Traveling in Italy: Do's and Don'ts

I recently got this list of Do's and Don'ts for travel in Italy from my friend Bryan Myers who works for a news program broadcast on public television. Many of the people who work on his program are foreign nationals, and each were recently asked to prepare such a list for their home countries. The one written by a staff member from Italy was one of the best:

1. Italian families and friends usually kiss when they meet, irrespective of their sex. There are usually two kisses - first on the right cheek, then on the left. When greeting a person you don't know, stick to a firm handshake.

2. It is usually forbidden to enter a church if you don't have your upper arms and legs appropriately covered by clothes. Men should wear long pants; for women, a skirt within a couple of inches of the knee is acceptable. You may be asked to leave the church if you are wearing a sleeveless shirt or short pants. Locals often complain about tourists breaking this rule.

3. In a formal conversation, when talking to someone holding a university degree (any degree), you should address the person with the title of "Doctor," not "Mr." or "Ms."

4. Like in many languages, in Italian there are two distinct ways of addressing people; one familiar, used with friends and relatives ("tu"), and one formal used with strangers ("lei"). It's considered very impolite (even aggressive) to address people you jut met with the familiar "tu."

6. When eating, it's very rude to put a piece of bread on your plate. Leave it on the table beside the plate. Bread is not considered a part of the meal, but rather more like salt and pepper. This is why restaurants do not charge for bread. Also remember to break the bread with your hands and not with a knife.

7. When eating at a restaurant, asking for the check immediately after finishing a meal is generally seen as rude. Take the time to relax and exchange a few more words with the other people at the table.

8. After entering one's home, it's impolite to take your coat off is you're not invited to do so. Ask first.

9. Putting one's bag or purse on the floor is considered bad luck; you should hang it somewhere or put it on a chair.

10. Flowers should be offered in odd numbers only.