families, posted to Naples, are issued a
Special (green) passport with an Italian Visa. There is no cost to obtain the Special (green)
passport for the member and family. Passports and Visas shall be obtained through the
passport section in NDHQ Director Logistics Business Management (DLBM) and DFAIT,
Ottawa (819-956-8772). CFAO 20-1 refers. Base or Wing photo sections can normally
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provide the entire family with pictures at no cost to the member. Key however is the fact that
Italy does not recognize “Common Law” relationships and could possibly not issue a Sojourner
Visa. Clearly this is a National position and we cannot influence this fact. In straight terms this
means that a couple must be prepared to get married in the event that the Italian embassy
denies the Sojourner Visa for the member’s partner. Many in the past have opted to get
married and many have refused the posting. It remains a personal choice. Finally, the
deployability status required to fill NATO positions in Naples will influence the decision to
allow or not a single parent from being posted to Naples. The CO will review these cases
individually as part of the screening process. The age of children will be the central element to
the decision taken.
3.2.11 A recent change in DND policy is that military and dependants can hold both Special
green and regular blue passports at the same time (previously the individual could only hold
one passport at a time). This change was made so that members and dependants could use the
Special passport when travelling on official business, but use the blue passport when travelling
on leave, etc. The blue passport has the advantage that travel visas are easier to obtain for
some countries and makes the traveller less visible as a government official should a terrorist
incident occur. Accordingly, it is recommended that you obtain blue passports at your own
expense for all family members (in addition to the required Special green passport noted
above).
3.2.12 During your HHT, you will be instructed to apply for a “Permesso di Soggiorno” (Sojourner’s Permit) for your dependents. This permit will allow your family to reside in Italy for the period stated on the Permit (normally your expected departure day is deemed to be three
or four years after arrival). In effect, the Sojourner’s Permit extends the normal 365-day
duration of the Italian visa obtained prior to your departure from Canada to your tour end date.
The CSE will provide you with the details upon your arrival.
INTERNATIONAL CERTIFICATION OF VACCINATION (YELLOW BOOK)
3.2.13 You must be in possession of this book. If you do not possess one, contact your Base
Hospital/MIR. The member will have his/her regular immunisations updated for this posting
location. Family members’ immunisation requirements will be assessed as part of the
OUTCAN Screening process. Each Base/Wing Hospital has Coordinators, or POCs, who will
advise you on the immunisation requirements for your particular OUTCAN destination, and
they may have specialised booklets for your dependants. Members are encouraged to arrange
and claim for medical shots for their family with their supporting Military Hospital in Canada
before departing.
3.2.14 Military members should ensure that any immunisations provided by the NSA
Hospital must be annotated by a doctor in your “International Certificate of Vaccination Booklet” (Yellow Book) to maintain a readily available record of all immunisations. Claims
associated with immunisation expenses in Canada must be submitted through PSHCP/Sun Life
prior to leaving Canada.
MEDICAL AND DENTAL RECORDS
3.2.15 Family members should have their dental and medical records with them. This will
save requesting them by mail at a later date and taking the chance of having them lost in the
mail system.
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MEDICAL AND DENTAL INSURANCES
3.2.16 Members posted to Naples whose spouse also benefits from a Federal Government
insurance (Sunlife) will have two choices to make. The first will be to upgrade the spouse
insurance program to level three. This will provide the necessary coverage to the spouse but it
comes at a cost. The increase to level three is quite expensive and exceeds $100.00 a month.
The other option would be to fall on the Member’s insurance policy who will increase his coverage to level three for his dependents. The cost increase are 1 cent per month. The hic
however is that Sunlife has refused to process a claim under the member’s name when a policy existed under the spouse’s name. In one case, the spouse had to cancel her policy completely to fully fall on the member’s policy to get reimbursed. This issue remains a personal
responsibility but should be researched fully before arriving in Naples.
SECTION 3 – PRE-DEPLOYMENT TRAINING
3.3.1
For those occupying a position within the NATO structure, it is highly probable that
you will deploy on an operation or on exercise, particularly due to the NATO Structural (NCS)
Review, which will alter JFC HQ Naples to a deployable HQ commencing 01 Jan 2013. All
pre-deployment training will be conducted rapidly upon arrival in Europe at GeilenKirchen in
Germany. The CSE will provide you with the scheduled date of training, which will take
priority over all work related actions and over leave taking.
SECTION 4 – MILITARY CLOTHING / UNIFORMS
3.4.1
Personnel posted to Naples must be in possession of combat clothing in accordance
with their job description requirements. All personnel occupying a NATO billet will be in a
deployable status. The scale of issue is presently under review and once completed details will
be provided to newcomers arriving summer 2012 and beyond. If possible, personnel should
also be issued the Tropical Tan uniform prior to departure as the temperature in Naples during
the summer months reaches upwards of 40 °C. The scale of issue for Tropical Tans is in
accordance with D11-115 subscales AA and AC with the following modifications: 6 shirts SS
and 4 pairs of pants/4 pairs of shorts. (Note: This uniform is no longer on the clothing scale
and may not be available. Members are reminded to have the Canadian flag sown on their
tropical shirts.) CF members are required to have in their possession complete DEU service
dress including CF raincoats and gabardines/gloves/scarf as both orders of dress may be
required at the annual Remembrance Day Parade held by the community. Mess kit for officers
is also required.
SECTION 5 – PETS – IMPORTATION INTO EUROPE
3.5.1
You are responsible for making the necessary arrangements to ship your pets
complying with applicable customs and health regulations. A recently established “pet passport” system has been introduced to make pet transport easier. It is highly recommended
that personnel wishing to bring their family pet investigate this system. Your pet may need
inoculations well in advance of departure (check with your local veterinarian and the
Department of Agriculture and Agri-Food who will provide you with proper advice and
applicable forms). Pets must have been vaccinated against rabies at least 30 days prior (but no
longer than 12 months prior) to the date that the animal is brought into Italy. Airlines will ask
you for a veterinarian health certificate within 10 days of the pet travelling or it will not be
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allowed to board. To get access to the US Carney Park area (a main recreational area for the
Canadian community in Naples – described later in this document) with your dogs, they must
be fitted with a microchip identity. It is suggested that this be done in Canada.
3.5.2
Expenses incurred for pet shipment are reimbursed but must be supported by actual
paid receipts. Airlines will normally deliver pets to Naples, and it should be noted that travel
costs to pick up your pet in Rome are not covered. You should contact IRP for admissible
items and non-reimbursable expenses. Consider adopting a pet in Naples.
PETS / VETERINARY SERVICES
3.5.3 Pet owner concerns are different in Naples than in Canada. Fleas and ticks are much
more prevalent (especially ticks), and dogs are at risk from a mosquito-borne disease that is
both deadly and incurable.
3.5.4 Leishmaniasis is a serious dog disease found in the Naples and other warmer climates
that attacks the kidneys. In Naples the disease has grown to epidemic proportions with an
estimated seven out of ten dogs having the disease. There is no cure, just treatment, if you
catch it early. It is only transmitted through mosquito bites. However, medication is available
to prevent this disease. So before you bring your dog, you should be familiar with the
implications of this decision.
Practical advice: A recently departed member reported that Canadian vet suggested using
ADVANTAGE instead of FRONTLINE medication to fight off this deadly sickness contracted
by dogs through mosquito bites. Talk to your vet before leaving.
3.5.5 The following is co-written by contingent dog owners and sheds an interesting light on
dealing with Leishmaniasis. Note again that medication will help control the parasites and
put them into remission, but never entirely eradicate them. The disease primarily affects
the kidneys but also the liver and other internal organs. Unfortunately, the medications can
also adversely affect the same organs, so close monitoring is essential during treatment.
Associated costs of Leishmaniasis. Medication is relatively inexpensive (pills are € 3.00/30
which last 7 to 8 months and all syringes/needles € 50.00). Blood work costs an intial € 35 and
Kidney and Liver tests, € 50. Overall costs are approximately € 200, depending on the
animal’s size. The best protection you can provide your pet is using DELTAMETHRINimpregnanted collars (SCALIBOR Protector Band, from Intervet International). An
alternative treatment lasting two to three weeks is ADVANTIX. According to the Centre of
Disease Control (CDC), “in the Mediterranean basin and parts of Latin America, visceral leishmaniasis
transmission is zoonotic (dog – sand fly – human)”. Other sources on-line report the following, “direct
dog-to-human transmission has never been reported, even among veterinarians who have
handled hundreds of dogs with leishmaniasis. Nevertheless, it is not a good idea to let babies or
toddlers play with a leishmanial dog when it is obviously very sick. Similarly, people with
HIV/AIDS or taking corticosteroids, or other medication that might lower their natural
resistance to infection, should not handle a sick dog”.
According to Agriculture Canada emails, you require a Health Certificate (Pet Passport) from a
certified VET in order to bring your pet back to Canada. Your pet must have up-to-date rabies
vaccinations, a microchip and look healthy. A Naples Region Law is that your pet must be
tested for Leishmaniasis before a Pet Passport will be issued. If your pet has the disease, it
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must be medicated (twice a day for 30 days), then retested with the results showing the disease
in remission. If not, the treatments must continue until the tests show that.
The best cure is prevention, but unfortunately even when all precautions taken, there is no
guarantee that your pet will not get the disease. Once this disease is contracted there is no cure.
Dogs can incubate Leishmaniasis for over a year.
Veteranary services in Naples will be another difference from what you are accustomed to in
Canada. First of all, you cannot make appointments; secondly any prescriptions you receive
must be purchased at a farmacia (drugstore) as the vet has no inventory of medications. You
may also be given a prescription for shots which you can give the animal yourself, or you can
return to the veteranarian (with the pet!) for service. Most prescriptions can be refilled by
going back to the farmacia with either the empty box, the original prescription (the pharmacist
does not keep the written prescription once it has been filled) or simply by asking for the
product. Some medications, though, will require the original prescription. One farmacia for
pet prescriptions is in Monterusciello between the Tangenziale and Parco Cuma (take the
Monte Rusciello exit from the Tangenziale and turn toward the Domitiana; the farmacia is on
the left and displays a green neon cross). There is also a pet shop/veterinary service and
farmacia in Lago Patria (just go to the end of the four lanes toward the Emilia Hotel, turn left
on the Domitiana and turn left right away. Then follow the small road; look to your left and
you will see the pet shop and a little further the farmacia). Most farmacias will be able to
dispense the requisite prescription drugs.
3.5.6 24-Hour Vet Villa Felice Phone: 866-2870. Several of the vets speak English.
Directions: going south on Tangenziale, take Pozzouli/Arco Felice exit. Go past tunnel to Baia
and Bacoli, and under the bridge. Take the first right past the tunnel then the first driveway on
the right (about 30 metres).
3.5.7 Kennel. The following kennel comes recommended: Cost is about 20 Euros per night
for two dogs:
Marco Sanna
Via Toiana 1, Arco Felice
Tel (081) 866-1323. Cell: 347 806-4543
Practical advice: Based on the experience of Canadian families who have brought pets to
Italy, it is highly recommended that the pet(s) accompany the family. It is far less costly and
will eliminate most of the bureaucracy associated with a separate shipment. The least
expensive method to transport a pet to Italy is as accompanied baggage.
Practical advice: Shipping pets can impact flight routes, as pets may not be loaded on aircraft
when temperatures are high. It is also recommended to avoid flights that transit in the UK due
to their very strict anti-rabies regulations that could impact you if your pet doesn’t make connecting flights.
3.5.8
Euthanasia of pets with terminal diseases/illnesses. Italian Law precludes the owner’s option to euthanize a pet that does not “appear” terminal. Therefore, even if your pet is
diagnosed with an aggressive cancer, which has not been cured through surgery or
Chemotherapy, you might be faced with a situation that is not within your power to control.
SECTION 6 – SPECIAL ITEMS TO BRING IN YOUR HG&E
3.6.1 Household requirements vary from family to family. A point to consider is that you
will probably acquire furniture while in Europe that will impact your HG&E weight
entitlement when returning to Canada after your tour in Italy. As a general rule, most small
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electrical tools/appliances/electronic devices will function well through the use of a
transformer. All heat generating electrical appliances that are not dual voltage tend to have
reduced performance and to get damaged with time because of the difference in the electrical
cycle (50 versus 60 cycles). Curling iron, hair blowers, iron, small roasting oven, and kettle fall
in that category.
3.6.2 BBQ: There are very few facilities where one can obtain propane for a Canadian spec
BBQ. The Navy Exchange (NEX) store in Gricignano does carry North American
specifications propane tanks which can be exchanged (empty for full). It is, however, easy to
obtain GPL Bombola (tank) on the local economy. The use of such gas will require a simple
modification to your existing BBQ hose by either cutting or replacing the existing hose/debit
regulator connector with one designed for the GPL Bombola. You will find that the
performance (BTU) will be increased and hence caution must be applied by reducing the
maximum output when using your BBQ.
Practical advice: Annex C offers you some recommended articles.
PART 4 – ARRIVING AND LIVING IN NAPLES
SECTION 1 – ARRIVING IN NAPLES
4.1.1 The period between your HHT and move will be a busy, challenging and stressful time.
It is not uncommon for new arrivals to spend two to four weeks in a hotel awaiting their sea
container. It is expected that your sponsor, or representative, will be available to assist you
during this time. Your initial transition to life in Naples will normally require more help from
your sponsor than a posting inside Canada – you shouldn’t feel uncomfortable with this
situation.
4.1.2. Maps of local area and bases: To assist you in your orientation to the local area your
attention is drawn to the annexes of this document that include several maps.
SECTION 2 – SAFETY ISSUES
REQUIREMENT TO CARRY IDENTIFICATION PAPERS
4.2.1 Contrary to the practice in Canada, it is imperative that everyone carries proper
identification.
4.2.2 If you do not have a piece of identification on your person, the police may take you into
custody. An acceptable identification document is one that shows your picture, and date of
birth. Examples of acceptable identification documents are:
a.
b.
c.
d.
NATO ID card;
Canadian Military ID;
Provincial driver’s license with Italian translation; and
Passport.
LOST OR STOLEN IDENTIFICATION
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4.2.3 Lost or stolen identification must be reported immediately to:
a.
Canadian military ID
(1) your supervisor (Canadian Chain of Command); and
(2) Military Police in Germany through the Canadian Support Element.
b.
NATO ID
(1) your supervisor (Canadian Chain of Command); and
(2) Carabineri Naples through the Canadian Support Element.
c.
Passports
(1) your supervisor (Canadian Chain of Command); and
(2) Canadian Consulate (via Declaration form PPT 203) through
the Canadian Support Element.
EMERGENCY TELEPHONE NUMBERS
4.2.4 Public First Aid Emergency Call: 118 (Italian ambulance)
a.
Inside the JFC HQ Naples and CC-Mar HQ Naples facilities, individuals can
dial Ext. 3000 (JFC HQ Naples Security Operations Section Desk) for
assistance from the JFC HQ Naples Carabinieri / International Police. This
Desk is manned 24 hours a day, 7 days a week.
b.
Outside the JFC HQ Naples and CC-Mar HQ Naples facilities: dial 081-7212688, for the Central Desk of the Local Carabinieri. This number is provided
only to JFC HQ personnel and rings on a phone that is attended by an operator
who will answer in English (often, there is also a French / German / Spanish
speaking operator available). If manning is low at the central desk, this phone
may not be answered immediately. In this case dial 112 for the emergency
operators available to the public. The number for the Central Desk of the Local
Carabinieri can be called for any kind of emergency assistance needed outside
JFC HQ Naples and CC-Mar HQ Naples (Carabinieri, Ambulances, Fire
Departments, etc). Be advised: Local Carabinieri are not adequately manned to
send a patrol to all traffic accidents. Resources are committed based on priority
/ urgency with regard to all other demands. If Carabinieri are available they will
respond.
c.
It is considered a wise idea to make a list of important statements about a
person’s medical status in Italian, in the unlikely event you have to communicate the details of a medical emergency. Include statements about
respiration, bleeding, consciousness, etc. to better assist those who may come to
your aid.
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Practical advice: Always carry a personal cell phone to call someone and let them know your
situation if you have an accident, get lost, are caught in traffic, etc. Ensure that all emergency
numbers are entered into your cell phone
ACCIDENT REPORTING
References: A. AFSOUTH Post Regulation 40-2, Casualty Reporting
B. AFSOUTH Post Regulation 70-3, Serious Incident Reporting Procedures
4.2.5 Any serious accident should be reported to the JFC HQ Naples Provost Marshals office,
and should be reported through the CSE Chain of Command.
NATURAL DISASTERS
4.2.6
The Campania Region, of which Naples is part, is an area of relatively high seismic
activity. Earth tremors are recorded nearly every day, but rarely significant enough to be
noticed. The last major seismic events were the earthquakes that damaged much of Pozzuoli in
1983/4. While there is no heightened risk of major seismic disturbance at the moment, the
possibility remains, and so the Canadian Community has developed CAN SAFE Emergency
Plan in order to provide assistance and support in the event of natural disaster. To that effect,
CANSAFE Booklets and Briefings are provided each year for the benefit on the Canadian
Community as a whole. Military members may be assigned as a Warden, or a Deputy Warden
of their particular area, and all Canadian military will be assigned a buddy within their
residential community, so that if disaster strikes, you have each other during first response.
LEGAL ADVICE
4.2.7. In the event that you require legal assistance, all members must first consult the CSE
Secretary. This individual will access legal advice, on your behalf, as it may be required.
SECTION 3
HOUSING INFORMATION
ELECTRICITY
4.3.1 European/Italian Electricity: Italian electricity, like most places in Europe, is 220 volts at
50 Hz current (in general North American electricity is 110 volts at 60 Hz current). Power
outages and occasional power surges occur especially in winter. Although most power cuts are
short-lived, every household should be prepared with matches, candles and flashlights for the
occasional “long ones”.
Practical advice: Power Outages:
Educate your family on power outages - take them through the process of exiting your house,
compound and parco (i.e. keys for walkway and vehicle gates, hand crank for parco gate
location, etc. Ensure you know how to manually open vehicle gates – normally some type of
“key” is required – get your landlord to show you how to open). Locate ALL fuse boxes in
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your house (usually a couple of boxes {one on each floor} plus one main box outside near the
road).
4.3.2 Your Minor Canadian Appliances/Tools: You can bring all your minor appliances and
tools from Canada, but you will need transformers in order to convert the electricity. Adding
the watts required for every appliance you are planning to hook up will give you the number of
transformers you will need, though, depending on the appliance or tool, what you bring from
Canada may not work optimally, or it may burn out. The outlets vary in Italy. Most are two or
three-pronged outlets for different amperage. Plug adapters can be purchased at the NEX and
Tony’s Hardware (a small hardware on the base known for its excellent service – especially for
newcomers!). Your lights from Canada will function well but will require that you obtain an
adaptor for the plug and that you change the lightbulb to one designed for 220V.
WATER (NON – POTABLE)
4.3.3 All houses rented through the NSA Housing Office are supplied with city water. As
mentioned, the CF does not consider Naples' city water potable/drinkable because of the high
mineral content that exceeds Canadian specs; therefore, bottled water is part of the utility
allowance. Remember: do not drink untreated water. If necessary, carry water from another
source.
Practical advice: Water Potability. Water is considered non-potable for high mineral levels
and not “bugs” – which allows some flexibility in using it for brushing teeth and cooking.
Practical advice: Products to eliminate lime scale (“calcare”): Italians do sell good products to eliminate lime scale and you should use them on a regular basis for coffee makers, steam
irons, dishwashers, washing machines, toilet bowls, etc. Because of the high quantity of
minerals in the water, using Italian cleaning products is a good idea because they are adapted
for their water type.
4.3.4 City Water and your lease: The water contract is normally the landlord’s responsibility. Most rents include water charges, but check with the landlord before signing your house
contract. There may be a water meter, which must be read, and he may require you to pay. If
that is the case and is reflected in your lease, these costs will be reimbursed to you through the
utility allowance.
SECTION 4 – TELEPHONE (“TELECOM ITALIA”) / INTERNET
4.4.1 Applications for telephone installation or change of ownership are made through the
NSA Housing Office or Residential Services Office. Telephone installations from the time of
application can take over three months, which can be a considerable frustration for newcomers.
Some newcomers have moved into homes where Internet has been unavailable for up to six
months, due to a limited numbers of lines in certain areas. The option of a USB wireless
modem is dependent on the cell phone reception in your area. Some areas do not have high
speed Internet connections. You should ask when visiting houses to avoid surprises.
4.4.2 Costs: In general, costs are substantially higher than in Canada; however, there are
options to reduce these costs (especially the use of phone cards or a long distance calling plan).
Costs are assessed each time you use your phone regardless of whether the call is local or long
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distance thereby making long distance calls very expensive. However, the long distance cards
that can be purchased locally will drastically reduce the cost of your long distance calling
(Background: you should discuss this during your Housing appointment because it is much
easier to do when the service is initiated).
Practical advice: It is very expensive to call home from your house phone directly. Instead it
is suggested to purchase 5 Euro calling cards. They give you approximately 200 minutes of
talking back to Canada but can be used for any international calls with different amounts based
on location. You can purchase them at the bookstore in Building C, JFC HQ Naples. Once
you start to use the call (i.e. make first call) you normally have 30 or 60 days to use all your
minutes, after which the card will expire regardless if you have used all your minutes).
As second option used by some people is to use “easycall.it”. It costs about 0.06 euro per minute and is charged directly to your telecom bill. Normally the first 20 minutes are free. A
little more expensive if you phone often, you don’t lose the rest of the card because it is 30 days and you don’t get caught because it is out of cash. Telecom Italia offers unlimited international long distance for approximately 50 Euro/month.
This seems to be the most expensive option, but very convenient.
Also “Voice over Internet Protocol” (or VoIP) is free provided you have internet access.
Practical advice: In general calls from your home line to a cell phone are about seven times
more expensive than to another land line – therefore try and use land lines to reduce costs.
Also, use cellular phones to call other cellular phones.
Some houses have telephones permanently installed with bills submitted and paid through the
landlord. All phone calls cost money based on distance and time. NSA Residential Services or
the Family Centre should be contacted if there is any problem with the service provided and the
billing procedure. It is recommended that you keep track of when bills should be received and
if they are not received, contact the Residential Services Office before the service is cut off –
bills are normally sent either monthly, through the Family Centre, or every second month
through the Residential Services Office once service has been established.
Notes: If your phone is disconnected, people can still phone in but you cannot phone out.
4.4.3 European versus North American phones: If you own your own North American
telephone(s), it is recommended that you bring it (them) with you. The technology
(specifically the jack) is compatible in some cases (and adaptors are available if required). As
well you will save every month by avoiding the rental charges of an Italian telephone.
However, if you have a problem with TELECOM and they come to fix the phone, and notice
you are using a North American phone, they will probably place the blame on the phone and
may charge you for the repairs. So we recommend you have a spare phone with Italian
specifications in case you need it (for quick exchange – Italian phones are readily available and
not very expensive).
4.4.4
Phone service can be erratic, as it seems to be susceptible to breakdowns due to
moisture and bad weather. This is especially true when it rains, however problems can also be
caused by humidity and condensation.
a.
Cellular phones. While cell phones may appear to be a luxury, they are
recommended as a back up to your regular phone service. Cellular telephones are
widely used in Italy and are available through a variety of sources including the
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NEX, the Save Centre or directly from cell phone distributors like Vodaphone or
TIM. They tend to be cheaper to operate than a home phone. Most North
American cell phones are not compatible with the European system. Phone cards,
which are bought in 25 € blocks, provide you credit units to operate them. To
purchase a new phone with your first phone card will cost you between CAN$100 200. Cell phones can be also be “recharged” with money on an ATM machine:
Put your card in – go to RICARICA TELEFONICA, put in your PIN#, select TIM,
VODAFONE, WIND, go to RICARICA CELLULARE, enter your cellular number
under CLIENTE NUMERO, press PROSEGUI, press SI, choose the amount to
recharge your phone (Seleziona il Taglio desiderato per a ricarica). Once you are
done, press CANCELLA/ANNULLA (Red Button). They can also be recharged
on-line through your Banco di Napoli account. You use the codice O key device,
and select “…”.
b.
Cordless phones. Cordless phones are to be used with caution because it is
extremely easy for anyone outside your home to utilize your phone lines whenever
your cordless phone is in either inactive or standby mode. This applies to both
those phones brought from Canada and those purchased in Italy. If your phone
lines are pirated in this manner, there is no recourse - you are liable for the bill;
c.
Public pay phones. Pay phones are increasingly restricted to the exclusive use of
phone cards.
d.
You could pay the Telecom and ENEL bills at any Italian bank (with fees) or the
JFC HQ Naples Gas Station, post office, at the NEX (no fee) or on-line. Don’t forget to keep all your paid receipts; this will simplify matters when closing your
account prior to departure. You may also opt to use the service center located at the
NEX to handle the management of payment. For a reasonable fee, they will ensure
that your electricity and Telecom bills are paid in full thereby avoiding costly
interruptions in services and reconnection fees.
INTERNET AT HOME
4.4.5 Staying in touch with friends and family in Canada via e-mail can prove to be a strong
morale booster when living in Europe. There are several internet service providers in the
Naples area. ADSL is available in most of Naples’ area, however the maximum ADSL speed will vary depending of your location. Your internet provider will be able to confirm the
maximum speed available based on your address. Most popular internet providers in the area
are Telecom Italia (www.alice.it) and Fast Web (www.fastweb.it). There is also a microwave
internet connection option through WIPHONET (www.wiphonet.it) which is worth
considering given its generally lower, wide access and rapid installation. The family center
located in JFC Naples HQ can assit you set up your contract at no cost. During your HHT,
ensure that NSA housing explains all available options. Once you have installed Internet it is
difficult to change options, so select your options carefully. You should likely discuss Internet
options with your sponsor.
INTERNET AT WORK / CMFRC
4.4.6 Most NATO offices have access to Internet as does the CMFRC. These terminals may
prove very useful while you wait for Internet connection at home. Normal DND Internet
policy applies to the use of these official machines as outlined at references and briefly
explained below. NATO’s Internet policy is similar to that of Canada’s.
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4.4.7 DND/CF personnel accessing the Internet remain responsible for their actions, including
their ethical, legal and security dimensions, and must abide by all pertinent policies and
guidelines concerning the use of the Internet (References A and B). In accordance with the
National Defence Security Policy Chap 38, DND/CF personnel with access to the Internet
should be aware that there is a potential for foreign intelligence services, extremists, terrorists
or criminal contacts on the Internet and that access to Internet sites normally leaves an
auditable trail which can be exploited by third parties. Those DND/CF personnel who access
the Internet should take the precautions stated in NDSP para 38.28.
SECTION 5 – HOUSEHOLD INSURANCE
Reference: MFSI 10.5.23 (3)
4.5.1 Household insurance is highly recommended. Its primary purpose is liability and theft
protection. Rates are high for limited coverage. Two insurance companies provide service at
JFC HQ Naples: Geico, and Aurora, which maintain some hours in the Family Centre of Bldg
C. The hours vary, so read the signs on the door for more information: 721-2213. There is also
Geico insurance at the support site. You can vary your coverage based on the contents of your
house. Banco di Napoli also at JFC HQ Naples offers liability household insurance.
SECTION 6 – TRANSPORTATION – YOUR VEHICLE
INTRODUCTION / DRIVING CONDITIONS
4.6.1 Driving habits: Neapolitans are not polite drivers by North American standards and 70
to 80% of all cars in a parking lot will have body damage of varying degrees. Drivers are
inconsiderate towards pedestrians and other drivers.
Practical advice: Regardless of what you see others doing - best to drive defensively at all
times!
Practical advice: Carry a digital camera in your glove compartment, or ensure that you have a
camera on your cell phone and use it if you do get involved in a fender bender. Take pictures
of location, damage, and get the coordinates of a witness(s). Italian law requires the statement
of two persons to constitute full legitimacy. There are stories of damage becoming much worse
after the fact, through the appearance of new witnesses, perhaps related to the other driver,
magically appearing after the fact. This potentiality can be reduced if you have picture of
damage and evidence of who was actually at the accident scene!
Little can prepare you for driving in Naples, but the following hints may prove helpful:
a.
Driving requires your complete attention. Try to be aware of all the possibilities at
all times.
b.
In most cases, the car in front has the right of way NO MATTER WHAT. If a car
has just passed you and must get back into your lane in order to avoid having an
accident with an oncoming car, you must let it in. It is illegal to block an
overtaking car. If you do not let the overtaking car back in and an accident occurs,
you may be found at fault.
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c.
Flashing headlights mean, “I’m coming through”. Italians use their horn to give warning that they are overtaking you, coming through or that the traffic light has
turned green (intersection layout of lights often means the first car can’t see the light change!).
d.
Traffic lights are not obeyed by all. Local drivers tend to run red lights and stop
signs, and ignore Yield signs. Be alert when moving through intersections
controlled by lights.
e.
Always check traffic behind you when making a left turn. In some circumstances,
if you turn into a car overtaking you as you turn left, you will be at fault because
left turns are seen as turning into traffic, therefore, the person making the turn is
responsible for ensuring that they are turning safely.
f.
These are only a few of the differences in traffic rules that you should be aware of
when driving in Italy. Be warned that if you try to adopt local habits and have an
accident, the police will apply the rules of the road as they are written and you will
likely be found to be at fault. You must drive defensively while in Naples.
g.
Finally, you must go online and learn the road code for Italy and Europe. The
following two web sites provide some useful driving information for Europe and
Italy:
http://www.theaa.com/motoring_advice/overseas/index.html
,
http://www.usag.vicenza.army.mil/sites/local/DOL/drivers_guide.pdf, Priority to
the right is applied in Europe. Though not evident in Naples, as you travel north
this mandatory law becomes omnipresent and without being familiar with its
concept and application you could cause a serious accident.
4.6.2 Poor maintenance of roads: Roads in the Naples area can be in a high state of disrepair
as the Campania Region is not particularly wealthy. Potholes are very common and take a long
time to be repaired. Drainage can be poor with streets/roads flooding after heavy rain, which
makes it impossible to see the potholes that re-appear after just being filled. Note: By
contrast, most of the main highways (“Autostrade”) within Italy that you will use when
travelling outside of Naples are toll roads and therefore are much better maintained.
4.6.3 The city of Naples and suburbs can be a highly polluted area due to vehicle exhaust.
Downtown areas are sometimes closed to traffic. In general, this is not a major concern for
members of the community as driving in downtown Naples is very challenging and thus
members of our community are more likely to use the local train service for travelling in
downtown Naples (parking their cars at the base and leaving from nearby train station).
Practical Advice: A Global Position System (GPS) device (Garmin, TomTom or other brand)
is a practical and useful purchase. Street names are difficult to find and it is very easy to get
lost in Naples
YOUR VEHICLE
4.6.4 To bring or not to bring? There is no perfect answer to that question. Family size, age of
cars, make of car, how attached you are to your undented vehicle all influence the decision
between bringing a car from Canada, or purchasing locally. Clearly a HUMMER is not the ideal
vehicle in the Naples context but we have many members of our community who have opted to
bring a mini-van and have had little problems dealing with the local roadway conditions. The
value of a car must be pondered, as luxury cars tend to attract attention and insurance fees are
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much higher than those in Canada. The make of a car impacts on the availability of parts and
services. But all North American make of cars are represented in the local economy at different
levels. Opel (GM) cars are common, Chrysler are rare but there are dealers for both throughout
Italy. The driver’s ability should also be weighed. Because streets are narrow and congested with illegally parked vehicles everywhere, the distance between passing vehicles or the side of the curb
is often calculated in inches and not feet. This takes a bit of getting used to. A narrower car
facilitates driving through this. Air Conditioning is a must, a lockable gas cap is recommended
and a car alarm system is indicated. If you opt to purchase on the local economy you will have no
problems finding a car, might it be used or new, that will meet your needs.
4.6.5
Parts/Service:
a.
Service and parts are available for most makes/models, but they can be expensive for
North American vehicles if the parts can’t be found locally (which is normally the case);
b.
Uniquely-Canadian specification parts are not available locally. If you import a car, it
is a good idea to arrange with your local dealer in Canada to mail-order parts if
necessary. It might be useful to take note of your local parts supplier’s name, mailing and E-mail addresses. It is also a good idea to include spare parts for your
automobile in your household goods shipment. Many items are not immediately
available through the Navy Exchange system, and North American automobile
parts can be very expensive on the Italian market. Basic items you may wish to
ship include sets of spark plugs, air, oil and fuel filters, and sets of brakes. It is
suggested not to ship your extra parts in your car itself due to the risk of theft from
your vehicle in transit. All too often items shipped in the vehicle are missing by
the time the vehicle arrives at destination. Ordering parts through North American
parts suppliers via the internet is also an option, however the CF postal office
impose a restriction of maximum 20kg per shipment.
Practical advice: Vehicle Mechanic: Gather info on good a mechanic now before you need
it... gather some business cards (especially for mechanics with tow truck service). There are a
lot of backyard mechanics out there, some good, some awful! Unfortunately, sometimes it’s the same mechanic just on different days and faced with different problems that they aren’t familiar with (so it is always risky recommending one over the other).
Practical advice: Possible Mechanics previously recommended by Canadians: Luciano De
Feo is located in Lago Patria, and he has serviced many of the Canadians posted here over the
past few years. His prices are extremely good (compared to Canada) and other options in
Naples, and he is very trustworthy. His address is via Staffetta, 143, his cell phone # is 328465-1084, and his English is quite good. For American makes and models, there is the
Autoport at the NSA (Support Site). They can order parts from the US, and they have a stock
of some parts on hand. Tony’s, at JFC HQ Naples, can also provide you with towing services
and repairs, but his prices seem higher than Luciano’s.
Practical advice: The Automobile Club D’Italia (ACI) offers good coverage for towing
services and a many other CAA-like services. Consult their local office, near JFC HQ Naples,
for more information. It is recommended to go into their office to sign up for service, to ensure
that you get the best plan for your needs. Their address is ACI, Via Kennedy, 5, Bagnoli,
80125. Tel: 081-239-9315
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4.6.6
Required Safety Equipment for your car: You are required by Italian law to carry in
your vehicle and display should you have a roadside emergency, a red reflective emergency
triangle and wear a high visibility reflective vest. Those are also required for vehicle
registration and annual safety inspection (when the inspector can ask to see them).
Practical and legal advice: Safety vests must be within reach of the driver (i.e. under driver’s seat) and cannot be in the trunk because obviously you would have to walk on the highway,
without a vest, to get it out of the trunk.
AUTO INSURANCE
4.6.7 Depending on the rates of the province you left, car Insurance may, or may not, be
more expensive, it depends heavily on the make, model of the car and the horsepower
(kW) of the engine. The criteria that an insurance company requires to establish a policy are
rank, age, marital status, auto make, model, style, horsepower, year of vehicle, blue book
value, and title ownership. In order to secure the best rates, members must prove up to a 5-year
claim free driving record. Insurance companies require a letter from the previous insurance
company indicating that you have driven safely without a claim in order to be eligible for any
type of discount. It is strongly recommended that you bring with you all original letters from
the head offices stating your accident free record. You will only have 3 months to prove this
record if you don’t bring the letter with you on posting and it has been proven that getting the required documentation may take longer.
4.6.8 If the member expects to solicit an insurance policy upon arrival, there are a couple
Italian reputable insurance agents. But insuring with an Italian company is risky. Even though
the company may be reputable, the Italian legal system takes an inordinate amount of time to
process claims. This may cause concern when a member is posted out of Italy before a claim is
settled. Also if a member cancels the insurance policy, most companies do not have a refund
policy. Establishing an auto insurance policy with an American company is an advisable
option worth investigating (and is the option most used by Canadians). GEICO Insurance at
the Gricignano Support Site may provide better rates than Italian companies. If selecting
GEICO, they accept credit cards. There is also Aurora Insurance. Both of these companies
maintain office hours at the Family Centre.
Practical advice: Don't expect Geico to contact you, you must visit their office on all matters
including picking up your individual policies – ensure you added expiry date of policies to
your home/work calendars.
Practical advice: If your vehicle is not new or expensive, it might be best applying for HALF
insurance instead of FULL. Half insurance would give third party coverage but if you are
found at fault for an accident, or if the other party doesn’t have insurance (not uncommon in Naples), you don’t get any money for your car. Talk to the agent about your options.
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INSURANCE COMPANIES
Geico
Support Site (Gricignano)
Tel: 081-811-6568
Fortune Automobile Insurance
75 Via Scarfoglio
Tel: 081-570-2872
FAX: 081-762-3852
Intercontinentale
JFC HQ Naples Bldg C
Tel: 570-1759
FAX: 762-2332
Aurora
JFC HQ Naples, Bldg C
Tel / FAX: 081-721
Clements International (by internet)
http://www.clements.com/
DRIVER'S LICENCE
4.6.9 As mentioned previously, you and your family members will be allowed to drive in
Europe for the duration of your tour on the basis of a valid Canadian driver's licence. It will be
your responsibility to ensure that you maintain a valid Canadian licence throughout your tour.
Check with your provincial licensing authority before you depart to ensure that there will be no
problems in renewing your licence while out of the country. While not required, International
driving licences are obtained from the Italian licensing authorities as long as you can provide a
valid Canadian driver’s licence as well as a passport-sized photo. The fees for the international
licence are nominal. You can also obtain an International Driver Licence in any CAA office,
prior to your departure from Canada (however the licence is normally only valid for one year).
Note: There have been several instances where, despite the expiry date reflected on your
Canadian Driver’s Licence, the province of departure may consider your licence null and void
a short time after you cease to reside in that province. Sometimes that necessitates special
waivers from the province of departure to ensure that the licence remains valid throughout your
posting. Ontario has in place a process for CF members posted overseas, other provinces have
not set-up such process and will require each family to enter in discussions to be granted
extended validity to their licences while overseas.
POMV REGISTRATION IN ITALY
4.6.10 All vehicles coming from abroad will be cleared through Italian Customs by NSA
directly based on shipping paperwork and original registration documentation. Each individual
must register his or her vehicles through the NSA Motor Vehicle Registration Office (MVRO)
at the NSA Support Site located in Gricignano or their offices in Capodochino or JFC HQ
Naples. The MVRO is responsible for the issue of licence plates, the collection of Italian Road
Tax (when applicable – normally for a second or third vehicle as your primary vehicle is
exempt the Road Tax) and the issue of tax-free fuel authorization documents. Appointments
are necessary. All other instructions for the operation of your motor vehicle(s) will be
provided during your in-routine process. Be aware that you are entitled to register a maximum
of three vehicles through MVRO for the duration of your posting to Naples. The only
exception is in the event that your vehicle is involved in an accident and declared a total loss.
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FUEL COUPONS
4.6.11 You will be able to purchase fuel coupons which are exempt of taxes and which are
accepted only at AGIP gas stations throughout Italy. The fuel cost per liter is adjusted to
approach the cost paid for fuel in the USA. These coupons can only be used for the first
registered vehicle. Limits are applied and are linked to the number of cylinders of the engine
(4 cylinders = 300 l/month, 6 and 8 cylinders = 400 l/month).
SECTION 7 – TRANSPORTATION - PUBLIC
INTRODUCTION
4.7.1 Getting around in Naples can be an
adventure at times.
This section will
introduce you to the most common forms of
transportation you will use on a daily basis –
namely, your own vehicle on local roads and
highways, perhaps taxis and finally the main
airport in Naples – “Capo”. The network of
public transportation available in the city and
surrounding area is described in much more
detail at Annex E of this handbook.
AUTOSTRADA AND TANGENZIALE
4.7.2 The Autostrada network has approximately 6,000 kilometers of freeways throughout
Italy. Autostrada directional signs are green as opposed to blue for the secondary and non-toll
roads. Toll payment depends on distance travelled. When entering the Autostrada, a ticket is
issued showing your point of entry and the toll, based upon how far you have traveled, is paid
upon exiting the Autostrada. If you lose your ticket, you will have to pay the furthest toll (e.g.
if traveling north to Rome, with no ticket, you would have to pay the toll from Salerno, no
matter where you joined the Autostrada).. Italian bank cards can also be used but €1.50 is
added to each time (this charge may or may not apply - needs to be confirmed).
Practical advice: Get and use the toll "VIA" cards but avoid the toll booth lanes that are both
VIA card and Telepass – at the Agnano toll area near the pass combined lanes, there are blue
lanes and other ones with help signs above them - you might get rear ended by a fast moving
Telepass customer. Cards are available at the PUNTO BLU office located on the Tangenziale
next to the toll station in Pozzuoli. Keep a card with around 90 Euro cents on it as a spare in
case your card becomes damaged and isn't accepted by the machine (if this happens return the
card - with the original envelope to a PUNTO BLU office- and they will send it away to be
"repaired" - takes about a month). The spare card with 90 Euro cents will save you the
embarrassment of having everyone in line behind you backing up so you can get out. A
Telepass is a very convenient method to use the tolls. The fee to utilize this service through
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your Banco di Napoli account is much cheaper than going through Residential services at
Gricigano, so compare your options. A Telepass makes travelling throughout Italy, and locally
around Naples faster and more convenient.
Practical advice: Use the tangentiale if you qualify for commuter assistance (live more than 16
km from the base but check with CSE for official information) because it is effectively free
under commuter assistance and you have far less chance of having an accident compared to
using the back road to come/go to work.
4.7.3 The tangenziale is a toll road just over 20 kilometers in length that skirts the Naples
area. Both VIAcard and Telepass can help you save time at the tolls. VIAcards can be
purchased at the Customer Service counter at the NSA. Telepass requires an account with
Banco di Napoli. Purchase of Telepass is a two-step process. First you have to fill out
application forms at the Sanpaolo Banco di Napoli; once this has been done and verified by the
bank, take the forms into the PuntoBlu office (there is one at the tangenziale toll station just
north of Agnano) where you will be issued the Telepass. There is a monthly fee. A second
option is to obtain Telepass through the NEX – QOL of life office – but it is much more
expensive as mentioned above. Both Telepass and VIAcard are valid throughout the country.
4.7.4
In case of emergency or car trouble, both the autostrada and tangenziale have SOS
phones every 2 kilometers. Ambulance service can be reached by pressing the button with the
red cross. The button displaying a wrench will call a tow truck. Don’t worry if you have trouble out of the vicinity of an SOS phone: the highway police patrol regularly 24 hours a
day.
4.7.5
Website for the autostrada is www.autostrade.it. This site has a choice of the Italian
or English language.
AIRPORT
4.7.6
Capodichino Airport (Capo) is the only commercial airport in the Campania region (in
which Naples is situated). It is 4 miles north of the centre of Naples, off the Tangenziale Ovest
(west) toll expressway. This facility offers all those services expected of an international
airport. Bus service is available from the airport to the train station (Piazza Garibaldi) and
Molo Beverello (ferry terminal). More information about the airport can be found on their
website www.gesac.it.
TAXIS
4.7.7 Naples has a large number of taxis operating 24 hours a day. The best advice is to
negotiate the fare with the taxi driver before starting your journey. Authorized taxis are yellow
and white and have meters that are programmed to show the basic current fare. In addition to
the basic fare, there are surcharges for, among things, night service (between 22h00 and
07h00), suitcases and/or trunks, and holiday service. There is also a surcharge for calling
Radiotaxi (570-7070 or 556-4444). Only one total fare should be paid regardless of the
number of passengers. Taxis crossing city limits will charge double fare. Please note that the
city line between NAPLES and Pozzuoli runs near the JFC HQ Naples base.
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SECTION 8 – EDUCATION
4.8.1 While education for your children in Canada is a provincial responsibility, DND
assumes this responsibility when you are posted outside Canada. This benefit ensures that your
children are provided with an education comparable to that of Canada, to the level of Ontario
grade 12. All relevant information on the process to follow for the selection and registration of
your dependent children in local school will be provided through your OUTCAN screening
process. You may opt to visit the schools during your HHT. Please note that French language
school facilities are very limited. One school located downtown Naples offers such services
and terminates at the equivalent of grade 8 (Ecole française de Naples). No bus transport is
available, which imposes a significant task on parents. Some car-pooling is organised amongst
the French community but this is done in an ad hoc fashion. Regarding English language
schooling, there are many options available. Your sponsor will provide you with the details.
4.8.2 Please refer to http://www.cmp-cpm.forces.gc.ca/dem-epcg/index-eng.asp. It is
intended to assist with interpretation of Foreign Service Benefits and provide administrative
guidelines on Foreign Service Education and Family Reunion Travel Benefits. These benefits
are applicable to all government employees serving outside Canada and are negotiated by
Treasury Board within the National Joint Council. The OPI for this "How to" handbook is
DCBA 5/Dependant Education Management. Tel number (613) 992-9852.
4.8.3 You should also see the “Education Allowance” item included in the financial issues
part of this document.
ITALIAN LANGUAGE TRAINING
4.8.4
Very little English or French is spoken off base. Italian language group training is
available at the MFRC free of charge (dependents are partially subsidized – service personnel
are not subsidized). For a fee, “Gateway to Italian” is offered at various locations in the area and different schedules to suit nearly everyone. There are other languages training
organizations in Naples or via the Internet that offer a large variety of options for learning
Italian. There are also licences for the use of Rosetta Stone Italian, a very successful computerbased language learning program. More information is available at the Canadian Military
Family Resources Centre (CMFRC).
SECTION 9 – FINANCIAL ISSUES - GENERAL
4.9.1 All relevant information wrt your pay, allowances, banking, and Posting Loan (PL)
options will be provided to you during your HHT briefing, your in-clearance processing, and
during the annual orientation brief. PLs are usually processed by the losing unit; however, the
gaining unit can process posting loans up to 6 months after your arrival.
CANADIAN BANKING REQUIREMENTS
4.9.2 You must maintain a Canadian banking account during your posting in Naples.
Maintaining a US chequing account back in Canada may also have some advantages, but it
should be noted that individuals cannot open a US chequing account once they arrive in Italy.
Indeed, US facilities in Naples will accept, among other things, cheques made in US dollars
that can be processed through a US bank. Only US dollars are used at US establishments – US
dollars can be obtained from an ATM at the NSA Support Site, through the use of either your
Canadian Bank card or your Banco di Napoli ATM card.
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SECTION 10 – FINANCIAL ISSUES – SPECIAL NAPLES ITEMS
4.10.1 Link to a number of allowance Rates:
http://hr.dwan.dnd.ca/DGCB/dcba/mfs/engraph/mfs_messages_e.asp
SECTION 11 – MEDICAL AND DENTAL CARE
USN HEALTH CARE FACILITIES
4.11.1 The American Forces operate medical and dental facilities at NSA Naples. The
Implementing Agreement (IA) between USN and CF states that Canadians will have access to
routine in-patient/out-patient medical and dental care from the US Naval Hospital and US
Dental Centre respectively. This facility offers a full range of medical services including:
Family Practice Clinic
Paediatrics Clinic
Orthopaedic
Physiotherapy
Immunization
Obstetrician/Gynaecology Clinic
Mental Health (Social Worker)
Radiology
Emergency/Same-day Appointments
Well Baby Clinic
General Surgery
Preventive Medicine
Ophthalmology clinic
Anaesthesiology
Laboratory Services
Poison Control
Pharmacy
Ambulance
Practical advice: Address and location of local hospitals. You may want to also note where
some local hospitals are. If an emergency occurs, it may be better to rush to the closest
hospital. Gricignano is too far away for a serious emergency.
MEDICAL RECORDS
4.11.2 Military medical records of members posted to Naples will be held by the Regional
Medical Administration Officer (RMAO) at CFSU(E) Selfkant-Kaserne. Copies (in part or in
full) of the medical records may be obtained through the CSE upon request. Family members
with ongoing medical problems should hand carry (if possible) their own medical information
that is to be presented to the family physician at Naples. Members and families obtain services
from the US hospital. You can request that the hospital start a local file. Individuals may wish
to arrange for copies of recent/pertinent extracts of their medical records to be provided to the
hospital.
FAMILY MEMBER MEDICAL/DENTAL TRAVEL
MFSI 10.8.01
4.11.3 Family member(s) who are provided with a legitimate written referral from a general
practitioner may, subject to Ministerial approval, be authorized reimbursement of actual and
reasonable travel expenses for medical treatment at a location other than Naples. Requests for
family member medical travel shall be in accordance with MFSI 10.8.03(4) and reach the
CFSU(E) Selfkant-Kaserne at least 30 days prior to the intended requirement. In case of an
emergency, requests may be made by telephone or fax and followed up in writing.
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NORMAL HEALTH CARE EXPENSES: FAMILY MEMBERS
4.11.4 While in Italy, your family will be covered by the PSHCP Comprehensive Coverage.
While in Canada, your PSHCP coverage was only supplementary to the provincial insurance.
As your provincial insurance ceases on the last day of the third month after your departure
from Canada, the province continues to be responsible for payment of any medical bills
incurred by your family while in Europe during the first three months. Reimbursement under
the PSHCP Comprehensive medical insurance coverage while in Italy is based upon the
Ontario Health Insurance Plan schedule of fees. Therefore, you can rest assured that the
coverage your family will receive in Europe is the same as if you lived in Ontario subject to
you upgrading your level of coverage to “Level III”. The member continues to be responsible
for PSHCP yearly deductible rates and also co-insurance on purchase of drugs. In accordance
with MFSI 10.8.01, expenses for health care and drugs, in excess of eligible expenses under
PSHCP, may be reimbursed by DND.
NORMAL HEALTH CARE EXPENSES: CF MEMBERS
4.11.5
Should a military member be charged by a medical facility, all costs are
reimbursable by DND. When this situation arises, consult the Canadian Support Element
(CSE) Naples for detailed information on the processing of claims.
HEALTH CARE EXPENSES: CIVILIAN HOSPITALS
4.11.6 Should a family/military member be admitted to a civilian hospital, consult the CSE
Naples for further direction:
OPTICAL SUPPLIES AND SERVICES
4.11.7
CF members who require optical supplies or services will be reimbursed an amount
specified by CFSU(E) for spectacle frames and 100% of any necessary services such as
examination, fitting or repair. Prior to purchasing lenses, contact CSE Naples, who will
provide you with the relevant information to make submissions to the CFSU(E) SelfkantKaserne Medical Section for approval.
DENTAL RECORDS
4.11.8 The Canadian Medical Clinic in Geilenkirchen will maintain military dental records
on all personnel. Family members with ongoing dental problems should hand-carry
appropriate documentation to be presented to the family dental practitioner in Naples.
NORMAL DENTAL CARE EXPENSES: FAMILY MEMBERS
4.11.9 The CF Dental Care Plan continues uninterrupted on posting overseas from Canada.
Dental care expenses for family members are to be submitted to the Great West Life Mutual
Insurance Company (DND underwriter) with the appropriate claim form. Claim forms are
available from the Canadian Support Element Naples.
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NORMAL DENTAL CARE EXPENSES: CF MEMBERS
4.11.10 Invoices/receipts for dental care expenses incurred by military members are to be
forwarded to CSE Naples for furtherance to CFSU(E) Selfkant-Kaserne Medical Invoices
Section for processing.
DENTAL FACILITIES
4.11.11 In accordance with the Implementing Arrangement, CF Members and their families
may utilize the services of the American Naval Dental Clinic in Naples. This dental clinic
provides a full range of services including the following:
General Dentistry (check-ups/referrals)
Dental Hygiene
Oral Surgery
Orthodontics (you will be referred to a private practice)
Endodentistry (root canal/special internal procedures)
Pediadentistry (dental services for children aged 9 and under)
Prosthodentistry (crowns, bridges, dentures, etc.)
X-rays
Dental appointment: DSN 629-6007 or 6008. Commercial 081-811-6007/6008. On occasion,
appointments were difficult to obtain for dependants particularly with the dental hygiene
department. Access to Italian services remains an option.
SECTION 12 – MILITARY DRESS AND DEPORTMENT
4.12.1 Name Tags. References A and C outlines the direction regarding nametags. NATO or
CF nametags shall be worn. The Canadian Support Element (CSE) will provide a
NATO/National/personal identification nametag, without cost, to the member; contact the staff
for further details. It shall be worn in the same manner as per the CF nametag on all orders of
dress.
SECTION 13 – SHOPPING
English speaking business (level of language depends on each business) can be found in the
white pages for individuals: www.paginebianche.it or yellow pages: www.paginegialle.it
4.13.1 Introduction. Grocery shopping in Italy can sometimes be different from shopping in
Canada. There are now large supermarkets such as Citta Mercato in Mugnano, Ipercoop
Tirreno, Alle Porte di Napoli
Marcianiso, Euro Mercato, Afragola
and the Auchan chain of stores.
There are also some smaller grocery
stores like the Doc in Pozzuoli and
the MD chain of stores. The stock
at fruit and vegetable stands tends to
be only what is in season locally,
although some imported goods can
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be found quite regularly (such as bananas).
Practical advice – don’t feel/touch the fruit at local fruit stands – only the owner touches the
fruit! For all purchases in Italy, it is the law to obtain a receipt from the store before leaving
the premisses. In fact, our Canadian habit of leaving the receipt on the counter must be
changed while shopping in Italy. Shop owner will insist that you take the receipt as they are
liable to a high fine if a customer leaves the premisses without such. Furthermore, you are also
liable to a fine in such a situation. Get and keep your receipt to prove to the Financial police
you paid your taxes.
4.13.2 Shop hours can appear to be completely arbitrary. While most shops close for a few
hours in the afternoon, some are closed longer than others. Some stores are open on Sunday
mornings, but closed Monday morning, or all day Monday. It’s best to try to remain flexible, and if you need to shop at a specific store, find out that store’s hours of operation. Many downtown stores are closed from about 13h00 Saturday until evening hours on Monday but
some are also open on Sunday.
4.13.3 There are now many malls that are comparable to what you would find back home,
and there are also box stores, like Leroy Merlin, which is like Home Depot or Rona, and
Decathlon, which sells sporting equipment and clothing, and Ikea. There are also small
specialized stores, which may, or may not have their stock in open view. There is also a store
much like Costco, called the Metro in Pozzuoli. NATO members are given a free membership
to make purchases at this wholesale store, but are still subject to the VAT.
4.13.4 The major supermarkets in the Naples area are Auchan (also known as “Citta Mercato”), Iper Coop, EuroMercato, Le Campane, GS Supermercato, Le Carrefour, Jambore and Alle Porte di Napoli. Auchan can be reached by taking the Giugliano exit (just before the
Lago Patria exit) on the Tangenziale. Upon exiting the highway, you will be facing AUCHAN
but you will be on a one-way street going away from the store. Just follow the road to the first
traffic circle where you will make a 180-degree turn to make your way back to AUCHAN. To
get back on the highway when leaving Auchan, make a 180-degree turn at the first traffic circle
and go back up the same ramp you exited from. To go to Le Campane just take the
Tangenziale exit for Via Campana after the tollbooth. This is only accessible when travelling
west from Naples, and is the same exit for Carney Park. Go toward Quarto following this road
until you get to a small tunnel. Just before going in the tunnel turn right and turn right again on
the first road you see. Keep going straight, and enjoy your shopping. EuroMercato is located
south of Capodichino (Capo). Take the first exit South of Capo and follow the signs. This
store is very easy to find. More information on shopping in Naples could be found in the
Shopping on the Boot book produced by the Naples Overseas Spouses Club.
4.13.5 Specialty Food Shops. Most of the grocery stores do not stock what Canadians call
“ethnic” (i.e. non-Italian) food. Some that do are as follows:
a. General Store. On the Domitiana just before the exit for Pinetamare on the right is a
store specializing in African and Asian foods as well as Italian staples. A variety of
exotic fresh produce is available as well;
b. Naturamica. Just around the corner on the right from the GS in Pozzuoli is a store that
specializes in natural foods, herbal remedies, exotic spices, and a variety of foodstuffs
not available in other stores;
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c. Miscellaneous Shops
(1)
(2)
Kitchen Store – “Hotelleria Casolaro”. Doganella exit southbound
Tangenziale. Turn right at the first main road, then right again at the big
intersection. This is Via Nuova del Campo. On this street are two large
terracotta stores. Further along the same street is the kitchen store. This
establishment is a restaurant and hotel supplier. The selection is excellent
and prices are good; and
Bombole - Eddie Russo. On the Domitiana just south of Licola turn off on
the left (going north) is a small group of shops including Eddie Russo, a pet
store, and a small mozzarella store. Eddie Russo will make deliveries and
convert gas grills as well as replace your empty bombole. English is spoken.
US NAVY EXCHANGE (NEX)
4.13.6 The implementing arrangement provides authority for access by CF members and
their family members to the Navy Exchange establishments, for the purchase of goods
necessary for their own consumption. The NEX is located on the NSA compound in
Gricignano. It is a relatively large store. Other examples of services available from the NEX
are: Mini-Mart, Laundromat, Souvenir Store, Video Rental, Music Store, EuropCar rental
office, Barber Shop, Bookstore, various restaurants, Dry Cleaner, Tailor Shop, Florist, Movie
Theatre (Reel Times 2), Food Court, etc. NEX facilities normally charge and expect
payment in US Dollars, not Euros. They accept credit cards (Food Court accepts Euros).
4.13.7 Two Travel Agencies are also located at Gricignano: USO (United Services
Organisation) and ITT (Information, Tickets and Travel). ITT also has an office at
Capodichino.
4.13.8
Other American facilities that Canadians may wish to access are the Reel Times
Theatre at Gricignano and Capodichino (just don’t advertise the fact you aren’t American!).
SIZE CONVERSION
4.13.9 The sizes shown in these charts are European. Italian sizes are slightly different. Use
these charts as a guide:
Shoe conversion chart
Women’s shoes
CANADA ITALY
4
32
5
34
6
36
7
37
8
38
9
40
10
41
Men’s shoes
CANADA ITALY
6½
40
7½
41
8½
42
9½
43
10 ½
44
11 ½
45
12 ½
46
Women’s Dresses/Coats
CANADA
ITALY
6
34
8
36
10
38
12
40
14
42
16
44
18
46
How to find the size for children’s shoes? Measure the foot in centimetres and multiply by 1.5.
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Men’s Clothes
Shirts
Canada
14
14 ½
15
15 ½
15 ¾
16
16 ½
Suits
CANADA
34
36
38
40
42
44
46
EUROPE
36
37
38
39
40
41
42
Children’s and Junior Misses’ dresses/coats
2
4
6
Canada
1
2
5
Europe
8
7
EUROPE
44
46
48
50
52
54
56
10
9
13
10
15
12
MARKETS
4.13.10
A shopping experience that many Canadians come to enjoy in Naples is the
outdoor markets. This list is by no means complete, but will give you an idea of what is
available:
a.
Shoe Alley. Sunday, Monday and Friday
0700-1400 hrs. Main items: shoes, fabric,
clothing, linens. Located on Via Marino di
Caramanico. Directions: from southbound
Tangenziale, take Corso Malta exit; straight
through toll booth, left at first stop light, (via
Nuova Poggioreale), then second right
(purple building on the corner) (Via Marino
di Caramanico). There will be parking
attendants (2E) indicating where you can park on the street; You can also go to an
underground supervise parking close by.
b.
Vomero Market. Monday to Saturday 0900-1400 hrs. Main items: good selection
of fruits and vegetables, clothing, household items. Directions: finding your way
in the Vomero district can be a very challenging experience. There are several
ways to get to this market. Take the metropolitana to Piazza Amedeo, exit the
station to the left and take the funicolare (about 75 metres on the left) to the last
stop. Coming out of the funicolare station, turn left up Via Bernini to Piazza
Vanvitelli, bear left on Via Scarlatti. Take the third right - Via Luca Giordano.
The market starts two blocks down on the right. If you are not comfortable driving,
directions can be found at the CMFRC-Naples. Other route: take the Metropolitana
Linea 2 to Piazza Cavour. Then you transfer over to Linea 1 at “Museo” and go to Vanvitelli. The market is a few blocks away from the station.
c.
Posillipo Market. Thursday 0900-1400 hrs. Main items: clothes, household items.
Directions: Take road past Nisida up the hill into Posillipo, under the high bridge,
left on via Boccaccio (small Agip station on left, just after a small piazza); follow
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this road and you will soon see the end of the market on the left. All parking is on
the street overlooking the cliff;
d.
Pozzuoli Fish Market. Tuesday to Sunday 0700-1300 hrs. Wide selection of local
and imported seafood. Located on Pozzuoli harbour in old Pozzuoli, close to the
Temple of Serapide and the ferry terminal;
e.
Antique Market. Third Sunday every month 0900-1400 hrs. Located in villa
Comunale along the Naples waterfront between Mergellina and the Castel
Dell’Ovo;; and
f.
A very helpful booklet called “Shopping on the Boot, and Beyond” will be sold by
the Naples Overseas Spouses Club through the NSA Thrift Shop (this book is
normally provided by CMFRC to each arriving family).
SECTION 14 – ENTERTAINMENT
RESTAURANTS
4.14.1 Eating out in Naples takes many forms, from a stand-up pastry or panini (sandwich) at
a café or bar, to an all day affair celebrating a wedding or baptism.
a.
Bars are perhaps the most common business establishments in Naples (and
Italy), but are not the same as bars in Canada. Italian bars serve coffee, soft
drinks, wines, beer and liqueurs as well as sweet and savoury pastries. Bars are
popular meeting places and most of the patrons remain standing at the bar. If
you are not sitting at a table, you tell the cashier what you want, pay, and take
the receipt to the bar. A small tip is customary when you put your receipt on the
bar to order. If you are ordering pastries to go, first pick them out and get a
receipt from the clerk (in this case, you are charged by weight) to take to the
cashier. Pay the cashier, and bring this receipt back to the clerk and pick up
your wrapped pastries.
b.
A gastronomia is similar to a cafeteria. All the dishes, which tend to be
regional specialities, are behind the counter with their prices indicated. These
establishments are set up like bars in that you tell the cashier what you would
like, pay, and pick up your meal, then find a seat. A tavola calda is the same as
a gastronomia with sit down service. Prices at these establishments are
reasonable, there is a good variety, and the quality tends to be very good.
c.
Trattorie are moderately priced restaurants often featuring regional cuisine. A
cover charge (coperto) usually around 1 EURO will be included on your bill.
Coperto is for the place setting and bread. Some will also include a service
charge (servizio).
d.
Ristorante are the more expensive restaurants. Their menus tend to have a
greater variety than other eating establishments. The bill will also include the
coperto and usually the servizio.
TELEVISION IN NAPLES
4.14.2 Italian TV broadcast using the PAL system as opposed to NTSC, which is used in
North America. In Naples with a PAL capable TV and the installation of an external antenna
you will be able to receive 140 Italian channels and one French news channel. Cable is not
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available in Naples so to get English and some French programs you need a satellite. The vast
majority of Canadians choose Sky Satellite. This company has various packages to choose
from, and you can ask the CSE Naples Secretary, or the CFMRC Coordinator for assistance to
acquire this service. More and more new TVs are equipped with multi voltage and multi
reception standard capabilities (NTSC/PAL). TVs can operate on a transformer but to access
local European channels it must be PAL standard capable. The local NEX has a large selection
of TVs for sale. Prices are generally lower than those in Canada and their products are multi
standard (PAL/NTSC, 110/220V).
Practical advice: Satellite Bills: 1st Recommend using your Credit Card to automatically pay
your bill (Reason: Your service does not get cut off due to late payments and easy to track
your payments). 2nd point: You can’t pay through bank (for “STAR”) – so need to use Italian
post office.
MAGIC WORLD
4.14.3 A large attraction and water park opens in the summer months. Take the Licola exit
from the Tangenziale; turn right. Turn down the small street beside the Champs Elysee
pasticeria and follow the signs.
CARNEY PARK
4.14.4 This is a US Navy recreational area/playground with a variety of facilities and
programs. There are tennis courts, basketball courts, volleyball pits, children’s playground and an olympic-sized pool. There are horseshoe pits, a fitness trail, picnic areas and facilities for
tent, trailer camping as well as cabins available for rent. A Carney Park pass is required for
each family member and is paid for by Canada (administered by PSP Coordinator). This pass
allows access to the facility, but use of the pool, golf course, cabins, etc, require a separate user
fee. Guests passes are available at the sports stores (in Carney Park) for US$5 per day.
Generally, Carney Park only accepts US Dollars for entry, pool passes, etc (Euros are not
accepted).
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4.14.5 Newcomers should also be aware of the existence of the NATO Morale Welfare and
Activity (MWA) Organization. The NATO Community MWA provides quality recreational
and travel opportunities to US and Allied Forces in Europe. For more information, check the
website: http://www.mwanaples.org.
4.14.6 The USN library, located at the USN support site, is available to Canadians and offers
a large selection of books plus limited numbers of DVDs. DVD players again pose the
question of their capacity of playing NTSC or PAL standards. USN library provides NTSC
standard DVDs. A DVD player will work well through the use of a transformer.
SECTION 15 - FAMILY ACTIVITIES / CMFRC / PSP
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CANADIAN COMMUNITY CENTRE NAPLES (CCCN)
4.15.1 As mentioned in an earlier section, a building in Lago Patria was leased to serve as the
new Canadian Community Centre in Naples (CCCN) housing the CFMRC and the PSP
organizations. There are offices, a well-equipped gym, a large dining and living area, a
reference room with Internet, an outdoor patio, a children’s playroom, large yard, and 2 apartments.
CMFRC (CANADIAN MILITARY FAMILY RESOURCE CENTRE)
4.15.2 The CMFRC-Naples' offices are located in Villa Maple Leaf on the 2nd floor, along
with PSP offices. Our office hours are Monday to Friday from 08:00 to 15:00. The Centre
offers services in the 4 general categories: 1) Child and Youth Development and Parenting
Support 2) prevention, Support and Intervention 3) Family Separation and Reunion, and 4)
Personal Development and Community Integration. Since we are a small community, the
services are offered on a smaller scale than what you might be accustomed to in Canada.
However, it is a good source of information and services for the community. A resource
library with books and DVDs, as well as travel resources, is available. Activities are provided
on a regular basis. CMFRC activities rely heavily on volunteer participation. The CMFRC's
newspaper, Il Vesuvio Canadese, along with our booklet, Thriving in Naples/En plein essor à
Naples provide Canadian families with useful information regarding activities, festivities and
tips to make your stay here in Naples enjoyable and safe. Our regular ongoing programming
consists of Italian classes with a child-minding service, a Kindermusik program, a homework
club, monthly coffee mornings and a youth council who organize their own activities. We also
organize seasonal activities and collaborate with PSP on some activities. Our seasonal
activities include snorkelling in underwater ruins, mother's day visits to Sorrento, Coffee on the
Road where we visit sites in downtown Naples, Valentine's day crafts for children, a children's
Christmas party, Easter Egg Family gathering in conjunction with PSP, Volunteer Appreciation
dinner in conjunction with PSP and various craft workshops to name a few. As much as
possible, our activities take place at the beautiful Villa Maple Leaf.
PSP (PERSONNEL SUPPORT PROGRAMS NAPLES)
4.15.3 The aim of the PSP is to enhance the morale and welfare of military members and their
families through the provision of travel and recreational activities. PSP (Europe) has a number
of excellent programmes such as the Chalet lottery which offers the rental of properties in
Austria, Croatia, France, Italy, Germany, Spain, and Switzerland at a subsidized rate to
personnel who are selected through a draw process. Locally, we also have a PSP office which
is located in Lago Patria at the Canadian Community Centre (Villa Maple Leaf). PSP Naples
organizes a variety of trips and events each year focused on enriching our knowledge of the
Italian culture. During your stay in Naples, PSP Naples also provides family access to the US
recreation facility located at Caney Park. Finally, a resource travel library and a variety of
items for loan to our community is maintained by the PSP office which includes: sports
equipment, GPS, Thule roof carriers and snow chains.
SECTION 16 - POSTAL
4.16.1 Individual mailboxes are located at the Canadian Support Element in JFCNP HQ in
Lago Patria. The community postal clerk works out of the British Post Office located in
JFCNP HQ, building C (Community Center).
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Don’t forget your addresses (From North-America):
Rank/Name
Canadian Support Element
JFC HQ Naples
P.O. Box 5045 STN Forces
Belleville, ON K8N 5W6
(From Europe)
Rank/Name
Canadian Support Element
JFC HQ Naples
Via Madonna del Pantano
80014 Lago Patria,
Giugliano in Campania, Napoli, Italia
Mail/Packages requiring a signature (on-line ordering/registered mail):
Rank/Name
CFPU Ops Trenton
PO Box 5045 Stn Forces
15 Westwin Ave, Bldg 348
Trenton, ON K0K 3W0
4.16.2 Italian Post Agency: If required, the following is info on subject: Counter Service
0830 – 1230 hrs, Mon – Fri. Services Provided: Paying of Bills, Electricity & Phone. Located
in Building ‘C’. Contact number 2463
4.16.3
We discourage the use of your rented residence as a delivery address. The CF postal
system, for mail from Canada, and the CSE/JFC HQ addresses for mail from Europe should be
utilized.
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PART 5 – GOING BACK TO CANADA
SECTION 1 - INTRODUCTION
IMPORTING FIREARMS AND WEAPONS
5.2.3 See http://cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/pub/bsf5044-eng.html.
IMPORTING VEHICLES
5.2.5 If you wish to purchase a car, consult CSE Naples for more details, or view the following
sites:
http://www.cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/pub/bsf5048-eng.html
http://cbsa-asfc.gc.ca/publications/dm-md/d9/d9-1-11-doc-eng.html
http://www.tc.gc.ca/eng/roadsafety/safevehicles-importation-index-443.htm
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ANNEXES
Annex A - NAPLES SITE MAP
JFC HQ NAPLES
LAGO PATRIA
GRICIGNANO
US SUPPORT SITE
3
2
1
CARNEY
PARK
5
4
CAPODICHINO
NATO YACHT CLUB
1.
CAPODICHINO

Civilian and Military Airports

US Military Installation

Free Short Term Parking for Airport
2.
JFC NAPLES – LAGO PATRIA

See Site Plan
3.
GRICIGNANO US SUPPORT SITE

Military Housing

US DoD Schools

Hospital & Dental

USO/ITT

GEICO Ins

MVRO main Office
4.
NATO YACHT PLAN
5.
CARNEY PARK

Swimming Pool

Camping

Dog Park

Outdoor equipment
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Annex B – JFC HQ NAPLES BASE MAP
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Annex C - LIST OF RECOMMENDED ITEMS TO BRING TO NAPLES
1. The following household items or articles are recommended:
Living room furniture
Tools (may be required to repair your car)
Dining room furniture
Garden Tools
Power Tools (depending on the amperage) Lawn Mower/gas edger
Carpets
Consumable spares for your North American car
Kitchen suite
Cookware and storage containers
Desks
Personal Computer
Beds and bedding
Shelving for storage areas
Dressers
Lamps
Television
Digital Video Recorder
Vacuum Cleaner
Ladder (6ft+)
Extension Cords
Drapes – may have to be adapted to European tracks
Sheers – readily available in Europe and at good prices
Notes:
1.
You can bring a North American TV if you intend to use it as computer monitor
for video games, or for watching movies.
2.
Due to the risk of burglaries, it is not a good idea to bring any object of great
monetary or sentimental value.
3.
Electric/Electronic clocks will not work properly even with a transformer as
North American electricity runs on 60 Hz, while European electricity runs on
50 Hz.
4.
It might not be advisable to bring your expensive power tools, as they might
require 60 Hz and cannot be used on 50 Hz. Look at your power tools
specifications before you decide to include them in your shipment.
2. Due the possibility of natural disasters (like earthquakes), bringing basic camping
equipment should be considered.
3. Naples can be cold in winter, and you may travel to colder locations on vacation, and
therefore, bring some warm/winter clothes.
Note: Fahrenheit/Celsius Conversion
To convert Fahrenheit to Celsius, subtract 32, then multiply by 5 and divide by 9
example : 300 °F = (300-32) x 5 = 135°C
9
To convert Celsius to Fahrenheit multiply by 9, divide by 5 and add 32.
example : 200 °C = (200 x 9) + 32 = 392 °F
5
Frequently used temperatures are provided here for your convenience:
°F 200
225
250
300
325
°C 93
107
121
135
149
°F
°C
350
177
375
191
400
204
425
218
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450
232
Annex D - REFERENCE MATERIAL
SECTION 1 - BOOKS
The following is a list of books which provide information on Naples, Italy, and the
surrounding area:
Eyewitness Travel Guides, NAPLES, 1998, DK Publishing Inc
Touring Club of Italy, NAPLES, 1997, Intergraf & Lito
Eyewitness Travel Guide, ITALY, DK Publishing Inc
THE BAY OF NAPLES & SOUTHERN ITALY, 1997, Dana Facovos
Fodor’s 99, ITALY
Michelin Guide, ITALY
Faith Heller Willinger, EATING IN ITALY, 1998, William Morrow & Coy Inc
Sandra Gustafson, CHEAP EATING IN ITALY, 3rd Edition, 1999, Chronicle Books
Ronald & Carl Krannich, THE TREASURES OF ITALY, 1997, Impact Publications
Dark heart of Italy
That fine Italian Hand
The Italians
My Italian Neighbor
SECTION 2 - INTERNET SITES ON NAPLES
www.europe.forces.gc.ca
http://www.nato.int/
http://www.afsouth.nato.int
https://www.cnic.navy.mil/Naples/index.htm
http://www-usnhnaples.med.navy.mil
http://www.itwg.com/en_napoli.htm
http://www.centrepointe.info/
http://www.canada.it (Cdn embassy in Rome)
http://infoitaly.it
http://ciaonapoli.com
http://nsa.naples.navy.mil/ panorama/ (USN / NATO local paper)
http://www.wikinapoli.com/benvenuti (US on-line information guide)
English speaking business (level of language depends on each business) can be found at white
pages for individuals: www.paginebianche.it or yellow pages: www.paginegialle.it
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Annex E - PUBLIC TRANSPORTATION SYSTEM
GENERAL INFORMATION
1. This section also contains a list of transportation terminology at the end. It should be kept
in mind that public transportation in Naples is subject to labour actions including strikes and
work slow-downs. Generally these are of short duration (often for several hours during a day)
and advance notice is always given. For scheduled departure times consult “Qui Napoli”, the local newspaper “Il Mattino” or ITT. Public transportation is available in some outlying areas
and the quality of service is fair. Operation ceases between 2130 and 2230 hrs daily. Fare is
based on a zone system and on a per ride basis regardless of distance.
HYDROFOILS AND FERRIES
2. Hydrofoils and Ferries (Aliscafi e traghetti). The islands of Capri, Ischia, Procida, Eolie,
Sardinia and Sicily can be easily visited by hydrofoil or ferry. Hydrofoils are faster (and more
expensive); ferries accommodate cars (and on trips to Sardinia and Sicily, have cabins
available). Only island residents can take their cars to Capri. Leaving from JFC HQ Naples,
take the Metronapoli train from the Bagnoli station to the Mergellina station and walk down
the hill to the marina. Purchase tickets on the pier. To get to the Pozzuoli port, take the
Cumana train from the Bagnoli station to the Pozzuoli station and walk toward the fish market.
Hydrofoils
From
To
Molo Beverello (Fleet Landing)
Mergellina
Sorrento
Pozzuoli
Capri, Ischia, Procida
Capri, Ischia, Procida, Sorrento
Mergellina, Capri
Ischia, Procida
Ferries
From
To
Molo Beverello (Fleet Landing)
Stazione Marittima (Fleet Landing)
Pozzuoli
Sorrento
Formia
Capri, Ischia, Procida, Sorrento
Cagliari, Castellammare, Reggio di
Calabria, Catania, Lipari, Malta, Palermo,
Siracusa, Sorrento, Tripoli, Tunis
Ischia, Procida
Capri
Ponza, Ventotene
For current schedules on ferries and hydrofoils, consult a local newspaper or “Qui Napoli”.
TRAIN AND METRO SYSTEM
3. If your idea of being posted to Naples includes using the local transit this can be a
challenge, however, it can also be very rewarding with less stress of driving downtown. In
Naples itself the transit system is very good and it does not take very long to figure it out if you
use it on a regular basis. If you do not live in the Naples area, transit and the associated routes
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become more of a challenge. To date, those who live in Lago Patria, Licola, Varcaturo,
Monterusciello, Monte Di Procida, do not use the local transit to get into Naples. These people
come to JFC HQ Naples, park their cars and then use the local transit system to head into the
city center. Transit in the outlying areas does exist, but it is up to the individual to determine if
it is adequate for their transportation needs.
4. Some transit information can be found in the Tourist Magazines “Campi Flegrei” and “Qui Napoli”. The “Qui Napoli” also offers information on train service from Naples to Rome. The Web site is http://www.inaples.it/eng/quinapoli.htm.
PURCHASE OF TRAIN, METRO OR BUS TICKETS
5. UNICOCAMPANIA is the name of the ticket and company, which is valid for almost all
public transportation systems within the city of Naples and provides a simple fare system.
Naples is divided in five zones (see details in following paragraphs). There is also a special
ticket that provides transportation by the kilometer outside the Naples area.
6. Tickets must be validated either prior to boarding trains and funicolari (a special train that
normally runs up and down a hill), and when boarding a bus they are validated on the bus. If a
validation machine is not working the passenger must write in the date and time. It is
important that one have a ticket when riding transit as there are random checks and one will be
fined if they fail to produce a valid ticket.
7. Tickets can be purchased at the Metronapoli, Cumana, and Circumflegrea Stations. They
can also be purchased at some newspaper/magazine stands, tobacco/ lottery stores, and there
are also machines that will dispense tickets. Note with the ticket machines: they do not always
provide change. Ticket counters are not available 24/7, so it is always a good idea to have
extra tickets on hand.
8. Tickets provide for transportation in the Naples Area normally for a 90-minute period (90
MINUTI), which allows a rider to get on and off transit for this amount of time from the time
of validation. There is a day ticket (GIORNALIERO), which is valid for 24 hrs from the time
of validation. There is also a monthly pass (ABBONAMENTO MENSILE), which is
purchased at the beginning of the month.
UNICO zone tickets (FASCIA).
FASCIA 1 : Arzano, Casandrino, Casavatore, Casoria, Cercola, Marano di Napoli, Melito di
Napoli, Mugnano di Napoli, Portici, Pozzuoli, Quarto, San Giorgio a Cremano, San Sebastiano
al Vesuvio, Volla.
FASCIA 2: Acerra, Afragola, Aversa, Bacoli, Brusciano, Caivano, Calvizzano, Cardito,
Casanuovo di Napoli, Castello di Cisterna, Cesa, Crispano, Ercolano, Frattamaggiore,
Frattaminore, Giuliano, Grumo Nevano, Lusciano, Mariglianella, Marigliano, Massa di
Somma, Monte di Procida, Orta di Atella, Parete, Pollena Trocchia, Pomigliano d’Arco, Qualiano, S. Anastasi, S. Antimo, S. Arpino, Somma Vesuviana, Succivo, Torre Annunziata,
Torre Del Greco, Tre Case, Trentola Ducenta, Villaricca.
FASCIA 3: Arienso, Boscoreale, Boscotrecase, Camposano, Capodrise, Carinaro, Casal di
Principe, Casaluce, Casamarciano, Casapesenna, Castellammare di Stabia, Castel Volturno (up
to Pinetamare), Cicciano, Cimitile, Comiziano, Frignano, Gricignano d’Aversa, Liveri, Maddaloni, Marcianise, Nola, Ottaviano, Palma Campania, Poggiomarino, Pompei, S.
Cipriano d’Aversa, S. Felice a Candello, S. Gennaro Vesuviano, S. Guiseppe Vesuviano, S. 61/73
Marcellino, S. Marco Evangelista, S. Paolo Bel Sito, S. Vitaliano, S. Maria La Carita, Saviano,
Scafati, Scisciano, Terzigno, Teverola, Tufino, Villa di Briano, Villa Literno.
FASCIA 4: Angri, Avella, Baiano, Cancello Arone, Capua, Carbonara di Nola, Casagiove,
Casapulla, Caserta, Casola di Napoli, Castelvolturno (after Pinetamare), Cervino, Corbara,
Curti, Comicella, Gragnano, Grazzanise, Lauro, Lettere, Macerata Campania, Marzano di
Nola, Meta, Mugnano del Cardinale, Nocera Inf., Norcera Sup. Pagani, Pago del Vallo di
Lauro, Piano di Sorrento, Pimonte, Portico di Caserta, Recale, Roccarainola, S. Marzano sul
Sarno, S. Nicola la Strada, S. Prisco, S. Tammaro, S. Valentino Torio, S. Maria a Vico, S.
Maria Capua Vetere, S. Maria La Fossa, S. Antonio Abate, S. Egidio del Monte Albino, Sarno,
Sperone, Striano, Taurano, Valle di Maddaloni, Vico Equense, Visciano.
FASCIA 5: Atripalda, Avellino, Carinola, Castel Morrone, Falciano del Massico, Francolise,
Limatola, Mercogliano, Mondragone, Pastorano, Pignataro, Sant’Agnello, Sorrento, Sparanise, Monteforte Irpino, Moschiano, Quindici, Massa Lubrense.
The FASCIA tickets come as BIGLIETTO ORARIO (hourly tickets):
- FASCIA 1 100 Minutes
- FASCIA 2 120 Minutes
- FASCIA 3 140 Minutes
- FASCIA 4 160 Minutes
- FASCIA 5 180 Minutes
9. The FASCIA tickets also come as:
a. Day tickets, which are valid from 1000 hrs to 2400 hrs;
b. Week-end tickets, which are valid on Saturdays, Sundays and holidays from 0000
hrs to 2400 hrs on the day validated;
c. Weekly tickets, which are valid from 0000 hrs on Monday to 2400 hrs the
following Sunday;
d. Monthly tickets, which are valid for the month in which they are purchased; and
e. The prices for the above tickets are determined by which zone (FASCIA) they are
purchased for. For prices of UNICO FASCIA tickets go to Web site
http://www.unicocampania.it/index.php?lang=en
10. There is also a CHILOMETRICO ticket that can be used outside the Naples area and the
price is determined by the kilometers travelled. This ticket also comes in a 60 minute, daily
and monthly format.
BUSES/STREETCARS
11. Numbers on the front, and right rear
windows identify a bus.
ANM stops are
designated by a yellow bus stop sign that lists
the number of the bus and the route being
served. The sign will also specify the type of
stop: “Obbligatoria” is a mandatory stop – the
driver will stop automatically for people waiting
at the stop. If you are waiting at a stop that is
served by more than one bus it is a good idea to
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step out or wave when you see the bus you require. At “Facoltativa” (optional) stops, the
driver must be flagged down. There are no pre-printed schedules, but most buses run every 20
– 30 minutes, and depending on the route and time of day they do run more frequently. There
are also night buses that run about every hour to hour and a half between approximately 23h00
to 05h00. ANM has a website www.anm.it . This site gives info about routes, but they are
in the process of changing routes and as a result this site is not 100% accurate.
CABLE CARS (Funicolari)
12. Operated by ANM. There are four lines:
a.
Centrale from via Toledo to Piazza Fuga (Vomero);
b.
Chiaia from via del Parco Margherita to via Cimarosa (Vomero). This line at
via del parco Margherita is close to the Metronapoli Piazza Amedeo station;
c.
Montesanto from Piazza Montesanto to via Morghen (Vomero). This line at
Piazza Montesanto is close to the Metronapoli Montesanto station and next door
to the Cumana and Circumflegrea Montesanto stations; and
d.
Mergellina from Via Mergellina to Via Manzoni.
METRONAPOLI
13. Metronapoli has two lines, LINEA 1 and LINEA 2. They are Naples’ version of a subway. The information phone line from Naples is 800-568-866.
LINEA 1 runs from Piazza Dante to Piscinola Secondigliano. This line runs from approx.
06h30 to 22h30.
Note: The Museo station of LINEA 1 is very close to the LINEA 2 Piazza Cavour
station so if you do not know the area well be careful which station you walk
into.
LINEA 2 runs from Pozzuoli to Gianturco. Trains run approx every 8 minutes. This is the line
most personnel use from JFC HQ Naples to get into downtown Naples. The station close to
JFC HQ Naples is the Bagnoli station. It is a five-minute walk from the main gate of JFC HQ
Naples. This line runs from approx. 05h45 to 23h00.
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From Pozzuoli the station stops are: Pozzuoli, Bagnoli, Cavalleggeri d’Aosta, Campi Flegrei, Piazza Leopardi, Mergellina, Piazza Amedeo, Montesanto, Piazza Cavour, Piazza Garibaldi,
Gianturco.
Note:
The Piazza Cavour station is close to the National Archeological Museum, which
houses many of the items taken from Pompei.
14. To get to the airport from JFC HQ Naples take the Metronapoli from the Bagnoli station to
Piazza Garibaldi. From outside the Garibaldi station you will find the 3S bus. This will take
you to the Airport and there is also a stop close to the US Capo facilities. For this trip, a person
would use a Giranapoli ticket. The 3S bus runs every 15 minutes between the hours of 06h00
and 23h00.
CUMANA LINE
15. Operated by SEPSA. It runs approx every 20 minutes between 05h30 and 21h20.
Timetables are posted at the station. Between the Montesanto and Bagnoli stations the service
is more frequent and it is less frequent between Bagnoli and Torregaveta. Station stops listed
are: Montesanto, Corso V. Emanuele, Fuorigrotta, Mostra D’Otremare, Edenlandia, Agnano, Bagnoli, Dazio, Terme La Pietra, Gerolomini, Cappuccini, Pozzuoli, Cantieri, Arco Felice,
Lucrino, Baia, Fusaro, Torregaveta.
Note:
(Oct 2001): Baia is listed as a station stop but the train does not make a stop at this
location. This has been in effect since 1999. To get to Baia one must get off at
the Lucrino station and then take a bus.
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16. Giranapoli tickets cover the zone from Montesanto station to the Bagnoli station. FASCIA
1 tickets cover from Montesanto station to Lucrino station. FASCIA 2 tickets cover the area
from Montesanto station to Torregaveta station. E.g. to get from JFC HQ Naples (the walk
from the JFC HQ Naples main gate to the Cumana station is 10-15 min) Bagnoli to
Torregaveta a person would use the FASCIA 2 tickets.
CIRCUMFLEGREA LINE
17. Operated by SEPSA. It runs approx every 30 minutes from 05h30 to 20h30. Timetables
are posted at the station. Station stops listed are: Torregaveta, Lido Fusaro, Cuma, Marina di
Licola, Licola, Grotto del Sole, Officina Quarto, Quarto, Quarto Centro, Pisani, Pianura,
Latrencia, Traiano, Soccavo, Piave, Montesanto.
Notes:
1. From Torregaveta to Licola there is very limited service. It is advisable to check the
timetable first if you plan to use this line between the Licola station and the Torregaveta
station.
2. There is a parking lot, with parking attendant at the Licola station. It is a flat rate of 2€
to park for the day or portion thereof.
CIRCUMVESUVIANA LINE
18. There are four lines available from the Garibaldi Station:
a. Napoli, Ercolano, Pompei, Castellammare, Vico Equense, Sorrento;
b. Napoli, Ottaviano, Sarno;
c. Napoli, Torre Annuziata, Poggiomarino Sarno; and
d. Napoli, Nola, Baiano.
19. The Napoli Sorrento line runs approx every 20 minutes. It is possible to purchase a
timetable for the Circumvesuviana. Timetables are also posted at the Garibaldi Station. Using
the FASCIA 5 ticket can get a person from the old JFC HQ Naples in Bagnoli all the way to
Sorrento. E.g. Get on the Metropolitane at the Bagnoli station close to the old JFC HQ Naples
and transfer over to the Circumvesuviana at the Garibaldi Station and then travel all the way to
Sorrento. Circumvesuviana has a website www.vesuviana.it
NATIONAL TRAINS
20. Ferrovie dello Stato. Web site www.trenitalia.it, in English or Italian. Train travel is very
popular way of getting between cities. There are several different types like the Intercity and
Eurostar; all trains are non-smoking, but you will quite often see smokers on station platforms:
a.
LOCALE serve the small towns around large cities and stop at every station on
the line;
b.
DIRETTO service between larger centres, does not stop at small stations;
c.
ESPRESSO serve long distance routes and stop only at major towns. All have
both first and second class cars; and
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d.
RAPIDO only serve the largest cities such as Rome, Milan, Florence, and
Naples.
21. For all the above trains there is a set fare. First class costs considerably more than second
class and, especially for the shorter trips, may provide only marginally more comfort. Some
rapido trains have only first class. Reserving a seat is a good idea especially on holidays,
vacation periods, and weekends. Most national trains leave from the Central Station at Piazza
Garibaldi, some leave from Mergellina or Campi Flegrei stations.
OTHER TRAVEL SERVICES
22. Through the US military Canadians have access to the USO and ITT travel/tour/vacation
services located at Gricignano and another ITT office at Capodichino. They also provide
information about the local area. See the following link: www.uso.it .
TRANSPORTATION TERMINOLOGY
Abbondamento mensile
Aliscalfo
Aperto
Arrivi
Autobus
Bagno
Biglietteria
Biglietto a corsa unica
Monthly pass
Hydrofoil
Open
Arrivals
Bus
Restroom
Ticket counter
Single ticket
(one way)
Biglietto d’andata e ritorno Round trip ticket
Biglietto giornaliero
All-day ticket
Biglietto
Ticket
Binario (Bin)
Track
Categoria
Category (of
train)
Chiuso
Closed
Cuccetta
Sleeping berth
Deposito bagagli
Left Luggage
(baggage check)
Destinazione
Destination
Discesa/Uscita
Exit
Feriali
Weekdays
(Monday to Saturday)
Fermata obbligatoria
Mandatory stop
Festivi
Sundays and
holidays
In ritardo
In orario
Libero
Multa
Occupato
Ora
Orario
Partenze
Polizia Stradale
Posto
Prenotazione
Prima classe
Prossima fermata
Sala d’aspetto
Salita/Entrata
Sciopero
Seconda classe
Stazione
Supplemento
Tassametro
Traghetto
Treno
Ufficio oggetti smarriti
Ultimo
Vagone
Vietato fumare
Annex F – SIGHTS TO SEE IN THE NAPLES AREA
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Late
On time
Free/available
Fine
Occupied/busy
Hour (time)
Timetable
Departures
Highway police
Seat
Reservation
First class
Next stop
Waiting room
Entrance
Strike
Second Class
Station
Supplement
Taxi meter
Ferry
Train
Lost and found
office
Last/final
Car (train)
No smoking
Archeological Museum. Piazza Museo, Ph.# 081-440-166. This archeological museum is
one of the most important in Europe. It houses principally the Farnese collection including
bronze statues, marble mosaics, paintings, furnishings and other items uncovered in the
excavations of Herculaneum and Pompeii, destroyed by the eruption of Vesuvius in 79 A.D.
Other finds from Cuma and other ancient sites in Campania are stored here. It also houses the
Borgia Collection of Etruscan and Egyptian relics, and the Santangelo Collection of antique
coins. Times: weekdays 9 am – 7.30 pm; week-ends/public holidays 9am – 7.30 pm; Closed
on Tuesdays.
Aquarium. By the sea front, easier parking. It is the oldest aquarium in Europe.
Capodimonte Museum & Picture Gallery. Park of Capodimonte, Ph.# 081-749-9111. This
was a hunting lodge and grounds of the Bourbon Kings of Naples. It houses the National
Picture Gallery, with many pictures by Titian. The grounds are extensive with many ancient
large trees. Times: weekdays 8.30 am – 7.30 pm; Sundays 8.30 am – 7.30 pm; Closed on
Wednesdays.
Duke of Martino National Museum. Located in the park called Villa Floridiana, in the
Vomero area of Naples. Contains valuable collections of European, Chinese and Japanese
china, and collections of majolica, enamels and ivory.
The Prince Aragona Pignatelli Cortes Museum – Riviera di Chiaia, Ph.# 081-761-2356.
Furniture of the 1800s, porcelain, furnishings, art collections of the Bank of Naples.
Times: weekdays 8.30 am – 1.30 pm; Saturdays 8.30 am – 1.30 pm, 4 pm – 7 pm; Closed on
Mondays.
Civic Museum of Castel Nuovo (also called Maschio Angioino). Piazza Municipio, Ph.
# 081-4201241. This museum contains 14th and 15th century sculptures and frescoes in the
Palatine Chapel. On the three floors in the South Wing there are paintings, silver and bronze
objects from the 15th to 20th century on display. Times: Monday to Saturday 9 am – 7 pm.
Santa Chiara Complex. Includes the Majolica cloister, the museum and archeological area.
Royal Palace Piazza Plebiscito, Ph.# 081-794.4021. Magnificently decorated halls and rooms
containing original Bourbon furniture, paintings and statues. The palace also houses the
National Library with several collections, including 2000 papyri uncovered at Herculaneum.
Times: weekdays and holidays 9 am – 8 pm; Closed on Wednesdays.
Tour of Napoli Sotterranea. Underground passages.
Pozzuoli (city adjacent to Naples)
Tempio di Serapide (by the waterfront). Grounds are closed, but the ruins can
be seen closely any time. It is not a temple, but was a Roman marketplace.
Anfiteatro Flavio (Via Domitiana). This is the third largest Roman amphitheater
in Italy. Open every day at 9 am.
Solfatara Volcano. A natural. Open every day at 9 am.
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Archaeological Park of Cumae – Open every day at 9 am.
Archaeological Park of Baia – Open every day at 9 am.
Pompei and Herculaneum (Ercolano). These two cities were destroyed when Mt Vesuvius
erupted in 79 A.D. In both towns you can visit the excavated remains. (Drive approx 25 km
from Naples on the Autostrada Napoli-Salerno or take the Circumvesuviana) Open every day
from 8.30 am to 7.30 (from October to February 5 pm). There is an admission fee.
Oplontis: Torre Annunziata, Via Sepolcri, Ph. # 081-862-3163.
Mt. Vesuvius. (Same distance and same Autostrada exit as Ercolano). The mountain drive is
about 12 km on a narrow road. ¾ up the mountain you will dead end to a parking lot. (parking
costs). Walk following the trail to the crater. There is also a small charge to go to the top.
The Caserta Royal Palace: (approximately 22 km from Naples, taking the Naples-Rome
Highway towards the Rome direction). This was the residence of the Bourbons; its structure a
very similar to the Versailles Palace and the Royal apartments are worth to be seen. The
structure is surrounded by a 3-km long garden with lawn, plants, small roads, fountains,
waterfall and small lakes very relaxing to walk through.
How to get there:
Car: From Highway A1, exit Caserta Nord;; follow the signs for “Reggia”, there is a Public Parking area in Piazza Carlo III.
Train: the town is on the main train line between Rome and Naples. Get off at the Caserta
Train Station and reach the Palace after a 5-min. walk, following the signs.
Bus: CPTC buses connect Caserta with Naples (Piazza Garibaldi) about every 30 min.
between 8 am and 8 pm; from the bus station to the Palace it is a 5-min. walk, following the
signs.
Ancient Town of Caserta: 10 km to the north-east of Caserta lies Caserta Vecchia the
original medieval hill town, which includes the remains of a 9th century castle and a 13th
century cathedral. Just before entering the town you will see a huge tower which is the symbol
of Caserta Vecchia; such tower is the official entrance to the town whose roads are narrow and
stone paved. After having toured around the town you can stop and eat in any of the many
small restaurants located within the Ancient Town, where they serve typical Caserta recipes.
How to get there:
Bus: CPTC buses connect Caserta with Naples (Piazza Garibaldi) about every 30 min.
between 8 am and 8 pm.
Vietri (Distance approx 50 km) . Perfect for ceramic lovers.
Sorrento: On the southern coastline of Naples Bay. The coast from Sorrento to Salerno,
including Ravello, Amalfi, Positano, is a mecca for those who love beautiful scenery.
The famous Island of Capri. Of the islands of the Bay of Naples, Capri is the only one not
of volcanic origin in the almost exclusively volcanic area. The 11-km island supports a
population of about 12,500, distributed between the two townships of Capri and Anacapri.
The island is approx. 6 km long and 3 km wide and has a coastline of about 17 km. The simple
road network runs along the main axis between Capri and Anacapri with few side roads and
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can only be travelled by local residents; the island has been declared a pedestrian zone,
especially as a means of protecting the countryside. Charming local towns, extraordinary
hospitality, and excellent well laid-out tourist facilities: Capri attracts visitors from all over the
world. The most famous places to visit are the “Grotta Azzurra” (Blue Grotto) and the “Bagni di Tiberio” (Tiberian Baths).
The Island of Ischia. Is the largest island in the Bay of Naples, and one of the greatest tourist
attractions in Italy. The natural history of Ischia has been characterized from many years of
eruptions and earthquakes. The volcanic nature is evidenced by fumaroles and thermal springs.
It is now a modern bathing and SPA health resorts; old fishing villages; comfortable beaches;
hills covered with vineyards, beautiful view from the top of Monte Epomeo; landscapes and
cliffs. To see are the: Aragonese Castle, the Sea Museum, the Madonna delle Grazie known as
the San Pietro Church, the Cattedrale dell’Assunta, many other churches, and the Seminar Palace. Also worth a visit, is the small town of Lacco Ameno , Casamicciola bathing resort,
old town of Forio, or the small islet of Sant’Angelo.
Island of Procida. Procida is the smallest island between the three islands in the Neapolitan
Gulf, and many geologists think there was an ancient connection between Ischia and Procida.
The little integrated island of Vivara boast the most ancient documented history in the
Campania region because of the human remains from the Neolitic period. Of volcanic origin,
as all the flegrean zone to which it belongs, Procida conserves the old craters, now in part
eroded, the cirques of the Chiaiolella, the Carbonchio and the Old Sink. The discovery in
Vivara of Mycenean ceramics leads us to the Greeks as first inhabitants of the island with
unavoidable native presences.
The islands Capri, Ischia and Procida can be reached from:
Naples
by ferry (Molo Beverello) in approx. 1 ½ hrs;
by hydrofoil (Mergellina, Via Caracciolo) in approx. ½ hr
Pozzuoli (only for Ischia & Procida)
by ferry (Pozzuoli Port) in approx. 1 hr.
Paestum. Founded by the Greeks, doric temples 6th and 5th centuries B.C.
Roccaraso, a nice place for skiing: Situated in the Abruzzo Region of Italy, about 140 km far
from Naples, it is the closest skiing resort. It can be reached through the Naples-Rome
highway, exit Caianello. The resort is limited with respect to other Northern Italian resorts, but
recently the slopes have been improved, i.e. connection among slopes. The town is
approximately twenty minutes far from the skiing resort, reachable by car. Some hotels may
provide transportation.
Amalfi Coast: Worldwide famous, the Amalfi Coast is one of the most beautiful sights to be
seen, especially on a sunny Sunday! Positano, Amalfi, Sorrento, Ravello, Maiori, Minori,
Vietri sul Mare have always been and are still a tourist attraction.
The winding coastal road is breathtakingly beautiful and allows tourists to admire in its
entirety, the charm of such towns constructed on the mountainside or along the seaside.
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The sun, cliffs that drop to crystal-clear blue waters, palm trees, fishermen with their boats,
small shops selling typical local products such as ceramics (Vietri), clothing (Positano), the
famous Limoncello (a bright-yellow, sweetish, lemon liqueur), furnishing items (hand-made
baskets, hand-crafted wooden articles), and multi-racial tourism rise in everyone visiting such
places a blow of energy and serenity at the same time…. The only negative aspect is that the more the weather improves the more tourists you’ll find!
Simple advice: book in advance if you wish to spend a weekend there, and leave very early in
the morning if you don’t want to get caught in the Sunday traffic!!
How to get there:
Car: From the Tangenziale of Naples take the A3 Salerno-Reggio Calabria Highway, branch
off for Castellammare and follow the signs for Sorrento. At Meta you can continue to Sorrento
or if your destination is farther east, bypass the town by taking a shortcut over the hills (saving
good 30 min.). To join the coastal road from Salerno follow the signs for Vietri sul Mare or
Amalfi.
Train: From Naples you can either take the Circumvesuviana to Sorrento or an FS train to
Salerno, then continue along the Amalfi Coast, either eastwards or westwards, by SITA bus
(SITA operates a service along the S163 between Sorrento and Salerno with buses leaving
about every hour.)
SHOPPING AREAS IN NAPLES
OPEN AIR MARKETS AND “ALLEYS”
Following is a list of some open-air and similar markets in the area, when they are open and
what main items are sold. Many are in side streets, and parking is a problem. The best bet is to
take public transportation or parking your car as near as you can and walking. If you can’t find it right away, look for people carrying bags and ask “Dov’è il mercatino?” Pointing should then get you there.
Mercato delle Pulci: Open Sun, 8 am – 2 pm. Main items: Junk, coins, lamps, tables, and a
few real antiques. Located in Via Poggioreale, near the graveyard, northeast of the central
Naples train station. Take the Metropolitana to Piazza Garibaldi (main train station) and then
walk or take a bus/trolley.
Mercato Duchesca: Open Mon – Sat, 9 am – 7.30 pm. Main items: Clothing, sportswear and
equipment, camping gear, radio and stereo gear, some furniture and furnishings. Located in the
many narrow streets due west of the main train station behind the statue of Garibaldi. This is a
commercial district and most of tables of items are located just outside small shops.
Mercato S. Antonio Abate (Buvero): Open Mon – Sat, 9 am – 7.30 pm. Main items: Food of
all sorts; beware of sanitary conditions. Located north of the central Naples train station, on
the street Borgo S. Antonio Abate, which runs parallel to Corso Garibaldi. Known locally as
“Buvero”, so ask for that when asking for directions.
Vomero Market (Mercato di Antignano): Open Mon – Sat, 9 am – 2 pm. Main items: Fruit
and vegetables, clothing, household items. Located in the Vomero section of Naples, about six
blocks from the Funicolare stations. From Piazza Vanvitelli, follow Via Bernini about four
blocks to the north. The edge of the market will be on the left.
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Fuorigrotta Market: Open Mon – Sat, 9am – 2 pm. Main Items: Fruit, vegetables, fish, cheese
and other foods; plus kitchen gadgets, household items and plastic ware. Located directly
across the street from the Cumana train station in Fuorigrotta, about six blocks from the soccer
stadium (there is a small alley leading to the market). This market is semi-permanent, covered
with standing stalls, although some vendors drive up trucks and park them around the outside.
Antiques Market: Open Sun 8 am – 2 pm. Main items: Antiques. Located in Villa Comunale
(city park), which is along the Naples waterfront (Via Caracciolo) between Mergellina and the
Castel dell’Ovo. Drive, or take the Metropolitana to Mergellina, walk to the water, turn left and walk to the park.
Bagnoli Market: Open Mon – Sat, 8 am – 7.30 pm. Main items: Similar to the Fuorigrotta
Market. Located in Bagnoli in the side streets just down from the Metropolitana train station,
which is about two blocks from JFC HQ Naples front gate.
Pozzuoli Fish Market: Open Tue – Sun, 7 am – 1 pm, open earlier Sun, which is the best day
to go. Main items: Fresh seafood of all types. Located across the street from the pier in old
Pozzuoli, near the Tempio di Serapide and the ferry/hydrofoil landings. There are also smaller
suburban markets (in Monteruscello and on Via Staffetta in Lago Patria, for example). Ask
your sponsor or neighbours for details.
ITALIAN STORES
Of course, Italy has many stores and shops. Italy is world famous for some items like leather
goods from Florence or glass from Venice. The Naples region is famous for its porcelain and
pottery (Capodimonte and Vietri, for example), inlaid wood (Sorrento), and cameo and coral
work (Pompei region in particular). Main Naples shopping districts include the Galleria
Umberto and Via Roma/Via Toledo downtown, and the Vomero section.
Main department stores include Upim, Standa, Ipercoop and Auchan. Other stores range from
the small corner shop, up to larger supermercatos and centro commerciale (shopping centre)
outlets. Some, like Panorama in Formia, Euromercato in Casoria and Città Mercato in Pompei
and especially Mugnano, are large enough to rightly claim to be small style malls. In almost all
places, you are expected to bag you own purchases.
Shopping hours in Italy tend to be Mon – Sat, from 9 am – 2 pm and then from about 4.30 – 8
pm. Shops usually close in the afternoon (although the supermercati generally stay open), and
few are open on Sundays.
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Annex G – BASE INFORMATION PROVIDED BY NATO (hours of operation, etc)
MESSING FACILITIES ON POST
There are limited messing facilities on JFC HQ Naples.
International Mess (BLDG ‘C’): Open 0730 – 0900 hrs & 1130 – 1400 hrs, Mon – Fri Ext. 3295/3293
RELIGIOUS SERVICES
On Post, there is a Chapel located right across the NATO Community Club Center where it is
possible to have functions. There is also the US Army Chaplain, located in Building L, ground
floor, close to the Army Element. The services they provide are the following:
COLLECTIVE PROTESTANT SERVICE


Date: Sunday – 1000 hrs.
Location: NCCC (Med Room)
Sunday School (classes all ages) - 0900 hrs.
Non-Denominational Bible Study
Date: Tuesday – 0630 hrs
Location: Bldg L – Room 221
Anglican Service
Date: TBC Thursday 1200 hrs
Chapel next to the NCCC
Some other Churches are located outside JFC Base:
Pinetamare Assembly of God Mission
Location: Parco Bronzino, 2
Castelvolturno
For info contact: 081-811-5272

Bible Baptist Church
Location: Few minutes from Support Site and TLA
Exit Casal di Principe
For info contact: 0823-764-488

International Baptist Church
Dates: Sunday Morning Worship Services –1000 hrs
Sunday Bible Study for all ages – 0830 a.m.
Location: Varcaturo Exit, Via Ripuaria
For info contact: 081-818-1564

Naples Church of Christ
Location: Bagnoli Waterfront, Via Messina
For info contact: 081-8664564 or 081-811-5578
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
Agape Fellowship Ministries
Location: Exit Support Site
For info contact: 081-811-5335
TRANSPORTATION ON POST
1. Maintenance Vehicle Safety Inspections: Operating hours: Monday – Thursday 09:00 11:00, 13:00 - 16:00, Friday – CLOSED. Phone: DSN 640-3089, Fax: 2090.
2. Travel Office Bldg. “C”: Point of contact Ext. 2203/3300, Fax: 2872. Operating hours: Monday –Thursday 08:00 - 12:00 -1400-1700, Friday 0800-1200 -14:00 - 15:00.
3. Transportation Request Point of contact: Duty Dispatcher at DSN 640-2151/3157, Fax:
Ext. 2090. Operating hours: Monday – Friday 05:00 - 21:00. Saturday and Sunday
CLOSED. In case of Emergency or after hours contact the duty dispatcher @ 335726-4472.
4. Safety and Training NATO DRIVER LICENCES: Point of contact
Phone: DSN 640-2477, Fax Ext. 2090. Operating hours: Monday – Friday 08:00 - 12:00,
13:00 - 16:00, Saturday and Sunday CLOSED.
BUS SCHEDULE: NAVSUPPACT SHUTTLE BUS SYSTEM provides bus transportation
between the following locations. Detailed schedule is available by contacting
[email protected]
- CAPODICHINO: in front of the Capo Inn
- JFC HQ LAGO PATRIA: Left side of the gate near the gas station
- SUPPORT SITE GICIGNANO: TLA (Bus Stop C), West end of main entrance road
(Bus stop A), Across from the CDC on main road as you exit (Bus stop B), Ne, Hospital.
MEDICAL SERVICES ON POST
In case of emergency the Italian Government guarantees first aid and medical assistance to
foreign personnel thru all the hospitals in the Naples area.
The number to dial for Ambulance/First Aid is: 118
Please note: Personnel who do not speak Italian must call the AFS Switchboard to reach the
number 118.
It is always useful to contact your national element for assistance.
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