Trying to speak Italian in Italy can be one of the most intimidating things about moving or simply traveling to Italy. If you’re here for an extended period of time, learning Italian is strongly recommended. Although many people here do speak English and other languages, the experiences that come with speaking the local language and being able to interact with your favorite barista or the person at the market can be enriched and provide a whole different view on your time in Italy.
Obviously resources like Rosetta Stone or language CDs for the car are helpful and easy to use. However once you get here, no amount of listening will prepare you for the first time you try to actually speak something. You will feel silly and undoubtedly mispronounce even the seemingly simple words. But it will also be greatly appreciated by the locals and be the most important step to really learning the language.
Extend your knowledge once you arrive by enrolling at one of the local language schools. There are plenty of them located in the heart of the city, very near to all of our
wonderful accommodations, and they offer everything from weekly to monthly classes, and anywhere from 1 – 6 hours of class a day. It all depends on your level of commitment and at what level you really want to speak. It is also a great way to meet people and get to know others in a new city. You can find these classes online, or
ask us which ones we recommend and get recommendations from our past and current guests.
So study up with what you can for now, but once you get here put your study into practice and. You might feel (or sound) silly at first, but the best way to master it is to speak it. So talk to the grocer, the woman selling the bus ticket or the waiter before you order the glass of wine. It will pay off in conversations and experiences you will never forget!