Living “La Vita Bella”: What We Should All Learn From Italians

Sometimes living in Italy has it’s challenges-any ex pat or study abroad student has plenty of stories which elaborate this point. “Creepy” men, a serious lack of dryers, or waiting in line for hours attempting to fill out paperwork are among several ways of Italian life that often drive foreigners mad. However, despite these obstacles, there are many reasons that Italians are living “la vita bella.” Here are some of the parts of Italian culture I’ve grown to love the most.

Food

This one is obvious, but if there is one thing the Italians know, it is food. From delicious wines, homemade pastas, and the inclusion of carbs at every meal, its safe to say that the Italians are winning in this department. Food isn’t just food in Italy, its a part of life that Italians take very seriously and pride themselves on. So enjoy all of the delicious pasta, pizza, gelato, and vino while you can! Buon appetito!

Expressing themselves

Whenever Italians are depicted in the movies, they are seen passionately speaking and wildly gesturing. While this may seem like a common stereotype, I can assure you that theses depictions aren’t far off. Italians have a variety of hand gestures and a language practically made for expressing feeling. Happy or angry, sad or ecstatic, Italians don’t hold back on sharing their feelings. 

Aperitivo

Aperitivo is essentially happy hour, but with food. Whoever first came up with this idea is genius, and we NEED to get on this concept back home. For around 7 to 15 Euro you get a buffet of amazing food, and a drink. Need I say more? This leisurely custom takes place anywhere from around 7 pm until 9 or so, and is the perfect way to catch up with friends, enjoy a drink, snack,  and either be back home at an early hour or kick off a night off.

Futbol

Italians are OBSESSED with soccer, and after attending a Fiorentina match, it is easy to see why. The intensity, excitement, and sense of community I experienced at my first Fiorentina match were incredible. Futbol is an important part of Italian culture, so hop on the bandwagon and pick a team.

Coffee

Italy is famous for its coffee culture. There are bars (Italian cafes) on practically every corner, and a fix of caffeine is never far away. Seriously-I was offered an espresso the last time I went to get a haircut. Many Italians enjoy an espresso after every meal, primarily for its digestive properties (it also helps to combat food coma!)

Living large (while living small)

Living in Florence has taught me a valuable lesson in living small. In Italy’s busiest cities there is not a lot of space. Apartments tend to be small, as are stores, and even cars. The Italians know that you don’t need to have a lot of things to still live large.

Taking their time

From meals that can (and do) last for hours to walking at a “slow” pace, Italians don’t rush through life. After living in Italy, I’ve learned the importance of stopping and smelling the roses, and also realized how much unnecessary stress I sometimes allow into my life. We could all take a page out of the Italians’ book and learn to approach life in a more relaxed and carefree way.

Family

Italians are incredibly close with their family members. Many young Italians still live with their parents, and many who don’t stay relatively close to home and visit their family, both immediate and extended, on a regular basis. “Famiglia” is very important to Italians.

Passion for life

Italians live in the moment and have a passion for life. This sometimes chaotic, yet worry free lifestyle is full of passion, emotion, and thirst for life. The true “vita bella” is living passionately, authentically, and soaking up every moment, be it thoroughly enjoying a meal, spending quality time with family, or enjoying the little things in life.

What does living the “vita bella” mean to you?