When in Rome: How to Blend in When Visiting Italy
If you are planning a trip to the romantic and picturesque country of Italy, why not ‘do as the Romans do’ and discover how you can blend in with this rich and passionate culture. Italy is an exotic country that captures the hearts and souls of visitors yearly. A visit to Italy is unlike any other visit to exotic lands and its rich history, traditional customs, landmark attractions and vibrant cities are without comparison. If you truly want to dive into the 'way of life' and culture in Italy, continue reading to discover some tips on how to live Italian-style, exude worldly charm and sophistication and blend in with the friendly people that live there.
Tip #1: Live Passionately
Italians have a natural gift and that is the gift to turn any word or any experience into a passion one. This is a place that you can feel free to wear your heart on your sleeve. When you are talking about the Boboli Gardens in Florence, the gnocchi pasta you ate in Tuscany or your recent visit to the Galleria Borghese in Rome, describe it with passion and enthusiasm. Don’t hold back when expressing yourself, colours and experiences as expression is the doorway to the heart and soul in many Italians. La vita è bella! (Life is beautiful)
Tip #2: Italian 101: A Language of Romance
When tourists attempt to speak the native tongue on a visit to any country it is usually appreciated. (Unless you are cursing or completely destroying a beautiful phrase) Before you go, take a trip to your local bookstore and buy an Italian phrase book or audio tape. Even if you had minimal time to practice on the plane and learnt only the basic words hello (buongiorno) or goodbye (arrivederci) you will most likely receive a smile from locals. And remember, say it with enthusiasm, but not to the point where it may sound like you are mocking the Italian language or accent. That's just 'un errore'. (an error)
Tip #3: Know your Prada, Versace and Giorgio Armani
Ok, so you’ve stepped into the fashion capital of the world. Don’t panic! While most tourists stay comfortable in t-shirts, jeans and running shoes; you’re trying to look like you know your fashion and world-famous Italian designers inside out. Educate yourself and buy popular fashion magazines before you go. Check out top designers such as Dolce & Gabbana, Versace (pronounced ver-sach-hee not ver-sace) , Prada , Gucci and Valentino. If you are comfortably wealthy, you might want to treat yourself to some Prada shoes and dazzle in style as you walk the strip in Milan. This is not to say many locals are wearing Prada or Gucci, but you might turn heads.
Tip #4: E.A.T: Bring your Enthusiasm, Appetite and Taste-buds to the Table
Eating isn’t something you just do for body fuel in Italy, it is an extravaganza! Dining out is more than a 3 course rendezvous in Italy. Be prepared to try numerous dishes upon dishes and take note that avid salad-eaters may be frowned upon. Italians truly indulge in the food that the land provides them with and cuisine is created with utter love and dedication. It is polite to welcome each dish with open arms and NEVER, I repeat NEVER add seasoning or salt before you try it. Buon appetito!
Tip #5: Greetings, Eye Contact and Discussion
When you greet local people it is common to shake hands and say “Piacere” (pronounced pyah-chair-ree) which translates to ‘pleased to meet you’. When you leave a group of people, individually shake everyone's hand. Group waves are not accepted as proper Italian etiquette. Eye contact is essential and can mean the world of difference in gaining the trust of others. Get used to sharing your personal space as Italians tend to stick close to each other in crowds or when walking together. It is not uncommon to see people of both or the same gender walking arm in arm.
There you have it folks, a few tips to get you started on your Italy adventure, whether you are visiting Italy's historic capital of Rome or exploring the vineyards and wineries under the Tuscan Sun. Have a wonderful trip! Buon viaggio!
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