EYP - English Yellow Pages for Italy

Do they have dry cleaning service in Italy? Does anyone know where there might be one in Trastevere or the surrounding areas?

originally posted by: Brooke

The Bargello Museum is often overlooked by tourists in Florence. I strongly suggest giving it a look. The medieval architecture of this building, which used to be a prison encases some of the best work of the Renaissance. Take time to enjoy such works as Michaelangelo’s Baccus – it is truly worth it.

originally posted by: Michael Hummel EYP Student Blog Editor

This gallery is the most important Renaissance museum in terms of Renaissance paintings. My personal favorite was the "Seven Ladies of Virtue

originally posted by: Michael Hummel EYP Student Blog Edito

The Accademia does not have the same number of amazing works as other galleries in Florence, but it does have Michaelangelo’s David so it is a must. The David is probably the greatest sculpture ever done in terms of beauty and skill. The hands are so lifelike it is scary.

originally posted by: Michael Hummel EYP Student Blog Editor

This newly built hotel is three stars but feels like at least 4. It seems like it is mostly family run and the ownership is very freindly. The location cannot be beat: it is right between the Duomo and The Accademia Gallery, literally a 3-minute walk to each site from the hotel. Breakfast is included, which is also nice. The rooms are also fairly priced!

originally posted by: Michael Hummel EYP Student Blog Editor

The Gusto Leo is a relaxed enviroment with som good italian food. The Lasagna was very good and the gelato was even better. The prices are fair and there is a 10% discount if you are students or have a large group. There is also an open bar if you just want to stop in for a drink. The service very friendly and you do not need to wait long for your food.

originally posted by: Michael Hummel EYP Student Blog Editor

The B Gallo is a lovely dining experience with a warm atmosphere and delicious food. The service is good and check out the wine list, it is very nice. Enjoy the great location look right at the Duomo in the heart of Florence. A meal will cost about 15 to 20 euros per person.

originally posted by: Michael Hummel EYP Student Blog Editor

Hello!

I am a 24 year old female from england, I am looking into doing a language course in Italy this Spring. Does anyone have any good recommendations? I am looking at Florence, but open to any suggestions! Thank you! Cara

caradavidowitz@googlemail.com

originally posted by: Cara

Hello!

I am a 24 year old female from england, I am looking into doing a language course in Italy this Spring. Does anyone have any good recommendations? I am looking at Florence, but open to any suggestions! Thank you! Cara

caradavidowitz@googlemail.com

originally posted by: Cara

Body Language

Learning to speak the Italian language is at times frustrating and disheartening, but I have found while learning to speak Italian I have forgotten to observe what speaking Italian entails. Language experts say that people communicate over 50% of what they are saying not through words, but in fact through body language. If this figure, 50% holds true for the world then it must be about 70% for Italians.

If you get a chance just sit and watch people speak to one another it is outstanding, absolutely incredible. An Italian will solidify any point with what I like to call the Roman Five Finger Fling. This move is only done by the most experienced Italians, while often imitated it is rarely mastered by outsiders. Despite its name the Roman Five Finger Fling is used by all Italian natives from the most cosmopolitan roman to the rural Sicilian. You will catch Marlon Brando flashing this move in his role as Vito in the Godfather.

How do you do this move you may ask, I will quickly tell you. Take your right hand form an ok sign and turn it around so that your palm faces up and your fingers are at your chest level. After doing so you must, depending on how quickly you are speaking move your entire arm in small circles while you are talking and lean slightly foward. Once you have mastered this move you may move on to the Two Handed Five Finger Fling, but beware this is only done if there is something very serious happening and should not be used without caution. This is one of the many examples of body language in the Italian culture.

Not being able to speak Italian does not necessarily mean you will not be able to get your point across to Italians. Walking into any market will help you to develop your Italian Body Language skills. Grab the shopkeepers attention with an Eh Due Pomodori flashing two fingers while pointing towards the fruits. One of the absolute best situations to flash some of that newly learned body language is when you get cut in line, which believe me will happen. I do not know why, but for some reason the Italian line system is basically a free for all crowd. If and when you are cut in line there is a specific protocol for letting that person know you are first. Simply shift your body back and cock one foot outwards followed by a little eye contact. Then do a little crunch with your eyebrows and look offended. They will quickly understand what you are saying and move aside quite apologetically.

Now that you are trained in the art of Italian Body Language you should go out and use it. Flash any symbols that might seem appropriate at the time and use the Roman Five Finger Fling technique. When you are upset look upset, when you are happy look happy and when you are serious be serious. Italians will think you are one of their own. Believe me this works Italians always pay closer attention to what you look like and what you are doing rather than what you are saying.

originally posted by: Michael C Hummel EYP Student Blog Editor