Following the previous post about the social and cultural norms in Italy, we offer a few more tips for different situations, so you don’t need to worry about how you can fit in whilst you’re there!
Forms of address
Like sir in English, signore is a formal way of addressing a man. Signora, however, is used much more in Italian than madam is in English.
The polite you (lei) is used to address people whom you don’t know. It’s also a way of showing respect to someone who’s older than you, or to someone who’s senior to you at work. However, the informal you (tu) is often the preferred form in most social situations. Phrases like salve, come sta? (hello, how are you?) and piacere di conoscerla (pleasure to meet you) use the polite you (lei) andare used in formal contexts, while ciao, come va? and piacere di conoscerti use the informal you (tu) and are used in informal settings to say the same thing.
Staying in Italy
There are many kinds of places to stay in Italy as a tourist. You may be staying in un hotel or albergo, un hostel or ostello, un bed&breakfast, un aguritismo (where guest’s eat the farm’s own produce), un appartamento, una villa or un residence (very often a luxurious option, with serviced furnished flats of different sizes, fitness area, pool, conference rooms etc.).
If you are renting a property for a short period, you are likely to be offered a contratto per non residenti (contract for non-residents).
When choosing somewhere to stay, look out for key words such as salotto (living area), cucina (kitchen), camera da letto (double bedroom), cameretta (single bedroom), bagno con doccia (bathroom with shower) and balcone (balcony).
Don’t forget to come back for the next blog post to help you continue with the conversation!
