What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Florence. They wrote...
"Expats in Florence often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. As Italian is the primary language spoken in Florence, many expats find it difficult to communicate with locals and to understand the nuances of the language. Additionally, expats may find the Italian lifestyle to be quite different from their own, as Italians tend to take a more relaxed approach to life and work. This can be difficult for expats who are used to a more structured and fast-paced lifestyle. Finally, expats may find it difficult to adjust to the Italian bureaucracy, which can be complex and time-consuming," commented one expat who made the move to Florence, Italy.
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Italian For A WhileBecome ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
"Most Florentines are not friendly and do not care for foreigners. Nothing here has to be as difficult as they actually make it. If it's not Italian, it's not as good. Italians have a lot of pride in themselves and are some of the most arrogant and racist people I have ever met. They are also the most self-centered I have ever encountered....Italy starts with I! If there is a line, one will always jump to the front and ask questions, etc. There is no consideration if there are people waiting behind them, they will take their time to get their stuff done first (b/c it's all about them :0)) Itlians are VERY loud and unaware of when they are yelling in your ear or on their phones in a contained public space (ie bus, office, etc.). There are museums, cafes, restaurants and shopping; however, after a month or two, the novelty wears off. I prefer big cities and a wide variety of entertainment options. Florence doesn't have this," remarked another expat in Florence, Italy.
Other Questions:
- What do I need to know before retiring in Florence?
- What do I need to know before moving to Florence?
- How do I find a place to live in Florence?
- What is a typical expat home or apartment like in Florence?
- What is the average cost of housing in Florence?
- How do I meet people in Florence?
- What should I pack when moving to Florence?
- Where should I setup a bank account in Florence?
- Will I be able to find a job in Florence?
- What is life like in Florence?
- What do people like (and dislike) about Florence?
- What type of social life can someone expect in Florence?
- What is the social scene like in Florence?
- What advice to expats in Florence have about housing?
- What are medical services in Florence like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Florence?
- Is the cost of living in Florence high?
- What are the visa & residency requirements in Florence?
- Why do people move to Florence?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Florence, newcomers to Florence would love to hear your answer to this question.
