In part three of our Expert Expat series we interview Lizzie, author of Dream Discover Italia. Lizzie, originally from the UK, is based in Venice, and loves the cinema, music, and theater of Italy, as well as its unforgettable architecture, history, art, and food. In her blog, Lizzie captures the wonder and beauty of Italy, documenting her travels, experiences, and wisdom accrued throughout her expat life.
Initially, Lizzie moved to Italy to take a year off, having learned Italian for seven years before moving to Venice. In her experience as a newly settled expat, forming solid friendships took longer than expected, and was initially difficult. She misses her friends and family back home, but still is undecided whether she will to move back to the UK.
Read Lizzie’s Interview:
Where have you noticed stark cultural differences?
Dress, Punctuality, Religion, Traditions, Work Ethics, Social Situations
Italy is the quintessential Mediterranean country where the pace of day to day life marches to a more relaxed beat than Northern Europe or and US. It is a proud capital of fashion and culture where social traditions are passed on from generation to generation.
Do you have a favorite website or blog about your country?
What is your best tip for people moving to or visiting your country?
Study the language before you arrive, or as soon as you arrive, otherwise you will find it difficult to make local friends and to integrate into the community – it’s the little conversations at the bakery or newsagent which make the difference between being a tourist and a citizen.
Is the cost of living higher or lower than the last country you lived in and how has that made a difference in your life?
Rent is higher in Venice than the UK, as is the cost of food but overall the difference is not overwhelming.
Have you run into any bureaucratic, insurance, tax or medical issues as an expat?
Not yet! (fingers crossed)
What advice would you give expats to help them fit into their new community?
Learn the language, join local groups via MeetUp.com or expats groups like InterNations.com to kick start your social circle. Join a gym, talk to people in shops and go to the same coffee shop or bar so staff will start to recognise you and chat!
When and why did you start your blog?
Dream Discover Italia started as a way to share my travels and tips with other Italophiles. Now it’s more of a guide to local festivals, traditions and locations to give readers a fuller, more colourful picture of Italy than most guidebook could.
