What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Florence. They wrote...
"Most Florentines are not friendly and do not care for foreigners. Nothing here has to be as difficult as they actually make it. If it's not Italian, it's not as good. Italians have a lot of pride in themselves and are some of the most arrogant and racist people I have ever met. They are also the most self-centered I have ever encountered....Italy starts with I! If there is a line, one will always jump to the front and ask questions, etc. There is no consideration if there are people waiting behind them, they will take their time to get their stuff done first (b/c it's all about them :0)) Itlians are VERY loud and unaware of when they are yelling in your ear or on their phones in a contained public space (ie bus, office, etc.). There are museums, cafes, restaurants and shopping; however, after a month or two, the novelty wears off. I prefer big cities and a wide variety of entertainment options. Florence doesn't have this," explained one expat living in Florence, Italy.
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Italian For A WhileBecome ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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"Expats in Florence often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. As Italian is the primary language spoken in Florence, many expats find it difficult to communicate with locals and to understand the nuances of the language. Additionally, expats may find the Italian lifestyle to be quite different from their own, as Italians tend to take a more relaxed approach to life and work. This can be difficult for expats who are used to a more structured and fast-paced lifestyle. Finally, expats may find it difficult to adjust to the Italian bureaucracy, which can be complex and time-consuming," said another expat in Florence, Italy.
Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Florence?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Florence?
- Will I be able to find a job in Florence?
- What is life like in Florence?
- What do expats in Florence appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Florence?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Florence accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Florence like?
- What are healthcare services like in Florence?
- What are medical services in Florence like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Florence?
- What are emergency services like in Florence?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Florence?
- How are local medical facilities in Florence?
- As a foreigner living in Florence, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Florence, newcomers to Florence would love to hear your answer to this question.
