Just a few notes by an italian: if someone hits you not apologizing for it, he is definitely rude. And public transport isn't always late. It's more a Rome thing than a general italian one. Here in Milan public transport is always on time (but we also have strikes).
I'm heading to Italy in a few days. I've been checking out videos and reading comments about outfits, but I've decided that I'm going to dress in a way that makes me feel comfortable and confident. My main goal is to have a great time on my vacation without compromising my own style or disrespecting anyone..
I completely agree and as a stylist I always tell my clients - the most important is that you feel good and confident in what you wear. You can wear the prettiest outfit but if it does not resonate with who you are - you will not enjoy wearing it and people around you will feel it too. Have the most special trip!
Anastasia, besides the fact that you seem to be super cool and fun. Your videos are well very produced, informative and positively entertaining. Soon, October 17th, 2023, my wife of 35 years and I are headed to Europe for a cruise on the Enchanted Princess (Grand Western Mediterranean). We will be staying In Barcelona (pre cruise) for a few days at the Hotel Claris, then spending eleven days on the Enchanted Princess ship, stopping at numerous cities along the way. Our final destination is Rome (post cruise) where we will spend a few days at the Le Meridian Visconti hotel. While in Rome, we have tours booked for the Colosseum, Vatican and the Sistine Chapel. In the early 1980's I spent eighteen months working for the US Military in Erlangen West Germany as a Medical Specialist. During that time, I learned and adopted many of the reasonable customs and processes of that country as well as a fundamental ability to communicate in Deutch. Someday I hope to return to Germany with my wife. Your video(s) has provided my wife and I, a twenty-first century refresh of what to expect while touring the many cities and countries on our upcoming agenda. Thank you so much for the effort and enthusiasm you put into all of your videos. Auf Wiedersehen Mark Nicholson Former US Army Medical Specialist Hometown, Redding California
Mark, thank you so much for your kind words about my channel! I am truly happy you found it useful. Looks like you have a great trip planned. Have the most wonderful time!
I’m in the USA every American that I have ever seen uses your fork method. I wonder what area of my country would find it difficult to eat pasta this way.
@@StayFabulousTL I will be visiting Rome this summer from July 16 -through July 26, can you give me some advice to the restaurants that are authentic where the locals eat and how do I make reservations ahead of time and what restaurants don't take reservations. Thanks for your help.
Some of these things are the same in France. Restaurant service isn't rushed, and you have to ask for your check. Also, the French frown on smiling at strangers in public (pun not intended.) They always say bonjour when they encounter someone, but it is done without direct eye contact and a big American smile.
Stayed at one of the best hotels in Naples last year, with restaurant dining at the top.Had dinner. I left no tip, just as you are saying here. The head waiter then confronted me, very annoyed looking, asking me if something was wrong! Happened to me in Paris, too. Very manipulative!
Headed to Italy for the first time next week, Milan right to Venice, back to Milan for a night, Varenna for a couple of nights and off to Zurich. Your video and especially your vibe intelligence and look appealed to me. Graizie
In Spain tipping is not required at all, and sales tax is also included in the price, so the price on the menu is the actual final price, not like in California where one has to plan to pay a quarter or more extra beyond the stated price.
@@sandram9972 In the US the cost of service is not really included in the cost of your meal. In states like California, tipped staff are paid minimum wage but even that is not a living wage. In other states, the wait staff may be paid as little as $3.00 an hour. Tips are technically and legally optional. Ethically, less optional.
I'm new to your channel and love it. Great advice. Ive watched several of your videos. My husband and I and our 2 adult sons (21 and 24yrs)are traveling to Rome on 12/26/2024. We will be in Rome for 1 night and then to Florence and Back to Rome on 12/31. Would you please recommend restaurant for dinner on 12/26 as well as Lunch. Also New Years Eve dinner. Possibly a nighlife plan for our sons. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank You in advance
I am an American born to very traditional first generation born in the US Italians and, although I no longer do so, eating spaghetti with a spoon is something we did dating back to pre-1954. And we never cut or broke spaghetti.
That's interesting because your grandparents (I did understand that correctly) would not have used a spoon. Maybe it was done to fit in with the Italian-American culture already present at the time.
1954 was 70 years ago, that was just when the Marshall Plan was beginning to kick in. Italy has moved along quite a lot since then and customs have changed radically since the country has moved on from a rural economy, to industrial and now service-centered economy. Also, a US-born Italian is an American first and foremost with some Italian heritage from generations ago..
Italy is a rich of heritage and culture and admire Italian people. The video shows that Italian people respect morals and the culture, which of course any tourist in Italy should also respect. I do not believe that if you smile at some one then he will surprise, it may happen but it depends on the situation.
Hi Anastasia. What kind of hair dryer works in Italy? Is there a brand you recommend if I choose to buy one in Italy? I am use to a hair dryer with power and heat. Thank you!
Check to see whether there will be a hair dryer in your hotel room. Most hotels I’ve stayed in lately have hair dryers. You can also buy dual voltage hair dryers and curling irons, etc., in the US. Then all you need is a plug adapter.
I am not sure if this is what you are referring to, but here are the links to my food guides for Rome: MY SELF-GUIDED FOOD TOURS: 🥪 Rome's Best Cheap Eats: www.thatch.co/guide/tnfnwbflctew 🧀 Day Food Tour: www.thatch.co/guide/2rgcawo5xed7a 🍝 Evening Food Tour: www.thatch.co/guide/2yyst8luzt7qe 🍕 Best Pizza Guide: www.thatch.co/guide/giw7vuwvbel7
Ok, I am small town American, have travelled to many European counteies, for family and vacations. I never noticed how others eat at the reastaurants. I am too old to change my simple eating habits (forks, spoons, knives, or ehatever); and I don’t exoect anyone to change theirs for me in America - whatever makes you happy and comfortable, as long as you are clean. Do the Italians care so much how others look or eat? Sounds incredible! 😮 We may just have to cancel our visit, if we need to please someone else all the time by just quietly being ourselves. 😢
I was thinking the same thing. When we have people from other countries in our country, which is all the time we don’t look at them distastefully because it’s clear they are not from our culture. I’m going to try to dress as not to stand out for safety reasons, but I can’t change my entire mannerism to please a country I’m visiting for a week
@@Awaviv I don’t know about Milan, but we had spent a week in Rome in November 2023. Honestly, nobody looked at you in a strange way, lots of tourists from all over the world. We ate as we always do in the US. Yes, Italians dressed differently, heavier coats, etc. But nobody cared what we were wearing. So, my advice for - don’t worry. Some of these videos put too much stress on the most minute aspects. I’m sure you’ll enjoy your visit!
@@StayFabulousTLt is not usual taxi strike in Italy (1 every 10 years, not so strict). What can be more common (1 a month, but it depends), it is for public transport and this is valid in Rome, since we have problems with the company in charge of it (atac) 😉 cheers
Oh you're one of those... Lol every time someone smiles at me, it takes a second for me to register (as Florida people aren't the friendliest lol), and by the time I smile back, they look away. I always feel bad, and hope they don't think I'm an asshole 😅
@@johnsonious2 No, you aren't. I've lived in big cities where people just don't look at each other. I know how it is, but I live in a friendly place, now. It's refreshing.
I'm a smiley person too. I will never understand how being friendly is a bad thing and I'm never going to feel bad about being nice! I believe in the power of a smile and you never know who you are passing by who needs that small amount of acknowledgment by someone to help them have a better day!
I’m planning a trip to rome In March 2024 I can’t wait to go I might take the in person walking tour with you for the food!! How do you recommend I get from center rome near the trevi fountain to trastavere ? The wall looks a little long for us lol 😆
If you were making a video for Italians planning to visit America would you tell them that when they ate pasta in America that they had to use a knife or spoon?
Any Verona experts here? I'm going on a family holiday and every holiday I have a break from following my wife around the shops! So does anyone know of a nice place for a few afternoon beers? Grazie.
Riguardo all'urtarsi con le spalle, non è sempre così. Se si urta una persona involontariamente è un conto, specialmente in una partita di calcio, dove si è stretti o in un negozio; ma per le strade generalmente ci si scusa, come deve essere. Anche riguardo al sorriso, dipende come lo si fa, magari con un piccolo cenno con la testa, lo si accetta perchè è una cosa cortese. Altrimenti un sorriso senza motivo sembra un pò strano. La forchetta insieme al cucchiaio lo si usa normalmente a casa, in privato. Nei ristoranti si preferisce usare solo la forchetta dove serve, tipo pasta spaghetti, penne ecc. Il cucchiaio di sicuro va usato con la pasta minuta e col brodo. 😘
@@cesarelombardo9179 Mah...sicuramente da voi lo usate e non lo metto minimamente in dubbio. Io in Toscana non l'ho mai visto usare...se non ai turisti stranieri! 👍😉
About accents, in Italy we have like a 100 accents (different areas of the country). It would be difficult to talk with an italian accent unless you know them. Furthermore you will present pasta in a bowl in trattorias, very down to heart restaurants. In formal dines, pasta comes in plates.
Per quanto sia vero, e noi riconosciamo i diversi accenti regionali anche quando parliamo in inglese, un anglofono usa il suo filtro di come dovrebbe essere un accento italiano e sente solo le cose che ci accomunano tipo: la shwa che aggiungiamo con le parole con la consonante alla fine, la r italiana, la melodia Latina rispetto a quella anglosassone, lo stress sulle vocali che è diverso dal nostro ecc. un po’ come dire non esiste l’accento britannico perché esistono tanti dialetti ma quando parlano in italiano capiamo subito che sono anglofoni.
@@shweshwa9202I'm from Wales and we use shwas too, we also put emphasis on the penultimate syllable. I'm hoping I don't sound like I'm taking the mick
I gotta be honest: I'm having difficulty believing you grew up in North Carolina. You have a foreign accent--perhaps Russian. BTW: Great video! I learned a lot. Thank you!
I don’t have to prove anything to anyone. Feel free to look up my graduation records from Mt Tabor High School in W-S or Pfeiffer University In Misenheimer. As well as over a decade work records from various banks from Fifth Third to PNC in Charlotte. I invite you to be kinder to people and question yourself first before saying to an American with Ukrainian roots that they have a Russian accent considering what has been happening for over a year in Ukraine now. You can do better
Per uno straniero un tour enogastronomico in Toscana è sicuramente interessante. Ma per un italiano la Toscana non è certamente la regione dove si mangia meglio.
Who is invited as a guest to a home and does not come with some sort of gift? Far too many people in my experience but this is basic etiquette anywhere in the world.
As an italian, im always weirded out when ppl speak english with an italian accent. At least the northern part where im from doesn’t speak like that. So thank you for mentioning it
@@R0swell5104 i know they would make fun of other ppl's accents. but actually talking to the natives like that, is ridiculous. especially the Italian language that actual Italians don't even speak (the ↘↖↗intonation)
My husbands mother is from Italy. We went out to eat and i ordered spaghetti I ate it with a spoon and my husband just stared at me like ...what are you doing? I answered I was eating pasta the way I saw in movies and he told me movies aren't true. Italians eat with a fork like normal and took my spoon 😂 he asked if he needed to take my knife and i was like what?? He said the knife I can use for meat and bread and handed me the toast at our table (which ik is not called "toast" now). Lol😅 I've never really lived that down. But I'm from a German family and he is never able to live down that he didn't know what bundt cake is 😂 he thought at first it was a donut. Real life my big fat greek wedding moment. I showed him how bundt cake has a proper way to prepare and eat as well. At least now ik spoons and pasta is weird when we go visit family.
Here is a link to the shopping experience: www.airbnb.com/experiences/341353 My self-guided food tours: Day Food Tour: www.thatch.co/guide/2rgcawo5xed7a Evening Food Tour: www.thatch.co/guide/2yyst8luzt7qe Best Pizza Guide: www.thatch.co/guide/giw7vuwvbel7 Food tours with me: Truly Italian! Day Food Tour: www.airbnb.com/experiences/445054 Truly Italian! Evening Food Tour: www.airbnb.com/experiences/495266
Thank you for this! Appreciated the info on tipping, however, I'm wondering if it's different for services like tour guides, private drivers, etc? Is a tip expected for them?
@@StayFabulousTL how much is a normal amount to tip a tour guide? 2 euros, 5 euros, 10?? I’m going in 2 weeks, and I noticed on the few tours I booked it says gratuity not included, so I was unsure. Thanks!
it is also normal to tip in Italy and Europe in general just the rates are different than in US. 5-10 percent if everything was ok and you are satisfied. No tipping means you are not so better not do that if it is not the case. For drinking usually tipps are smaller (you round up the sum or give up to 5%). If you are in a festive mood can tipp even more.
Yes indeed, smart casual will be more than acceptable everywhere. Just don't go looking like a slob. On a related point, no one cares what young children wear.
I've gotta say that the Brits and the Yanks are the worst for this in Rome/Italy. Middle age men slobbering around in shorts, sandals and tees, expecting to get into a nice restaurant as if it were their own house. C'mon guys, you're not freakin' 12 years old anymore, dress like an adult!
How do you ask for food to go and is that allowed? To just take the food and go sit somewhere else? And what about taking leftover food home from the restaurant? Thanks!
Yes, absolutely. All those things you can definitely do. Just tell them that you want to take your food to go or that you want to take your leftovers home.
@@StayFabulousTL thank you! I have one more question, please- I just heard in another video that there’s a thing called CIS weekly ticket for transportation in Rome. And that it includes unlimited Metro and busses for 1 week. Is that true? Could you please tell me more about it? I’ll be there in 10 days, and staying for a week. Thanks!! :)
@@StayFabulousTLma non sai che i pezzenti che mangiano nei luoghi mitici delle città italiane non sono ben visti. Addirittura in alcuni luoghi i vigili urbani ti cacciano.
how do teens dress in italy in the summer? i don't want to look too overdressed/underdressed, and i also don't want to dress too old. most of the dress tip videos i've seen for italy are generally for people 35+, so they haven't been very helpful. i've heard that teens worldwide generally dress fairly similar, but i'm not sure if that's true? do you have any tips for this?
Fabulous! Hope you learned lots of new things from this video! And if you have your "don'ts of Italy," please feel free to share them with your fellow travelers✈ down below.
Oh wow! I went to high school in Winston-Salem, then Pfeiffer University in Misenheimer and then lived in Charlotte for over a decade before moving to Rome :)
Italy is such a dream! So glad to have watched this, I also wanted to do solo travel to places like Paris and Hawaii. I always think that travel is made easier when you have the best travel gear and essentials too. The bento bag from Nomad Lane is my best carry-on bag for travels like this. Thought I'd share it with you guys too!
Hello my dear Anastasia, I just love your tips and I'm planning to visit Venice, Rome, Florence and Pompeii in June/23 with my husband, can you recommend not very expensive places to stay, also some authentic Italian restaurants?
Hello there we are traveling to Italy Sept 2023. Any ideas how to plan the route ? We have 9 days and Would like to visit Amalfi coast 1 - 2 day / Tuscany 2-3 days / Rome 2-3 days / Milan 2 -3 days
Ciao Alfredo! You can start with Milan then go to Tuscany, Rome and end in Amalfi. I don't think you need 3 days in Milan (2 max) and I would use that extra day for Rome (set aside 3-4 days for Rome.) If you need help with a customized itinerary, you can schedule a consultation session with me. Enjoy!
What part of North Carolina are you from? We are planning a trip to Italy in October for our 35 wedding Anniversary and are just in the planning stages.
@@StayFabulousTL we are from Asheville thinking about coming to Italy around October 15th which is our anniversary. What do you think about the timing?
Visiting in October, after listening to your videos, I learned a lot. I got a question? When you eat as a group in Italy, is it okay to ask for separate checks?and also where can book your nighttime food tour
Yes, its absolutely ok to ask for separate checks! Here is a link to my evening food tour: www.airbnb.com/experiences/495266 And just in case, here is a link to my self-guided evening food tour: share.thatch.co/pE1R
It depends on a few different factors - how central you want to be, your budget, etc. Start watching at 4:22 this video ruclips.net/video/Cd8DMfdwWys/видео.html There I go over each neighborhood in Rome so you can decide which one is right for you
Really nice made video! Question: how do I order “half and half” for my coffee? I just went to Mexico and it was really hard to get it, since they pretty much serve milk on the side instead of half and half Thank you much!
I don't think you could even get a half-and-half. It's either cappuccino (in the morning), caffe macchiato or Americano which all use milk. Italians are not that keen about milk...
exchange Pasta with Spaghetti and you would be right Pasta is the generic name. What determents when to use fork or spoon id the type of pasta. Fork for Spaghetti spoon for short pasta.
I’m going on a guided bike tour in Northern Italy. The tour company suggests biking shorts for the rides, but I was considering capri pants for walking around. I’m trying to fit everything in a carry on, but now I’m worried that with the bike wear I won’t have room for appropriate clothes for the evening meals. What would you suggest? Are Capri pants appropriate? I’ve only traveled to China and packed a large bag but the friend I’m traveling with really thinks one carryon is best for the trip to Italy. And in China, I didn’t worry much about fitting in because it was obvious I was a tourist but I did dress conservatively, modestly, and in business clothes during lectures.
Check out Rick Steves on packing light as a lady. And frequently tour companies will move larger luggage by car leaving riders free to carry a daypack. Worth checking. Have fun either way!
Is a checked bag not included in your ticket. and does the tour company stipulate maximum luggage size? If you have a free checked bag and the tour company accepts a medium suitcase then make use of it. Why rough it with just a carry on only when you have the possibility of bringing something a little larger with a the ability to bring a nice outfit or two with you.
Oops I'm a tee shirt & jeans person; will take note for fine restaurants. And thanks for the advice on tipping! I was wondering whether I should tip cab drivers or hotel staff who help to call cab etc. So I understand tipping is not necessary or if I want to, 2 euros is enough. Thanks again!
I live in America, do people not know how to eat pasta with just a fork? I’ve always done that, I actually didn’t know people use spoons lol. But I do have an Italian mother so maybe that’s why?
Well. In italian cities with a lot of tourism goin' on, they are quite used to seeing pasta eaten in unusual ways. Not a problem at all. There's not a right way to put stuff inside your mouth, providing you are able to close it back again. Eat the way you want. Just be educate and kind and you are fine. Please do not scream!
I like my pasta cut in small pieces and always have. I’m elderly now and this is how I eat it. I come from an Italian-American family, with people emigrated from Italy. This is how I like it, and it doesn’t hurt anyone else. So shut it. It is NOT a matter of learning! My family twirls. I do not. (I do eat it from a bowl.)That cutting thing is a ridiculous rule. I also cut sandwiches and burgers in half.
DON'T over pack your bags ; Minimize ! Don't dress like a tourist ! ~ Sunday best everyday ... DON'T speak English first ... learn basic greetings and short basic questions Don't go without a money belt or hidden money necklace ; realize there are people who will target you if you go to major tourist areas ... Don't engage with anyone who approaches you just say ' NO ' and walk away ... It's far more common for people to be in thier own bubble .. like the host said ... It's not normal for a stranger to approach or smile at you in public . Don't feel you need to be NICE . ( in that situation ) They are usually there to SCAM you !
I'm wanting to visit Rome and take my grown daughter. Probably for a week or two or three, and we want to eat a lot. Shop, Lodging. How much money should I bring for two? Thank you
Morris, it honestly depends on what type of accommodations, restaurants, etc I'd say the best way to do it is to use a credit card instead of cash (if thats what you were intending on doing.)
All this tantrum throwing over people who use a spoon to eat certain types of pasta is ridiculous. If you actually research where this originated, you will find that the origins are uncertain and yet Americans aren't the only people who use spoons with pasta/noodles. In certain Asian countries spoons are used with chopsticks while eating noodle soups. The spoons are only used to assist with eating long pasta noodles such as spaghetti and not all types of pasta. The spoon basically serves the same practical purpose as the side of the bowl and that is to make it easier to twist the pasta into a ball so that it is easier to eat and makes less of a mess with the sauce. Some people who have less dexterity in their hands find the spoon easier for them to use and for them it is less messy. One should always be respectful when visiting other countries however there is also a bit of give and take as well and in this case it isn't worth getting ones panties in a bunch. Making sure that people know where to go for the best pasta is more important and it will taste the same whether they use a spoon or not.
Just a few notes by an italian: if someone hits you not apologizing for it, he is definitely rude. And public transport isn't always late. It's more a Rome thing than a general italian one. Here in Milan public transport is always on time (but we also have strikes).
Si è vero
it was pretty punctual in Salerno too. There were just a couple of lines that always ran late but not terribly so.
Not like in UK you havevto Say Sorry every fucking time
Grazie Mille Luca.
i agree..if you hit someone (i mean bump into someone...obviously not if you barely touch them) and don't apologize you're rude
I'm heading to Italy in a few days. I've been checking out videos and reading comments about outfits, but I've decided that I'm going to dress in a way that makes me feel comfortable and confident. My main goal is to have a great time on my vacation without compromising my own style or disrespecting anyone..
I completely agree and as a stylist I always tell my clients - the most important is that you feel good and confident in what you wear. You can wear the prettiest outfit but if it does not resonate with who you are - you will not enjoy wearing it and people around you will feel it too. Have the most special trip!
Exactly. You are going on vacation ( just remember not to eat the pasta with spoon 😀)
I always have a smile on my face so, it's not that I'd be smiling at anyone in particular .
Anastasia, besides the fact that you seem to be super cool and fun. Your videos are well very produced, informative and positively entertaining.
Soon, October 17th, 2023, my wife of 35 years and I are headed to Europe for a cruise on the Enchanted Princess (Grand Western Mediterranean). We will be staying In Barcelona (pre cruise) for a few days at the Hotel Claris, then spending eleven days on the Enchanted Princess ship, stopping at numerous cities along the way. Our final destination is Rome (post cruise) where we will spend a few days at the Le Meridian Visconti hotel. While in Rome, we have tours booked for the Colosseum, Vatican and the Sistine Chapel.
In the early 1980's I spent eighteen months working for the US Military in Erlangen West Germany as a Medical Specialist. During that time, I learned and adopted many of the reasonable customs and processes of that country as well as a fundamental ability to communicate in Deutch. Someday I hope to return to Germany with my wife.
Your video(s) has provided my wife and I, a twenty-first century refresh of what to expect while touring the many cities and countries on our upcoming agenda.
Thank you so much for the effort and enthusiasm you put into all of your videos.
Auf Wiedersehen
Mark Nicholson
Former US Army Medical Specialist
Hometown, Redding California
Mark, thank you so much for your kind words about my channel! I am truly happy you found it useful. Looks like you have a great trip planned. Have the most wonderful time!
Thank you for all the advise to tourist.
My pleasure!
I’m in the USA every American that I have ever seen uses your fork method. I wonder what area of my country would find it difficult to eat pasta this way.
I see a lot of people use spoons and some who even use knife.
I like how you went back to film the 4 pickpocketers. Dang! They dressed and looked like any other tourists.
Great tips, beauty! Thanks a bunch! ❤
Thank you! I wanted to make sure you know exactly how they look
Where exactly? I’m heading to rome tomorrow and I’m nervous 🙃
@@StayFabulousTL I will be visiting Rome this summer from July 16 -through July 26, can you give me some advice to the restaurants that are authentic where the locals eat and how do I make reservations ahead of time and what restaurants don't take reservations. Thanks for your help.
@@marks3702hope you checked out Giada too from the US, a Food Network personality. She was born in Rome and gives lots of advice of where to eat.
I 😂 on the “speak with an Italian accent” but very helpful info
Really helpful and practical! Thanks for all the videos on Rome, they're super clear and efficient!!
Thank you for watching!
Some of these things are the same in France. Restaurant service isn't rushed, and you have to ask for your check. Also, the French frown on smiling at strangers in public (pun not intended.) They always say bonjour when they encounter someone, but it is done without direct eye contact and a big American smile.
Stayed at one of the best hotels in Naples last year, with restaurant dining at the top.Had dinner. I left no tip, just as you are saying here. The head waiter then confronted me, very annoyed looking, asking me if something was wrong! Happened to me in Paris, too. Very manipulative!
This is the most and best information I have seen on travel to Italy! Well done! Thank you for doing this video!
Fabulous people, I love it!!! lol
💁♀️
Love your channel .. and the way you speak. Best wishes
Thank you!
Thanks dear ❤so many good information 🙏🏻
My pleasure!
You are great 👍 thank you for the helpful tips. They are more than useful for my first Italian trip. Best wishes, Sam
So happy to hear that! Have the most wonderful trip
Thanks for the very important/helpful tips Anastasia! A new subscriber here that will travel Italy this March.
My pleasure! Welcome to the channel!
Headed to Italy for the first time next week, Milan right to Venice, back to Milan for a night, Varenna for a couple of nights and off to Zurich. Your video and especially your vibe intelligence and look appealed to me. Graizie
Your information is very much appreciated.
Thank you
In Spain tipping is not required at all, and sales tax is also included in the price, so the price on the menu is the actual final price, not like in California where one has to plan to pay a quarter or more extra beyond the stated price.
Actually tipping is not necessary but I tell you they are very appreciative if you do.
@@sandram9972 In the US the cost of service is not really included in the cost of your meal. In states like California, tipped staff are paid minimum wage but even that is not a living wage. In other states, the wait staff may be paid as little as $3.00 an hour. Tips are technically and legally optional. Ethically, less optional.
Best not to wear white when eating pasta .tomato sauce stains difficult to get out.
Some restaurants offer a spray to get stains out at your table
I'm new to your channel and love it. Great advice. Ive watched several of your videos. My husband and I and our 2 adult sons (21 and 24yrs)are traveling to Rome on 12/26/2024. We will be in Rome for 1 night and then to Florence and Back to Rome on 12/31. Would you please recommend restaurant for dinner on 12/26 as well as Lunch. Also New Years Eve dinner. Possibly a nighlife plan for our sons. Any suggestions would be appreciated. Thank You in advance
Well we are enjoying your U Tube videos. Y'all are so helpful ☺️ Y'all from North Carolina 🤗
Haha! Representing NC here🙋♀️
Also from North Carolina! Headed to Italy soon
VERY, VERY HELPFUL! Thank you!
My pleasure!
I am an American born to very traditional first generation born in the US Italians and, although I no longer do so, eating spaghetti with a spoon is something we did dating back to pre-1954. And we never cut or broke spaghetti.
That's interesting because your grandparents (I did understand that correctly) would not have used a spoon.
Maybe it was done to fit in with the Italian-American culture already present at the time.
1954 was 70 years ago, that was just when the Marshall Plan was beginning to kick in. Italy has moved along quite a lot since then and customs have changed radically since the country has moved on from a rural economy, to industrial and now service-centered economy. Also, a US-born Italian is an American first and foremost with some Italian heritage from generations ago..
Can you give examples for speaking with an Italian accent, please?
Italy is a rich of heritage and culture and admire Italian people. The video shows that Italian people respect morals and the culture, which of course any tourist in Italy should also respect. I do not believe that if you smile at some one then he will surprise, it may happen but it depends on the situation.
Very useful ❤ thanks
My pleasure!
I love this video! So many questions answered. Thank you.
My pleasure Monica!
The transportation point is a Rome thing. Public transportation works very well in Milan.
Yes but Milan Is not rome,you got just the fog😂😂
I wouldn't say it works well, compared to European cities, but at least it exists.
Hi Anastasia. What kind of hair dryer works in Italy? Is there a brand you recommend if I choose to buy one in Italy? I am use to a hair dryer with power and heat. Thank you!
Check to see whether there will be a hair dryer in your hotel room. Most hotels I’ve stayed in lately have hair dryers. You can also buy dual voltage hair dryers and curling irons, etc., in the US. Then all you need is a plug adapter.
How do I find the link to the virtual tours?
I am not sure if this is what you are referring to, but here are the links to my food guides for Rome:
MY SELF-GUIDED FOOD TOURS:
🥪 Rome's Best Cheap Eats: www.thatch.co/guide/tnfnwbflctew
🧀 Day Food Tour: www.thatch.co/guide/2rgcawo5xed7a
🍝 Evening Food Tour: www.thatch.co/guide/2yyst8luzt7qe
🍕 Best Pizza Guide: www.thatch.co/guide/giw7vuwvbel7
How I get to saridina I wanna visit the beaches
Sardinia has a few different airports and ports. I recommend to do a proper research to figure out first which part of Sardinia you want to visit.
@@StayFabulousTL is it cheaper to take boat to Sardinia and also is it good time to visit in September ?
@@willwhit5742 meglio Agosto oppure I primi giorni di Settembre
This is great! Thanks!
Happy that you found it useful!
good advice! Will use
Happy that you found it useful :)
Ok, I am small town American, have travelled to many European counteies, for family and vacations. I never noticed how others eat at the reastaurants. I am too old to change my simple eating habits (forks, spoons, knives, or ehatever); and I don’t exoect anyone to change theirs for me in America - whatever makes you happy and comfortable, as long as you are clean. Do the Italians care so much how others look or eat? Sounds incredible! 😮 We may just have to cancel our visit, if we need to please someone else all the time by just quietly being ourselves. 😢
Don't worry, you can eat the way you like... nobody will be offended 😊. Andrea from Italy
I was thinking the same thing. When we have people from other countries in our country, which is all the time we don’t look at them distastefully because it’s clear they are not from our culture. I’m going to try to dress as not to stand out for safety reasons, but I can’t change my entire mannerism to please a country I’m visiting for a week
I'm nervous already because I will be in Rome and Milan in two weeks time
@@Awaviv I don’t know about Milan, but we had spent a week in Rome in November 2023. Honestly, nobody looked at you in a strange way, lots of tourists from all over the world. We ate as we always do in the US. Yes, Italians dressed differently, heavier coats, etc. But nobody cared what we were wearing. So, my advice for - don’t worry. Some of these videos put too much stress on the most minute aspects. I’m sure you’ll enjoy your visit!
@@Awaviv😂😂😂😂 stai a casa, se sei nervoso per venire in Italia vuol dire che hai dei problemi da curare.
Bongiorno Bella! Grazie per tutti 🥰🙏
I was surprised and disappointed in the taxi strike when I was in Rome this past July 😮
Buongiorno Nancy🥰 I actually remember that strike! Yes, unfortunately this is normal for Italy...
@@StayFabulousTLt is not usual taxi strike in Italy (1 every 10 years, not so strict). What can be more common (1 a month, but it depends), it is for public transport and this is valid in Rome, since we have problems with the company in charge of it (atac) 😉 cheers
Italian taxi drivers need to go out of business
Thanks so much for your advises, my husband and me are going to Rome in two weeks. I will keep all the advises on mine
My pleasure Elizabet. Enjoy Roma!
Fabulous people, 😁😁😁
Welcome to the channel!
I cannot wait to visit Italy! It seems to pretty
It's incredible! You will love it
Anastasia…….. what is the name of your virtual tour for Rome Florence please. I love watching your stream. Thank you
Thank you so much! Here is a link to my self-guided day food tour in Rome: share.thatch.co/GfMd Currently working on more...
As a small town American, I can't help but smile at people I pass, but I look away quickly so as not to make them feel awkward.
Oh you're one of those... Lol every time someone smiles at me, it takes a second for me to register (as Florida people aren't the friendliest lol), and by the time I smile back, they look away. I always feel bad, and hope they don't think I'm an asshole 😅
@@johnsonious2 No, you aren't. I've lived in big cities where people just don't look at each other. I know how it is, but I live in a friendly place, now. It's refreshing.
I'm a smiley person too. I will never understand how being friendly is a bad thing and I'm never going to feel bad about being nice! I believe in the power of a smile and you never know who you are passing by who needs that small amount of acknowledgment by someone to help them have a better day!
I’m planning a trip to rome In March 2024 I can’t wait to go I might take the in person walking tour with you for the food!! How do you recommend I get from center rome near the trevi fountain to trastavere ? The wall looks a little long for us lol 😆
I would get a cab through FreeNow app😊 You can also take an uber, but they are right now 3-4 times more expensive than cabs.
Thank you for the video!
My pleasure!
You grew up in NC!!?? Heyyyyyyy gurrrrl! Chapel hill! 🩵🩵🩵
Heeeeyy! Charlotte🙋♀️
Oh my goodness! I loved this video and especially the ending, I thought Indie was going to get stuck. Grazie mille Nicki and Carlo
Wrong post
If you were making a video for Italians planning to visit America would you tell them that when they ate pasta in America that they had to use a knife or spoon?
she should probably tell them not to order pasta at all 😂
Any Verona experts here? I'm going on a family holiday and every holiday I have a break from following my wife around the shops! So does anyone know of a nice place for a few afternoon beers? Grazie.
Is it usualy to pay by Cash or by electroniccash in italy?
Now you can pay with a card in most places in Italy. I would still have some cash on you just in case.
Is it easy to get gluten free pasta and other foods?
Not as easy as in the U.S., but it's getting there.
Riguardo all'urtarsi con le spalle, non è sempre così. Se si urta una persona involontariamente è un conto, specialmente in una partita di calcio, dove si è stretti o in un negozio; ma per le strade generalmente ci si scusa, come deve essere. Anche riguardo al sorriso, dipende come lo si fa, magari con un piccolo cenno con la testa, lo si accetta perchè è una cosa cortese. Altrimenti un sorriso senza motivo sembra un pò strano. La forchetta insieme al cucchiaio lo si usa normalmente a casa, in privato. Nei ristoranti si preferisce usare solo la forchetta dove serve, tipo pasta spaghetti, penne ecc. Il cucchiaio di sicuro va usato con la pasta minuta e col brodo. 😘
Veramente il cucchiaio per gli spaghetti io non l'ho mai usato ne visto usare nemmeno in casa ! 😉🤷♂️
@@gabrielesantucci6189 i miei parenti e amici in casa loro lo hanno sempre usato. Dipende dalle abitudini e forse dalle regioni, con diverse usanze.
@@cesarelombardo9179 Mah...sicuramente da voi lo usate e non lo metto minimamente in dubbio. Io in Toscana non l'ho mai visto usare...se non ai turisti stranieri! 👍😉
@@gabrielesantucci6189 Io a casa lo uso sempre!! Lo trovo più comodo. Senza cucchiaio è come guidare una macchina con una mano sola!!!! 😅
I know that deli, in Trastevere right? I always go there when I'm in Rome.
How did you come from North Carolina USA to live permanently in Rome?
Grazie
😊
Whats John Bercow doing on the gondola?
Coming to Italy on match, who gonna be my friend around?
About accents, in Italy we have like a 100 accents (different areas of the country). It would be difficult to talk with an italian accent unless you know them. Furthermore you will present pasta in a bowl in trattorias, very down to heart restaurants. In formal dines, pasta comes in plates.
Per quanto sia vero, e noi riconosciamo i diversi accenti regionali anche quando parliamo in inglese, un anglofono usa il suo filtro di come dovrebbe essere un accento italiano e sente solo le cose che ci accomunano tipo: la shwa che aggiungiamo con le parole con la consonante alla fine, la r italiana, la melodia Latina rispetto a quella anglosassone, lo stress sulle vocali che è diverso dal nostro ecc. un po’ come dire non esiste l’accento britannico perché esistono tanti dialetti ma quando parlano in italiano capiamo subito che sono anglofoni.
@@shweshwa9202 In Italia diciamo "Parla come mangi!" ...si fa tutti prima no?!😂😂😂
@@shweshwa9202I'm from Wales and we use shwas too, we also put emphasis on the penultimate syllable. I'm hoping I don't sound like I'm taking the mick
Meravigliosa! Salutoni!
Grazie!!
I gotta be honest: I'm having difficulty believing you grew up in North Carolina. You have a foreign accent--perhaps Russian. BTW: Great video! I learned a lot. Thank you!
I don’t have to prove anything to anyone. Feel free to look up my graduation records from Mt Tabor High School in W-S or Pfeiffer University In Misenheimer. As well as over a decade work records from various banks from Fifth Third to PNC in Charlotte. I invite you to be kinder to people and question yourself first before saying to an American with Ukrainian roots that they have a Russian accent considering what has been happening for over a year in Ukraine now. You can do better
Yes, she sounds foreign. Even responded to you like a foreigner.
Which authentic restaurants
Do you recommend that do not require reservations? My circumstances are different than vacation/
La prenotazione no è obbligatoria ma va sempre fatta al ristorante. Non nelle pizzerie.
Do you have any recommendations for a food tour in Tuscany?
Per uno straniero un tour enogastronomico in Toscana è sicuramente interessante. Ma per un italiano la Toscana non è certamente la regione dove si mangia meglio.
Who is invited as a guest to a home and does not come with some sort of gift? Far too many people in my experience but this is basic etiquette anywhere in the world.
Thanks so much for your videos 😊 can I take a small stone back home with me?
If you are going to Sardinia, I wouldn't risk it
@@StayFabulousTL okay thanks 😊
@@StayFabulousTL i'm coming to rome maybe I see you there
Is Apple Pay widely accepted in Rome ?
Yes, it is :)
Where can a man find a blazer once I get there? I travel with only a personal item luggage.
As an italian, im always weirded out when ppl speak english with an italian accent. At least the northern part where im from doesn’t speak like that. So thank you for mentioning it
Totally agree with you, it's so offensive.
Do they do that when they visit other countries do you think?
@@R0swell5104 i know they would make fun of other ppl's accents. but actually talking to the natives like that, is ridiculous. especially the Italian language that actual Italians don't even speak (the ↘↖↗intonation)
@@ah3626 I have never experienced it so that's why it shocked me that some people do it,
My husbands mother is from Italy. We went out to eat and i ordered spaghetti I ate it with a spoon and my husband just stared at me like ...what are you doing? I answered I was eating pasta the way I saw in movies and he told me movies aren't true. Italians eat with a fork like normal and took my spoon 😂 he asked if he needed to take my knife and i was like what?? He said the knife I can use for meat and bread and handed me the toast at our table (which ik is not called "toast" now). Lol😅 I've never really lived that down. But I'm from a German family and he is never able to live down that he didn't know what bundt cake is 😂 he thought at first it was a donut. Real life my big fat greek wedding moment. I showed him how bundt cake has a proper way to prepare and eat as well. At least now ik spoons and pasta is weird when we go visit family.
Haha! That's awesome! My boyfriend is French and we had a few of those" different cultures" moments at the beginning as well. Always fun to learn
If Italy has that many rules…… what’s Greece like?
Where do we find the food and shopping tours you do?
Here is a link to the shopping experience: www.airbnb.com/experiences/341353
My self-guided food tours:
Day Food Tour: www.thatch.co/guide/2rgcawo5xed7a
Evening Food Tour: www.thatch.co/guide/2yyst8luzt7qe
Best Pizza Guide: www.thatch.co/guide/giw7vuwvbel7
Food tours with me:
Truly Italian! Day Food Tour: www.airbnb.com/experiences/445054
Truly Italian! Evening Food Tour: www.airbnb.com/experiences/495266
Thank you for this! Appreciated the info on tipping, however, I'm wondering if it's different for services like tour guides, private drivers, etc? Is a tip expected for them?
For these type of services it also depends on you. Tips are always appreciated but not expected.
@@StayFabulousTL how much is a normal amount to tip a tour guide? 2 euros, 5 euros, 10?? I’m going in 2 weeks, and I noticed on the few tours I booked it says gratuity not included, so I was unsure. Thanks!
it is also normal to tip in Italy and Europe in general just the rates are different than in US. 5-10 percent if everything was ok and you are satisfied. No tipping means you are not so better not do that if it is not the case. For drinking usually tipps are smaller (you round up the sum or give up to 5%). If you are in a festive mood can tipp even more.
About dress code. You're right. There culture, There rules.
Yes indeed, smart casual will be more than acceptable everywhere.
Just don't go looking like a slob.
On a related point, no one cares what young children wear.
I've gotta say that the Brits and the Yanks are the worst for this in Rome/Italy. Middle age men slobbering around in shorts, sandals and tees, expecting to get into a nice restaurant as if it were their own house. C'mon guys, you're not freakin' 12 years old anymore, dress like an adult!
their
How do you ask for food to go and is that allowed? To just take the food and go sit somewhere else? And what about taking leftover food home from the restaurant? Thanks!
Yes, absolutely. All those things you can definitely do. Just tell them that you want to take your food to go or that you want to take your leftovers home.
@@StayFabulousTL thank you! I have one more question, please- I just heard in another video that there’s a thing called CIS weekly ticket for transportation in Rome. And that it includes unlimited Metro and busses for 1 week. Is that true? Could you please tell me more about it? I’ll be there in 10 days, and staying for a week. Thanks!! :)
@@StayFabulousTLma non sai che i pezzenti che mangiano nei luoghi mitici delle città italiane non sono ben visti. Addirittura in alcuni luoghi i vigili urbani ti cacciano.
how do teens dress in italy in the summer? i don't want to look too overdressed/underdressed, and i also don't want to dress too old. most of the dress tip videos i've seen for italy are generally for people 35+, so they haven't been very helpful. i've heard that teens worldwide generally dress fairly similar, but i'm not sure if that's true? do you have any tips for this?
I cut my pasta and our guide had a fit. I prefer to cut it. And continued to do so.
Puoi fare quello che vuoi, ma resti un selvaggio.
Fabulous! Hope you learned lots of new things from this video! And if you have your "don'ts of Italy," please feel free to share them with your fellow travelers✈ down below.
Yah i dont know i was just at the spanish steps. eating and drinking and tons of people sitting on the steps. I dont get the comment
Adorei sono brasiliense
Tipping is not mandatory in all Europeans countries, actually. This is an American thing.
not mandatory however very much appreciated.
Lol yall keep saying it's an American thing but the video literally talks about what to tip and that you can still tip.
They sneakily add a 'voluntary' service charge of 10-12.5%.
Are there any day spas in the Rome area that you’d recommend?
I like QC Termeroma.
@@StayFabulousTL terme di Saturnia province of Viterbo, not far ftom Rome
I am also from North Carolin 😊 Would love to know where you’re from!
Oh wow! I went to high school in Winston-Salem, then Pfeiffer University in Misenheimer and then lived in Charlotte for over a decade before moving to Rome :)
Italy is such a dream! So glad to have watched this, I also wanted to do solo travel to places like Paris and Hawaii. I always think that travel is made easier when you have the best travel gear and essentials too. The bento bag from Nomad Lane is my best carry-on bag for travels like this. Thought I'd share it with you guys too!
Hello my dear Anastasia, I just love your tips and I'm planning to visit Venice, Rome, Florence and Pompeii in June/23 with my husband, can you recommend not very expensive places to stay, also some authentic Italian restaurants?
Hello there we are traveling to Italy Sept 2023. Any ideas how to plan the route ? We have 9 days and Would like to visit Amalfi coast 1 - 2 day / Tuscany 2-3 days / Rome 2-3 days / Milan 2 -3 days
Ciao Alfredo! You can start with Milan then go to Tuscany, Rome and end in Amalfi. I don't think you need 3 days in Milan (2 max) and I would use that extra day for Rome (set aside 3-4 days for Rome.) If you need help with a customized itinerary, you can schedule a consultation session with me. Enjoy!
Rome is one of our favorite cities. We always spend 4 or more days there as there's so much to see, do, and eat.
@@StayFabulousTL hi yes I would like to schedule a consultation with you for our trip. Thank you !
Absolutely! Please send me an email to stayfabulousbyag@gmail.com and I will send you all the information.
What part of North Carolina are you from? We are planning a trip to Italy in October for our 35 wedding Anniversary and are just in the planning stages.
Charlotte!
@@StayFabulousTL we are from Asheville thinking about coming to Italy around October 15th which is our anniversary. What do you think about the timing?
How do I get skip the line tickets? your link dose not open.
They should be all fixed now :)
Visiting in October, after listening to your videos, I learned a lot. I got a question? When you eat as a group in Italy, is it okay to ask for separate checks?and also where can book your nighttime food tour
Yes, its absolutely ok to ask for separate checks! Here is a link to my evening food tour: www.airbnb.com/experiences/495266
And just in case, here is a link to my self-guided evening food tour: share.thatch.co/pE1R
Where to stay in Rome? For few days?
It depends on a few different factors - how central you want to be, your budget, etc. Start watching at 4:22 this video ruclips.net/video/Cd8DMfdwWys/видео.html There I go over each neighborhood in Rome so you can decide which one is right for you
Really nice made video!
Question: how do I order “half and half” for my coffee?
I just went to Mexico and it was really hard to get it, since they pretty much serve milk on the side instead of half and half
Thank you much!
I don't think you could even get a half-and-half. It's either cappuccino (in the morning), caffe macchiato or Americano which all use milk. Italians are not that keen about milk...
"Latte macchiato" is the solution for you! "Cch" is pronounced like a "k", so it sounds like "makkiato".
@@robertcapek2425"agli italiani non piace il latte" una cazzata
exchange Pasta with Spaghetti and you would be right Pasta is the generic name. What determents when to use fork or spoon id the type of pasta. Fork for Spaghetti spoon for short pasta.
I’m going on a guided bike tour in Northern Italy. The tour company suggests biking shorts for the rides, but I was considering capri pants for walking around. I’m trying to fit everything in a carry on, but now I’m worried that with the bike wear I won’t have room for appropriate clothes for the evening meals. What would you suggest? Are Capri pants appropriate?
I’ve only traveled to China and packed a large bag but the friend I’m traveling with really thinks one carryon is best for the trip to Italy. And in China, I didn’t worry much about fitting in because it was obvious I was a tourist but I did dress conservatively, modestly, and in business clothes during lectures.
Check out Rick Steves on packing light as a lady.
And frequently tour companies will move larger luggage by car leaving riders free to carry a daypack. Worth checking.
Have fun either way!
Is a checked bag not included in your ticket.
and does the tour company stipulate maximum luggage size?
If you have a free checked bag and the tour company accepts a medium suitcase then make use of it.
Why rough it with just a carry on only when you have the possibility of bringing something a little larger with a the ability to bring a nice outfit or two with you.
Are there that many fabulous people?
Anywhere?
.)
Everywhere!
Do you have food tours in Florence or Amalfi?
We organize tours for my travel agency clients throughout entire Italy.
Oops I'm a tee shirt & jeans person; will take note for fine restaurants. And thanks for the advice on tipping! I was wondering whether I should tip cab drivers or hotel staff who help to call cab etc. So I understand tipping is not necessary or if I want to, 2 euros is enough. Thanks again!
Yes, it's not expected but it's very much appreciated.
Ai tassisti non si lascia la mancia
M’am are you the polish Ukraine person ? very nice channel fun .
I live in America, do people not know how to eat pasta with just a fork? I’ve always done that, I actually didn’t know people use spoons lol.
But I do have an Italian mother so maybe that’s why?
What colors do they wear in Rome in November?
Well. In italian cities with a lot of tourism goin' on, they are quite used to seeing pasta eaten in unusual ways. Not a problem at all. There's not a right way to put stuff inside your mouth, providing you are able to close it back again. Eat the way you want. Just be educate and kind and you are fine. Please do not scream!
I like my pasta cut in small pieces and always have. I’m elderly now and this is how I eat it. I come from an Italian-American family, with people emigrated from Italy. This is how I like it, and it doesn’t hurt anyone else. So shut it. It is NOT a matter of learning! My family twirls. I do not. (I do eat it from a bowl.)That cutting thing is a ridiculous rule. I also cut sandwiches and burgers in half.
DON'T over pack your bags ; Minimize !
Don't dress like a tourist ! ~ Sunday best everyday ...
DON'T speak English first ... learn basic greetings and short basic questions
Don't go without a money belt or hidden money necklace ; realize there are people who will target you if you go to major tourist areas ...
Don't engage with anyone who approaches you just say
' NO ' and walk away ...
It's far more common for people to be in thier own bubble .. like the host said ...
It's not normal for a stranger to approach or smile at you in public .
Don't feel you need to be NICE . ( in that situation ) They are usually there to SCAM you !
I'm wanting to visit Rome and take my grown daughter. Probably for a week or two or three, and we want to eat a lot. Shop, Lodging. How much money should I bring for two? Thank you
Morris, it honestly depends on what type of accommodations, restaurants, etc I'd say the best way to do it is to use a credit card instead of cash (if thats what you were intending on doing.)
All this tantrum throwing over people who use a spoon to eat certain types of pasta is ridiculous. If you actually research where this originated, you will find that the origins are uncertain and yet Americans aren't the only people who use spoons with pasta/noodles. In certain Asian countries spoons are used with chopsticks while eating noodle soups. The spoons are only used to assist with eating long pasta noodles such as spaghetti and not all types of pasta. The spoon basically serves the same practical purpose as the side of the bowl and that is to make it easier to twist the pasta into a ball so that it is easier to eat and makes less of a mess with the sauce. Some people who have less dexterity in their hands find the spoon easier for them to use and for them it is less messy. One should always be respectful when visiting other countries however there is also a bit of give and take as well and in this case it isn't worth getting ones panties in a bunch. Making sure that people know where to go for the best pasta is more important and it will taste the same whether they use a spoon or not.