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In this episode, Kimberly and Tommaso share their experiences after living in Italy for almost a month. They discuss the daily adjustments, from understanding local customs to enjoying Italian cuisine.

Key Points:

The Italian Tabacchi: More Than Meets the Eye:

• Kimberly and Tommaso explain how a “tabacchi” in Italy serves multiple purposes beyond selling cigarettes.
• It is a place to purchase a “Marco da Bolo,” a stamp needed for immigration applications.
• This discovery highlights the unique role of local establishments in daily Italian life.

The Rhythm of Reposo:

• Kimberly and Tommaso describe the challenge of adapting to store closing times for “riposo” or “pausa,” the Italian equivalent of a siesta.
• Store hours vary, making it tricky to plan errands.
• They joke about needing a spreadsheet or an “Airtable database” to keep track of business hours.
• These closures offer a peaceful atmosphere, especially during midday, creating a quiet charm in the streets.

Grocery Shopping Adventures:

• A humorous incident occurs when Kimberly attempts to bring a two-wheel shopping cart into a grocery store.
• She learns that these carts are not allowed inside due to unspoken rules.
• Kimberly ‘s New York City instincts made her hesitant to leave her cart unattended.
• The grocery manager’s reaction to her concern about theft provides a moment of cultural contrast.

A Culinary Awakening:

• Kimberly and express their delight in the quality and accessibility of Italian food.
• Small “alimentaries” (local markets) specialize in different products, from prosciutto to Parmigiano.
• Even simple roasted vegetables become a culinary revelation due to the fresh ingredients and olive oil.
• They highlight the artistic display of food in shops, which makes shopping a visually appealing experience.

The Echoes of History:

• Living in a village with roots dating back to the Bronze Age give Kimberly and Tommaso a deeper appreciation for history.
• The Venetian architecture in their village adds to its charm.
• Tommaso Il Favoloso reflects on his lifelong dream of living in Europe and the magical feeling of making Italy his home.

• Ciao!