Italian customs and habits

Italians are hospitable and casual, but they don't have a strong sense of time and often miss appointments or are late.

When dining in Italy, it is an Italian custom for men and women to sit separately. Generally speaking, the order of eating is cold dishes first, then the first course, including pasta, soup, rice or other staple foods; The second course includes fish, meat and so on. Then dessert or fruit, ice cream, etc. Finally, coffee. Pay attention to etiquette when eating, and don't ask too much at a time. Don't let the knife and fork jingle when eating. When eating noodles, roll it up with a fork and send it to your mouth. Don't suck with your mouth, especially when using soup. After each dish is used up, put the knife and fork side by side on the plate, indicating that the dish has been used up. Even if there is any left, the waiter will withdraw the plate.

Italians like to drink, and they are very particular. Usually drink aperitif before eating, order wine according to dishes at dinner, drink white wine when eating fish, drink red wine when eating meat, and drink beer and water at dinner. Drink a small amount of hard liquor with ice after meals. Italians seldom drink too much, and they don't have the habit of persuading wine when eating, so they are very casual.

When invited to a friend's house, especially on holidays, you should bring some gifts or souvenirs to your host. Pay attention to the packaging of gifts. After receiving the gift, the host will open it in front of the guests and say some polite words or thanks. In addition, don't arrive early when you are visiting an Italian family. It's better to be a little late.