Gossip Vocabulary in Italian

Gossip Vocabulary in Italian

There’s nothing like standing at the bar counter, waiting for our foamy cappuccino, when someone leans in and whispers La sai l’ultima? (Literally, do you know the latest?). And just like that, our morning routine becomes a lot more interesting!  I know, I know: gossiping is not exactly a noble hobby. But let’s be honest, …

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How to Deter Pickpockets in Italy

How to Deter Pickpockets in Italy

Popular tourist spots can come with a side of “unwanted attention,” and the streets of Rome or Florence are no exception: I’m talking street vendors who really (really!) want you to buy something, people placing a rose in your hand and then demanding payment for it before you can even say “no thanks.” Or even …

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Exploring Compound Words in Italian

Compound Words in Italian

Autostrada, sottopassaggio, lungolago: what do these three Italian words have in common (apart from the fact that you’ll likely spot them on road signs during your Italian road trip)? They are all nouns made up of two words fused together into one. In Italian, we call them parole composte — compound words. The adjective composto …

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Italian Words and Phrases at the Train Station

Italian Words and Phrases at the Train Station

Italy has some truly amazing train rides. And soon enough, with summer approaching and itineraries taking shape, you may soon find yourself standing in an Italian station, perhaps feeling a bit confused while checking your phone, and feeling the growing suspicion you may be on the wrong platform. So whether you’re hopping on a high-speed …

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Taking it Slow: Italian Words for Dawdling and Loafing Around

Italian Words for Dawdling and Loafing Around

There’s this widespread idea that life in Italy is slow, that we do everything senza fretta (unhurried), lingering over espresso in the sunshine while the rest of the world moves fast. And while I’m not a fan of stereotypes, I have to admit this one gives me the perfect excuse to dive into some great …

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Playing Cards in Italian: Key Vocabulary

Playing cards in Italian - Key vocabulary

Card games hold a special place in Italian culture. Walk into any bar from the Alps to Sicily, and you’ll likely spot a group of people gathered around a table, studying their cards with the seriousness of surgeons preparing for an operation.  We play cards at Christmas, at the beach, at the park, on long …

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