Are any of you Americans living in Italy?

Question

Hi, I would like to know about Americans living in Italy (or who have lived there in the past). I am considering going there (for more than just a vacation) and would like some insight into what it is like for Americans.

What are some things that I should be prepared for? What do you think may come as a surprise to me? What areas have you found to be the best? Where would be a good place to live that is near a city, but more like "the country life"?

These are just some general questions, but feel free to tell me anything that you think may be of interest. I will really be looking forward to your responses, as it is all very fascinating to me.

Please, tell me everything!!

Please don't answer this if you don't know anything about it -- I only want information from ACTUAL people who have had ACTUAL experiences there. Thank you.

Answer 1

hey hey. Im 21 and live in northern italy. I am from Massachusetts and have been living in italy for about 9 months now with my boyfriend.  For americans i must say that its suprising that everything is closed from 11-3 everyday, and on sundays.  The televison sucks, the food is amazing, the culture and climate is way better than in the US.  The drivers are crazy here, and the people are into the laid back style of life.  The best things about livng here are that its such a quality of life, the worst thing is that everything happens slow around here and people are always late.  I live with my boyfriend who is italian and i met him about 2 years ago, but Ive heard that its difficult for an american to just get citizenship.  It wasnt so difficult for me because my mother was born here and then moved to america with her parents when she was 2.  I live in a perfect country town 10 mins from the city of Rovereto. The most common jobs here have something to do with winemaking, including my boyfriend.  And we will need help harvesting in september, if your down.  We live about 2.5 hours from venice, and there are many things around us to see.  If you would like to know more, feel free to email me and we can talk about unoccupied apts in the area, or any other questions you have. :)