Ciao! This past May I had the amazing opportunity to study abroad in Tuscany for a month. While there I took both an Italian language class and a music class, but I learned the most just interacting with locals and being in the country itself. For the majority of the time, we stayed in Arezzo- a very hilly but beautiful town. Here is a list of things I’ve compiled throughout my journey that are useful, interesting, or completely different from America. Some things pertain specifically to Europe and others just Italy.
Black is always in style…
Particularly with highschool and college students. Our first night out not only did we stick out by being in a group of 10+ and being stereotypical loud Americans, but our colorful jumpsuits and striped skirts drew lots of attention. This could very well be a trend thing, but overall black was the only color worn weekend nights (besides the bright white sneakers).
No milk after 11…
Unless you want unusual stares to be sure to mind the time and pick your coffee drinks accordingly. Cappuccinos are ordered prior to 11 am and afterward, espresso is typically the drink of choice.
They love rock music…
When I asked a local in Arezzo why everyone wore black his response was “we are rockers”. It wasn’t uncommon to walk into a cafe or store and hear Queen.
Lunch is the biggest meal…
We quickly learned when going on outings and searching for lunch options that lunch is usually a bigger meal than dinner and is a time to spend with family. Many restaurants and stores would close around 12 and reopen back up around 3 or 4. Again, this was the experience when staying in a smaller town.
You have to pay for water at restaurants…
Restaurants charge for liters for water and there’s the option between “ acqua naturale” (natural water) or “acqua frizzante” (sparkling water). I have only been to Italy but was told this applies to many other European countries.
You also have to pay to use the restrooms…
Another thing to learn prior to going to Europe is that public restrooms are not as easy to find and usually you have to pay to use them. Typically only a small fare though and they are much cleaner and well kept.
Public transportation and walking are the go-to…
Trains and buses are everywhere for ease of transportation and there’s always people walking. I actually do not recall ever seeing a gym. Also, in Venice, I do not remember seeing any cars at all because they mainly traveled by foot and boat.
The food is amazing and usually fresh…
A given. The restaurants we went to use locally sourced foods and the market places were showered with fresh fruit and veggies. Definitely what I miss most about being in Italy.