Italy is not only made up of coward captains

After the sinking of the Costa Concordia, the images of this episode of Italian marine tragedy are now broadcast everywhere in the world.

Again Italy hits the headlines with a negative rebound on its image. The title of "Captain coward" is repeated from one corner of the world to the other, affecting negatively the idea of how Italians really are.

However, the figure of the Francesco Schettino, who showed fear and selfishness in abandoning its vessel, is sharply in contrast with that of another face of Italy: the resolute captain De Falco.

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Doing business in Italy: some cultural conventions to know

Cultural factors and influences play a key role even when it comes to talking about doing business. We know that Americans take much into account the cultural context they work within, while it is not exactly the same for Italians, who believe culture doesn't influence very much the successful business results. Perhaps they are sometimes too influenced by their habits and customs in their business decisions.

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A common question asked in our forum is "How much do I need to earn to live comfortably in Italy?" Following user Pola's question, a few users have tried giving an accurate answer. We thought it would be a good idea to have an article here on the website to answer this very common question.

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Wednesday, January 18

There has been so much excellent commentary combined with a whole lot of conjecture on this terrible incident, I didn't want to weigh in on what seems to be a singular act of bravado by a seriously inept commander.  Usually, guys love to show off.  But when Evil Knievel jumps over a cliff, or a motocross racer does it, they usually only put themselves in danger (save for the spectators down below).
 

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Travel Diary Rome 2011, July

They say that there are certain sense memories we carry with us through out our lives. I always thought that was a beautiful idea. However; it had never happened to me. At least, not until I returned to Italy. We were on the train, looking through the watercolors of the country side at 300 km/hour. I could feel the warmth of the sunflowers through the window. We arrived at Termini and I was immediately struck. I was home. Again. I am an American. I am proud to call myself such. Yet my heart, and probably my soul are made of Italy.

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The Italian island of Giglio: witness of an almost second Titanic.

Italians are quite superstitious, but is it only by sheer coincidence that such a huge disaster happened on Friday, 13th? In fact, that date is considered by Italians a day of misfortune and in this case the accident happened right on the so-dreaded day. This event is going around the world creating astonishment and posing questions.

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Historic Connection Between North East England And Monte Amiata, Tuscany

A most intriguing fact has been brought to my attention, and one that I feel slightly ashamed maybe, for not having known before.  Can you name the important historic connection between Anglo-Saxon North East England and Monte Amiata in Tuscany?  It's known as The Codex Amiatinus and actually happens to be one of the most treasured pieces of historic work in existence.

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Talk to an Italian about the renowned commedia sexy all'italiana, the Italian sexy comedy, and you will likely find that the first name that comes to their mind is Lino Banfi. Banfi, who is closely associated with Edwige Fenech, has successfully acted in many movies in the celebrated genre.

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Travel to Italy: North or South?

There is infamous rivalry between the north and south of Italy. But which one really has the edge when it comes to sightseeing, romantic city breaks, the best beaches and mouth-watering food?

If you are starting to plan your trips for 2012, Venice Carnival will certainly be a highlight for the year but the electric atmosphere during the Saint Rosalia celebrations in Palermo should also not be missed. It's hard to top the incredible statues and monuments of Rome but what about the UNESCO World Heritage Site of Pompeii? Sicily boasts wonderful wild stretches of coastline but enchanting Liguria packs a punch with dramatic rocky outcrops. Decisions, decisions...

Best for sightseeing...North

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On the night of Saint Sylvester (San Silvestro), December 31st, a worldwide party crosses countries and time zones. In general Italians celebrate like most others in the world often gathering to watch fireworks or setting off some of their own. Yet, if you celebrate New Year's Eve in Italy you will notice some cultural differences that are unique to the country. This article will touch on some of them as well as provide some suggestions on what to do if you'll be ringing in the new year in Italy.

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