5 things you need to know about going on tour in Italy

Whether you are going on tour in Italy, returning to the country after spending a few years abroad or on an all expenses paid business trip through the Mediterranean (we can dream!), you can make…

 

 

Whether you are going on tour in Italy, returning to the country after spending a few years abroad or on an all expenses paid business trip through the Mediterranean (we can dream!), you can make your trip that little bit easier by brushing up on a few Italian basics.

Time

You may need to be at your next appointment by 9 o’clock but no one else does – which is an important thing to remember in Italy. Our version of ‘on time’ may be slightly different, some would say ‘slower’, than yours. But it’s okay; so long as you are aware that transport links will take longer to connect, delayed trains and traffic jams aren’t a problem.

Language & Greetings

In major cities or more touristy areas, you will be sure to find people who speak English. However, if find yourself wandering through a hillside village off the Amalfi Coast when you’re on tour in Italy without a local guide, you may run into some communication difficulties.

Luckily, Italians are gifted orators and can cut through any language barrier with a mixture of good humour and gesticulations. And after the conversation is over, remember to say goodbye so as not to offend anyone.

Nationalism

Italy only officially unified in the 1800s, which means nationalism is better understood as patriotism to a certain city or region. With this in mind, you can compliment your Italian host by saying how much you like their city or local football team.

Food

If you’re on a diet, you might want to skip your tour in Italy. In a country where even the simplest dishes are eaten with reverence, you will quickly learn to love Italian food when you are in Italy. Helping you in this pursuit is the quality of local cuisine, as well as the fact that there are still very few foreign restaurants.

Fashion

Italians follow fashion trends with religious zeal – and if you don’t want to look like a tourist, you should consider doing the same. In this brand conscious environment, dressing well is a must.