Travel Reference
In-Depth Information
Etiquette
»
Greetings
Shake hands and say
'buongiorno
' (good day) or '
buona sera'
(good even-
ing) to strangers; kiss both cheeks and say '
come stai?'
(how are you?) to friends. Use '
lei'
(formal 'you') in polite company; use
'tu'
(informal 'you') with friends and children.
Only use first names if invited.
»
Asking for help
Say
'mi scusi'
(excuse me) to get someone's attention; say '
permesso'
(permission) when you want to pass someone in a crowded space.
»
Religious etiquette
Dress modestly (cover shoulders, torsos and thighs) and be quiet
when visiting religious sites.
»
Eating and drinking
At restaurants, summon the waiter by saying '
per favore'
(please). When dining in an Italian home, bring a small gift of sweets
(dolci)
or wine and
dress well. Let your host lead when sitting and starting the meal.
»
Avoid
Discussing the Mafia can be a touchy subject.
