5+ Lessons Southern Italy Taught Me
Somehow our move back to Canada is less than two weeks away?! After nearly a year of living on the Amalfi Coast, it’s hard to wrap my head around it, and I’m sure only people who’ve moved away will really understand. I’m ready, but also not ready. I’m excited, but also sad. A lot of feelings that are diametrically opposed.
But with the closing of this chapter, I’m spending a lot of time reflecting on what this year in southern Italy has taught me. These are some of the lessons I plan to take with me when I leave…
Slowing down is okay.
After 10+ years of living in downtown Toronto, the instinct to speed walk, to rush through tasks, and to always have somewhere to be was so strong. While I will never fully embrace the pace of an Italian passeggiata, I have come to appreciate the slower way of life.
Endless patience.
Italy’s bureaucracy is one of the biggest lessons in patience I have ever had. Nothing is straightforward, nothing is quick, and yes it needs to be done immediately — but first, we break for a caffè. In the end, everything gets done, even if a few tears are shed first!
Food is an experience.
Italians take their food very seriously. The ingredients are fresh, seasonal, and simple. The flavours are savoured; scarpetta anyone? No sauce left behind! The meals are best when shared, and they are never rushed.
Drinking is about enjoying, not getting drunk.
Much like everything else, the Italian way is the slow way. Aperitivo? Always. Shots? Never, unless its an after-meal digestivo. Having alcohol to get drunk? No thanks. We’re here to enjoy ourselves, not see who can drink the most.
Being less scheduled is so freeing.
Prior to moving I don’t remember the last time I had two days in a row without plans. Here? No scheduling conflicts, no calendar coordinating. Things are more spontaneous and laid back. I love it.
BONUS: Always say yes to gelato.
This is probably the most important lesson there is. Life is short, gelato is delicious, why deny yourself the simple pleasures?
Read all about our year living on the Amalfi Coast…
Dive into month ten of living in Southern Italy. Tys returned for his trip back to Canada, the warm weather and sunny days are back, we’re currently in the middle of a two week trip, and we’re getting ready to move home with our visa almost up.