Ah, amore! The universal language of love may be the same, but the dating rulebooks in Italy and America couldn’t be more different. As a duo who’s navigated both the pasta-laden piazzas of Rome and the burger-filled diners of the USA, let us break down the key distinctions for you. Andiamo!
The Approach
In Italy, flirting is an art form. Italian men have no qualms about showering you with poetic compliments and bold gestures. “Ciao bella, your eyes sparkle like the Trevi Fountain at midnight!” In contrast, Americans often opt for a more casual, laid-back approach. “Hey, how’s it going? Wanna grab a coffee sometime?”
The First Date Night
An Italian date typically involves a multi-course feast at a trattoria, complete with flowing wine and intimate conversation. Meanwhile, Americans tend to keep it low-key with drinks at a bar or a quick bite at a food truck.
It’s a difference we’d akin to tradition courtship versus modern get-to-know-you. Not everyone is looking for a peacock!
PDA Protocol
Italians are all about the public displays of affection—sometimes, it’s d i s g u s t i n g. Hand-holding, cheek-kissing, and passionate embraces are the norm. Americans, on the other hand, are a bit more reserved when it comes to PDA. A peck on the cheek or a quick hug is usually the extent of it, especially when friends are around.
Meeting the Family
In Italy, meeting the family is less of a big deal. You’ll meet the mother in just a couple of weeks for a casual 3-day stay at her house (assuming the fellow you’re seeing doesn’t already live with her). That doesn’t mean there aren’t judgements about you! In contrast, meeting the parents in the states is a BIG STEP.
The Commitment Question
Italians tend to dive headfirst into relationships, with talks of exclusivity happening early on. In some cases, they don’t even talk about it—it’s just assumed! Americans, however, are more likely to keep their options open and “see where things go” before DTR (defining the relationship).
So there you have it! Whether you prefer your love life served up with a side of spaghetti or french fries, one thing’s for sure: dating is always an adventure. Just remember, when in Rome (or New York), do as the locals do!