Travel Tips

Mediterranean Italy

Italy on the Mediterranean coast is very similar and very different from the rest of Italy all at the same time. The food and culture are very similar, yet the seaside pace and attitude make it just a little calmer.

[If you haven't read our general Europe Tips yet, that would probably be the best place to start.]

Food - Italian food is well known around the world, but what we in the U.S. consider Italian food is not totally accurate though. Food in Italy varies by the region you are in and its proximity to the sea. Pasta is found far and wide, but the type of pasta varies.

Don’t expect some items that we consider Italian staples in America. Chicken and Veal parmesan do not exist in Italy in all but the most touristy restaurants. Putting a red or meat sauce on your pasta is also an Italian-American thing. In Italy pasta is usually served with a little olive oil or cheese or egg. Don’t worry, it is delicious.

Pizza however, is an Italian staple. It is found in places small and large and it is very tasty.

Dining Out - Italians eat dinner very late compared to Americans. Many restaurants don’t even open until 7 p.m. and don’t get busy until 9. Don’t expect a quick bite here either; Italians love to take their time eating and will be at the restaurant for a few hours sometimes. It takes a little getting used to, but once you know the custom it’s really quite relaxing and enjoyable.

You should also be aware that the menu structure is a little different in Italy. Instead of listing meals, they list each course separately (and they are priced separately). The courses are: Appetizers, Pasta, Meat and Fish, Dessert, and after dinner items such as cheese plates. Many Italians eat something from each course, but don’t feel like you have to. We do encourage you to try as much as possible though because it will most likely be delicious.

Climate - The climate along the Mediterranean is generally warm. The winter months can get a little chilly and can bring a little more rain, but are still pleasant. At the other extreme, the summer months can be hot, but the sea breeze keeps it from becoming oppressive.

How to Dress - Italians dress more formally than Americans do. Nice jeans are often seen, but tee shirts (except designer ones) and athletic sneakers are rarely seen on Italians. You won’t necessarily be out of place with sneakers, but you will probably be pegged as a tourist. If you want to fit in, a nice pair of shoes and a sweater or collared shirt would do it. When you're on the beach, pretty much anything goes and the Italians are not shy. Topless sunbathing and men in very small bathing suits are not uncommon.

Wine - Italian wine is wonderful and plentiful with many different local varieties in each region. If you are a wine drinker, or if you want to be a wine drinker, we encourage you to try whatever is local to your area. Most restaurants have a house wine that is much cheaper than and just as good as the bottled wines. That’s usually the option that we go with.

Scooters - Due to many factors including fuel prices and parking availability, scooters have become extremely popular in larger Italian cities. These scooters do not follow the same rules of the road as the cars do, although we’re not sure if that’s by law or if it is a law that isn’t enforced. Either way, you will see scooters zipping all over the place; in between cars, next to sidewalks, and through small alleys. While walking, please make a point to look for them because they don’t do a very good job looking for you.

Especially for Women - The men of Italy have a certain reputation for being ladies men (or, at least, they think they are). In Italy it is not uncommon for men to make a pass at a woman that they don’t know, even if she is with a man or a tour group. Women, please keep in mind that they don’t necessarily mean anything by it and it is meant as a compliment. Husbands and boyfriends will hopefully keep that in mind also.

Language

The language issue gets its own special section because it is one of the primary concerns for travelers that don’t speak Italian. In the cities we visit on this tour the language will very rarely be a problem. Many Italians speak good to great English, especially the younger generation. This does not mean that you should rely on that though. For one thing, many people consider it rude for you to walk up to them assuming that they speak English. You do not need much Italian to make it seem like you are trying. Often saying hello and asking if they speak English in Italian is enough to get them on your side, but if you would like to try more they are usually very patient while you try and will even help you along.

Here are some words and phrases that you may find useful:

• Yes - Si (See)
• No - No
• Please - Per Favore (pair fa-VO-ray)
• Thank You - Grazie (GRAT-zee-ay)
• Good Morning - Buon Giorno (bwon JOR-no) - Even though this is technically good morning, it is used for much of the day.
• Good Evening - Buona Sera (BO-na SAY-ra)
• Hello/Goodbye (informal) - Ciao (chow)
• Do you speak English? - Parla Inglese? (PAR-la een-GLAY-zay) - Very helpful to know
• I don't understand - Non Capisco (non ka-PEES-ko)

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