by Margie Miklas

Created on: May 04, 2010   Last Updated: August 12, 2011

Everyone If this is your first time in Italy, chances are good that it will not be your last. Bella Italia is famous for its Renaissance art, rich history, and ancient architectural styles, but the real appeal of this beautiful European travel destination is its people and their culture. In order to fully appreciate some of the Italian customs and appreciate the Italian experience, here are some travel tips.

*Learn a few Italian phrases

Although many Italians have been taught English, most do not speak English often enough to be fluent. The Italians will appreciate your efforts to attempt to communicate, and go out of their way to be helpful. Even if your pronunciation is less than perfect, the Italian people will likely respond with a smile.

*Communication and cell phones

It is difficult to find a public pay phone, as Italians use cell phones almost exclusively. For a short visit, use your US cell phone and purchase a calling card. For a longer vacation, consider buying a prepaid SIM card to use in your unlocked US phone. 

*Italian time and American time

Typically, Italians eat dinner later in the evening. The earliest seating time for dinner is 7pm, and usually the restaurants do not get busy until much later. Since food is so important to their culture and lifestyle, Italians tend to linger over their meals for long periods. The waiter will not bring your check until your ask for it, as they consider it rude until you show signs that you are ready to leave.

*Differences in food and drink customs

Italians do not drink cappuccino after 11 am; however, in most tourist locations, you can usually order cappuccino throughout the day. In smaller towns, this may not happen. In addition, Italians typically drink espresso, called caffe, and they drink it while standing in the bar before going to work. The tourists usually sit at the tables and the cost is higher for sitting down. If espresso is too strong, you can order caffe Americano, which is an espresso made with more water.

When ordering coffee or gelato, you typically pay first and then take the receipt to the bartender. This prevents anyone from ordering and leaving without paying. If you order ice for your drinks, expect a small saucer with a few ice cubes for you and anyone else at the table. The same goes for ordering ice in Italian hotels. The bartender at the hotel bar will give you the ice in a saucer. When ordering water at a restaurant, your choices are bottled water, with gas or without. This means spring water or sparkling water. and tap water is not an option.

*About visiting museums, churches and other attractions

Purchase museum tickets in advance when possible. The main attractions such as the Vatican, The Uffizi Museum in Florence, St Mark’s Basilica in Venice, the Leaning Tower of Pisa, and many more can have long lines, and you can avoid these by ordering tickets online for specific dates and times. It is important to keep in mind that dates are in this order: day-month-year.

Most churches do not allow casual clothes such as tank tops and shorts. Italians believe that anyone entering a church does so with respect, and this is true particularly at large churches. At St Peter’s Basilica in the Vatican, there are signs as well as security personnel who will prevent you from entering without proper dress. Know what days certain places are closed. For example, there are many attractions and museums in Rome that close on Mondays.

There is so much to discover and appreciate about Italy and the Italian culture. With a little knowledge of the Italian customs, you will create a truly unforgettable experience.

http://www.italyinsf.com

http://www.lifeinitaly.com/food/coffee.asp

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