Nada's Commandments for Traveling to Italy
Some of these may leave you scratching your head in need of an explanation. But I ask you: did Moses give an explanation? Just follow these simple commandments and thou shalt have a wonderful vacation!
1. Thou shalt not ask for a doggie bag in Italy nor will you "donate" your leftovers (no matter how good they look) to the hotel staff or the driver, or anyone.
2. Thou shalt not ask for a "sconto" (discount) for imports less than €80.00 and then expect to use a credit card. Shop owners are more likely to give you a discount if you use cash.
3. Thou shalt never pass on the opportunity to use the restroom. When in need, look for a "Bar", purchase something (anything - juice, coffee, a pack of gum) and ask for the "Bagno".
4. Thou shalt remember to bring a valid ID on your daytrip (doesn’t have to be your passport) and a note with any medical allergies, emergency instructions, and emergency contacts.
5. Thou shalt honor thy server: make sure you always have loose change to leave at least 2 Euros at the end of each meal as a sign of appreciation (or around 10%).
6. Thou shalt not exchange money from an "Exchange" booth as you will get ripped off. Instead, thou shalt exchange US$ before leaving the US, or use your ATM/credit card in Italy.
7. Thou shalt not wear flashy jewelry, cameras, designer luggage, and other bright, high-end fashion items that may attract people with shady intentions.
8. Thou shalt (if you're a single woman) not flirt with just about every guy in the piazza and then complain about the cat-calls and evident attention.
9. (In a restaurant) Thou shalt not ask for: grated Parmesan for your salad and/or pizza, extra sauce for your pasta, cappuccino after lunch or dinner. Thou shalt not ask for pasta as your side dish. Thou shalt not ask for a "Bistecca fiorentina" (Florentine steak) as well-done.
10. Thou shalt learn to correctly pronounce and use "Buongiorno" (good morning), "Per favore" (please), "Scusi" (excuse me), and "Grazie" (thank you).
11. (Hey, I never said they were 10...) Thou shalt not continuously compare Italy to the U.S.A. Like the fact that Sunday is closing day in Italy and stores are closed. Or the fact that Italians don't use screens on the windows. Or the fact that customer service just isn't as good as in the US.
12. Thou shalt not be ripped off by Roman taxi drivers. International Fiumicino to the city of Rome is a flat rate of €45, up to 4 people (that means €45 in total, not per person).
Thou shalt read and follow Nada's Commandments! Now go and have a great trip!
Are you trying to plan a trip to Italy on your own and are feeling a little overwhelmed? We can help!
Whether you're just starting out and gathering ideas, or you have your itinerary already set and want someone to review it to make sure everything goes smoothly, Nada Vergili can provide some expert assistance. By setting up a phone or in-person (in the Charlotte, NC area) consultation you will have all your questions answered, a finalized itinerary, a ton of resources, insider info, and most importantly, peace of mind.
Email us: info@nadasitaly.com
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