The Colosseum in Rome

After being here in Florence for a month, I have depicted a few major cultural differences. The Italians are proud people who truly appreciate tradition, art, family, food, and wine. Food in Italy is an art form; everything is made from scratch. Almost every business closes around 1 or 2pm and reopens later in the evening. I myself have adapted to this “afternoon break” in order to escape the hottest time of day.

View of the Arno River in Florence

Pompeii and Mt. Vesuvius

Another difference in the Italian culture is their process of grocery shopping. The outdoor markets are where Italians do their daily food shopping. From 8am until about 1pm you can find a huge tent set up in the market with various stand of fruits, vegetables, meats, and cheeses. I personally prefer this type of grocery shopping! Everything is so fresh and inexpensive.

Freshly made gelato at the FUA gelato workshop

Another difference in the Italian culture is dogs everywhere! Italians bring their dogs in food stores, post offices, and even when shopping for clothes. I also have realized the pride Italians have for their origins. For example, before an Italian will say they are Italian they will first state whether they are Roman, Florentine, or Sicilian. I personally enjoy what I believe to be the biggest difference between our cultures, and that is the history. From small churches to the Colosseum, there is history everywhere. Italy has a natural beauty, from the islands of Maremma, to the small city life of Florence, to the ancient ruins of Pompeii.

The beautiful church of Santa Croce

View from the ferry, arriving into Giglio Island

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Rachel is a current student at Richard Stockton College studying at Florence University of the Arts in Italy during the Fall 2014 term.