Tips for first trip abroad for many years please

BarGin

I'm an early sixties male and have booked my first trip abroad for several years and would appreciate some advice from MSE's seasoned travellers.

I have booked to go alone on a package tour by coach to Tuscany for a couple of weeks this summer spending 7 nights half board in a 4 star hotel.

The main things I would like advice on are dress code for dinner (will a casual shirt and slacks suffice or would something more formal be better suited?) and who (and how much) should I tip on the holiday?

Any other advice much appreciated.

wallbash

Unfortunately dressing for dinner , even in 5 star hotels seem to be a thing of the past . So your suggested atire will be fine.

Tipping advice will leave to others , I only do what I would do ,if I was in the UK.

Itismehonest

Dress for dinner probably differs from hotel to hotel as it does everywhere but smart casual is suitable in many 4*. It always pays to have a jacket & tie handy, though. I have known hotels where they don't specify dress but other guests go to town so one feels a bit underdressed if everyone around is in finery

Tips.
Do you mean in general or at the hotel?
The rule of thumb is if you think the service/meal has been good then, yes, tip but don't feel obliged to.
Watch out for "Servizio Incluso". This means that they have added what amounts to a tip in the bill. Of course, if it was exceptional there's nothing to stop you leaving more. A coin left on the table is the usual method for cafes & restaurant staff to get tips.
In many 4/5* hotels you will have the same waiter assigned to your table throughout your stay & will also have the maitre d' &/or sommelier or barman serve you. It's entirely up to you if you wish to give them a little 'gift' before departure.

Oh & have a wonderful time. Italy is beautiful.