Just a quick note on some of the cultural differences I have experienced so far:
1-It is appropriate to eat copious amounts of sugar for breakfast, as long as there is a piece of bread underneath. As a matter of fact this habit is encouraged.
2-All the curse words of Latin America are common terms here. That means that instead of letting someone know where they can stick it, you would instead merely be asking them to help you in the kitchen or pick up their plate. To answer your question, yes, this has led to much confusion on my part.
3-The rearing of children is quite different, not bad, just different. In an effort to promote individualization and responsibility, rules are flexible.
4-While eating, for goodness sake, KEEP BOTH HANDS ON THE TABLE. Failure to do so reflects on one's lack of culture.
5-Coffee breaks are imperative. Passing on an invitation or failure to partake in the ritual million breaks of a day can be perceived as rude.
6-A word of caution: Most people live in apartments, but many have dogs. This means that you can always pass someone on the sidewalk walking their dog. Watch your step, because the only place you're safe from the droppings of man's best friend is in your own home.
1-It is appropriate to eat copious amounts of sugar for breakfast, as long as there is a piece of bread underneath. As a matter of fact this habit is encouraged.
2-All the curse words of Latin America are common terms here. That means that instead of letting someone know where they can stick it, you would instead merely be asking them to help you in the kitchen or pick up their plate. To answer your question, yes, this has led to much confusion on my part.
3-The rearing of children is quite different, not bad, just different. In an effort to promote individualization and responsibility, rules are flexible.
4-While eating, for goodness sake, KEEP BOTH HANDS ON THE TABLE. Failure to do so reflects on one's lack of culture.
5-Coffee breaks are imperative. Passing on an invitation or failure to partake in the ritual million breaks of a day can be perceived as rude.
6-A word of caution: Most people live in apartments, but many have dogs. This means that you can always pass someone on the sidewalk walking their dog. Watch your step, because the only place you're safe from the droppings of man's best friend is in your own home.
1. Nothing wrong with chocolate for breakfast..
ReplyDelete2. Good luck with this..
3. See, things weren't so bad at home..
4. Can you put your elbows on the table?
5. Java, java, java. Hopefully the coffee is good. Are there Starbucks on every corner there too?
6. Oh S@#*!
Sounds like you're adjusting quite well and continue to proceed with an open mind. Most others would have given up trying to embrace a new way of doing things. Have fun in Italy!! Love ya.