Stay Fabulous

Italy vs. USA – 7 Biggest Differences No One Talks About

Anastasiya Episode 8

Culture shock is real! After living in Italy for nearly a decade and returning to the U.S., I was immediately hit with the massive Italy vs USA differences that no one warns you about. From Italian bureaucracy vs US efficiency, work-life balance Italy vs USA, and cost of living Italy vs USA to food culture Italy vs America, personal space Italy vs USA, and why cash vs credit Italy is still a thing in 2025 - this episode breaks it all down!

I'll share my expat life in Italy experiences, including the struggles of moving to Italy, how Italy vs USA lifestyle compares, and the surprising Italian vs American culture shocks I still experience. Whether you're an American in Italy, thinking about living in Italy, or just curious about the cultural differences between Italy and USA, this episode will open your eyes!

Listen in to hear the pros and cons of living in Italy, Italy vs America social norms, and what I miss about America versus what I love about Italy. Do you agree with my observations? Let me know!

_____

0:00 Culture Shock! Visiting the USA After Years in Italy

6:38 Italy vs. USA Bureaucracy: Why Everything Takes Longer in Italy

10:03 Work-Life Balance: Italy’s Dolce Vita vs. America’s Hustle Culture

17:59 Cash vs. Credit: Why Italians Still Prefer Cash in 2025!

21:12 Food Culture Shock! Grocery Shopping & Dining in Italy vs. USA

24:28 Personal Space in Italy vs. USA: Why Italians Stand So Close!

25:35 Cost of Living: Italy vs. USA—What’s More Expensive?

26:42 Air Conditioning in Italy: Why Italians Refuse to Use It!

29:28 Would You Move to Italy? Expat Life vs. American Convenience

29:57 Final Thoughts: The Biggest Differences Between Italy & the USA

_____

Connect with me: 

Fabulous Vita Travel Agency : ⁠https://fabulousvita.com

Youtube Channel : ⁠https://youtube.com/c/StayFabulousTL⁠

TikTok: ⁠https://www.tiktok.com/@iamtassanalaapey⁠

Instagram : ⁠https://www.instagram.com/iamtassanalaapey⁠