In honor of our little "something great" that's raced past at the speed of light here are four of the myriad things to (heart) about Italy.
Fashion, for lack of a more nuanced descriptor
Some call it fashion, others are less generous, but there is definitely a love of following recent trends. Of buying what's on the racks and throwing it on your body. Of putting on jeans that read "RICH" across the bottom, and then walking around with a boyfriend who's wearing the exact same pants. And should there be any question of whether these two identically-dressed individuals are together there's always a healthy display of public affection to make their intentions clear.
Dogs in every shop, restaurant and mode of transport
Whether you have two legs or four, you're welcome in most any Italian establishment. While having a morning coffee at the bar, a visitor can count on at least one dog nosing around their feet, eating brioche crumbs off the floor. Riding the Metro is not only for people-watching, but pooch-watching as well. And in the high end fashion stores there will almost certainly be a small pup nosing around its own business while its owner attends to some luxury purchases.
Dogs and bicycles: two great tastes that taste great together
It's the Italian version of chocolate and peanut butter. Dogs + bikes = happiness for everyone. "Walk" your dog while riding a bicycle! Put your dog in your bicycle basket and tool around town! Who knew that dogs and bicycles were such natural cohorts? The Italians, of course.
The hands-clasped-behind-the-back saunter
Reserved for well-dressed men over 70, this casual stroll epitomizes the Italian way of life. It's slow, it wanders with no clear direction, and it's well-dressed. You will find these men at all times of day, alone or in groups, slowly walking around town. Their arms are always behind their backs and they are always moving languidly. If you don't have anywhere to be, it's beautiful. If you need to get to work on time, and this man and three of his friends happen to be on the sidewalk in front of you, it's a tad less glorious. (But charming nevertheless.)
Italy is everything people tell you. It is beautiful and passionate and full of laundry drying outside. It has fresh fruit available only in season and buffalo mozzarella that must be tasted to be understood. There are glorious wines, heaps of beautiful people, and a musical language. And for 365+ days we've been here too.
Eating, watching, living... and looking for the perfect pair of RICH jeans. On second thought, make that two pair.
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