Tips for your Visit to Italy.
Sometimes having your vacation run smoothly is down to knowing the little tips and tricks that apply to the area you are visiting. Here are five little tips this travel advisor recommends for your Italian sojourn:
1. Greetings
Italians highly value politeness, and greetings are essential in their culture. When entering shops or restaurants, it is common to say “Buongiorno” (good day) or “Buona sera” (good evening) to acknowledge the staff. Handshakes are typical for initial introductions, while close friends or relatives may greet each other with a hug or a kiss on both cheeks.
2. Speaking the Language
The locals in cities like Rome, Florence, Milan, and Venice interact with English-speaking travelers on a daily basis. You don’t need to be fluent in Italian to visit Italy, but I recommend learning a few key phrases such as “please,” “thank you,” “goodbye,” “bathroom?”, “do you speak English?”, etc. It’s endearing to the locals when they see you making an effort to speak the language, and it’s polite as well.
3. What to Wear
Italians usually dress stylishly and have a strong interest in fashion. Although there is no specific dress code, it’s recommended to dress neatly and avoid very casual clothing, especially when visiting churches (where covering your shoulders and knees is usually required) or upscale establishments. Comfortable shoes are essential, as exploring Italy often involves walking on cobblestone streets, inclines, and uneven surfaces.
4. Restaurant Bill
When dining at a sit-down restaurant, remember to ask for “the bill” when you are ready to pay. Keep in mind that servers won’t automatically bring your check as a way to avoid rushing you, not because of poor service. It’s considered impolite to pressure guests to leave by bringing the check without being asked.
5. Water
If you’re used to drinking a lot of water throughout the day, I suggest bringing a reusable water bottle. Unlike in the U.S., water is not provided for free during meals. In certain cities like Rome, some public fountains also serve as water fountains. Similarly, ice is not readily available. If you’d like ice in your drink, make sure to ask for it.
Want to have your next Italy vacation planned for you? Contact April.
Images: AdobeStock. Article first appeared on April Powers Travel.
