How to not be rude in Italy
Dec 12th, 2003, 12:35 PM
#82
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Oh suzy! I'd like to personally thank you for having the courage and good character to share your embarrassing story. Many people don't realize how such an incident can be interpreted with disastrous results. Your husband might as well have called the bag-check person a thief.
New Yorkers are very self-conscious about theft. If you lived here during the 70's and 80's, you'd know what I mean. It comes with the territory so I understand your husband's concern. Pre- 9/11 and a few other bombings, many Italian museums used to permit cameras into their museums (but no tripods). I have terrific images of art masterpieces that even I can't believe are mine.
I'll never forget the year the Accademia refused to grant entry permission with a camera. I presented formal paperwork, the Italian equivalent of "permit," but my papers did not specify "the Accademia," and Italians are very specific people (especially when it comes to rules and regulations). So, I was faced with the decision to either leave my (expensive) equipment with bag-check or leave the museum. Since I wasn't alone, I decided to trust. Of course, everything was in perfect order as I exited the museum and I was insured.
All I can say is, if you're overly concerned about theft, DON'T carry expensive items into a museum which requires all bags-be-checked. Otherwise, make sure you have a good insurance policy and follow suzy's example.
New Yorkers are very self-conscious about theft. If you lived here during the 70's and 80's, you'd know what I mean. It comes with the territory so I understand your husband's concern. Pre- 9/11 and a few other bombings, many Italian museums used to permit cameras into their museums (but no tripods). I have terrific images of art masterpieces that even I can't believe are mine.
I'll never forget the year the Accademia refused to grant entry permission with a camera. I presented formal paperwork, the Italian equivalent of "permit," but my papers did not specify "the Accademia," and Italians are very specific people (especially when it comes to rules and regulations). So, I was faced with the decision to either leave my (expensive) equipment with bag-check or leave the museum. Since I wasn't alone, I decided to trust. Of course, everything was in perfect order as I exited the museum and I was insured.
All I can say is, if you're overly concerned about theft, DON'T carry expensive items into a museum which requires all bags-be-checked. Otherwise, make sure you have a good insurance policy and follow suzy's example.
Dec 12th, 2003, 01:53 PM
#83
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Is it considered rude not to drink wine or coffee with (or after) a meal? My hubby and I don't drink either and I know both drinks are favorites in Italy. Also, is a soft drink or lemonade with dinner considered ok? Are there restaurants that just serve wine without asking?
We definitely don't want to be rude, but we would feel bad if drinking a lemonade with pasta is an insult... It's one my worries about going to Italy- sad but true! Any words of advice?
We definitely don't want to be rude, but we would feel bad if drinking a lemonade with pasta is an insult... It's one my worries about going to Italy- sad but true! Any words of advice?
Dec 12th, 2003, 03:27 PM
#85
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Now I'm curious. In France I'm allowed to take my purse (6X9X5 inches w/ shoulder strap) with me. I'm also allowed to take my camera into permanent collections and take photos as long as I don't use my flash. In Italy will I have to check my purse? Am I not going to be allowed to take photos in museums?
We're going to Italy next year and this is very important to me.
We're going to Italy next year and this is very important to me.
Dec 13th, 2003, 05:08 AM
#86
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Hi jbee,
>...we would feel bad if drinking a lemonade with pasta is an insult...<
It wouldn't be an insult, but it would probably be a mistake. You run the risk of major clash of flavors. I suggest a bottle or carafe of water.
Lemonade with a pizza would work.
>...we would feel bad if drinking a lemonade with pasta is an insult...<
It wouldn't be an insult, but it would probably be a mistake. You run the risk of major clash of flavors. I suggest a bottle or carafe of water.
Lemonade with a pizza would work.
Dec 13th, 2003, 06:13 AM
#87
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I've had limoncello but I don't recall ever seeing lemonade offered in any Northern Italian city. Did I miss something? Lemonade and pasta?...YUK! You'll get a more welcoming reaction if you ask for cheese with your salmon fettucine. Good luck.
carnie
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