Things I've Learned

I haven’t even been in Florence three full days, but here are the Top 10 practical things I’ve learned so far:

1. Regardless of what the laws might way, pedestrians have no right of way; look carefully before you step into any street.

2. You’ll be charged 1.50 euros per person as a service charge in any sit-down restaurant. This covers things such as bread, whether you want bread or not.

3. When you order water in restaurant, “tap” is not an option. Your only options are “still” or “sparkling,” and you’ll pay for it either way.

4. People really do talk to one another across alleyways and courtyards. On Tuesday the people across the way, four students who attend a fashion college, called out to me to open my window, which resulted in a 20-minute conversation across a large courtyard.

5. The toilet tank is positioned on the wall up near the ceiling. When you flush the first time, you may be startled!

6. When you shop in a supermarket, you must weigh your own food before going to the checkstand. Not doing so may result in a mild scolding from the cashier and some dirty looks from those in line behind you. You must bag your own groceries at a supermarket, and you won’t even get a bag unless you ask for it.

7. If you go to an Internet café, or any café with wireless access, bring ID with you (passport or U.S. driver’s license). You can’t access the Web without showing your ID; this is for anti-terrorism purposes. But once you register, you can sit there all day if you want, even it you order just a coffee.

8. Italians love it if you at least try to speak their language. Give it a try!

9. Contrary to popular belief, you’ll see jeans and casual clothing all over Florence.

10. I packed WAY too much!