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It’s not you, It’s the dialect!

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  ITALIAN LANGUAGE VS DIALECTS


Picture yourself in Italy, soaking up the sun, enjoying a delicious espresso, and suddenly you find yourself in the middle of a conversation that sounds like a mix between a secret code and a musical performance. Welcome to Italy, where even Italians need a translator sometimes! 

Italy is not just one big, melodious land where everyone speaks Italian. It’s a colorful patchwork of 20 regions, each with its own unique dialect that can leave even the locals scratching their heads. Imagine being in Sicily, and someone’s chatting away in Sicilian. It’s like they’re speaking Italian but with a twist of mystery and a sprinkle of local flair. Move up to Milan, and suddenly you’re hearing Milanese, which sounds like Italian but with a touch of industrial chic. You might find yourself thinking, “Wait, did I just hear a different language?” 

The truth is, Italian dialects are as varied as Italy’s pizzas. There’s the Neapolitan dialect, which is as lively as a street festival, and then there’s the Venetian dialect, which has a rhythm that makes you feel like you’re part of a gondola serenade. These dialects are so different that even Italians from different regions sometimes need a translator – and no, we’re not talking about Google Translate! This delightful jumble of dialects comes from Italy’s colorful past. 

Before Italy was a unified nation, it was a collection of independent states and city-states. Each region had its own dialect. So, embrace the linguistic diversity as part of the charm of Italian culture. Each dialect carries with it a piece of Italy’s history and identity, making the journey through the country all the more fascinating. And if you find yourself struggling to understand a local in a remote village or having difficulty following a conversation in a regional market, remember: it’s not you, it’s the dialect!

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How do Italians dress?

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                                     DRESS FOR THE SEASON

Italians dress for the season so It’s common for Italians to adjust their wardrobe according to the season. They also recognize the importance of “mezza stagione,” the transition between seasons. For instance, while a piumino* jacket may be essential in peak winter, lighter options are favored as spring approaches. The cambio di stagione (change of season) ritual involves swapping out winter attire for summer clothes, a practice influenced by limited wardrobe space. Seasonal dressing varies based on location; heavy coats are more prevalent in the colder north, while the warmer south sees lighter outerwear. Despite the regional differences, the Italian style remains elegant, with older women in the north often donning tailored coats with fur collars during winter. In urban areas, flip-flops are typically reserved for beach or poolside settings, maintaining a polished appearance throughout the summer.

* piumino= quilted jacket or coat typically filled with down feathers or synthetic insulation, designed to provide warmth in cold weather

                                         WHAT TO WEAR

Italians take pride in their appearance and rarely leave the house looking unkempt. There’s a specific dress code for every occasion, whether it’s a leisurely passeggiata (a leisurely walk)  with family or a gathering with friends. Italian men typically opt for casual attire like t-shirts for social outings, but they also know how to rock a well-tailored suit when the occasion calls for it. They’re not afraid to add a pop of color to their wardrobe, often opting for vibrant hues like red or yellow in their pants selection. Italian women, on the other hand, have a knack for dressing in a way that accentuates their figure. While they dress to feel confident and proud, they also consider the impression they make on others. Both men and women adhere to the principle of la bella figura, striving to make a positive impression wherever they go. 

                                     HOW ITALIANS SHOP

To dress like Italians is not just about style; it’s also about embracing the origins of your clothing and dressing appropriately for every occasion, whether it’s work, meeting friends for coffee, enjoying lunch with family, or going for a passeggiata. In Italy, saldi (sales) happen twice a year, reflecting an appreciation for the “Made in Italy” label and the skilled artisans who craft clothing, shoes, and accessories. These sales occur in January for the winter sale and in July for the summer sale, and many Italians eagerly anticipate and plan for them. Italy offers a diverse shopping experience, from upscale boutiques in bustling city streets to local markets selling artisanal goods. Whether exploring the latest designer collections in Milan’s fashion district or discovering unique finds in charming artisan shops nestled in historic towns, shopping in Italy is a delightful fusion of tradition, craftsmanship, and contemporary style.

Common Idioms in Italian with the body 

Let’s embark on this linguistic adventure together, exploring some of the most commonItalian idioms, popular expressions, and a selection of food-related idioms to take your Italian to the next level!

     Do you want to learn Italian or improve your fluency?

I’m Alice, founder of Lingua Lunga Italian. I founded my school in December 2022 after years of teaching Italian to people from over 15 different nationalities. I offer lessons to people striving to achieve fluency in Italian for various reasons. Whether they have a passion for traveling to Italy, have purchased a house and plan to retire there, are married to an Italian and seek Italian citizenship, or are entrepreneurs needing to relocate or conduct business in Italy, I help. No matter what age you are, if you have consistency, enthusiasm, and passion, you can learn the Italian language. Book a Free Call with me today to begin!

 

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Sicily’s highlights: Taormina, Catania, Siracusa

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Welcome to Sicily, a land of unparalleled beauty, rich history, and captivating culture. In this blog post, we embark on a virtual journey to discover the enchanting treasures of three iconic cities: Taormina, Siracusa, and Catania.

TAORMINA

Taormina, nestled on the east coast of Sicily, Italy, boasts a captvating blend of ancient history, breathtaking scenery, and vibrant culture. At its heart lies the Ancient Theatre, a marvel from the 3rd century BC, and the shimmering Ionian Sea. The town's historic center, with its labyrinthine streets and picturesque squares, beckons visitors to explore its rich heritage and charming atmosphere. From Piazza IX Aprile's panoramic vistas to Corso Umberto's bustling thoroughfare, Taormina exudes an irresistible allure. Beyond its cultural treasures, Taormina is blessed with natural beauty, including the nearby Isola Bella's pristine shores and the lush gardens of Giardini della Villa Comunale. With its timeless allure and scenic splendor, Taormina stands as a captivating destination, inviting travelers to discover its wonders.

CATANIA

Catania, a vibrant and charming city located on the eastern coast of Sicily, enchants visitors with its rich history, lively culture, and extraordinary natural beauty. Dominated by the majestic presence of Mount Etna, Europe’s largest active volcano, Catania is a fascinating blend of ancient and modern. Its historic landmarks, such as the majestic Cathedral of Sant’Agata and the Roman Theater, harmoniously blend with the lively squares and bustling markets that characterize the city’s daily life. Catania is also renowned for its delicious cuisine, with traditional Sicilian dishes delighting visitors’ palates. With its Mediterranean climate, black sand beaches, and the contagious energy of its inhabitants, Catania captivates and seduces every visitor with its timeless charm and authenticity.

                                                  SIRACUSA 

Siracusa is located on Sicily’s southeastern coast and it is a city where ancient relics coexist with bustling markets and charming cafes. Once a powerful Greek city-state, Syracuse today beckons visitors to explore its rich history through archaeological wonders like the Greek theater and the Temple of Apollo. The city’s medieval streets, elegant Baroque buildings, and picturesque waterfronts, especially in the historic island of Ortigia, offer a delightful mix of charm and beauty. Renowned for its fresh seafood and traditional Sicilian cuisine, Syracuse invites travelers to savor its culinary delights while soaking in its timeless atmosphere of history and culture.

                                              SICILIAN FOOD 

Sicilian food is renowned for its rich and diverse flavors, influenced by centuries of cultural exchange. From savory arancini to refreshing granita, Sicilian cuisine boasts a unique blend of Mediterranean ingredients and traditional recipes. Whether indulging in hearty pasta dishes or savoring fresh seafood delights, every bite offers a culinary journey through the vibrant flavors of Sicily.

Picture 1: Arancino al ragù
Picture 2:  Cassata (mini)
Picture 3: Cannoli
Picture 4: Pasta di Mandorla 

Read the idioms

Do you want to learn Italian or improve your fluency?

I’m Alice, founder of Lingua Lunga Italian. I founded my school in December 2022 after years of teaching Italian to people from over 15 different nationalities. I offer lessons to people striving to achieve fluency in Italian for various reasons. Whether they have a passion for traveling to Italy, have purchased a house and plan to retire there, are married to an Italian and seek Italian citizenship, or are entrepreneurs needing to relocate or conduct business in Italy, I help. No matter what age you are, if you have consistency, enthusiasm, and passion, you can learn the Italian language. Book a Free Call with me today to begin!

LEARN WITH LINGUA LUNGA

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Exploring Italy’s Vibrant Carnival Celebrations

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Exploring Italy's Vibrant Carnival Celebrations

                                                                                                                  THE VENICE CARNIVAL

The Venice Carnival is a world-famous festival that takes place annually in the city of Venice, Italy. This year it started on January 28th and it will end on February 13th (Mardi Gras- Martedì Grasso).  The festival dates back to the 11th century and is a celebration of art, music, and food, among other things. The origins of the Venice Carnival can be traced back to the 11th century when the city was still a powerful republic. During this time, Venetians would take to the streets to celebrate spring’s arrival and pay tribute to the city’s patron saint, Saint Mark. Over time, the festival evolved into a more elaborate and elaborate event, and by the 18th century, the Venice Carnival had become one of the most celebrated events in Europe.

                                                                                                                        The Viareggio Carnival

The Viareggio Carnival is one of Italy’s most famous and beloved carnivals, renowned for its elaborate floats, colorful parades, and festive atmosphere. Its origins can be traced back to the late 19th century, specifically to the year 1873. The carnival was born out of a desire to bring some joy and lightheartedness to the coastal town of Viareggio (Tuscany)  during the winter months. The idea was first proposed by a group of wealthy locals, including businessmen, artists, and intellectuals, who wanted to create a spectacle that would entertain residents and attract tourists to the area. The inaugural Viareggio Carnival took place on February 15, 1873, with a modest procession of carriages and masked revelers parading through the town’s streets. Despite its humble beginnings, the carnival quickly gained popularity and grew in size and scope with each passing year. 

                                         Picture 1: frittelle, picture 2: chiacchiere, picture 3: catagnole, picture 4: zeppole 

  What you can eat at Carnival in Italy

Indulge in the delectable delights of Italian cuisine during Carnival time! From crispy chiacchiere to fluffy frittelle, sweet castagnole, and heavenly zeppole di San Giuseppe, Carnival in Italy is a feast for the senses. Chiacchiere are delicate strips of fried pastry dusted with powdered sugar, perfect for snacking on during festive gatherings. Frittelle are irresistibly light and airy doughnuts, often filled with creamy custard or chocolate and enjoyed hot off the fryer. For those with a sweet tooth, castagnole are small balls of fried dough, coated in sugar and bursting with flavor. And let’s not forget about zeppole di San Giuseppe, traditional pastries filled with sweet ricotta cream and topped with a cherry—a true Carnival delicacy! So, immerse yourself in the culinary delights of Italian Carnival and savor every bite of these mouthwatering treats!

Do you want to learn Italian or improve your fluency?

I’m Alice, founder of Lingua Lunga Italian. I founded my school in December 2022 after years of teaching Italian to people from over 15 different nationalities. I offer lessons to people striving to achieve fluency in Italian for various reasons. Whether they have a passion for traveling to Italy, have purchased a house and plan to retire there, are married to an Italian and seek Italian citizenship, or are entrepreneurs needing to relocate or conduct business in Italy, I help. No matter what age you are, if you have consistency, enthusiasm, and passion, you can learn the Italian language. Book a Free Call with me today to begin!

LEARN WITH LINGUA LUNGA

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Italy’s top ski destinations

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Italy's top ski destinations

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO

Home of the Winter Olympic Games in 2026

In the Veneto area of Northern Italy, Cortina d’Ampezzo—often just Cortina—is a well-known and charming mountain town. It is tucked away in the center of the Dolomites, a UNESCO World Heritage Site renowned for its breathtaking scenery and world-class ski slopes. The fact that Cortina offers a variety of lodging choices contributes to its appeal to travelers and skiers. There are a variety of options available, ranging from luxurious wooden chalets with saunas to more affordable bed and breakfasts with breathtaking views of the nearby slopes. Cortina has been a destination for the international jet set since the 1950s. By 1956, it had already hosted the Winter Olympics. Today, it continues to be a place where locals live (very proud of their Ladin identity, a linguistic minority here) and where VIPs from all over the world have a second home. Cortina will host the Winter Olympic Games in 2026.

VAL GARDENA 

Best ski resort in 2022

Located in South Tyrol in the Trentino- Alto Adige region, Val Gardena is the ideal destination for year-round, intensive experiences in the midst of the distinctive Dolomites mountains. It’s no surprise that winter sports lovers love this ski resort in Italy with its immaculate slopes, magnificent mountain views, and quaint alpine villages. Val Gardena has everything one might possibly want, including world-class skiing, breathtaking scenery, and a taste of Tyrolean culture. There’s a magical winter paradise just waiting to be discovered. The FIS SKI WORLD CUP Nordic Ski races on the famous Saslong ski slope took place on December 15, 2023.

CERVINIA

One of the longest ski runs in Europe – 350 km (217 mi) of slopes in total

Cervinia, located in the Aosta Valley of northern Italy in the Valle D’Aosta region, is one of the highest and most snow-sure ski destinations in the Alps. It is situated spectacularly underneath the Matterhorn, also called as “Monte Cervino” in Italy. Cervinia is a refuge for both novice and expert skiers because of its vast ski area, high-altitude slopes, and extended winter season. The little mountain town offers a variety of lodging options, excellent food, and après-ski activities, all in an ambiance that is friendly and inviting. Winter sports fans should make a trip to Cervinia because of its world-class skiing and stunning landscape. the Matterhorn – the magnificent and majestic mountain – takes center stage, but also the Plateau Rosa glacier (a famous destination for summer skiing), the enchanting Blue Lake, and the extraordinary ice caves are no joke.

Do you want to learn Italian or improve your fluency?

I’m Alice, founder of Lingua Lunga Italian. I founded my school in December 2022 after years of teaching Italian to people from over 15 different nationalities. I offer lessons to people striving to achieve fluency in Italian for various reasons. Whether they have a passion for traveling to Italy, have purchased a house and plan to retire there, are married to an Italian and seek Italian citizenship, or are entrepreneurs needing to relocate or conduct business in Italy, I help. No matter what age you are, if you have consistency, enthusiasm, and passion, you can learn the Italian language. Book a Free Call with me today to begin!

LEARN WITH LINGUA LUNGA

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Italy’s best places to live and retire

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Italy's best places to live and retire

ABRUZZO

                                                                          Some of the lowest living costs in Italy

Abruzzo is one of Italy’s last undeveloped regions. It is located east of Rome, and has an exceptionally long coastline with majestic mountains nearby. The area is famous for its variety of olive oil and wine production, as well as the colorful houses that seem to cluster on the mountainside. Despite the busy summer season, Abruzzo’s beaches are still stunning, attracting many locals and tourists during this period. Additionally, there are amazing views in every direction, and the area is home to eagles, bears, and wolves. At the same time, the impressive mountains give the city a very peaceful atmosphere, with its snow-capped peaks making the city feel a million miles away from the busy city. As for the city itself, Abruzzo is filled with well-preserved medieval neighborhoods, towns, and beautiful churches. The air here is fresh and the sky is clear. It is also an area that pays special attention to environmental protection.  

TUSCANY

                                                                                                   Classic Italy

Tuscany is almost like a microcosm of Italy. You’ll find stunning beaches, rugged coastal cliffs and some beautiful open countryside inland. The slow pace of life in this region is truly symbolic. Those who qualify for Italian citizenship by marriage or descent will be happy to know that Tuscany has a large expat community, making it especially easy for newcomers to settle. Needless to say, these expats prefer some areas over others, but either way, it’s nice to have a place where you can experience a taste of home or chat with locals. For example, many of the surrounding towns or villages have churches, museums, galleries, and colorful Renaissance and medieval architecture. The weather is warm and pleasant, with very little rainfall, and this is a particularly bright spot in the heart of the Mediterranean.

NORTHERN ITALY

The most affordable places to live in Italy
Northern Italy is often one of the cheapest moving options due to its low accommodation and living costs. Sure, Turin, Milan and Bologna are all exciting cities, but outside of these urban areas, regions like Emilia-Romagna offer very different options. In other words, in this particular region you’ll find quiet countryside or long stretches of coastline, as well as plenty of pretty towns to call home. Cinque Terre, Lake Como and Lake Garda are just a few of the region’s many stunning attractions. When it comes to traditional Italian lifestyle, the north is the place to be. Regardless, the cost of living in northern Italy is much lower than in the south, and considering the proximity to many famous cities, you’re never truly isolated.
 

SICILY

A timeless beauty
While Northern Italy stands out for its affordability, Sicily, nestled in the south, offers a different allure. Often perceived as more affordable due to its lower living costs, Sicily boasts its own charm and distinct lifestyle. Beyond the bustling urban centers like Palermo, Catania, and Messina, Sicily unfolds its diverse offerings. From serene countryside vistas to breathtaking coastal stretches, Sicily presents an array of picturesque towns perfect for settling in. With attractions like the Valley of the Temples, Mount Etna, and the stunning Aeolian Islands, Sicily is a treasure trove of natural wonders. Embracing the traditional Italian way of life, Sicily offers a unique cultural experience in a more cost-effective setting. While the cost of living is relatively lower compared to the north, Sicily’s proximity to historic cities ensures you’re never far from adventure.

Do you want to learn Italian or improve your fluency?

I’m Alice, founder of Lingua Lunga Italian. I founded my school in December 2022 after years of teaching Italian to people from over 15 different nationalities. I offer lessons to people striving to achieve fluency in Italian for various reasons. Whether they have a passion for traveling to Italy, have purchased a house and plan to retire there, are married to an Italian and seek Italian citizenship, or are entrepreneurs needing to relocate or conduct business in Italy, I help. No matter what age you are, if you have consistency, enthusiasm, and passion, you can learn the Italian language. Book a Free Call with me today to begin!

LEARN WITH LINGUA LUNGA

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Be a part of this dream!

Check out students’ life stories in the Life Stories section to see their journey through learning Italian and how much the language has played an important role in their lives.

Life Stories