THE NAME SAYS IT ALL
An American last name in the States may not mean much, but in Italy, a last name typically tells what region in Italy the person comes from. For example, people whose names end in ‘o’ would come from a certain region and names ending in an ‘i’ would be from another.

MA MA MAFIA
Over here, the mafia is more than just an icebreaking game…it’s a real organization. The mafia’s origins stem from southern Sicily in the late 19th century when there was conflict over who had control of the land. The mafia basically became the self-appointed government, offering protection and city services to the citizens in exchange for money. The mafia is still around today in the south, not causing too much of a ruckus for those living under their watch.

WE ARE FAMILY
In Italy, it’s not uncommon for whole families spanning generations to live together under one roof. Unlike in America, the baby birds don’t leave the nest right away, but see importance for families to remain a unit.

MILK RUN
We’ve all heard of vending machines for water, soda, snacks…but fresh milk? In glass bottles? For the past two or three years in regions of Italy, these fresh milk to go stations have been created as an experiment to solve the problem of the overproduction of milk from local farmers. The government has recently placed a milk quota on farmers and thus can’t pay them for the amount of milk they produce. So far this system is all system’s go.

MUSINGS ON MEN
Most of the boys here are anything but shy. A local friend tells us that because Italian men aren’t used to having big groups of close female friends like they do in the States, they can come off a bit strong. Not to worry though, their bark is worse than their bite. So American gals, do as the Italian girls do and just be sure to be blunt if you’re not interested.

KEEN ON GREEN!
Across the board thus far, Europe kicks the U.S.’ hiney when it comes to saving energy. From motion censored escalators, to half flush/full flush toilettes, to all-in-one washer driers, these countries across the pond know how to save a pretty penny.

MOJITOS??
Everyone knows Italians love their wine, but when the wine runs dry? In Gastalla the beverage of choice out at a bar with locals was the mojito. Unexpected, right?

“PIZZA CRACKERS”
…How our local friends described Italian pizzas versus American pizzas. Italians may eat a whole one to themselves for dinner but when you check out the thickness of the dough…it’s a pizza cracker. And we wonder how Italians can stay fit…

MORNING SUNSHINE
Unlike in the States, Italians don’t consume the morning feast of bacon, eggs, pancakes, etc. If they have anything at all, un espresso and some fruit will suffice.

BRINGIN’ IN THE BIG BUCKS
So, we know the dollar loses value in Europe, that’s no surprise. But we found it interesting that all of the clothes in department stores are much more expensive. Our friends tell us this is because since most people save expenses by living at home, they have more money to spend on their attire.

NO NO TO-GO
Asking for any food item ‘to-go’ would be a big no-no. Italians take pleasure in sitting at restaurant or café to enjoy their meal or beverage as opposed to snagging a bite and hitting the pavement. Plus, it’s Italy. No one’s in a hurry.

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