Umbria, Italy

For National Blog Posting Month, I decided to take the challenge of writing a short post every day of the month of November. This is just when I thought I was going to take a break from writing. But, I decided on a theme and it’s an easy one for me.

For the next 30 days I will write about what draws me back to Italy—my favorite destination.

Reason Number One: The people

Our neighborhood barrista in Perugia

From the moment I order my first espresso at the airport to the arrival in my first town in Italy, I am reminded of the warmth and friendliness of the people of Italy. The Italians have a way of making you feel welcome. After one return trip to the same coffee bar, they already know what your favorite drink.

It’s easy to find an Italian that likes to joke with you and is genuinely interested in you. If you speak a little bit of the language, it’s even better. Your language skills may not be the best, but no matter. The typical Italian will compliment you profusely for making the effort to speak Italian—and you will be rewarded with some lively conversation. If you stay in one spot long enough, you may even make some lasting friendships.

Friendly neighbors