Over the weekend, we took a train from Rome Termini to Milan. Experiencing the Olympics has been on my bucket list since I was little, and since Italy was hosting, we had to go!

We started our early morning journey at Rome’s main train station. After boarding and getting settled, we were all set for the three-hour trip north to Milan. The ride was smooth and comfortable, and the anticipation made it fly by.

We had tickets to see the women’s hockey game: USA vs. Canada. I was especially excited to watch these two teams compete, mainly because we used to live in Ottawa. I’ve been to hockey games in Canada before, and I know just how dedicated Canadians are to the sport. The energy is always incredible!

Once we arrived at the Milano Santa Giulia Ice Hockey Arena, we of course had to take a few pictures for Instagram before heading inside. The atmosphere was electric, and you could already feel the excitement building for the big game. Cheering for team  “USA!” at the top of our lungs will forever be a core memory for me. And did I mention we were featured on the Jumbotron? We were even reposted on Team USA’s Facebook page!

In between all the cheering and clapping, we grabbed a Corona and shopped for a few Olympic souvenirs — because you can’t leave without something to remember it by.

The U.S. women’s hockey team didn’t just win the night we were there — they went on to win GOLD! It was truly an incredible experience one that none of us will ever forget.                                  

Us on the Jumbotron!

Before visiting Italy, I thought I knew exactly what to expect — pasta, piazzas, and picture-perfect evenings. I was wrong. Three years of living in Rome taught me that the real Italy is found in the small cultural details most travelers don’t anticipate. Here’s what caught me off guard — and what will help you navigate the Eternal City like a local.

🍝 Dinner starts late – Restaurants rarely serve proper dinner at 6:00pm. Locals typically sit down around 8:30–9:00pm. Showing up too early can mean limited options or an empty room. Reservations are highly recommended.

💶 Coperto – Isn’t a tourist trap. That small cover charge on your bill is standard across Italy. It covers bread and the right to sit down. It’s not optional.

🧾 You have to ask for the bill – Waiters won’t automatically bring it. In Italy, lingering is normal. If you’re ready to leave, simply ask for “il conto.” 

☕️ Coffee has rules – Order a latte and you’ll get milk. Order a cappuccino at 10:00am and you might get quietly judged. After meals, espresso is the norm.

💒 Churches have dress codes – Even in summer. Many historic churches require shoulders and knees to be covered. If you forget, you’ll often find vendors selling scarves in front of major churches.

🛍️ Sundays are slow – Many stores are closed, especially in smaller towns. Sundays in Italy are family days.

🚉 Public transportation tickets need validation – On regional trains and buses, you must validate your ticket before boarding. Unstamped tickets can result in a fine.

🍷 Service isn’t rushed – You’re not meant to “eat and leave.” Meals are social. Staff won’t check on you every five minutes. Be patient and embrace the culture.

🏧 Not everywhere accepts cards – Especially small cafés, markets, or countryside towns. Carry some cash just in case.

🚾 Public bathrooms vary – Some may not have toilet seats or paper covers. Carry small tissues to be safe.

🇮🇹 Italy is regional, not uniform – Florence is not Rome. Sicily is not Milan. Food, accents, and traditions change dramatically from north to south.

     I hope these tips give you a better understanding of Italian culture and help you feel more prepared — and more confident — during your time in Italy.