Originally Posted by USCgirlie
I wasn't worried about getting mugged in a Starwood lobby..in fact, it would be great if we could have internet access there. I meant using Wifi in such very public places as parks, near popular fountains, plazas, etc.
Hi, this is my first time in flyertalk, happy to help you in this matter.
I'm Italian and I had the same concern when travellin in the US for business reasons...I would say if you don't like the place don't get your laptop out, that's it. Anyway it's common to see people with their laptop in parks , especially in Rome where large areas are covered by wi-fi.
About coverage, hot spots are growing in number day after day and you will not have any problem in finding one, most are sponsored by local city govmt, others will ask your credit card number.
About the passport for browsing in cafes, this looks to me as a bit "paranoic", never saw this happening in Italy and in Souther Europe where I travel most (Spain,Portugal,Croatia, Greece) .
Anyway, enjoy your stay in Italy !