Jubilee 2025 Frequently Asked Questions
Registration
- When are passports due to JMJ? Passports are due to JMJ one month prior to final payment and must be submitted on your pilgrimage portal. Be sure to also confirm that the names of all pilgrims on the pilgrimage portal are legal names & that it matches their passport (or other legal documents.)
- When is the last day to swap pilgrims without any fees? Generally the last date to do this is on your last payment date. We may or may not be able to make a change afterwards, but there will be a fee associated with the name change.
- When do I register for the Jubilee and/or Holy Doors? If you are traveling with JMJ Youth, your registration for Jubilee Events (if applicable) and/or the Holy Doors will be set up for you, and you will be made aware of any additional information needed from you for its completion.
- What is included with my Jubilee registration? If you are traveling to the Jubilee of Teens in April, your registration will include basic insurance basic insurance and a pilgrim kit complete with bag, hat, t-shirts, water bottle, rosary-bracelet, and bandana.
If you are traveling to the Jubilee of Youth in July, your registration will include basic insurance, meal tickets and box-lunches during the Jubilee events, transportation passes, and a pilgrim kit complete with bag, hat, t-shirts, water bottle, rosary-bracelet, and bandana.
Communication
- Will I have access to the internet? Most hotels have internet access, and more and more cafes and retailers are providing wifi for their customers. It is not always free, however.
- What’s the best way to call home? The best way to call home is through an internet service such as FaceTime or WhatsApp (audio or video). It is free through the internet between computers and cell phones running the app. (Data charges will apply if the phone is not connected to wifi.) You can also buy credit to call land lines and mobile numbers for a very low cost.
- Will my cell phone work? Most cell phones work in Italy. You should call your phone company for the details of whether your particular phone is set up to work there, and what an international plan will cost you. We recommend only chaperones bring cell phones. Roaming charges can be very expensive. If your phone is unlocked and can support it, you can purchase SIM cards in Italy and make calls back to North America. Chaperones may wish to check with their provider about International data plans; it may be the best way to text or send email updates to families back home. Even if you have a functional cellphone, it may not work, as cell towers typically don’t have the capacity to handle the volume of traffic during large events. For example, it will be very difficult to get cell reception during the vigil with nearly 2 million other pilgrims competing for service. Walkie Talkies are a great way for groups to keep in communication during huge events.
- How often will I be in touch with loved ones at home? While it may be possible for some groups to access the internet almost daily, there may be a few days for everyone when it is virtually impossible. We advise each group to set up an email list or a Facebook/WhatsApp group. That way one email or post can be sent to update parents throughout the journey. It is so rare in our modern times that we are ever fully “unplugged” – detaching from electronics, media, email, and even the concerns of home. This detachment is one of the greatest blessings of a pilgrimage, and creates space to hear God and to allow him to work in places that might otherwise be too full to let him in. Lift up one another in prayer daily, but do not expect to be in touch frequently.
What to Expect
- What’s the weather like? The Jubilee is a year-long event, so be sure to check the weather before your visit. Rome has a Mediterranean climate with cool winters, rainy springs and autumns, and hot summers. The average highs reach just above 50°F in in the winter and above 75°F in the summer. Be sure to check the 10-day forecast when packing.
- What is the food like? The food in Rome is made with simple ingredients that are impeccably prepared. You'll find many delicious pasta and pizza options at every corner, oh and gelato too! If you're looking to try to some local pasta specialties, go for the Carbonara or Cacio e Pepe, or if you prefer a tomato sauce, Amatriciana.
- Can we drink the water? Yes, you can safely drink the tap water in Rome. In fact, you'll even be able to refill your water bottle at plenty of water fountains and refill stations around the city. You’ll see plenty of locals buying bottled water, but that’s just because it tastes nicer, or they prefer sparkling.
- How will we be getting around? When traveling to with JMJ Youth, you will be transferred from and to the airport by chartered bus. The rest of the pilgrimage will primarily consist of walking. Public transit in Rome consists of buses, metros, and trains. But this is the Jubilee, so train yourself in advance to do a LOT of walking!
- What is the schedule of events? Check your pilgrimage portal for a specific itinerary, including published Jubilee events.
- Do I need to bring any trading items? Many pilgrims from across the world bring small items, such as stickers, pins, key chains, patches, and flags to trade with pilgrims from other countries. They can be anything that represents your parish, school, city, state, or country. It is not obligatory to bring trading items. It’s just fun!
- What will lodging look like? Lodging for your Jubilee pilgrimage with JMJ Youth will be in hotel accommodations. We will send lodging allocations to group leaders after final payments have been made. These will then be due back to us in one month. Pilgrims who would like to request a specific roommate should let you know, they don't need to tell us/ Just the allocation is enough information for us.
- Where can I find my group's flight and hotel information? See your pilgrimage portal. This information will be updated there as soon as we have it.
Medical Concerns
- What shots/vaccines do I need to visit Italy? It is recommended to be current on routine vaccinations before every trip. These vaccines include measles-mumps-rubella (MMR) vaccine, diphtheria-tetanuspertussis vaccine, varicella (chickenpox) vaccine, polio vaccine, and your yearly flu shot. For more general information, please refer to the country information from the CDC.
- Does the Jubilee provide medical insurance? The Jubilee of Teens and Jubilee of Youth include basic medical coverage in their registration fee, which includes treatment during the jubilee and nothing more. They will patch you up and send you off. It is recommended that you also have your own medical insurance. A pilgrimage to Rome outside of these 2 major events does not include any medical insurance.
- Do I need additional medical insurance? You should check with your insurance company to see if and under what terms you have coverage in Italy. Many policies will cover you, though you must pay up front and be reimbursed later. If you do not have coverage, you can buy travelers’ medical insurance online through the link in your pilgrimage portal.
- What if I have prescription medications? If you are bringing prescription medication with you to Rome, you should bring the medications in their original bottles. If you are taking a critical medication, you should try to bring a backup prescription order from your doctor just in case you lose your medication. Everyone suffers when a group member loses his/her medicine!
- Are there other health precautions I should take? It is a good idea for someone in the group to have a first aid kit containing diarrhea and constipation medication, as well as medications for cold and flu. Vitamin C may be a helpful supplement for travel as well. It is also important to prepare your body in advance for the demands of a pilgrimage by eating healthfully, exercising, drinking a lot of water, and getting plenty of sleep during the weeks leading up to your trip.
Electric Outlets
- What are the outlets like in Italy? In Italy, the standard voltage is 230 V and the frequency is 50 Hz.T hey use European two-pronged, round-plug outlets.
- Will my electronic devices work there? Virtually every high-end electronic device (cameras, cell phones) can handle a 220V current without a converter (look at the fine print on the charger).
The ‘Don't bring it’ Guideline: Don't bring anything you have to plug in, especially if it has to do with your hair; they almost always blow up or melt in a 220V current. A converter will work, buti t is bulky and heavy. Let’s remember that this is a pilgrimage and not a debut at fashion week. Worried about a bad hair day, don't be, hats and bandanas are welcome!
Packing
- What if I leave something at home, then need it later? Rome is very well-developed. Everything you need will be available there, including toiletries and clothing. If you are even questioning that you might not need something, don’t bring it. Check your pilgrimage portal for a suggested pilgrim packing list.
- Will there be laundry facilities? A pilgrim laundry facility is almost always available – a sink and your two hands. A good rule is to wash one or two things per night and let them hang to dry. If you are in need of a washer and dryer, availability varies by location. Laundromats/laundry services are available in Rome, with some hotels having laundry service for their patrons. However, time to go to a laundromat is less available.
- Will we have to carry all of our belongings with us every day? You will be able to leave your belongings at your lodging during the day and during the vigil, while taking with you only what you need. Never leave anything behind that you don’t want to lose.
Flights
- Will our tickets be e-tickets or paper tickets? When will we get them? Your tickets will be e-tickets. We will email the confirmations/e-tickets to the group leader when: 1. We have received them from the airline; 2. We have received the full balance for your group’s pilgrimage; AND 3. We have received all the liability release forms and final pilgrim information for everyone in the group. The group leader will then distribute the documents to individual pilgrims at an appropriate time of their choosing.
- Can we choose our seating on the plane? Seats on the plane are in group blocks. You can request specific allocations within that block at the time of check-in with the airline. You can also choose to rearrange among yourselves within your group as desired. There is obviously not an infinite availability for requests, so we would encourage group leaders to limit specific seating requests to chaperones only (and only at the airport, not before).
- Can I use my frequent flyer program? You can use your flights to earn frequent flyer miles; just present your frequent flyer information at check-in.
- What are the luggage restrictions? Luggage restrictions vary from airline to airline. Please refer directly to your airline for more specifics. However, JMJ Youth strongly recommends limiting your luggage to one moderately-sized checked bag and one small carry on, or better yet, bring only a carry on.
- How long is the flight? What will make it go most smoothly? It is most likely that you will have one or two connections on your journey to and from Italy. A non-stop flight from New York is about 8 hours and 20 minutes. We recommend cutting out salty and processed foods while traveling and drinking plenty of water to prevent problems with circulation and swelling. Also try to sleep as much as you can. When you are awake, take bathroom breaks to get up and move your legs.
- How do I request special meals? Special meal requests should be made directly to the airline 3-5 weeks prior to departure.
Money
- What is the currency in Italy? The official currency of Italy is the euro. Tourists who are not familiar with this currency must keep in mind the subunits refer to 1, 2, 5, 10, 20 and 50 cents, and they come in coins. Coins also refer to 1 and 2 euro coins. Banknotes refer to 5, 10, 20, 50, 100, 200 and 500 euro bills.
- How much money will I need? Ask yourself: How many meals will I need to buy? NEED TO UPDATE THIS IS FROM PORTGAL Local food-stall or cafe meals will cost from $6-10 USD depending on what you get and how much you buy. A “finer” eatery may cost around $10-$15 USD. Tally that up and set your allowance for souvenirs and gifts. The amount needed will vary by tastes and spending habits; but roughly $200 for a basic itinerary should be more than enough!
- Can I use a credit or debit card? Most major credit cards are widely accepted and recommended, but consult with your bank about the foreign exchange transaction fees charged for using your card in Italy. MasterCard and Visa are the most commonly-accepted cards, but you can use American Express in some places. Note that some smaller vendors may not accept your credit or debit cards.
Banks are typically open Monday through Friday from around 8:30 AM to 1:30 PM. ATMs are also available and are definitely the easiest way to get cash. ATMs generally accept most types of credit and debit cards (Visa, MasterCard, Amex, Cirrus, Plus) and will charge a service fee, usually around $5. The maximum amount that you can withdraw at one time depends on the bank, though it’s typically around $500.
Credit cards are a good safety net for emergencies. Be sure to inform your credit card company before you leave home to let them know your travel plans. This will prevent the company from putting a security hold on your card. It is recommended to check with your bank about what types of fees may be imposed when using a US credit card. - Where should I stash my cash? JMJ Youth recommends that everyone use a money belt. Your money belt will be worn under your pants and only comes off when you shower. (Around-the-neck holders tend to be bulky and hot and end up being worn outside the clothing which is not helpful at all.) Your money belt should hold credit/debit cards, your passport, other documentation, and larger amounts of cash. We recommend you keep a small amount of cash in a safe, but more accessible place such as your sock or front pocket. Some hotels have safes available for your valuables. We recommended you keep your passport there.
- When/Where can I change money? If you are coming from any country outside the European Union, you will need to exchange currency to Euros. We highly recommend you do so before going abroad. Many banks offer currency exchange to their customers. You may be able to order currency at a branch location or by phone or online for pickup at a branch. Sometimes this service carries a fee, but it is much more convenient than having every person in your group exchange at an airport kiosk (which also will have high fees as well as long lines!).
- Do they tip in Italy? How much? Tipping 5% - 10% maximum in restaurants is standard, although tipping is only done if you are happy with the service. No tip is expected for a cup of coffee or a drink, although some people will leave the change rounding up from the nearest Euro. For tapas or a sandwich in a bar, the change from the nearest Euro is sufficient (as a note, bars in Europe are like sandwich shops). It is not customary to tip taxi drivers.
- Is there a guideline for tipping bus drivers and guides? If you are traveling with JMJ Youth, the guides do not expect – but may appreciate – tips. If you are exceptionally pleased, $1 USD per person per day is customary. For private bus transfers, $0.50 to $1 USD per person is typical.
Documentation
- Will I need a passport to enter Italy? Yes. Every person entering Italy needs to have an up-to-date passport. In general, it is a good rule to have at least 6 months left on your passport from the dates of your travel. You will also need your passport to return home. It is the responsibility of each individual to acquire their own passport.
- What do I do if I lose my passport? A U.S. citizen whose passport is lost or stolen while overseas must go to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate to get a replacement. It is advisable to have a scanned copy of your passport to make this process easier, so either pack one with you or email a copy to yourself for just such an emergency.
U.S. Embassy Rome
via Vittorio Veneto, 121
00187 ROMA
Phone: (+39) 06.46741
More information on how to proceed if your passport is lost or stolen can be found here. - Will I need a visa to enter Italy? While a visa is not required for US or Canadian citizens, citizens of visa-exempt countries (including the United States and Canada) will soon be required to apply for an ETIAS travel authorization to enter most European countries (including Italy). Visit the official ETIAS website for the most up-to-date information.
Check with the Ministry for Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation to determine if you ned a visa to enter Italy, and find information about the Jubilee Visa here.
It is the responsibility of each individual to find out and acquire what visa(s) they will need. - Do we need any special documentation for our minors? It is advisable and usually required that all minors not traveling with a parent have a notarized letter stating that they have permission to travel to the Jubilee with a named group leader or chaperone. Group leaders should collect these forms and have them ready to present at the airport upon entry.
Safety Tips
- What happens if someone gets separated from the group?
If you get separated as your group is moving about the city, stay where you are. When the group realizes that you are missing, three or four people will be sent back to look for you. If it is possible, call the cell phone number of your guide or the JMJ Youth number for instructions. (There will be many volunteers all around the city. Ask if you can use their cellphone, or pop into a nearby call center/internet café if there is one in sight.)
If someone or a small group gets separated from the larger group at a major event, they should try to reach their guide or group leader by phone. If you do not have a phone, look for a JMJ Youth Flag. Go to the flag. The guide associated with that group will be able to call your guide to let your group know where you are. Depending on the circumstances, you may need to take refuge with the other JMJ group for a while and make new friends until you can reconnect with your group. If you cannot find a JMJ Youth flag, ask anyone nearby you if you can use their phone to call your group leader or guide.
Every group should designate a regrouping point before entering the main events. Whether it's a church, a park, or a restaurant, it should be a familiar place the group knows to which they can return in the event of separation or chaos in the very large crowds.
If no one finds you after a few hours and you can’t reach anyone by phone, make your way back to your hotel or lodging. You should have the hotel name, address and phone numbers with you at all times. You could ask any uniformed police officer or volunteer for directions. A taxi would also be able to take you directly back. If you go to the hotel, definitely call the guide to let him or her know.
Rome Sites
- What are the most popular attractions for our free time? Do they have entrance fees? What are their hours?
Please note that hours may change during WYD.