So, been here a few days, and these are things I've learned: first, generally, the Italians are the nicest people ever and have the utmost respect for you, so long as you're not an idiot, and they really appreciate it if you make an effort at the language. Second, Italian men between the ages of about 16 and 50 are generally the creepiest humans on earth. Before coming here, I thought America had a lot of disrespectful assholes. There's certainly a culture difference; staring is normal. It takes a little getting used to, but everyone stares at you. However, men will see a pretty girl, turn completely around and stop what they're doing, give a girl 3 looks up and down, then start trying to suavely throw out their "Ciao, bella" and "Buonasera, bella". We were in a bar last night, and men stopped outside the window of the bar and peered in the glass to look at the girls we were with. The creepy guys has probably been the weirdest realization. Third, the food and wine are really good. Plain and simple. Fourth, I will be walking more this semester than I ever will at any point in my life. Walked for about 3 hours last night, and saw the Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, and some other cool fountains and landmarks, then wound up at an Irish Pub watching the Bruins play the Capitals. Not exactly out of a storybook, but it was a blast. Today, I took my first train adventure and bought a guitar at a local music shop. This was definitely the first time my Italian speaking skills were really tested. Jim and I asked for directions about 4 times, then the guy at the store didn't know any English, so I fumbled through telling him what I wanted. It worked out well, and I have a beautiful new Italian guitar! Pictured above. Tonight is a 5 course meal in the neighborhood, so looking forward to that. Some pictures of the room and from the night out also. Buonasera!
No comments:
Post a Comment