Tuscany, Italy
What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Tuscany?
We asked people in Tuscany if they could share any humorous cultural blunders they commited. For new expats, keep in mind that these incidents are an inevitable part of expat life. Learning to laugh about them is the key!...
"When visiting Tuscany, it's important to respect the local customs and traditions to avoid any cultural faux pas. One of the first things to remember is to greet people properly. Italians are formal in their greetings, so it's best to say "buongiorno" (good day) in the morning and "buonasera" (good evening) in the afternoon and evening. Avoid talking loudly or making a lot of noise, especially in public places like restaurants or on public transportation. Italians value their peace and quiet, and being too loud can be seen as disrespectful. When dining, remember that Italians take their food very seriously. Don't ask for changes to the menu or for your pasta to be cooked more or less - it's considered an insult to the chef. Also, never ask for ketchup to put on your pizza or pasta, as this is seen as a major faux pas. It's also important to dress appropriately. Italians are known for their fashion sense, and wearing shorts, flip flops, or tank tops in public (outside of the beach) can be seen as disrespectful. This is especially true when visiting churches or other religious sites, where modest dress is required. Don't rush your meals or your coffee. In Italy, eating and drinking are social activities that are meant to be savored, not rushed. Asking for your check immediately after eating, or ordering a cappuccino after noon, can be seen as rude. Finally, remember to say "please" and "thank you". Italians are very polite, and failing to use these basic courtesies can be seen as very rude," said a member in Tuscany, Italy.
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What cultural faux pas should I try to avoid making in Tuscany?
If you live in Tuscany, newcomers to Tuscany would love to hear your answer to this question.
