Dolce Vita for beginners: 7 things that Italians simply do better

Voting over Tuscany

From of our editorial team

A look at the Italian way of life - from the coffee break to the art of saying "no" in style.

Italians know how to enjoy life. And no, that's not a cliché, but a Life principlethat is in the air - somewhere between the aroma of freshly roasted espresso, the sound of the Vespa and the rhythmic waving of hands during a discussion. Here are seven things that Italians simply do better.

1. coffee breaks - short, strong, sacred

While people in Germany like to trot into meetings with half a litre of latte, the Italian coffee break happens in three sips. At the bar. Standing up. And with style. No to-go cups, no vanilla syrup. Just Espresso. Black. Full stop.

What we can learn: Less is sometimes more - especially when it comes to caffeine. And: a real break doesn't last longer, it lasts longer.

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2. sense of style - even when taking out the rubbish

Even when picking up bread rolls, the Italian pensioner looks like something out of an Armani catalogue. Shoes polished, scarf in place. And the sunglasses? They're more important than the front door key.

What we can learn: Style is not a question of money, but of attitude. And yes - sunglasses can also be worn in cloudy weather. Especially in Rome.

A quick tour of Italy

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3. food - a sacred ritual, not a stopgap

Eating is not a logistical problem in Italy ("I have to eat something quickly..."), but rather a social highlight. Nobody rushes through the city with a Tupperware container. You eat together. At the table. With a sequence of courses. And with real enjoyment.

What we can learn: Meals are a lifetime. And eating spaghetti with a spoon is a culinary crime, by the way.

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4. speeches - with passion, hands and drama

Discussing in Italy? That's opera. Even the question of whether it's going to rain can turn into a heated debate with 43 types of gestures and at least one Theatrical break degenerate.

What we can learn: Communication is more than words. And a little drama never hurts - as long as it ends with a smile.

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5. strolling - not walking, but celebrating

While people in Central Europe often rush "from A to B", Italians know the principle of the passeggiata: walking for the sake of walking. In the evening, through the streets, in the best outfit - and of course with the chance of being seen.

What we can learn: Exercise can also be leisure. And those who walk more slowly see more of life.

6 Say no - charmingly but firmly

A "No" in Italy can sound like a declaration of love. Gentle, melodic, with a smile - but still final. Whether in a restaurant, when visiting the authorities or flirting: rejection is never brusque, but always clearly formulated.

What we can learn: You can set boundaries without slamming doors. And a smile changes everything.

7. time - elastic, but meaningful

Punctuality is a fluid idea in Italy. Five minutes isn't a miss, it's a luxury in life. Appointments? Orientation aids, not chains. But when you meet, you are completely there.

What we can learn: Time is a framework, not a prison. And real presence weighs more than punctuality.