Hi Wolters, italian guy here. Honestly I think I'll never understand some of those behaviours from my compatriots. Expecially if you live in a big, beautiful and full of history city like Rome you should be prepared to welcome people from all over the world, and yes, tourist should explore and respect the countries they're in, but it's true even the opposite: locals should respect tourists needs. I mean, here nobody drinks a cappuccino after maybe 11:30 am, but if you're american (or from any other country) and for you it's normal to drink some milk with coffee even after dinner why I have to be mad at you if you ask a cappuccino after dinner? However it's true that many tourists don't respect (of don't understand the importance of) some places, entering churches or cathedrals dressed like they're on a beach, taking a bath in historical fountains, eating and leaving litter on monuments, this is truly disrespectful and locals will surely be mad at you if you do stuff like this.
When I was in Rome back in 1999, I tried to behave as hedonistic as the Romans of the past.¨ I did not appreciate however how the hostel had hours where everyone had to be out. I like to sleep in. Next time, I'd expect the VIP trreatment. Regards A drunken Northerner.
An example, in Ostiense I went to a TERRIBLE pizza place called Luigis. I waited patiently as every Roman guest was served first. I listened for my order number patiently. After 30 minutes waiting for pizza (everyone knows it doesn't take that long) I took the box home. When I got home I saw the saddest pizza in the world that looked like it had been bitten into. I went back to Luigis and told them to make me another pizza or give me my money back.Are the Romans racists?
@@seuconrado3365 I'm sorry for your bad experience. Unfortunately in Italy there are many racists, and our government it's a proof of that. I mean, there are even many good people, we're a welcoming country, but we have a problem with racism.
It's very disappointing tourists would try carving their names into things. Like my dear Grandma used to say, "Fools' names are like their faces, always seen in public places."
but think about it, this is how alien archeologists will learn about us , by studying these carvings after we are long gone having destroyed ourselves in nuclear Holocaust. Familiar with Altamira in Spain? These neolithic paintings on the walls. Have they been defacing these caves 10K years ago. I am not 100% serious, but, I think, that may be, we take ourselves and the ruins of our past way too seriously. It will erode to dust at some point anyway.
as a Roman I have no problems with anyone. you are all welcome, the only thing I ask is that you respect the monuments. do not bath in the fountains and do not write on the coliseum. For the rest have fun and enjoy.
As a reception manager in a high end hotel in Rome and working in this business for the last two decades allow me to add two things; 1) carving your name on a monument not only is disrespectful, it is an outright crime for which they will chase you no matter at which end of the world you live with a multi thousand fine. 2) one thing that bugs me personally and I get that question so often by our American friends is; “is it safe?”, ffs; Rome is incredibly safe even at night, no one has any weapons here, literally no one will ever mug you, but there’s a big BUT, pickpockets are very common, so just keep your eyes pealed literally at all times even in apparently unsuspected places.
Pick pockets falls under not safe. Why does that question bother you? You can literally have all your most valuable things stolen from you. That absolutely falls under not being safe and we should all be very cautious. Obviously it's not physically harmful at the moment, but...
@@LM-dl3yx that’s exactly what I answer, that Rome is very safe aside from pick pockets, what they mean however by the way they put it when they ask me that question is clear to me, they do mean harm. Again, my job relies a lot on the Americans and those are my overall favourite clients tbh. Also, every country has their own perks and that’s only natural, I just probably got asked that question too often, I am only human.
I have to ask! As a manager in a high end hotel have you seen many (or any) black people in positions of leadership? Or more just security guards at your hotel.
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit that beautiful city twice (and Pompeii!). I’ve been watching you for years. Thank you so much for all the helpful tips and tricks (you were especially helpful for punta cana!) you’ve provided through the years!!❤❤😁
In Italy, I once asked a waitress if she would bring my salad before my meal. She looked at me, thought about it, and replied "No, you're in Italy" and walked away. Right, she was.
This is very relatable. I think Rome is just deeply misunderstood for better and for worse, beyond the cliches that mass culture/media saw on her. There's a channel that talks about Roman history for tourist, named Schwerpunkt who made tons of videos on the issue of the importance of Rome behind what people see and even the most common historical ideas. Not sure it's the right niche because the channel goes very much in depth with historical philosophy, detail, etc., but it rocks hard. If anyone loves Rome, Roman but also Italian history in general, they should give it a watch
What channel is that? The misconceptions of Rome and many Italian cities is quite big. We visited Parma and discovered more about Parma beyond the food but more in line with the history, music and culture. We released a video in Parma this week that goes deep ... Check it out on our channel.
Always great advice Mark. Last time I was in Rome, I really enjoyed trying some Roman style pasta. Definitely a good local style food to enjoy in Rome that is perhaps a bit less internationally famous than the pastas & other foods from up in Bologna.
The Americans say many non-English word wrong and they do that very confidently. Not just the pronouncination is totally wrong but the meaning as well. If you want a coffee with milk that is NOT "latte" . Latte means milk. If you ask for latte, the waiter will bring you a glass of milk. And laTTe with long T and not "late". If you ask for "panini", they will ask you how many. "panini" means sandwiches, it is plural. "panino" means sandwich.
One thing I also do is stay off the subway in their rush hour if I can help it… go to a café, take a leisurely stroll or shop just to let them get home more easily!
As always great advice. Another piece of advice. In the morning at breakfast.. don't be cheap and raid the breakfast buffet to fill up a doggy bag. They estimate the food so all guests get fed and when you do that the later sittings run out of food because early birds have "been there" On the positive DO visit the Jewish ghetto and Synagogue there's some lovely restaurants in the side streets serving simple kosher food and it's delicious and very reasonable. It's just opposite the Vatican.
Good job! As a Roman I am always pleased whenever a foreigner recommends the restaurants at the ghetto. The pastry from that neighbourhood are some of the nicest in town too. You are welcome back anytime, sir/madam One comment on the breakfast: skip it. Go to the bar and eat a cornetto (or whatever other breakfast pastry you like) and drink your coffee standing up at the counter. If you sit down for breakfast you are living wrong.
Thanks for sharin, I just love Italian/Roman food.....the pasta, lasagna, pizza, spaghetti. It is good to know the right way of eating stuff there...even if pamazan isi great. Chao
Loved it there but was only on two layovers so got about 12 hrs but had friends there that picked me up and i basically got to see things like the coliseum but from the road but they took me out to eat and they drove me around to see some stuff. Love to go back and really be a tourist
Great vid. Heading back this fall. I love Rome and Italy. Can’t agree more on your food advice, venture out at night. Rome is safe, lots of police and army everywhere. Don’t forget to take your hat off when you walk into the Pantheon or any basilica or get a scolding (guilty). Plus learn basic Italian words like for greetings, excuse me, thank you and so on. They appreciate it even though most speak perfect English. 🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🍕🍕
#2 is also important for me as someone working in Hamburg. Like every day, I have to wait or go around people staging fancy shoots just on the walkway. I think people do not realize this at all. They visit a city and its only reason is for their production.
I'm planing to go to rome the first week in september in 2024, if you're there at that time it would be fun/nice to meet you. Thanks so much for your videos 😊
If you want to eat the best carbonara in Rome (and at this point probably of the world) I suggest "Tonnarello". The only problem is they don't accept reservations due to the hundreds of people eating there every day, so you have to be lucky, or be there at least 20 minutes before they open🙂
When I was in Italy last year, and yes, we also went to Rome, a thing to do is order more local wine. We learned about that in the restaurant across from our hotel. The proprietor gently "corrected" our wine choice saying to get a better experience one should order wine from that region.
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit that beautiful city twice now, including Pompeii. You have been a tremendous help in my international travels (especially punta cana!) . Thank you so much for providing these helpful tips and tricks ❤️❤️😁
Nicely timed, professor, especially after that report in media - I was half expecting this video! Tourists engraving their initials on the colosseum is the most shocking of the lot. Us tourists got our gripes on the Romans too. It may not be the place to mention it, but i'd like to tell the Romans how we hate being pickpocketed - But... not sure if my pet peeve fits here :)).
Mark, if you haven’t done so already, would love to see you do a video of the new upcoming 2024 law where US citizens have to apply for a visa for most countries in Europe, and your opinion on it. The upcoming ETIAS, European Travel Authorization System, and how it will affect Americans, including yourself. Thanks!
The photos ones, I’d be annoyed as a tourist too. “GTFO my way, I have places to be!” I went downtown to Philly with my mom (we’ve lived 18 miles out since I was born) it feels like a 2nd home, especially bc of all the doctors appointments; rare eye condition) It was my moms birthday & she dragged me along (my sister had to work 😤) she went to the basilica, I walked to the Art Museum. PACKED! Nothing but Latino/Latina (Spanish didn’t seem appropriate but neither does what I said) packed with South American soccer/Futbal fans. There was a match that Wednesday. I was honestly shocked. Never saw it that packed.
Italy here. You can always ask for a cappuccino or a milk in every bar at any time of the day but, please, not at a restaurant while having your meal (except for breakfast)!!!
When I was in Florence, I never would have ordered a cappuccino in the afternoon 😂 I just did in the morning and had espresso latter. Your coffee is amazing
@@shahjehan obviously mine was an advice, nobody will deny to serve a paying customer in Italy. Btw there are some behaviours that in our culture are considered rude. I would rather answer to you: remember to respect the culture of the country you visit even if you do not agree with it. Money cannot always buy everything, you know.
Happy to have a real Italian here! If I could ask you? On a scale of 1-10 how would you rate Roman's mistreatment of blacks? 1 being non-existent, 10 being the worst racism ever
@@WDH59510 you’re right. Seen nana games there. Even saw Totti score no. 299 against Palermo. We were there for de Rossi’s final game in the rain against Parma
When dining on your own, I got the impression they expect you to pay the bill before using the bathroom. Or maybe they were just offended by my pronunciation of "bagno."
Was in Rome three weeks ago. It is the dirtiest city I’ve ever been to, garbage is rarely picked up and when it is the garbage men drop trash all over the place. Most of the people I saw littering were locals, one shop owner threw an empty pack of cigarettes into the area around the Parthenon. Roman shop keepers & people in hotels are the rudest I’ve ever seen too. I know they deal with a lot but so do Parisians, Athenians, Londoners etc. Considering this and the massive hordes of tourists Rome is unfortunately off my list.
respect any country, every country laws and learn their culture. what tourists hate about romans: pickpockets, scams, those coliseum gladiators, aggressive "donations"
@@BortonMaverickNYC unfortunately these ones are not Italians but foreigners. The problem is that the authority don't actually have the power to stop those attitude because our law are so lax
Hello , because you talked about food and its authenticity, I was wondering if you could make a video about things to eat for those of us who don't eat pork. I don't want to insult anyone with speccial requests but also don't want to get ill due to my intolerance to pork meat
I'm guilty of not going outside the touristy areas. Had only 3 days in Rome plus 1 beside the Vatican and wanted to visit as many Roman ruins, museums and churches as was possible. Not sure if and when I can return and will certainly look at exploring outside the popular locations the next time round. One dislike I have about the central part of Rome including near the Vatican Museums is the widespread littering. The drain in front of the Pantheon was filled with rubbish and the wide steps opposite the Vatican museums entrance, absolutely horrendous. During the few days I was there , I spotted several (5 to 6) tourists casually flipping bits of paper and plastic on the streets. So tourists, STOP LITTERING.
Rome is my favorite city in EU. The part about taking up the sidewalk for a photo shoot made me laugh. Last time my daughter and I were there, we were at the Trevi Fountain and there was this woman who set up her cell phone on a tripod and was taking glamor shots of herself with the fountain in the background. This went on for over 5 minutes. It was the tourists who were incensed with this as there were no locals around. One word of caution about Rome. It has the worst statistics for pedestrian accidents with cars, bikes, and motorcycles in Europe. If you ever cross a busy street in Rome, you will understand why. Be mindful of crossing and try to obey the walk/don't walk signals. The electric scooter people will run you down because they think they don't need to obey traffic signals. I wish Rome would ban them.
Rome is like the Saigon of Europe for the way people drive. Except in Saigon everybody is on the same page, whereas in Rome we are all following different rules. I fucking love it.
If you are physically able to, please lift your luggage when on cobblestones. Don’t pull your luggage along them - the noise is very disrupting and it’s a selfish act. Also if you are on a narrow passage and want to take a picture, turn around to see if anyone needs by before occupying the space trying to get your perfect picture. My biggest pet peeve are influencers occupying prime locations for their perfect shot while others are waiting to use the spot also. One actually held up everyone for 20 minutes while the sun was setting.
What about those that don't eat pork? Is there something else besides guanciale that's acceptable or would it be insulting to just eat our carbonara plain?
There’s a Jewish restaurant called Ba’ ghetto which should have carbonara with dried goose meat instead of guanciale. I’ve never been there, but I’ve seen it on tv. I doubt Roman restaurants would skip the guanciale in their carbonara, but ask anyway before reserving a table
Yeah. We have to teach adults to not deface the same things you came to see, which other would also like to see. Whereas you came to see it because it is not some defaced wreck.
I have travelled so much all over the World. But This Will be my 1st Time in Rome (Well my 1st Time in Italy 🇮🇹). Unfortunately its Only a Stop Over. What is Possible to Do If I Land at 16:00 & Leave the Next Day at 9am. So Basically just 1 Whole Evening in Rome.
It depends on where are you staying. But don't rush to do it all. Take it like an appetizer, just to taste the "flavour" of the city. Take a long evening stroll from Saint Peter's Basilica and Castel Sant'Angelo, through the Ponte Sant'Angelo, then to Piazza Navona, Largo di Torre Argentina, Piazza Venezia, climb to the Piazza del Campidoglio, then go down to Via dei Fori Imperiali and the Colosseum, then walk back slowly to watch the Roman and Imperial Forums on both sides of the boulevard, watch the Trajan Column, cross Via Nazionale and walk towards Fontana di Trevi, then go to Via del Corso, cross it and go towards the Pantheon, go back to Via del Corso and follow it up to Piazza del Popolo. All the locations are lit beautifully, some shops are open until 22:00, there are several places to eat street food (NOT the mobile eatery!) and the streets are reasonably safe at evening. The only problem is that the A line metro works just till 21:00 on workdays and sunday and just till 1:30 on friday and saturday, and the day buses stop at 22:00 (after that there are just the night buses, that are fewer and pass less frequently), so you have to take that into account to plan your itinerary.
@@Laurelin70 Thank you so much for taking the Time to give me such a Detailed information 👍🥳🤗 Unfortunately Rome or the Whole of Italy has Not Been on the Top of my Travel List. I land in Rome FCO @ 16:00 So If All on Time ect, Then I Should Be out of Airport by 17:00. I see that it Takes: Public Transport Takes about 50 Mins From FCO Airport to Colosseum So I should make it before they Close. However Yes would be very Nice to go inside. But Once i even get to see it Outside will be a Bonus. 20 Mins Taxi I guess a Must Visit is ?. From Colosseum To Vatican City ? Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano + Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore They Are also Walkable. Weather Permit End of November Walk or do Se Kind of Taxi to Stop off at them All. Journey From Yerevan Armenia To Dublin Ireland. I Wanted to explore more Less Visited Countries. Countries thatndont get much Tourists. And Now i only have 1 Evening in Rome. So I guess I will have to Return again for a 2nd Visit Ofcourse if I like it 🤗👍🤣 .
Defacing historical monuments is a crime punishable by law. And even if it wasn't a crime, one would expect a visitor to understand the importance of respecting monuments and artifacts that have been there for centuries and millennia
I visited Rome in 2015. It was the first time organizing a trip by myself, as a surprise for my ex girlfriend. It was a great experience, except possibly the hotel bartender refusing to make the drink how I wanted it and then trying to charge me 70 Euros for a single drink. Not even any fancy alcohols in it. That was very sad.
Obviously, you can do carbonara and amatriciana with pancetta AT HOME. But if a restaurant prides itself to make "authentic" roman food, then it must use guanciale.
That was super funny!! Are you sure you're not italian? Your defense of our food is the most italian thing ever 🤣🤣. Also, some of these not-to-do things can be applied for a lot of places: try to walk slowly in NYC or London and you will hear some funny unrepeatable sweet words 🙈🤣.
So I shouldn't tell anyone that while I am careful to source guanciale from my local Italian deli, I add a bit of garlic to my carbonara? 😂 a travesty, I know. Also, too few non-Italians know about lardo di Colonnata. Not exactly Roman but it''s the best thing ever, Anglo-Saxon people! GIve it a chance.
@@desiderata2209 il Lardo di colonnata is an Italian excellence!! Bravo for recommend it... but the garlic in the carbonara, please, please, don't! 😔😔😂😂
Facts. As a Roman I can say that if I overhear you talking about needing an ATM I will give you DIRECTIONS. If you ask me I will give you DIRECTIONS. If you ask me to take you there I will wonder what is wrong with you and begrudgingly take you unless you're giving terrible vibes. We will never come to you offering to random help to find cash. None of us are leprechauns. Some of us are thieves, apparently.
In the 1970s when I was in the US navy, my ship was in Naples. A guy came back to the ship after being in Rome. He had a block of stone iwth him that weighed about 20 pounds. I asked him what it was and he said that it was a piece of the coliseum. He kicked at a wall or something and broke it off. I asked him, "What if everyone did that?" "So what?" he said. Sad. He was Italian, too from Providence Rhode Island.
Gawd! I despise bad tourists with a passion. Reminds me that when visiting Crete, Greece in 2010 we were in awe at the ancient ruins. I saw one Asian man about in his mid-50's age that looked to be Chinese purposefully trying to topple over a small freestanding column of about 7 feet, (2.1m) I was thinking to myself WTF is that guy doing? I tried to take a picture right away before he saw me and just left. I didn't get the picture. I tried to find a caretaker of the grounds and finally found one and told him what I saw and described the person in question. He said that he was sorry, but he couldn't do anything without him having seen the act. I'm still angry at seeing such disregard of world history.
First trip to Europe was Paris, Venice, Florence, Rome. Was the start of our traveling obsession and Rome remains my favorite city I've been to. Will say they were super friendly, even remember after a rough start to a night going in for some gelato, one order for my wife and wanted my own gelato with grappa on the side. The guy thought I wanted it on the gelato, leading to a fun exchange of me trying to clarify then another worker in the place tapping my wife on the shoulder, pointing to my new poured shot... "Do you know what this is? This is JET FUEL!". Can't wait to return in October and will remember the tip about the cheese. The insta model block the sidewalk tip isn't a concern. Whatever the camera is pointing at is far better off without me in the pic.
I was there a couple of weeks ago, even as a tourist i got offended that so many Americans were going to McDonalds and starbucks to eat, i mean why? Just why? Go to the other side of the world just to eat at McDonalds and drink starbucks coffee and not even try to eat some of the amazing italian cuisine. Why?
if your polite, stay out of the way and be respectful the locals see it and reward you. the tips for food, things to see not on the normal list of tourist sights ( the temple where Ceaser was killed one lady directed me to) , a little extra with your meal like trying an delicacy not on menu, an free glass of wine( or the whole bottle for the price of a glass like i got one day) to an extra shot of lemonchello, respect goes very far in Italy more then many other cities I been to world wide.
You forgot one important point: We hate it, when tourists run around town half naked like they were going to the beach when it's hot. It's actually forbidden in most towns in Italy to go shirtless. And don't get me wrong, this is not about prudery, it's just about decency and taste.
I went recently to Rome and when I asked someone where to find this bus stop, the lady looked at me and just said “no thank you” and walked away. I felt some locals are not friendly to people who speak pure English.
Not every Italian speaks English, our national language is Italian. It's true that some Italians are uncomfortable speaking other languages, and can be very impatient and would rather remove themselves from the situation. Which sucks if you're a tourist trying to get around.
Speaking of parmigiano cheese, I was always under the impression that it was non-existent in Rome. But I see it stocked in every supermarket, so I can infer that Romans eat them in their homes as well
Don't be fooled: Romans use parmigiano A LOT. Not on the real roman pasta dishes, like amatriciana, gricia and cacio e pepe (where you MUST use the pecorino cheese). But you use it on the ragu, on the classical tomato sauce and on the "pasta in bianco", i.e. with just butter and parmigiano. And we also love to eat it raw, as a second course or in salads or in specific dishes, like the straccetti rucola and parmigiano or on the pizza. A warning: the "parmigiana" has nothing to do with the parmigiano cheese; it can have it, but not always, it depends on the recipe you are following.
I don't expect Prof. Wolters to speak to speak to the Black Experience in Rome, but I will as a black man. It's simple, you pay tourist prices (or more) but will recieve stares, and bad treatment (yelling & etc). It's really a shame. It seemed to be the older generation who was this way as the youth 20's and 30's were some of the sweetest, most caring, and helpful people I've met! Americans are taught so much about ancient Rome! The food, the history, and other major contributions. It's a shame that they hold negative feelings/treatment against blacks.
I am sorry to hear you experienced this. Many of my friends have told me they had these kinds of experiences, and I have witnessed similar things myself. As a Roman it saddens me. I am constantly reminded how welcoming and incredibly friendly Italians can be, every time I come back after spending a few years abroad. Yet our country is plagued by xenophobia. The current government is not helping either. The misanthropic policies and rhetoric are eroding the values I grew up cherishing. I hope these bad experiences won't stop you returning to Rome.
@freakalmighty2533 I sincerely appreciate your words! You're so correct, it's almost like there is an ugly split. Those who are welcoming, and those that have a problem with black people. Your kindness reminds me of my friends I made in Rome. They showed me some authentic Carbonara and showed me many other things. One even took the time to show me Naples. I may return to Rome, but the bad taste will have me see Naples or the North, or maybe not at all. Thank you again! Romans, STOP THE RACISIM.For you reap what you sow.
If all the major cities. Paris London New York Hong Kong. I found the Romans to be the most friendly and accommodating. Even in the tourist area. In one restaurant we stopped to get some food but…. It was just after 3pm. And no food was being served. So we took a load off and I order a aperol spritz. The owner came over with a huge tray of pizza samples(an appetizer on the menu). He said “you’re hungry, no charge”.
Prof. Wolters, imagine 3 people in the line for tickets to the vatican museum. I asked the attendent where the line was for tickets, because I didn't think there could only be 3 people in line. He angrily shouted at me (which I shouted back) that it was right there. These type of shouting matches happened often. Are the Romans P.O'd?
I can't believe people would carve thier names into historric things. Someone got busted recently and tried to make excuses about it, saying they didn't know it was old....it is proper vandalism and a shame that happened
True historical fact about Italy: After world war 2, we Italians collectively agreed that fascism had no place in politics, but that it was perfectly acceptable in the kitchen. If we see any of you putting ham or, god forbid, cream in your carbonara, we will beat you to the rhythm of our national anthem.
It might be suggested that I am too old and inflexible, but these were pet peeves of mine when I was childishly young. Going into ANY church dressed inappropriately is bony okay. If I had no other clothes, I would contact a woman of the church and explain my predicament and I am confident that she would help me with a solution. Most likely, she would also offer a private tour of the church, as well. If you lack the means to call ahead, ring or knock at the main door and explain. Then, wait outside until they bring you a cover of some sort. Your beliefs are irrelevant, it is not your home. Deface a shop, a restaraunt table or even menu is terrible! Who do you think you are?!? But deface an antiquity?!? WHAT?!? This reminds me of a warring faction who cut a swath of destruction through the Middle East and destroyed several ancient and irreplaceable monuments. Tragic, arrogant and inexcusable. If I were a leader in any village, town, city, or country, I would have the individual(s) packed up, escorted to the train station or airport and would ban them from returning to the region. Harsh? We aren’t talking about accidents but incredible disrespect of the people of that region as well as disregard for their own people by being such an embarrassing representative of their own. Visiting an area and expecting it to be or contain conveniences or rules from your home area? (Not sure you even mentioned it but it is part and partial on this topic that I find disturbing and I often see/hear this complaints from our home country - Mark and I come from the same country). If your can’t live without the things you are whining about and you did not have room in your suitcase for your manners, then stay home. There are millions who would be happy to have the seat you can vacate and be glad of the privilege to travel to such a place. Sorry Mark. This comment could be considered rude or overly harsh and maybe it is. But I could want to downplay or soft pedal a typical reaction to behaviors that you actually had to create and publish a video to discourage these kinds of behaviors. I am appalled that this needed to be said. To more than one individual. Thank you for saying it. And for somehow being firm in the Don’ts while staying polite in the process. I am in awe of your tact.
I have watched A LOT of your excellent videos, and really appreciate all the useful travel information that you have provided from your vast travel experience, but do you really think that Anyone in YOUR audience needs to be advised not to deface the monuments in Rome????..that comment was just weird, and, I assume, most likely, overzealously created!..It's Much better when you keep it real.
Whenever I see someone with a selfie-stick holding up a group of people while they pose different ways in front of an attraction, I have the intense desire to wrap the thing around their neck. Everyone wants pictures, but really? I cannot imagine that anyone would deface a thousand year old artifact, but yet people do. Rome is magnificent and very crowded; there are all kinds...
As to your No1, notice how these criminals and yes, that's what people who deface priceless works of art and architecture are, notice how they never pull that in countries like say...Singapore or Japan or China! Perhaps that's the line these other nations need to take to prevent that.
The locals wanna benefit from tourism but don’t have patience with tourists. I saw it firsthand. Defacing or antisocial behavior is definitely disrespectful, but some of the locals are quite rude, especially in their demeanor. The food was a disappointment. Rome is overrated!
Hi Wolters, italian guy here. Honestly I think I'll never understand some of those behaviours from my compatriots. Expecially if you live in a big, beautiful and full of history city like Rome you should be prepared to welcome people from all over the world, and yes, tourist should explore and respect the countries they're in, but it's true even the opposite: locals should respect tourists needs. I mean, here nobody drinks a cappuccino after maybe 11:30 am, but if you're american (or from any other country) and for you it's normal to drink some milk with coffee even after dinner why I have to be mad at you if you ask a cappuccino after dinner?
However it's true that many tourists don't respect (of don't understand the importance of) some places, entering churches or cathedrals dressed like they're on a beach, taking a bath in historical fountains, eating and leaving litter on monuments, this is truly disrespectful and locals will surely be mad at you if you do stuff like this.
When I was in Rome back in 1999, I tried to behave as hedonistic as the Romans of the past.¨
I did not appreciate however how the hostel had hours where everyone had to be out.
I like to sleep in.
Next time, I'd expect the VIP trreatment.
Regards
A drunken Northerner.
Thanks for the input bro!
I want to talk to a real Roman! I felt looked down upon as a black person living in Rome for a month. Are many of the Roman's racists?
An example, in Ostiense I went to a TERRIBLE pizza place called Luigis. I waited patiently as every Roman guest was served first. I listened for my order number patiently. After 30 minutes waiting for pizza (everyone knows it doesn't take that long) I took the box home. When I got home I saw the saddest pizza in the world that looked like it had been bitten into. I went back to Luigis and told them to make me another pizza or give me my money back.Are the Romans racists?
@@seuconrado3365 I'm sorry for your bad experience. Unfortunately in Italy there are many racists, and our government it's a proof of that. I mean, there are even many good people, we're a welcoming country, but we have a problem with racism.
Rome is beautiful but in my opinion they lack in customer service. I experienced lots of rude customer service at stores and restaurants.
I love Rome. Amazing city with such nice people. Was just there in May and I miss it dearly.
It's very disappointing tourists would try carving their names into things. Like my dear Grandma used to say, "Fools' names are like their faces, always seen in public places."
but think about it, this is how alien archeologists will learn about us , by studying these carvings after we are long gone having destroyed ourselves in nuclear Holocaust. Familiar with Altamira in Spain? These neolithic paintings on the walls. Have they been defacing these caves 10K years ago. I am not 100% serious, but, I think, that may be, we take ourselves and the ruins of our past way too seriously. It will erode to dust at some point anyway.
Tourists aren't the only ones who do such things.
I love all your tips and tricks for the wonderful cities, towns and villages you have visited.
as a Roman I have no problems with anyone. you are all welcome, the only thing I ask is that you respect the monuments. do not bath in the fountains and do not write on the coliseum. For the rest have fun and enjoy.
Nice! We were visiting Rome last july and had a great time, especially in Trastevere (despite 41 degrees centigrade )
That is a hot trip 😀
@@woltersworld it definitely was..;)
As a reception manager in a high end hotel in Rome and working in this business for the last two decades allow me to add two things;
1) carving your name on a monument not only is disrespectful, it is an outright crime for which they will chase you no matter at which end of the world you live with a multi thousand fine.
2) one thing that bugs me personally and I get that question so often by our American friends is; “is it safe?”, ffs; Rome is incredibly safe even at night, no one has any weapons here, literally no one will ever mug you, but there’s a big BUT, pickpockets are very common, so just keep your eyes pealed literally at all times even in apparently unsuspected places.
Pick pockets falls under not safe.
Why does that question bother you?
You can literally have all your most valuable things stolen from you. That absolutely falls under not being safe and we should all be very cautious. Obviously it's not physically harmful at the moment, but...
@@LM-dl3yx that’s exactly what I answer, that Rome is very safe aside from pick pockets, what they mean however by the way they put it when they ask me that question is clear to me, they do mean harm.
Again, my job relies a lot on the Americans and those are my overall favourite clients tbh. Also, every country has their own perks and that’s only natural, I just probably got asked that question too often, I am only human.
I have to ask! As a manager in a high end hotel have you seen many (or any) black people in positions of leadership? Or more just security guards at your hotel.
@@seuconrado3365 why would you ask him a question like that? Race hustling?
@@seuconrado3365 why would you ask him a question like that? Race hustling?
When I took my mom to Europe last year, we stayed in Trastavere and it was a very nice and quiet neighborhood.
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit that beautiful city twice (and Pompeii!). I’ve been watching you for years. Thank you so much for all the helpful tips and tricks (you were especially helpful for punta cana!) you’ve provided through the years!!❤❤😁
In Italy, I once asked a waitress if she would bring my salad before my meal. She looked at me, thought about it, and replied "No, you're in Italy" and walked away. Right, she was.
Some of us eat salad before our meal
@@nicolettastrada5976 philistine
This is very relatable. I think Rome is just deeply misunderstood for better and for worse, beyond the cliches that mass culture/media saw on her. There's a channel that talks about Roman history for tourist, named Schwerpunkt who made tons of videos on the issue of the importance of Rome behind what people see and even the most common historical ideas. Not sure it's the right niche because the channel goes very much in depth with historical philosophy, detail, etc., but it rocks hard. If anyone loves Rome, Roman but also Italian history in general, they should give it a watch
What channel is that? The misconceptions of Rome and many Italian cities is quite big. We visited Parma and discovered more about Parma beyond the food but more in line with the history, music and culture. We released a video in Parma this week that goes deep ... Check it out on our channel.
2:26 Oooh what's that food, looks nice
Always great advice Mark. Last time I was in Rome, I really enjoyed trying some Roman style pasta. Definitely a good local style food to enjoy in Rome that is perhaps a bit less internationally famous than the pastas & other foods from up in Bologna.
The Americans say many non-English word wrong and they do that very confidently. Not just the pronouncination is totally wrong but the meaning as well.
If you want a coffee with milk that is NOT "latte" . Latte means milk. If you ask for latte, the waiter will bring you a glass of milk. And laTTe with long T and not "late".
If you ask for "panini", they will ask you how many. "panini" means sandwiches, it is plural. "panino" means sandwich.
One thing I also do is stay off the subway in their rush hour if I can help it… go to a café, take a leisurely stroll or shop just to let them get home more easily!
As always great advice. Another piece of advice. In the morning at breakfast.. don't be cheap and raid the breakfast buffet to fill up a doggy bag. They estimate the food so all guests get fed and when you do that the later sittings run out of food because early birds have "been there"
On the positive DO visit the Jewish ghetto and Synagogue there's some lovely restaurants in the side streets serving simple kosher food and it's delicious and very reasonable.
It's just opposite the Vatican.
Good job! As a Roman I am always pleased whenever a foreigner recommends the restaurants at the ghetto.
The pastry from that neighbourhood are some of the nicest in town too.
You are welcome back anytime, sir/madam
One comment on the breakfast: skip it.
Go to the bar and eat a cornetto (or whatever other breakfast pastry you like) and drink your coffee standing up at the counter.
If you sit down for breakfast you are living wrong.
Thanks for sharin, I just love Italian/Roman food.....the pasta, lasagna, pizza, spaghetti. It is good to know the right way of eating stuff there...even if pamazan isi great. Chao
Loved it there but was only on two layovers so got about 12 hrs but had friends there that picked me up and i basically got to see things like the coliseum but from the road but they took me out to eat and they drove me around to see some stuff. Love to go back and really be a tourist
Great vid. Heading back this fall. I love Rome and Italy. Can’t agree more on your food advice, venture out at night. Rome is safe, lots of police and army everywhere. Don’t forget to take your hat off when you walk into the Pantheon or any basilica or get a scolding (guilty). Plus learn basic Italian words like for greetings, excuse me, thank you and so on. They appreciate it even though most speak perfect English. 🇮🇹🇮🇹🇮🇹🍕🍕
Manners and grace never go out of style.
I agree! It would be nice of the Roman's held that belief for black foreigners
#2 is also important for me as someone working in Hamburg. Like every day, I have to wait or go around people staging fancy shoots just on the walkway. I think people do not realize this at all. They visit a city and its only reason is for their production.
I'm planing to go to rome the first week in september in 2024, if you're there at that time it would be fun/nice to meet you. Thanks so much for your videos 😊
Ur gonna love it. It's an absolutely beautiful place.
Please be careful there.
If you want to eat the best carbonara in Rome (and at this point probably of the world) I suggest "Tonnarello". The only problem is they don't accept reservations due to the hundreds of people eating there every day, so you have to be lucky, or be there at least 20 minutes before they open🙂
@@FrancescoBignardi thanks 😊
@@gglaw42 i'll 😊
When I was in Italy last year, and yes, we also went to Rome, a thing to do is order more local wine. We learned about that in the restaurant across from our hotel. The proprietor gently "corrected" our wine choice saying to get a better experience one should order wine from that region.
Hey Mark, awesome video
So excited to visit in a couple months! ❤
Rome is incredible. All roads lead to Rome as they say. We just released a video in Parma, Italy on our channel as well.
I’ve been fortunate enough to visit that beautiful city twice now, including Pompeii. You have been a tremendous help in my international travels (especially punta cana!) . Thank you so much for providing these helpful tips and tricks ❤️❤️😁
Nicely timed, professor, especially after that report in media - I was half expecting this video! Tourists engraving their initials on the colosseum is the most shocking of the lot. Us tourists got our gripes on the Romans too. It may not be the place to mention it, but i'd like to tell the Romans how we hate being pickpocketed - But... not sure if my pet peeve fits here :)).
Next time you are here, we will reimburse you with gelato!
Mark, if you haven’t done so already, would love to see you do a video of the new upcoming 2024 law where US citizens have to apply for a visa for most countries in Europe, and your opinion on it. The upcoming ETIAS, European Travel Authorization System, and how it will affect Americans, including yourself. Thanks!
The photos ones, I’d be annoyed as a tourist too. “GTFO my way, I have places to be!”
I went downtown to Philly with my mom (we’ve lived 18 miles out since I was born) it feels like a 2nd home, especially bc of all the doctors appointments; rare eye condition)
It was my moms birthday & she dragged me along (my sister had to work 😤) she went to the basilica, I walked to the Art Museum. PACKED! Nothing but Latino/Latina (Spanish didn’t seem appropriate but neither does what I said) packed with South American soccer/Futbal fans. There was a match that Wednesday. I was honestly shocked. Never saw it that packed.
Italy here. You can always ask for a cappuccino or a milk in every bar at any time of the day but, please, not at a restaurant while having your meal (except for breakfast)!!!
When I was in Florence, I never would have ordered a cappuccino in the afternoon 😂 I just did in the morning and had espresso latter. Your coffee is amazing
A paying customer can ask for anything on the menu. Learn to live with other people’s decisions for what they want. They’re paying not you. 😂
@@shahjehan obviously mine was an advice, nobody will deny to serve a paying customer in Italy. Btw there are some behaviours that in our culture are considered rude. I would rather answer to you: remember to respect the culture of the country you visit even if you do not agree with it. Money cannot always buy everything, you know.
@@shahjehan Paying can buy you what you want, but surely doesn't buy you the respect of who is serving you.
Happy to have a real Italian here! If I could ask you? On a scale of 1-10 how would you rate Roman's mistreatment of blacks? 1 being non-existent, 10 being the worst racism ever
We go to Rome twice every year. You must go see AS Roma or SS Lazio play at the stadio Olimpico
Good idea but choose what you wear wisely.
@@WDH59510 you’re right. Seen nana games there. Even saw Totti score no. 299 against Palermo. We were there for de Rossi’s final game in the rain against Parma
Must partake of Italy. Definite bucket list.
When dining on your own, I got the impression they expect you to pay the bill before using the bathroom. Or maybe they were just offended by my pronunciation of "bagno."
Was in Rome three weeks ago. It is the dirtiest city I’ve ever been to, garbage is rarely picked up and when it is the garbage men drop trash all over the place. Most of the people I saw littering were locals, one shop owner threw an empty pack of cigarettes into the area around the Parthenon. Roman shop keepers & people in hotels are the rudest I’ve ever seen too. I know they deal with a lot but so do Parisians, Athenians, Londoners etc. Considering this and the massive hordes of tourists Rome is unfortunately off my list.
Don't weat soccer colours either. Especially when there's a game on. Keep that snazzy AS Roma / Lazio shirt you bought for when you get home.
Where I work at Bocca in Birmingham AL we have guancale and Pecorino Romano.
respect any country, every country laws and learn their culture. what tourists hate about romans: pickpockets, scams, those coliseum gladiators, aggressive "donations"
All of these are acted by not romans, and even not italians.
Scammers are gipsy people.
Gladiators are not italians but slavic
@@BortonMaverickNYC unfortunately these ones are not Italians but foreigners. The problem is that the authority don't actually have the power to stop those attitude because our law are so lax
I love Rome. It’s a beautiful place to visit 😀
I think this depends on the skin color. Very unfortunate but real
Do you have a video on how I can reach alberello, Puglia by trsin I have not viewed your video on that location ❤ ur videos
Awesome info
Hello , because you talked about food and its authenticity, I was wondering if you could make a video about things to eat for those of us who don't eat pork. I don't want to insult anyone with speccial requests but also don't want to get ill due to my intolerance to pork meat
People should not have to be told to not disrespect the heritage of any city. Sad times we live in
I watched a “local” freak out when someone in the restaurant put ketchup on their pasta. Life’s short, don’t sweat the small stuff 😂
Ketchup on pasta is not "small stuff". What are you going to do next? Slap my mother?
I'm guilty of not going outside the touristy areas. Had only 3 days in Rome plus 1 beside the Vatican and wanted to visit as many Roman ruins, museums and churches as was possible. Not sure if and when I can return and will certainly look at exploring outside the popular locations the next time round.
One dislike I have about the central part of Rome including near the Vatican Museums is the widespread littering. The drain in front of the Pantheon was filled with rubbish and the wide steps opposite the Vatican museums entrance, absolutely horrendous. During the few days I was there , I spotted several (5 to 6) tourists casually flipping bits of paper and plastic on the streets. So tourists, STOP LITTERING.
So the HQ of the Catholic Church is a tourist Mecca? Isn’t that ironic?
Rome is my favorite city in EU. The part about taking up the sidewalk for a photo shoot made me laugh. Last time my daughter and I were there, we were at the Trevi Fountain and there was this woman who set up her cell phone on a tripod and was taking glamor shots of herself with the fountain in the background. This went on for over 5 minutes. It was the tourists who were incensed with this as there were no locals around.
One word of caution about Rome. It has the worst statistics for pedestrian accidents with cars, bikes, and motorcycles in Europe. If you ever cross a busy street in Rome, you will understand why. Be mindful of crossing and try to obey the walk/don't walk signals. The electric scooter people will run you down because they think they don't need to obey traffic signals. I wish Rome would ban them.
Rome is like the Saigon of Europe for the way people drive. Except in Saigon everybody is on the same page, whereas in Rome we are all following different rules.
I fucking love it.
As Obelix says it: "These Romans are crazy" or "Ils sont fous ces romains!" in French! ^^
If you are physically able to, please lift your luggage when on cobblestones. Don’t pull your luggage along them - the noise is very disrupting and it’s a selfish act. Also if you are on a narrow passage and want to take a picture, turn around to see if anyone needs by before occupying the space trying to get your perfect picture. My biggest pet peeve are influencers occupying prime locations for their perfect shot while others are waiting to use the spot also. One actually held up everyone for 20 minutes while the sun was setting.
I would've gotten in their way until they left. That's unacceptable behavior.
When I first went to Trevi fountain in 2017 I felt like it should be renamed Selfie fountain.
What about those that don't eat pork? Is there something else besides guanciale that's acceptable or would it be insulting to just eat our carbonara plain?
There’s a Jewish restaurant called Ba’ ghetto which should have carbonara with dried goose meat instead of guanciale. I’ve never been there, but I’ve seen it on tv. I doubt Roman restaurants would skip the guanciale in their carbonara, but ask anyway before reserving a table
In London - Act as you like but NEVER stand on the left side of the escalator when using the Tube. Then you'll be OK
Gaaaaahhhhhhhhh where was this in 1994 when I needed it?! 😮😂🤣😂🤣
Yeah. We have to teach adults to not deface the same things you came to see, which other would also like to see. Whereas you came to see it because it is not some defaced wreck.
I have travelled so much all over the World.
But
This Will be my 1st Time in Rome (Well my 1st Time in Italy 🇮🇹).
Unfortunately its Only a Stop Over.
What is Possible to Do
If I Land at 16:00
&
Leave the Next Day at 9am.
So Basically just 1 Whole Evening in Rome.
It depends on where are you staying. But don't rush to do it all. Take it like an appetizer, just to taste the "flavour" of the city. Take a long evening stroll from Saint Peter's Basilica and Castel Sant'Angelo, through the Ponte Sant'Angelo, then to Piazza Navona, Largo di Torre Argentina, Piazza Venezia, climb to the Piazza del Campidoglio, then go down to Via dei Fori Imperiali and the Colosseum, then walk back slowly to watch the Roman and Imperial Forums on both sides of the boulevard, watch the Trajan Column, cross Via Nazionale and walk towards Fontana di Trevi, then go to Via del Corso, cross it and go towards the Pantheon, go back to Via del Corso and follow it up to Piazza del Popolo. All the locations are lit beautifully, some shops are open until 22:00, there are several places to eat street food (NOT the mobile eatery!) and the streets are reasonably safe at evening. The only problem is that the A line metro works just till 21:00 on workdays and sunday and just till 1:30 on friday and saturday, and the day buses stop at 22:00 (after that there are just the night buses, that are fewer and pass less frequently), so you have to take that into account to plan your itinerary.
@@Laurelin70 Thank you so much for taking the Time to give me such a Detailed information 👍🥳🤗
Unfortunately Rome or the Whole of Italy has Not Been on the Top of my Travel List.
I land in Rome FCO @ 16:00
So
If All on Time ect, Then I Should Be out of Airport by 17:00.
I see that it Takes:
Public Transport Takes about 50 Mins
From
FCO Airport to Colosseum
So
I should make it before they Close.
However
Yes would be very Nice to go inside.
But
Once i even get to see it Outside will be a Bonus.
20 Mins Taxi I guess a Must Visit is ?.
From
Colosseum To Vatican City ?
Basilica di San Giovanni in Laterano
+
Basilica Papale di Santa Maria Maggiore
They
Are also Walkable.
Weather Permit End of November
Walk or do Se Kind of Taxi to Stop off at them All.
Journey
From Yerevan Armenia
To Dublin Ireland.
I Wanted to explore more Less Visited Countries.
Countries thatndont get much Tourists.
And Now i only have 1 Evening in Rome.
So
I guess I will have to Return again for a 2nd Visit
Ofcourse if I like it 🤗👍🤣 .
Defacing historical monuments is a crime punishable by law. And even if it wasn't a crime, one would expect a visitor to understand the importance of respecting monuments and artifacts that have been there for centuries and millennia
I visited Rome in 2015. It was the first time organizing a trip by myself, as a surprise for my ex girlfriend. It was a great experience, except possibly the hotel bartender refusing to make the drink how I wanted it and then trying to charge me 70 Euros for a single drink. Not even any fancy alcohols in it. That was very sad.
Italians please correct me, but I’ve seen Italians themselves say pancetta is ok for a Carbonara or an Amatriciana.
Obviously, you can do carbonara and amatriciana with pancetta AT HOME. But if a restaurant prides itself to make "authentic" roman food, then it must use guanciale.
@@Laurelin70 ah ok thanks!
Can you make a video about Albania please
If you order a Cappuccino past 11 AM, they, Romans, will make you an offer you can't refuse.
Same goes for trying to order pineapple pizza.
Pineapple pizza is a crime in Italy! There is immediate arrest and imprisonment with sentences ranging from 6 months to 1 year! 👍🤣🤣🤣
That was super funny!! Are you sure you're not italian? Your defense of our food is the most italian thing ever 🤣🤣. Also, some of these not-to-do things can be applied for a lot of places: try to walk slowly in NYC or London and you will hear some funny unrepeatable sweet words 🙈🤣.
So I shouldn't tell anyone that while I am careful to source guanciale from my local Italian deli, I add a bit of garlic to my carbonara? 😂 a travesty, I know. Also, too few non-Italians know about lardo di Colonnata. Not exactly Roman but it''s the best thing ever, Anglo-Saxon people! GIve it a chance.
"Ayyee I'm walkin' ovah here" is a known global frustration of Metropolitan cities...😂
@@paradoxparade1 exactly 🤣🤣
@@desiderata2209 il Lardo di colonnata is an Italian excellence!! Bravo for recommend it... but the garlic in the carbonara, please, please, don't! 😔😔😂😂
Don't fall for someone who wants to 'help you find a bancomat/ATM'. Don't do it.
Yup, if you need cash, just ask your phone to locate the closest ACTUAL bank…or just get cash before you go.
Facts.
As a Roman I can say that if I overhear you talking about needing an ATM I will give you DIRECTIONS.
If you ask me I will give you DIRECTIONS.
If you ask me to take you there I will wonder what is wrong with you and begrudgingly take you unless you're giving terrible vibes.
We will never come to you offering to random help to find cash.
None of us are leprechauns. Some of us are thieves, apparently.
You haven’t lived until you’ve been to a soccer match in Rome. I kid you not.
In the 1970s when I was in the US navy, my ship was in Naples. A guy came back to the ship after being in Rome. He had a block of stone iwth him that weighed about 20 pounds. I asked him what it was and he said that it was a piece of the coliseum. He kicked at a wall or something and broke it off. I asked him, "What if everyone did that?" "So what?" he said. Sad. He was Italian, too from Providence Rhode Island.
Common sense. People nowadays are lacking that trait.
Gawd! I despise bad tourists with a passion. Reminds me that when visiting Crete, Greece in 2010 we were in awe at the ancient ruins. I saw one Asian man about in his mid-50's age that looked to be Chinese purposefully trying to topple over a small freestanding column of about 7 feet, (2.1m) I was thinking to myself WTF is that guy doing?
I tried to take a picture right away before he saw me and just left. I didn't get the picture. I tried to find a caretaker of the grounds and finally found one and told him what I saw and described the person in question. He said that he was sorry, but he couldn't do anything without him having seen the act. I'm still angry at seeing such disregard of world history.
Greatest city in the world.
Google said guanciale is pork. It’s derived from pork. Sounds like it’s made from it 🤷🏽♂️
Guanciale is the cheek of pork, pancetta is the belly of pork. Different texture, different fat percentage, different kind of fat.
Can you recommend an Uber like car service at night in Rome? I'd like to download the app. 😊
Freenow, it has a red icon, it is without question the best app not only in Rome but in many cities in the EU.
First trip to Europe was Paris, Venice, Florence, Rome. Was the start of our traveling obsession and Rome remains my favorite city I've been to. Will say they were super friendly, even remember after a rough start to a night going in for some gelato, one order for my wife and wanted my own gelato with grappa on the side. The guy thought I wanted it on the gelato, leading to a fun exchange of me trying to clarify then another worker in the place tapping my wife on the shoulder, pointing to my new poured shot... "Do you know what this is? This is JET FUEL!".
Can't wait to return in October and will remember the tip about the cheese. The insta model block the sidewalk tip isn't a concern. Whatever the camera is pointing at is far better off without me in the pic.
I was there a couple of weeks ago, even as a tourist i got offended that so many Americans were going to McDonalds and starbucks to eat, i mean why? Just why? Go to the other side of the world just to eat at McDonalds and drink starbucks coffee and not even try to eat some of the amazing italian cuisine. Why?
My parents did just that in Amsterdam. On the grounds that "they would have clean bathrooms". Sheesh ...
if your polite, stay out of the way and be respectful the locals see it and reward you.
the tips for food, things to see not on the normal list of tourist sights ( the temple where Ceaser was killed one lady directed me to) , a little extra with your meal like trying an delicacy not on menu, an free glass of wine( or the whole bottle for the price of a glass like i got one day) to an extra shot of lemonchello, respect goes very far in Italy more then many other cities I been to world wide.
You forgot one important point: We hate it, when tourists run around town half naked like they were going to the beach when it's hot. It's actually forbidden in most towns in Italy to go shirtless. And don't get me wrong, this is not about prudery, it's just about decency and taste.
I went recently to Rome and when I asked someone where to find this bus stop, the lady looked at me and just said “no thank you” and walked away.
I felt some locals are not friendly to people who speak pure English.
She just didn’t understand you
Not every Italian speaks English, our national language is Italian.
It's true that some Italians are uncomfortable speaking other languages, and can be very impatient and would rather remove themselves from the situation.
Which sucks if you're a tourist trying to get around.
People try to drive their cars down the spanish steps?! 😮
Speaking of parmigiano cheese, I was always under the impression that it was non-existent in Rome. But I see it stocked in every supermarket, so I can infer that Romans eat them in their homes as well
Don't be fooled: Romans use parmigiano A LOT. Not on the real roman pasta dishes, like amatriciana, gricia and cacio e pepe (where you MUST use the pecorino cheese). But you use it on the ragu, on the classical tomato sauce and on the "pasta in bianco", i.e. with just butter and parmigiano. And we also love to eat it raw, as a second course or in salads or in specific dishes, like the straccetti rucola and parmigiano or on the pizza.
A warning: the "parmigiana" has nothing to do with the parmigiano cheese; it can have it, but not always, it depends on the recipe you are following.
❤❤❤❤
In my experience they are really tired of giving directions to tourists which I understand. They have places to go and their lives to live.
I don't expect Prof. Wolters to speak to speak to the Black Experience in Rome, but I will as a black man. It's simple, you pay tourist prices (or more) but will recieve stares, and bad treatment (yelling & etc). It's really a shame. It seemed to be the older generation who was this way as the youth 20's and 30's were some of the sweetest, most caring, and helpful people I've met!
Americans are taught so much about ancient Rome! The food, the history, and other major contributions. It's a shame that they hold negative feelings/treatment against blacks.
I am sorry to hear you experienced this.
Many of my friends have told me they had these kinds of experiences, and I have witnessed similar things myself.
As a Roman it saddens me.
I am constantly reminded how welcoming and incredibly friendly Italians can be, every time I come back after spending a few years abroad.
Yet our country is plagued by xenophobia.
The current government is not helping either. The misanthropic policies and rhetoric are eroding the values I grew up cherishing.
I hope these bad experiences won't stop you returning to Rome.
@freakalmighty2533 I sincerely appreciate your words! You're so correct, it's almost like there is an ugly split. Those who are welcoming, and those that have a problem with black people.
Your kindness reminds me of my friends I made in Rome. They showed me some authentic Carbonara and showed me many other things. One even took the time to show me Naples. I may return to Rome, but the bad taste will have me see Naples or the North, or maybe not at all.
Thank you again!
Romans, STOP THE RACISIM.For you reap what you sow.
Are you sure the locals get mad that tourists DO NOT go outside the city center for the local cuisine?
They don't give a shit, honestly!!!🤌🤣🤣
If all the major cities. Paris London New York Hong Kong. I found the Romans to be the most friendly and accommodating. Even in the tourist area. In one restaurant we stopped to get some food but…. It was just after 3pm. And no food was being served. So we took a load off and I order a aperol spritz. The owner came over with a huge tray of pizza samples(an appetizer on the menu). He said “you’re hungry, no charge”.
Don’t ask where the Starbucks is.
We’ve been to Rome 31 times and have seen the tourist problem worsen. Flip flops , loud college tee shirts, underdressed morons etc
Prof. Wolters, imagine 3 people in the line for tickets to the vatican museum.
I asked the attendent where the line was for tickets, because I didn't think there could only be 3 people in line. He angrily shouted at me (which I shouted back) that it was right there. These type of shouting matches happened often. Are the Romans P.O'd?
And never take a dip in the Trevi Fountain.
I can't believe people would carve thier names into historric things. Someone got busted recently and tried to make excuses about it, saying they didn't know it was old....it is proper vandalism and a shame that happened
The fact that you have to mention these things is sad. It should be common sense behavior when you travel. I want to go when its the least tourists.
True historical fact about Italy:
After world war 2, we Italians collectively agreed that fascism had no place in politics, but that it was perfectly acceptable in the kitchen.
If we see any of you putting ham or, god forbid, cream in your carbonara, we will beat you to the rhythm of our national anthem.
Im not Italian but milk in the tea, that is realy stupid
the only rome locals i'd be ok with offending would be lazio supporters daje roma!
Hearing these things make me sad. People need to become dedicated disruptors to these "influencers".
It might be suggested that I am too old and inflexible, but these were pet peeves of mine when I was childishly young. Going into ANY church dressed inappropriately is bony okay. If I had no other clothes, I would contact a woman of the church and explain my predicament and I am confident that she would help me with a solution. Most likely, she would also offer a private tour of the church, as well. If you lack the means to call ahead, ring or knock at the main door and explain. Then, wait outside until they bring you a cover of some sort. Your beliefs are irrelevant, it is not your home.
Deface a shop, a restaraunt table or even menu is terrible! Who do you think you are?!? But deface an antiquity?!? WHAT?!? This reminds me of a warring faction who cut a swath of destruction through the Middle East and destroyed several ancient and irreplaceable monuments. Tragic, arrogant and inexcusable. If I were a leader in any village, town, city, or country, I would have the individual(s) packed up, escorted to the train station or airport and would ban them from returning to the region. Harsh? We aren’t talking about accidents but incredible disrespect of the people of that region as well as disregard for their own people by being such an embarrassing representative of their own.
Visiting an area and expecting it to be or contain conveniences or rules from your home area? (Not sure you even mentioned it but it is part and partial on this topic that I find disturbing and I often see/hear this complaints from our home country - Mark and I come from the same country). If your can’t live without the things you are whining about and you did not have room in your suitcase for your manners, then stay home. There are millions who would be happy to have the seat you can vacate and be glad of the privilege to travel to such a place.
Sorry Mark. This comment could be considered rude or overly harsh and maybe it is. But I could want to downplay or soft pedal a typical reaction to behaviors that you actually had to create and publish a video to discourage these kinds of behaviors. I am appalled that this needed to be said. To more than one individual.
Thank you for saying it. And for somehow being firm in the Don’ts while staying polite in the process. I am in awe of your tact.
I have watched A LOT of your excellent videos, and really appreciate all the useful travel information that you have provided from your vast travel experience, but do you really think that Anyone in YOUR audience needs to be advised not to deface the monuments in Rome????..that comment was just weird, and, I assume, most likely, overzealously created!..It's Much better when you keep it real.
Whenever I see someone with a selfie-stick holding up a group of people while they pose different ways in front of an attraction, I have the intense desire to wrap the thing around their neck. Everyone wants pictures, but really? I cannot imagine that anyone would deface a thousand year old artifact, but yet people do. Rome is magnificent and very crowded; there are all kinds...
I don't understand why any restaurant would be upset with what a paying customer chooses to eat. Get over yourselves
As to your No1, notice how these criminals and yes, that's what people who deface priceless works of art and architecture are, notice how they never pull that in countries like say...Singapore or Japan or China! Perhaps that's the line these other nations need to take to prevent that.
I never liked Italy because of the tourists and I was a tourist myself. It ruined my experience.
I struggled with there too. Alot of dirty looks, mistreatment, and being talked down upon. It's a shame, I wanted to big-Up the Italians!
Now i want carbonara with cheek! Mmmm
It's so sad you have to say don't deface public property.
The locals wanna benefit from tourism but don’t have patience with tourists. I saw it firsthand. Defacing or antisocial behavior is definitely disrespectful, but some of the locals are quite rude, especially in their demeanor. The food was a disappointment. Rome is overrated!