ITALY, THE GREAT INFLUENCER.

You’ve likely started the New Year by reflecting on the past and setting intentions for the future. In this, my first post of 2024, I’ll share my personal journey of growth and self-discovery, influenced by Italian culture since arriving here in 2016. As you’ll already likely know, this country’s rich history and vibrant traditions serve as a wellspring of inspiration for people around the globe, from its stunning architecture and art to its delectable cuisine, amazing festivals, and passionate and creative citizens. However, beyond the overly idealised portrayals lies a country that continuously shapes and influences those fortunate enough to live in it. From confronting bureaucratic challenges to embracing its profound heritage, I’ve been lucky enough to gain invaluable insights into a wide range of things that have enriched my life in ways I never thought possible. Please join me as I explore just 21 of those ways in this post: Also, check out my New Years post from 2023, “21 ITALIAN PROVERBS“

1. Appreciating community and embracing local culture: Italians intrinsically prioritize the well-being of their neighbours and fellow citizens and generally form close-knit bonds within their local communities. This spirit of solidarity is even more evident when people gather to celebrate, grieve, or chatter. They also extend their sense of community on a national level, taking real pride in their shared heritage and traditions. And for me, coming from a life in bustling New York City, I’ve discovered there’s nothing more inspiring than being part of that community, strolling through the weekly market, and being greeted by multitudes of acquaintances with the warmth of long-lost friends. Being welcomed into the feast of local festivals has taught me how to fully appreciate the bounty of the seasons and embrace traditions that form the country’s local and national identity.

2. Closer to Heritage: Living in Italy has not only connected me to my grandparents Italian heritage but also heightened my appreciation of my family traditions while growing up in Australia. And let’s not forget about my grandparents love and respect for good food and wine. Something my childhood friends would marvel at if I’d bring them home for lunch or dinner and they’d sample their delicious roasts, pasta’s, chutneys, sauces, and preserves. In fact, until I moved to Italy, the 1987 film Moonstruck was probably the closest reference I had to understanding my family’s Italian heritage. And although most of those movie scenes seemed extreme and comical at the time, I can now see that those feisty, old-world values of friendship, passion, and beauty are integral to Italian society. It is these unfettered emotions that have also inspired me to slow down, open my heart, and appreciate life’s beauty and simple pleasures. Which in turn has brought me closer to my grandparents (RIP) in a way that I never thought possible. Quindi Grazie Italia!

3. Time is merely a social construct: One of the most striking aspects of Italian life is its unique concept of time. Here, the art of being fashionably late is celebrated, and punctuality is merely a suggestion. And an hour can easily stretch into two, and “tomorrow” can surprisingly turn into a week or more. This relaxed concept of time is revealed daily in the ‘Riposo’ when, year-round, between 1300 and 1600 shops and businesses close for two hours to allow employees to enjoy a leisurely lunch, bond with family and coworkers, or even celebrate the sublime sweetness of doing nothing “dolce far niente”. Crazy no? Could you imagine a New York businessman condoning this practice? But I’ve learned that life is too fleeting to be perpetually in a rush. Don’t you agree? So, let’s all try to savour a precious moment in 2024, indulge in something delicious, and relax.

4. I’m a bit more patient and much more Zen. Living in Italy has been a bureaucratic rollercoaster ride of uncertainty that has taught me to embrace the unknown with open arms. In a country where time seems to move at its own leisurely pace, I’ve learned to patiently wait for ‘whatever’ to fall into place. However. I know that’s easier said than done, and while there has been a vast improvement in online admin services, much still requires an in-person appearance. Even the annual renewal of permits you already possess. So remember, in Italy, when it comes to accomplishing bureaucratic tasks, patience is not just a virtue; it’s a survival skill. And just when you think you’ve reached a breaking point, take a deep breath and remind yourself that Rome wasn’t built in a day. A proverb with gravitas.

5. Embracing the almost non-existent queue. Newly minted expats may find Italy’s lack of queue’s initially alarming, especially those from cultures where queues are sacred. So when you come across a chaotic cluster at bus stops, bakeries, banks, or the post office, don’t let stress get the better of you. There’s actually a functional system within the seeming chaos! When arriving in such circumstances, I now ask, “Chi è l’ultimo?” And the last person to arrive will reveal themselves; you will then know who to follow. You’ll quickly discover that Italians respect this protocol and, instead of being confined to a queue, will happily mix, mingle, and chatter until their turn arrives—a custom I’ve happily adopted.

6. Talking to strangers. After moving to rural Italy from New York City, one of the most striking changes I’ve noticed is in the way people interact on the street. In NYC, you’re surrounded by millions of people who are packed tightly together yet go about their daily lives almost anonymously, rarely making eye contact. But here, my interactions with people have become far less guarded and much more spontaneous. From walking down the street to shopping at the supermarket, I’m regularly greeted by passersby without fear or reservation, and when I acknowledge them in return, they may even stop to strike up a conversation, which feels natural and heartwarming and is an important reminder of the simple joy of being connected.

7. Making new and varied friends. Here, I’ve been lucky enough to make dozens of friends from all walks of life, each with their own interesting stories and viewpoints. And unlike in New York, I’ve had time to explore these relationships in a multitude of relaxed environments, from restaurants to cafes, bars, and museums. Through these connections, I’ve been welcomed with open arms into people’s homes, celebrated local festivals, and experienced firsthand the warmth and kindness that open-hearted Italians are known for.

8. Using my middle name. Back in the good ol’ US of A and down under in Australia, my middle name was like a fancy accessory, optional to reveal but rarely paid attention too. But hey, in Italy, it’s a whole different game! Here, you get to flaunt that middle name everywhere you go, as it is considered an important testament to your birthright and ancestors legacy. So I now rock my middle name, GIUSEPPE, like a boss. It’s like a secret power that makes me more complete in the eyes of the Italians I meet.

9. I speak Italian—well, kinda. But let’s just say fluency is still a dream. My understanding of the language is fine; even reading is good, but trust me, my attempts at speaking aren’t exactly fluid and lyrical. But hey, with the multitude of strong dialects in Italy, I can now hold a conversation with everyone from Sicilian fishermen to Turin waitresses, and none will even try to guess my origins. Technically, you can survive in Italy without speaking Italian, but learning the language is a perfect way to build new relationships, expand your interests, and really endear yourself to the locals, who so appreciate you trying.

10. Surprisingly, learning Italian has improved my English! Exploring Italian grammar has helped me better understand my own language, and I’ve discovered that Italian verb conjugations are like distant relatives of those in English. By diving into them, I’ve gained mastery over English’s tricky structures. Learning the vocabulary has been like exploring an enchanted forest of words and, along the way, discovering connections with their English counterparts, which actually makes learning the language much easier. And let’s not forget having to develop the power of active listening and repetition. It’s almost like becoming a secret agent, honing my communication skills, listening harder, and paying attention to all the tiny details.

11. Relishing the history. Exploring Italy’s plethora of museums and historical sites has transported me back in time, immersing me in the fables and magnificent masterpieces of ancient civilizations. And these treasures are not just confined to the museums; they’re everywhere you look! I was astounded to discover that even in our little hilltop town, behind almost every door, you’ll find beautiful frescoes and artwork, while the surrounding landscape is peppered with Etruscan relics and artefacts.

12. Learning to drive in Italian style. Italians have a mixed reputation concerning their driving ability. While they do tend to drive at high speeds, tailgate other vehicles, and often forget to use turn signals,. In my opinion, they also demonstrate resourcefulness, skill, and control behind the wheel. But who’d have thought that at the age of 50+ I would be embarking on the journey of learning to drive again? It’s not that I can’t drive or don’t have a license; it’s just that, as an Australian expat, our countries have no reciprocity regarding a driver’s license. So while Australians can drive legally in Italy as tourists, they can’t once they’ve been residents here for more than a year.

13. My expectations of fresh produce have changed: Driving through Umbria, I’m often amazed by the number of trucks randomly parked at the roadside, selling a whole range of fresh fruit and vegetables. In almost every small village or town, you’ll find weekly or biweekly fresh produce markets. Even in rural supermarkets, you’ll rarely see vacuum-packed fresh fruit and vegetables—or any fresh produce for that matter—unless its been packaged in-house. Not to mention the passion with which these products are delivered and presented in all weathers year-round. The European Union takes the consumption of fresh fruit and vegetables seriously and makes provision for all sorts of supplements for farmers and retailers in their budget.

14. Seasonal living has made me a better cook. Our vibrant, weekly market is my go-to place for inspiration. And, without readily available vacuum-packed, C02-pumped fruit & vegetables, I’ve come to appreciate the importance of using fresh ingredients at their peak (and that what I once thought were brightly packaged fresh ingredients were somehow preserved). The use of fresh seasonal produce has not only elevated my cooking but also made it more rewarding, as flavours once mild now stand apart on the palate. Living amongst Italians has taught me that cooking is not just about following recipes but also about celebrating the bounty of nature by creating something delicious to eat that is truly memorable, season by season.

15. The Coffee Conversion. In Italy, the love for coffee runs deep. It’s not just a drink; it’s a cherished part of the daily routine. Italians typically indulge in four cups of coffee per day, with two savoured at home and the others enjoyed at places like the office or local bar. However, it’s important to note that here, a bar is more akin to a café, offering not only coffee but also an assortment of snacks, pastries, and even alcoholic beverages. Though bars are not set up like the kind of coffee shop you may be used to, here a long bar is the star, and Italians will stand to relish their potent shot of caffeine, which is why it’s aptly named espresso. A ritual I’ve fully embraced.

16. Acqua Ambiente. Ah, America’s famed iced water. Regardless of where you dined, whether in a humble diner (a casual restaurant where you can order breakfast, lunch, or dinner 24 hours a day) or a lavish 5-star restaurant, a glass of iced water would always miraculously appear the moment you sat down. As a former restaurant manager, this practice had become so customary that I never thought to question it. But I must confess, I’ve now joined the No Ice Brigade! And when enjoying long, unctuous Italian meals, opting for room-temperature water has become my new norm. Its simply better for the digestive system than the shock of an ice bath. Is my aversion to ice a sign that one day I’ll start believing in the ancient concept of “colpa d’aria,” which warns against exposure to cold? Probably not, as my love for cocktails, gelato, and crisp white wines remains unwavering. But hey, we do what we can!

17. A scarf for all seasons. Speaking of colpa d’aria, I’ve now become accustomed to wearing a variety of scarves in all weathers. In New York, scarves were an absolute necessity in winter, and only the Brooklyn, man-bun, skinny jean-wearing hipsters had the gaul to wear them in other seasons. But here, the 5 types of wind affecting Italy in varying degrees have led to an abundance of scarf-wearing year-round (as there’s nothing an Italian fears more than a draft). These winds are the Mistral, Tramontane, Scirocco, Libeccio, and Bora. However, the Mistral is most mischievous and unpredictable, along with the Tramontane, which blows further west. As a result, Italians truly have mastered the art of scarves for both fashion and function for all seasons. The variety of styles, fabrics, and techniques is seemingly endless. If you’d like to up your game in the scarf-tying department, you can find many YouTube videos on the subject or click on one of my favourites here.

18. Dress up more often. On the topic of fashion, since I moved to Italy, I’ve become a whole new person in the style department. Don’t get me wrong, I was no fashion disaster. In fact, I’ve always loved fashion, buying clothes, and dressing smartly. But since arriving here, I’ve had to say goodbye to comfy sweatpants for a quick trip to the supermarket and hello to fabulous couture ( perhaps not couture but definitely smart-casual) as I quickly discovered most locals dress with style 24/7. And let me tell you, their “casual” looks would put most Walmart shoppers’ best-dressed efforts to shame. Trust me, running errands in Italy is almost like attending a VIP red carpet event.

19. I’ve developed an affection for Italian/Euro pop .This one is a bit of a guilty pleasure. As a middle-aged man, it may not be the most socially acceptable hobby, but every summer I can’t resist the irresistible disco beat and playful lyrics of these pop’y tunes. I’m ashamed to admit that I used to turn up my nose at contemporary Italian music, dismissing it as cheesy and superficial. But since living here I’ve come to appreciate these tunes as the essential soundtrack for a carefree Italian summer. Plus, I’ve found them a great way to pick up some contemporary Italian phrases! I simply can’t get enough of these songs, blasting from campsites, beach bars, and car radios. Ready to join me on an indulgent musical journey? Here are some of my favorite picks from the past few years. Colapesce– Musica Leggerissima (2022) Marco Mengoni- Due vita (2023) Cesare Cremonini- Buon Viaggio (2015) but honestly anything by these two guys is worth a listen. Ultimo- Vieni nel mio cuore (2022) Diocato- Fino a farci scomparire (2020) Francesco Gabbani- Occidentali’s Karma (2017) Negramaro- La prima volta (2020) The Kolors- Italodisco (2023) La Rappresentante di Lista – Amare (2021).

20. I’ve grown accustomed to the quiet. Moving from New York City to the Umbrian Hills felt like, in an instant, I’d left Planet Earth and landed in a whole new silent world. At first, it was unsettling. I was so used to the constant buzz of the ‘City that never sleeps‘, the traffic, the honking, raised voices, and the seemingly constant blare of police and ambulance sirens. But here, just a few steps from Città della Pieve’s town center, it was so quiet you could almost hear the grass growing. Of course, over-time my senses adjusted, and the calming sounds of nature revealed themselves. The rustling of leaves, the gentle chirping of birds, the barks of deer, and the snorts of wild-boar as they foraged through the night. And the dark of night… Oh, the all enveloping darkness! Both comforting and mysterious. The million lights of towering skyscrapers are replaced by a sky full of stars, and on nights with a full moon, it can be as bright as the sun, casting shadows through fields and valleys uncorrupted by electric light.

21. Don’t you miss New York City? A question people can’t resist asking, as if missing the place is some sort of prerequisite for having once been a New Yorker. Sure, there are moments when I reminisce about the hustle and bustle, the iconic skyline, the theater, and the endless ethnic food options. But then I remember the crowds, the never-ending rush, the constant battle for sidewalk space, the stinky, boiling hot summers and freezing cold winters, not to mention the sky-high rents and cost of living. Sorry folks, but I must confess I’ve traded in my stress-busting days for lazy afternoons in charming piazzas, surrounded by centuries-old architecture and the lyrical sound of Italian chatter. Restaurants with exquisite food that doesn’t break the bank, a wonderful partner, and Slinky the cat. Of course, New York City and the meaningful friendships I’ve made there will always hold a special place in my heart. But for now, I’m more than content exploring the cobblestone streets of the storied towns and cities of Italy. Sipping aperitivo’s and living La Dolce Vita.

“From embracing new traditions, cuisines, and perspectives, I have been profoundly impacted by this magical and diverse country and am ever thankful for the memories created and lessons learned.”

To conclude, a wise Italian once said, “Viaggiare non è solo andare da un posto all’altro, ma cambiare la nostra prospettiva sulla vita” — traveling is not only about going from one place to another but about changing our perspective on life. I couldn’t agree more, and as my blog turns five, I am excited to see what the next five years will bring.

Thank you, dear reader, for joining my journey through Centrostorico 21 and for all your positive comments and encouragement. I look forward to sharing more of my adventures in 2024. And if, by chance, you have friends, family, or colleagues who might enjoy reading my blog, please feel free to forward it to them. ‘Sarei felice di accoglierli’.

Happy New Year and very best wishes to you all.

If you’ve enjoyed the quotes in this post, do check-out their author on Instagram, Alessandro, He is an excellent teacher and his page is Let’s be Italians I would highly recommend following him. He is fun, engaging, and insightful.