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By AirportsMadeSimple

Venice, Italy, 2004: The beauty of The Piazza, pigeons flocking about, and… harried Americans.

Other than the incredible beauty of this historical city, I was struck by travelers who didn’t “get” why they were here:

To relax
Enjoy the moment
Savor the wine
Observe the locals
Eat food at out-of-the-way places

If you’re visiting Venice anytime soon, take note:

Americans: Think feeding the pigeons in Piazza San Marco is cool.
Italians: Think feeding pigeons that poop on you is akin to making friends with a rabid bat.

Americans: Think leaving the windows open (on the canal, at night) is a great idea. Local flavor.
Italians: Know if you leave your windows open, you won’t be able to get your eyes open from all the mosquito bites.

Americans: Are waaaaaaay too uptight about drinking wine with lunch.
Italians: Drink wine with lunch, dinner, any pretty much anytime they damn well feel like it.

Americans: Expect to hear Dean Martin’s “That’s Amore” when plopping down $250 for a gondola ride.
Italians: Prefer to sing songs like AC/DC’s “Back in Black.”

Americans: Life = speed. In eating, walking, or waiting for our food and drink in a restaurant.
Italians: Are indifferent to hurry. Don’t speed through Life with absent presence. Serve food when it’s ready. Get where they’re going when they get there.

Americans: Drive like our ass is on fire. All the time.
Italians: Drive like their ass is on fire IF their ass is actually on fire. Most walk.

Americans: Take trips.
Italians: Take vacations.

Italy is a feeling.

Murano glass, handmade pasta and breathtaking architecture are their symbols.

We need to catch up.

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