Happy 1st day of Spring
It is the first day of Spring here in Florence and what a glorious day it is. Today the temperature reached highs of 23°C (73°F) and it’s only March!
Italians vs Foreigners
Here is the funny thing about the seasons shifting here in Italy… at the first sight of high temperatures, Italians hold on to their winter weather gear, while foreigners start shedding layers by the second. Just compare these pictures I took today in town.
Cover up, Don’t want to get Sick
The Italians are totally covered up, some people were even wearing their scarves and winter coats! The foreigners are basking in the sun with shorts, tank tops, sundresses and hardly a jacket in sight.
Now, could this be because Italians fear that you can get sick if you are too cold? Italians like to be all bundled up. It is an important step in prevention, prevention of what? Well, getting struck by a “colpo d’aria” (hit of air)… the Italian malady that undoubtedly can lead to many dangerous ailments. (:
This also applies to the winter months. Italians may gawk and be confused at the tourists (usually German or British) that come to Florence without heavy coats and toting lightweight clothes. But, for the people living in cities with snowstorms and freezing temperatures, a mild November day merits lighter attire, no?
Am I Italian
Although, it was no surprise to me when I saw this cultural divide in Piazza Signoria today, I did do a double take when I looked down at my own outfit. I was wearing heavy black jeans, a tank top layered with a long-sleeved shirt and a light jacket (which I took off). Ohmgee?! Being in Italy this long has really rubbed off on me.
I rushed home and did a spring/summer wardrobe switcheroo. Juli and I put away all our winter items and now the closets are stocked with some happy spring duds. Sunny weather, here we come!
So, which side are you? Leave me a comment, I would love to hear if you were prepared today with your summer weather attire.