The importance of being prepared

I have been reflecting on my trip as it is now drawing to a close. The one thing that I have learned is that it pays to be prepared. This trip I have found myself in quite a few strange situations and being mentally prepared for whatever may come along has helped me. Not only that, but having extra gourmet chocolates and "Chicago" branded merchandise scored big points at the second home stay.

Again, the moral of the story particularly in doing business abroad- expect the unexpected.

North and South

There are certain things that seem to be true in whatever part of the world one lives. In this case, I am talking about the difference between North and South.

Yesterday, I arrived in Rome and it was clear that the people were much more hospitable. What was also clear is that I had no idea what type of Italian they were speaking! It seemed to me to be a cross between Italian, French, Portuguese- a whole lot of mush mosh.

I reflected on the U.S. and how people may draw the same parallel. Although I am a huge fan of the Northeast, I can see how non-native speakers of English may be intimidated by a New York shop keeper asking "Whaddya want!" and then saying "fur get about it"!

Again, I go back to a song I seem to keep singing again and again. In every part of the world, we have much in common. We need to find ways to work together instead of ways to be at odds with one another.

The importance of food....

It is no secret that food is a central part of the Italian culture. I had the great pleasure to experience this first-hand over the last week.

My second host family made sure I had a good taste of a variety of Italian specialties. It was during this time of breaking bread that I was able to have in-depth conversations with my host family. Through these conversations, I learned a great deal more about the Italian culture.

Last night, I experienced the "slow food" movement in the Piedmonte region. The B & B that I am staying at, Villa Favolosa, recommended that I tried slow food. Slow food was developed as a way to counter-balance the influx of fast food restaurants that came to Italy some years ago. I have to admit that taking time to eat and talk is something that I don't do enough of.

Based on my experience here, I think I will have to take more time to stop and smell the pasta.

Ciao Milan

Last night in Milan. It has been an interesting two weeks. If I had one "ah-ha" moment it would be one can not stereotype. While my general impression of Italians is warm, passionate and engaging, I have also seen the opposite. People are people, they don't come in boxes so we shouldn't label them.

True enough, there are reasons for stereotypes but I believe it is very important, especially in business, to get to know the person on an individual basis. After all, if there is one thing that we have in common it is that we want to do business with people that we like.

Che cose

After being in Italy for two weeks, I have noticed:
1. There are an awful lot of tatoos on men and women here
2. Despite being in the Pope's backyard, people seem to be more interested in astrology than the Catholic church
3. There is no such thing as a good sale
4. Many people still don't practice good hygiene
5. Even though it is near 80 degrees, the Milanese dress like it is 60- what happened to being warm-blooded?

A visual is worth a 1,000 words

Today's post is short and simple-

On my way to work today, I noticed that the line for the U.S. Consulate was around the block. At the French consulate which is across the road- there was not a soul to be found.