Host Community Information
Central in Italians' lives are families.... and "Mama" is queen. Sons frequently live at home until well into their 20s. Parents often live in their children's homes and care for the grandchildren. Aunts and uncles play a big part in the children's lives as well. The extended family today is smaller, but is still the the major source of security.
Daily life in Italy may appear relaxed, especially in small southern villages, but don't assume that efficiency in commerce isn't appreciated. Italians are serious about business and expect you to be as well. And, conversation is an art form. Walk along the open cafes in nearly any town in Italy and you'll observe groups engaged in intense, animated discussions on a wide variety of topics. But, Italians don't casually discuss personal matters of religion or politics. Conversational topics that are appreciated, however, are (besides family) Italian culture, art, films, food, wine and, of course, sports, especially football (soccer)!
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