Which three tips would you like to give future expats before they embark on their new life in Italy?
- Throw caution out the window, especially in learning the language. Children are so much better learning languages and one of the reasons is that they don’t get embarrassed to try! I have spoken with many expats who want to learn the language, yet they are scared to speak. You need to just go for it, even if you know your accent is off and your grammar is imperfect. Sbagliando, si impara is a saying here in Italy – you learn from making mistakes.
- Get as much information about visas/required documentation etc. from the consulate or embassy in your home country as you can. The immigration offices here can be extremely busy, crowded, and unhelpful. Best to do your homework before arriving.
- Join an expat community and start getting information and general tips from others that are already living in your choice city or area. You won’t get better information than directly from the source and expats have a very unique and relatable view on issues that natives can’t even begin to understand. This also helps in that when you arrive, you won’t feel so alone, you’ll already have a group of instant friends ready to show you the ropes!
Click here for the full interview (although it may be partially obscured to non-members, sorry!).
P.S> Thanks for the nifty badge InterNations- I've given it a permanent spot under my affiliates.