What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Italy. They wrote...
"I'd kill for some fresh ginger and a good, hot Indian curry most days! Setting up businesses - the bureaucracy and taxes can be crippling and are changeable. I take my hat off to accountants here," said a member in Southern Tuscany, Italy.
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Italian For A WhileBecome ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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"Expats in Italy may find the language barrier to be the most challenging part of adapting to the local culture. While many Italians are learning English and are happy to practice, it may be difficult to navigate daily life without speaking Italian fluently. Additionally, many Italians have very specific ideas on how to conduct oneself in social situations, including greeting others and dress codes, which may be confusing or even overwhelming for newcomers to the country who are not familiar with the customs. The local custom of taking lunch and dinner late in the day, may also be difficult for those used to dining at an earlier hour, and may require some adjustment," remarked another expat who made the move to Italy.
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Other Questions:
- What should I pack when moving to Italy?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Italy?
- Will I be able to find a job in Italy?
- What is life like in Italy?
- What do expats in Italy appreciate most about the local culture?
- What do expats find most challenging?
- Is there a lot of crime in Italy?
- Is there a lot of diversity? Are people in Italy accepting of differences?
- What are the schools in Italy like?
- What are healthcare services like in Italy?
- What are medical services in Italy like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Italy?
- What are emergency services like in Italy?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Italy?
- How are local medical facilities in Italy?
- As a foreigner living in Italy, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Italy, newcomers to Italy would love to hear your answer to this question.
About the Author
Betsy Burlingame is one of the founders of Digital Nomad Exchange and the Founder and President of Expat Exchange. She launched Expat Exchange in 1997 as her Master's thesis project at NYU. Prior to Expat Exchange and Digital Nomad Exchange, Betsy worked at AT&T in International
and Mass Market Marketing. She graduated from Ohio Wesleyan University
with a BA in International Business and German.
Some of Betsy's articles include 12 Best Places to Live in Portugal, 7 Best Places to Live in Panama and 12 Things to Know Before Moving to the Dominican Republic. Betsy loves to travel and spend time with her family. Connect with Betsy on LinkedIn.
