1. Ribbons and their Significances
In Italy, it is common to see homes or cars decked with ribbons. These aren't just random decorations - in fact, each color signifies something different. For example, pink ribbons represent the birth of a female child, blue ribbons represent the birth of a male child, white ribbons represent a marriage, and red ribbons represent a graduation.
2. Ordering Water
When ordering water in Italy, it is common not only for waiters to ask how many liters of the liquid you'd like, but if you want "frizzante" or "naturale." "Naturale" refers to natural, uncarbonated water, while "frizzante" is the Italian word for sparkling water. Carbonated water is very popular in Italy - almost as popular as regular water. For this reason, don't be surprised if your waiter asks you whether you'd like "frizzante" or "naturale"!
3. Tax is Included in the Price
In the United States, it is common to try and calculate how much extra you will have to pay in tax at any store. In Italy, the tax is included in the price of most items, so you can grab that bag of biscotti without worrying about how much extra money you will have to pay!
4. The Variety of Juices
Have you ever found yourself wondering why it's not common to see more juices in the US? Sure, there's grape, apple, and orange - but what about strawberry, raspberry, or pear? Italy has done a fine job in producing a variety of juice. From blueberry to strawberry, mango and passionfruit to pear, your taste buds will not stop buzzing from all of the tang and sweetness that each juice brings.
5. The Popularity of Nutella
Nutella is SO popular in Italy! You can taste it everywhere from gelato flavoring to coffee drinks.
6. Typical Salad Dressing is Nonexistent
Are you used to throwing some ranch on your iceberg lettuce at lunch? Drizzling some French dressing over your spinach salad? Chances are, if you were to order a salad with any typical American dressing in Italy, the waiter would only look at you like you were crazy. That's because usually, Italians tend to top their salads not with blue cheese dressing, but with balsamic vinegar and olive oil!
7. Dogs are Usually Highly Tolerated
In the United States, dogs are not allowed at most restaurants or shops. In Italy, however, these rules are much more relaxed. You can usually bring your dog into some stores or even small shopping centers, as well as sit outside with your pet as you dine. Some restaurants even provide water dishes for your furry friends!
8. Fruits and Vegetables are Seasonal
In the US, it is normal to run to the supermarket and grab some produce that is out of season. Most of the time, Americans don't even notice when something is out of season unless there is a price change. In Italy, not only is produce that is grown out of season usually expensive and low quality, but in some cases you may not even be able to find it at all depending on the time of year.
9. Transumanza
In some locations, cows pass through small Italian towns as the seasons change. They move from the mountains to the valleys in preparation of winter. Some villages choose to celebrate the Transumanza, with a few even hosting festivals in honor of the event.
10. Flower Trucks
Outdoor markets are common in Italy, with a variety of trucks and vehicles pulling up to different towns weekly to sell certain items and goods. From clothing to produce, outdoor markets each boast a variety of different products. In larger areas, floristry trucks attend weekly markets, so it is common to see people walking around with colorful flora in their arms.
Share This Article
