Living in Italy without speaking Italian is possible, but learning the language can transform the experience.
In a country where English is still little spoken, master italian is a key to accessing culture, friendships and services. See tips from foreigners to improve your Italian.
Mastering Italian is easier when you combine several learning methods. Many foreigners in Italy recommend taking classes, but they also suggest incorporating the language into your daily routine.
Use multiple learning methods
Marina Ferreira, a Brazilian who lives in Padova 11 years ago, suggests: “Don’t be shy about taking risks. Ask about the menu, ask for tips on where to go and start a conversation at the café. Italians love to help and are happy to see someone trying to learn the language. And be prepared: they will always talk about Pelé, Ronaldo, picanha or if you know how to dance samba.”
Jianna Kristiana, an American living in Castelvetrano, says: “Use multiple avenues to learn: apps, YouTube videos, books, music, and most importantly, make local friends. Speaking is the best way to learn.”
Christine O'Grady, who lived in Italy for 11 years, recommends: “Take an Italian course, learn basic grammar, memorize verbs! Watch Italian TV, read the newspapers daily.”
For Linda Poulnott, from Scotland, living in Nápoles, watching films that I already knew was essential: “I watched films that I had already seen in English. That way, I could concentrate more on the language, as I already knew the story.”
Judith Ward, Italian-American living in Bergamo, reinforces the idea of absorbing the language through listening: “Listen to Italian radio or TV. This helps you capture the rhythms of the language.”
Speak Italian whenever you can
Talking to Italians on a daily basis is one of the most recommended methods for enriching your vocabulary and absorbing the language in a practical way.
James Charney, American in Orvieto, comments: “Immerse yourself in situations where Italian is spoken a lot. Italians encourage those who are learning their language.”
Ian, an Australian in Umbria, stresses the importance of speaking the language in any situation, even if it’s not perfect: “Speak [Italian] whenever you can, even if you make mistakes. Many Italians will adjust their speech to help and gently correct you, which is very helpful.”
Several foreigners, interviewed by The Local, found hobbies as a way to integrate with the natives.
Susan Palmer, a British woman who lives in Abruzzo, suggests: “Join the local choir, learn to play cards, ask if someone can teach you how to cook. Harvesting grapes or olives are also good opportunities.”
For Ellie Rose Elliott, a British Puglia, the advice is clear: “For a woman, the best way to become fluent in Italian is to find an Italian boyfriend. He will refuse to speak English and your problem will be solved, although it may be painful at first.”
Face your fear and have fun
Leaving the fear of making mistakes aside is essential for learning, according to several foreigners in Italy.
A British man in the region of Brands recommends: “Don’t worry about looking silly. Imagine that you are a child learning the language with friends and family.”
Valentine Hornsby, British in Puglia, shares a similar experience: “Don’t be afraid to make a fool of yourself! Italians are very forgiving.”
Another reader in Verona highlights: “Italians don’t care if your Italian isn’t perfect, they’re happy to help and proud that you’re trying.” (Depositphotos)
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