17 Italian Culture Shocks
Visiting a new country has its surprises. Each country does certain things that are "weird or strange". Culture shock is a real thing. Here are a few things I experienced while living in Italy that were unusual to me.
1. No tipping
This was one of the first things I experienced. In America, we tip at least 20% of the bill. The tip is already included in the bill, which makes things easier. It's considered an insult to tip in Europe.
2. Eating raw meat (Tar-Tar)
This was probably my biggest culture shock. My roommates and I all got dinner together. Someone at the table sitting next to us got raw meat as their dinner. We were in complete shock when the waiter handed a plate of raw meat to the man.
3. Police with machine guns
Their police carry machine guns. I wasn't too alarmed when I first saw this. It did scare me, but I came to realize that's how they protect their people.
4. Obsession with mayo
Mayo is one of their main condiments. When you go out to eat, they usually serve you ketchup and mayonnaise. It's not my first choice, but I tried it anyway.
5. Bringing pets everywhere
If you're a big animal person, you'll be in heaven. It's common to bring your dog in restaurants, stores, and other places. Italians are not as friendly to let you pet their dog, but at least you can still look at them. Plus, they're probably more stylish than you ;)
6. Eating dinner late
This was a tough one to get used too. Back at home, we usually eat dinner around 5 or 6. Italians eat dinner around 8 or 9. How do they survive?! It's not as bad as you think. Snacks will be your best friend.
7. No dryers
Italians don't normally have dryers in their homes. If you do want to dry your clothes, they are available at the laundromat. Having only a washer takes better care of your clothes, but they take FOREVER to dry!
8. PDA
Americans are used to a peck on the lips, and simple hand holding. In Italy, it's a different story. Don't be alarmed if you see a couple french kissing out in public.
9. Paying for water
This was hard to get used to. Water is one of the expensive options, and it comes in a big bottle. If you're quenched of thirst, I suggest ordering a water to yourself.
*Tip: Ask for still water instead of gas. Gas is sparkling water, which is a popular drink in Italy.
10. Don't split checks
When you go out to dinner, they put all of your tables meals on one bill. This can get frustrating if someone didn't bring enough cash, or if you pay on your credit card & have to wait for people to pay you back.
11. Paying to go to the bathroom
Before you go out in public, GO TO THE BATHROOM AT HOME. There have been numerous times where I've almost peed my pants trying to find change to pay for the bathroom. It usually cost 1 euro to go to the bathroom. They don't always take bills, to have change on hand.
Tip* Go to a cafe and buy food and/or a snack. They will let you use their bathroom for free.
12. Staying up late
Italians go hard when it comes to clubbing. The first week I was in Florence, me and my roommates heard people yelling in the streets until 5 AM. I thought "how on earth will I be able to stay up that late?" It's not as bad as you think.
13. Drinking on the streets
This was one of the most liberating experiences I've had. It's normal to have a drink in your hand in public. As long as you're not acting drunk, it's totally acceptable.
14. Nudity
It's common to see naked statues or paintings of people. One of the things I respect about Italy, is that they use the human body as art. The human body is not overly sexualized like it is in America.
15. Italian Food is not what you think
You read that right, Italian food is not what you think. Putting spaghetti and meatballs together? That's unheard of in Italy. In restaurants, the menu is divided into appetizers, first course (pasta), second course (meat), and dessert. You don't have to order all of these for dinner. Instead, order two dishes. For example, appetizer & first course, or two second courses. It makes you look like less of a tourist!
16. No Tax Added
Here in Italy when you see a price tag, that is what you are paying for! There's no surprise tax added :)
17. You Will Get Charged for Sitting Down
Yes. you read that right. Any restaurant you go to, you will have a service fee for sitting down. If you go to a Bar (Cafe), I suggest eating your pastry and drinking your coffee standing up. That way, you won't get charged for sitting down.
Culture shock is part of the fun when you're studying abroad. The customs may seem strange at first, but you'll get used to it in the end. Remember keeping an open mind helps getting over culture shock :)