Registration HERE!

Film Discussion of Il Postino on Sunday, June 30th starting1pm @MetroWines. The event and popcorn is on the house. A glass of Italian red or white wine is $7. Robert Formento, Film Coordinator for Ciao Asheville will lead the discussion. Robert has extensive knowledge of Italian Films. His brief synopsis of Il Postino is here:

Il Postino

Pablo Neruda was a Nobel Prize winning Chilean poet-diplomat and politician. Probably best known for his passionate love poems, he also served a number of diplomatic positions in Chile, but because of his politics (he was a communist), he got himself into trouble with the Chilean government and was exiled to The Isle of Capri in Italy in the early 50s. (Tough exile!)

The movie, Il Postino, takes place after Pablo Neruda arrives. It is a story about Mario, a bumbling mailman, who’s madly in love with Beatrice, the most beautiful woman on this island. . . . but is too shy to tell her how he feels. With Pablo’s help, he finds the right words to win her heart. 

Il Postino was nominated for 5 Oscars in 1994 (Best Actor, Best Director, Best Screenplay, Best Original Music Score and Best Picture) Those viewers who loved the movie, Cinema Paradiso, will be pleased that Philippe Noiret (who played Alfredo, the movie projectionist) also plays the role of Pablo Neruda in Il Postino. Mario is wonderfully played by Massimo Troisi. Although not well known in America, Troisi was very well known in Italy for his comedy films. Sadly, Massimo died one day after major filming was completed. The movie ends with a simple dedication, “To Our Friend Massimo”.

Tickets HERE!! (HIGH Sell Out Risk)

 Tickets HERE!

News Release: Saturday, May 4th, 2019

Tickets HERE!

News Release: April 9th, 2019

In Don Camillo, we enter a small rural town in the Po Valley of Northern Italy. The time period is the late 1940s early 50s. At that time, Giovanni Guareschi started writing short stories about conflicts between a hot headed town priest, Don Camillo, and with his rival, the Communist mayor, Peppone. The stories, printed in the satirical Milanese weekly magazine Candido, represent the real life conflict that was taking place between the Catholic Church and the Communist party of Italy (which had a strong following in Northern Italy at the time).These short stories were later compiled into a series of books and then woven into several movies. 

Filmed in Italy during the 1950s, they showcase Don Camillo, the village priest who is always arguing with his ideological enemy, the communist mayor, Peppone. Guareschi takes on the philosophical arguments in both a serious and comical way. Both the priest and the mayor are convinced of their ideas which makes for some fiery but humorous arguments. Adding to the comedy and delight of this movie is the third main character, the statue of Jesus. There are many “conversations” that the priest (Don Camillo) has with his statue of Jesus in his church...and the statue gently but firmly lectures Don Camillio into better ways to work with Peppone for the good of the village.

Well-known and loved in Italy, but relatively unknown in America, this film will make you want to read “The Little World of Don Camillo” stories by Guareschi. 

Movie discussion with "Ciao Asheville" Film Critic Robert Formento on Sunday, April 28th starting 1pm @MetroWines.

Admission is free. $7 for a glass of Italian Wine!

By Michael Scardaville!

Planning your own trip: benefits

Is planning your own tour of Italy realistic?

https://www.tripadvisor.com/ShowTopic-g1-i13626-k10240800-Is_planning_your_own_tour_of_Italy_realistic-Senior_Travel.html

Palio

https://www.discovertuscany.com/siena/palio-siena.html

San Gimignano

https://www.discovertuscany.com/san-gimignano/

Trastevere

https://www.tripsavvy.com/things-to-do-in-trastevere-rome-neighborhood-4157952

Crete Senesi, Abbey of Monte Oliveto Maggiore

https://www.discovertuscany.com/what-to-see-in-tuscany/abbey-of-monte-oliveto-maggiore.html

The tradition of "Vino Sfuso" (getting wine in bulk) in Italy

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-FFJ0S76bCI

When to go

Weather in Italy

https://www.italylogue.com/weather/

White Truffle Festival, Alba

http://www.turinitalyguide.com/alba-truffle-festival/

EuroChocolate

http://www.bellaumbria.net/en/eurochocolate/

New travel security system for most EU countries in 2021

https://www.etiasvisa.com/etias-requirements/americans

Where to go

Italia (nice overview of regions, trip possibilities)

http://www.italia.it/en/

Regions of Italy

https://www.italylogue.com/regions-of-italy/

The Ultimate Guide to the Regions of Italy

https://www.oyster.com/articles/62385-regions-of-italy-places-to-visit-in-italy/

Via Francigena

https://www.viefrancigene.org/en/

La Pasta di Gragnano

https://www.eataly.com/us_en/magazine/culture/magazine-pasta-di-gragnano/

Slow Food: Food itineraries

https://www.slowfoodeditore.it/it/itinerari-86

What to do

Google regional specific sites: examples

• Florence and Tuscany: http://www.discovertuscany.com/
• Turin: http://www.turinitalyguide.com/
• Umbria: http://www.bellaumbria.net/en/

Tickets for the Uffizi Gallery and Accademia Gallery,

https://www.visitflorence.com/what-to-see-in-florence/booking-florence-museums.html

Firenze Card

https://www.visitflorence.com/florence-museums/is-firenze-card-worth-it.html

Vatican Museums

http://www.museivaticani.va/content/museivaticani/en.html

OMNIA Vatican & Rome Card

https://revealedrome.com/2017/05/is-a-roma-pass-worth-it-or-omnia-card/

Venezia Unica Pass

https://partwaythere.com/2018/07/17/is-the-venice-pass-worth-it/

How to get around

Rome2Rio

https://www.rome2rio.com/

Maps.me

https://maps.me/

A beginner's guide to train travel in Italy

https://www.seat61.com/Italy-trains.htm

Trenitalia

https://www.trenitalia.com/

ItaloTreno

https://www.italotreno.it/en

Italia rail (be wary of additional fees)

https://www.italiarail.com/

Rail Europe (be wary of additional fees)

https://www.raileurope.com/

Auto Europe

• Arranges cheap rentals with the major companies: Avis, Europcar, Hertz, etc.

https://www.autoeurope.com/our-car-rental-partners/europcar/

A Beginner's Guide to the Do's and Don't's of Driving In Italy

https://www.italymagazine.com/featured-story/beginners-guide-dos-and-donts-driving-italy

A beginner's guide to train travel in Italy

https://www.seat61.com/Italy-trains.htm

Where to stay

True Italian Agriturismos

https://www.agriturismo.it/en/

Bed and Breakfast

https://www.bed-and-breakfast.it/en/

Monastery Stays

https://www.monasterystays.com/

Where to eat

8 Signs You’re Eating at a Tourist Trap

https://anamericaninrome.com/wp/2018/06/8-signs-youre-eating-at-a-tourist-trap/

How to Read An Italian Menu

https://www.walksofitaly.com/blog/food-and-wine/dining-in-italy-italian-menu

Vegan & Vegetarian Restaurants in Italy (and gluten-free)

https://www.happycow.net/europe/italy/

Eating Vegetarian in Italy (or Vegan, Gluten-Free, Lactose-Intolerant, Celiac)

https://www.walksofitaly.com/blog/food-and-wine/vegetarian-in-italy-vegan-gluten-free-europe

The Essential Gluten Free Guide to Italy

https://www.legalnomads.com/gluten-free/italy/

Slow Food: cookbooks

https://www.slowfoodeditore.it/it/foreign-corner-93

Decanter, Wine Travel – Italy

https://www.decanter.com/wine-travel/italy/

How to communicate

Google Translate

https://translate.google.com/

Google Translate: download languages to use offline

https://support.google.com/translate/answer/6142473?co=GENIE.Platform%3DAndroid&hl=en

Edoardo A. Lèbano, Italian: A Self-Teaching Guide (2^nd edition)

https://www.wiley.com/en-us/Italian%3A+A+Self+Teaching+Guide%2C+2nd+Edition-p-9780471359616

Metro wine blog: Survival Italian

https://metrowinesasheville.com/wine-blogs/learning-italian

Coffee Break Italian (Season 1 & 2)

£ 80 ($104.) each; £ 145 ($189) together  https://coffeebreakacademy.com/courses?query=Italian

Online Italian Club (free)

https://onlineitalianclub.com/

Rocket Italian (free)

https://www2.rocketlanguages.com/italian/

Wellesley College: Italian Language and Culture: Beginner, Intermediate, Advanced (more academic; free)

https://www.edx.org/course/italian-language-culture-beginner-wellesleyx-italian1x

Learn Italian: How to Survive on Your Travels to Italy If You Do Not Speak Italian (3 parts)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JbKO3R8j0RU

WhatsApp

https://www.whatsapp.com/

XE Currency: for offline currency conversions

https://www.xe.com/currencyconverter/

When in Rome . . .

When in Rome… A Look at Cultural Norms in Italy

https://mattathomeintheworld.com/2017/09/17/when-in-rome-a-look-at-cultural-norms-in-italy/

A Look at Italian Language, Culture, Customs and Etiquette

https://www.commisceo-global.com/resources/country-guides/italy-guide

SHOPPING!

Let’s go shopping/Andiamo a fare la spesa

Knowing some Italian might be helpful when you just have to spend money (spendere soldi) to buy that special something.  This week’s lesson will present some words and phrases that can help you on your shopping spree.  It might be helpful to review last week’s advice on how you can simplify speaking Italian.

Pronunciation/Pronuncia

Here’s one of many videos on Italian pronunciation:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxb62L0Lujc&t=98s

Types of stores/Tipi di negozi

Alimentari

Grocery store

Centro commerciale

Shopping center

Farmacia

Pharmacy

Gioielleria

 Jewelry shop

Latteria

Milk and cheese shop

Libreria

Bookstore

Mercato

Market

Negozio

Store/shop

Negozio d'abbigliamento

Clothing store

Negozio di musica

Music store

Negozio di scarpe/calzature

Shoe store

Ottico

Optician

Pasticciera

Pastry shop

Panetteria/panificio

Bakery

Posta

Post office

Profumeria

Perfume shop

Supermercato

Supermarket

Tabaccheria

Tobacco shop (it’s more like a convenience store where you can buy cigarettes, magazines, and bus tickets, and recharge your phone)

Some key words/Alcune parole chiave

Aperto

Open

Chiuso

Closed

Orari di apertura/chiusura

Opening/closing hours

Accessories

Accessori

Backpack

Zaino

Belt

Cintura

Boots

Stivali

Camicetta

Blouse

Clothing/clothes

Abbigliamento

Coat

Cappotto

Dress

Vestito

Earrings

Orecchini

Glasses

Occhiali

Gloves

Guanti

Handbag/Bag

Borsa

Hat

Cappello

High heels

Scarpe coi tacchi alti

Hiking boots

Scarpe da trekking

Jacket

Giacca

Jeans

Jeans

Necklace

Collana

Pants/trousers

Pantaloni

Receipt

Scontrino

Ring

Anello

Sales person

Commesso/a

Sandals

Sandali

Scarf

Sciarpa

Shoes

Scarpe

Size

Taglia

Shirt

Camicia

Skirt

Gonna

Socks

Calzini

Sunglasses

Occhiali da sole

Sweater

Maglione

Tie

Cravatta

T-shirt

Maglietta

Colors/Colori

Black

Nero

Blue

Blu

Brown

Marrone

Dark

Scuro

Green

Verde

Grey

Grigio

Light

Chiaro

Pink

Rosa

Purple

Viola

Red

Rosso

White

Bianco

Yellow

Giallo

Sizes/Taglie

Big/large

Grande

Long

Lungo

Medium

Medio

Shoe size

Numero di scarpae

Short

Corto

Size

Taglia

Small

Piccolo

Tight

Stretto

Wide

Largo

Some useful phrases/Alcune frasi utili

Anything else?

Altro?/Poi?

Can I have a bag?

Posso avere una borsa?

Can I help you?

Posso aiutarlo?/Mi dica?

Can I try it on?

Lo posso provare?

Can you help me?

Mi puo aiutare?

Do you have ________?

Avete _________?

Do you have this in size ________?

Avete la taglia ________?

Do you have a larger/smaller size?

Avete una misura più grande più piccola?

Do you have anything that is less expensive?

Avete qualcosa di meno costoso?

Do you have it in a different color?

Lo avete in un colore diverso?

Does this look good on me?

Come mi sta?

How much is it?

Quanto costa?

I am going shopping

Vado a fare spesa

I don’t like it

Non mi piace

I like it

Mi piace

I'll buy it

Lo compro

I'll take it/them

Lo/li prendo

I'm just browsing

Sto dando un'occhiata

I’m just looking

Sto solo guardando

I'm looking for __________

Sto cercando __________

It looks good

Sta bene

It’s handmade

È fatto a mano

It’s artisanal

È artigianale

It’s too expensive/small/big

È troppo caro/piccolo/grande

I wear size __________

Ho la taglia __________

I would like __________

Vorrei __________

I would like to return this

Vorrei restituire questo

I'd like to try it on

Vorrei provarlo.

May I just look?

Posso guardare?

May I try this on?

Posso provarlo?

Nothing else

Nient’altro

That’s all

Basta così/E' tutto

What are you looking for?

Cosa sta cercando?

What size is it?

Che taglia è?

What size would you like to try?

Che taglia vuole provare?

What time do you open/close?

A che ora aprite/chiudete?

Where can I find __________?

Dove posso trovare _________?

Where is _________?

Dov'e' _________?

Where is the changing/dressing room?

Dov’è il camerino?

Paying the bill/Pagare il conto

Here is your receipt

Ecco il suo scontrino

I'd like to pay by credit card

Vorrei pagare con la carta di credito

I'd like to pay with cash

Vorrei pagare in contanti

May I have the receipt?

Mi può fare lo scontrino?

May I pay with credit card?

Posso pagare con una carta di credito?

Please pay at the check out

Paghi alla cassa, per favore

Please sign here

Firmi qui, per favore

We don't accept credit cards

Non accettiamo carte di credito

Where is the checkout?

Dov e` la cassa?

Where is the closest ATM?

Dove è il bancomat più vicino?

At the restaurant and bar/Al ristorante e il bar

Now that we know some key food related words, we can talk about how to order food and drink in restaurants and bars.  Note that a bar in Italy is not a pub in the U.S. sense, but rather a business where you can buy coffee, pastries, and panini in addition to wine, liquor, juices, and soft drinks.  Given the seemingly unlimited ways you can order the food and drink you want, I’ll try to simplify this process and also present some phrases you may find helpful when you go out to eat.  I’ll end the lesson by sharing a link on the 10 commandments of ordering coffee in Italy.  Ignore them at your own risk.

Pronunciation/Pronuncia

Here’s one of many videos on Italian pronunciation:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxb62L0Lujc&t=98s

Keeping it simple

As is often the case when we speak in English, you often don’t have to say a complete sentence in Italian when buying a train ticket, shopping, and ordering food and wine.  Just a noun, adjective, and perhaps a number may be all that you need in many situations. So instead of saying: “I would like two glasses of red wine.”  Simply saying “two glasses of red wine” will get you that delectable beverage.  “I would like a table for two” becomes “a table for two” and so on.

But if you want to use verbs, you can simplify the process by sticking with just one or two commonly used verbs, especially “volere” (to want) and “prendere” (to have, in the context of ordering food and drink)

So for the conjugation of volere:

I would like . . . . . . . . . vorrei

You would like . . . . . .  vorresti

S/he would like. . . . . .  vorrebbe

We would like. . . . . . .  vorremmo

You would like  . . . . . . vorreste

They would like  . . . . . .vorrebbero

And the conjugation of prendere:

I’ll have . . . . . . . . . . . . . . prendo

You’ll have . . . . . . . . . . .  prendi

S/he will have . . . . . . . . . prende

We’ll have  . . . . . . . . . . .  prendiamo

You’ll have . . . . . . . . . . .  prendete

They’ll have . . . . . . . . . .  prendono

Keeping it simple part 2

If you wish to use verbs, you can use the examples below as a template when you order food and drink by simply changing the nouns, numbers, and adjectives:

I'll have  . . . . . a coffee/half liter of white wine/two scoops of gelato

Prendo . . . . . un caffè/mezzo litro di vino bianco/due gusti di gelato

We’ll have . . . . . two cappuccinos and two croissants/brioches with chocolate

Prendiamo . . . . .  due cappuccini e due cornetti con cioccolato

I would like. . . . .  one tea, one coffee, and a croissant/brioche with honey

Vorrei un tè, un caffè, e un cornetto con miele

We would like. . . . .  a coffee/two glasses of red wine/a beer

Vorremmo un caffè/due bicchieri di vino rosso/una birra

How to make a reservation/Come fare una prenotazione

I would like to make reservation

Vorrei fare una prenotazione/Vorrei prenotare

I would like to reserve a table for two at 8:00 pm tonight

Vorrei prenotare un tavolo per due alle otto per stasera

I would like to book a table for _______ persons in the name of _______

Vorrei prenotare un tavolo per _______ persone in nome di _______

How to order food and beverages/Come ordinare cibo e bevande

Note: there are many YouTube videos on how to read a menu and order food in Italy.

I have booked a table in name of ______________

Ho prenotato un tavolo a nome di ______________

No, we don’t have a reservation

No, non abbiamo prenotato

Do you have a table for _____?

Avete un tavolo per _____?

Is this table free?

È libero questa tavola?

I would like a table for two near the window/on the terrace/outside

Vorrei un tavolo tavolo per due vicino la finestra/sulla terraza/di fuori

I am hungry

Ho fame

I am thirsty

Ho sete

What do you recommend?

Que cosa mi consigli?

I would like to order now

Vorrei ordinare adesso

I would like to try a regional dish

Vorrei provare un piatto regionale

For the first course I’ll have ________, as a second  ________, for a side dish  ________,

Per primero prendo  ________,  per secondo  ________, per contorno  ________

We will order our second course afterwards

Il secondo lo ordiniamo dopo

Can you bring me the wine list?

Puo portarmi la lista dei vini

Can you recommend a wine to go with this dish?

Puo consigliare un vino per questo piatto?

I did not order this.

Non ho ordinate questo.

Is it spicy?

È piccante?

Can you give me some more water?

Posso avere ancora acqua?

I need a napkin/fork/knife

Mi serve un tovagliolo/forchetta/coltello

Where is the bathroom?

Dov’è il bagno?

Is the cover charge included in the price?

Il coperto e compresi nel prezzo?

The food is excellent

Il cibo era ottimo/eccellente

I liked the food

Mi piace il cibo

Compliments to the chef

Complimenti allo chef

A waiter might ask the following when s/he comes to your table:

Cosa desidera?

What would you like?

Vuole qualcosa da mangiare/bere?

Would you like something to eat/drink?

Sì, prego?

Yes, please?

How to pay the bill/Come pagare il conto

The bill, please

Il conto, per favore

Can I pay with a credit card?

Posso pagare con una carta di credito?

I need a receipt

Mi serve lo scontrino

I think there is a mistake

Credo che ci sia un errore

Do I pay at the table or at the cashiers?

Pago a tavola o alla casaa/cassiere?

Vegetarian, vegan, gluten free, and other dietary concerns/Vegetariano, vegano, senza glutine e altre preoccupazioni dietetiche

Note: there are many websites and some books that address food restrictions when traveling in Italy.  BTW, you can find gluten free pizza and vegan gelato in the larger cities.

I am/we are vegetarian/vegan

Sono/siamo vegetariano(i)/vegano(i)

I don’t eat meat/fish

Non mangio carne/pesce

I can’t have/eat . . .

Non posso avere/mangiare  . . .

I am allergic to nuts

Sono allergico alle noci

I have allergies to different foods

Sono allergico a diversi cibi

Do you have a menu or dishes for vegetarians/vegans?

Avete un menu o piatti per i vegetariani/vegani?

Do you have any gluten free dishes?

Avete piatti senza glutine?

Do you have any dishes without dairy?

Avete piatti senza latte?

What ingredients does it have?

Che ingredienti contiene?

Does this dish contain cheese/butter/eggs/flour?

Questo piatto contiene formaggio/burro/ uova/farina?

Is it possible to cook this dish without ___________?

È possible preparare questo piatto senza ___________?

Last word on food in Italy/Ultima parola sul cibo in Italia

Ordering coffee in Italy: the 10 commandments

http://www.telegraph.co.uk/travel/destinations/europe/italy/articles/italian-coffee-culture-a-guide/

Food and Wine/Cibo e vino

Italian food and wine.  Do we need any more reasons to visit Italy?  Given the vast nature of this subject, I can only mention some basic words and phrases to help you get started, but nonetheless I’ll still need to spend two weeks on eating (mangiare) and drinking (bere) in Italy.  We’ll begin by building some basic vocabulary, and next week we’ll address how to order food and drinks at restaurants and other establishments. Buon appetito!

Meals/Pasti

Antipasto - starter/appetizer

Aperitivo – happy hour with food (6:30-8:30 pm)

Cena – dinner

Cibo – food

Colazione/prima colazione) – breakfast

Contorno - side dish

Dolce - dessert

Pranzo – lunch

Primo - first course

Secondo - second course

Spuntino – Snack

At the restaurant/Al ristorante

Bicchiere - glass

Bottiglia – bottle

Cameriere/cameriera  - waiter/waitress

Cioto - bowl

Coltello – knife

Compreso – included

Conto – the check

Coperto – service charge, normally included in the check

Cucchiaio - spoon

da asporto - takeaway

Escluso – excluded

Forchetta - fork

Gluten free - senza glutine

Piatto –plate

Tazza - cup

Tovagliolo - napkin

Vegan – vegano

Vegetarian - vegetariano

Zuppa – soup

Meat/Carne

Agnello - lamb

Bistecca - steak

Cinghiale – wild boar

Coniglio - rabbit

Cotoletta - cutlet

Maiale – pork

Manzo - beef

Pollo – chicken

Salsiccia - sausage

Scaloppini - escalope

Trippa - tripe

Vitello - veal

Fish/Pesce

Acciughe – anchovies

Aragosta - lobster

Baccalà - salted cod

Calamari - squid

Cozze - mussels

Gamberi - prawns

Granchio - crab

Pesce spada - swordfish

Polpo - octopus

Spigola - sea bass

Tonno - tuna

Other common food items/Altri prodotti alimentari comuni

Aceto – vinegar

Aglio – garlic

Basilico – basil

Biscotto - cookie

Burro – butter

Cacio - cheese

Capperi – capers

Carciofi – artichokes

Ceci- chickpeas

Cioccolata - chocolate

Cioccolato fondente – dark chocolate

Cipolle – onions

Fagioli – beans

Formaggio - cheese

Fragola – strawberry

Frittata – omelette

Fruta – fruit

Funghi – mushrooms

Gelato - ice cream

Grissini – breadsticks

Guanciale – cured pork jowl

Insalata – salad

Lampone – raspberry

Limetta - lime

Limone – lemon

Maionese – mayonnaise

Marmelatta – jam/marmalade

Melanzana – eggplant

Miele – honey

Minestra – soup

Nocciola – hazelnut

Noci - walnuts

Olio – oil

Olio d’oliva – olive oil

Olive – olives

Origano – oregano

Pancetta – Italian-style bacon

Pane - bread

Panini – Plural of panino (more than one sandwich)

Panino – sandwich

Pasticcini – pastries

Patate – potatoes

Pepe – black pepper

Peperoncino – red chili pepper

Peperoni – bell pepper

Pomodoro –tomato

Prezzemolo – parsley

Prosciutto – ham

Riso - rice

Rosmarino – rosemary

Sale – salt

Salsa di pomodoro – tomato sauce

Salsiccia – sausage

Salumi – cold meats/cold cuts

Salvia – sage

Senape – mustard

Sugo - sauce

Tartufi – truffles

Tramezzino - sandwich made with soft white bread, with the crusts removed

Uova - Eggs

Uva – grape

Verdure - vegetables

Zucchero – sugar

Beverages/Bevande

Acqua -water

Acqua frizzante/gassata – sparking water

Acqua naturale – non-carbonated water

Aperitivo - Aperitif

Aranciata – orange soda

Bicchiere d’acqua – glass of water

Bicchiere di vino – glass of wine

Birra - beer

Caffè - coffee

Latte – milk

Limonata – lemonade

Litro di vino – liter of wine

Mezzo litro di vino – half liter of wine

Succo - juice

Te – tea

Vino della casa – house wine

Vino rosso/bianco/rosé/spumante - red/white/rose/sparkling wine

Vino sfuso –wine from the cask/barrel

Food preparation/Preparazione di alimenti

Affumicato – smoked

al forno - baked

al vapore – steamed

alla griglia - grilled

Arrosto - roasted

Cotto - cooked

Crudo - raw

di stagione – in season

Fritto - fried

Ripieno - stuffed

Adjectives when ordering food or drink/Aggettivi quando ordinano cibo o bevande

al sangue – rare

Ben cotto – well done

Caldo - warm; hot

Dolce - sweet

Freddo - cold

Grande - big; tall; large

Media – medium

Piccolo - small; short

Secco - dry

Michael Scardaville gets us around town!

Taxis and buses/Taxi e autobus

Knowing some Italian can help you if you decide to take any taxis or buses.  If words fail you at any point, you can always write down the address or name of your destination and show it to the driver.  Next week will focus on hotels and other accommodations  . . . after which we’ll finally get to food and wine!!!

Pronunciation/Pronuncia

Here’s one of many videos on Italian pronunciation:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxb62L0Lujc&t=98s

A few key words/Alcune parole chiave

Bus

Autobus

Bus driver

Controllore

Bus stop (also train stop)

Fermata

Bus ticket

Biglietto dell'autobus

Map

Mappa

Taxi

Taxi

Taxi driver

Tassista

Taxi fare

Tariffa del taxi

Taxi stand

Posteggio dei Taxi

Bus/autobus

Can you tell me when to get off for __________?

Può dirmi quando scendere per__________?

Can you tell me where the bus stop is?

Mi puo’ dire dov’e’ la fermata dell’autobus?

Does this bus go to _________?

Questo autobus passa a _________?

Does this bus stop in _____?

Questo quest'autobus si ferma a _____?

How often does the bus run?

Con quale frequenza passa l'autobus?

Is this __________ street?

È questa via __________?

When does the bus for _____ leave?

Quando parte l'autobus per _____?

When will this bus arrive at _____?

Quando arriva a _____ quest'autobus?

Where can I buy a bus ticket?

Dove si compra un biglietto dell'autobus?

A bordo sull'autobus

On board the bus

Dal tabaccherie

At tobacco shops

Which bus will take me to _____?

Quale autobus mi porta a _____?

Where does this bus go?

Dove va quest'autobus?

Where is the bus to _____?

Dov'è l'autobus per _____?

Taxi/Taxi

Are you free?

E libero?

No, sono fuori servizio

No, I'm off duty

Could you call me a taxi, please?

Mi può chiamarmi un taxi, per favore?

How much does it cost?

Quanto costa?

How much do I owe you?

Quanto le devo?

How much does it cost to go to _____?

Quanto costa andare a _____?

How much?

Quanto?

I'm in a hurry.

Ho fretta.

Please take me to_____.

Per favore, mi porti ______. 

to this address/hotel

a questo indirizo/all’hotel

to the airport/to the station

all'aeroporto/alla stazione

to the hospital

all'ospedale

to the center/downtown

al centro

to ________ Street/Square

in _________ via/piazza

Stop here, please.

Fermi qui, per favore

What is the fare to the airport?

Qual è la tariffa per l'aeroporto?

Where can I find a taxi?

Dove posso trovare un taxi?

Car rental and Driving in Italy/Autonoleggio e Guidare in Italia

     It might be helpful to know some Italian if you decide you want to rent a car to visit any towns, sites, and wineries off the beaten path.  And if you do, it’s probably a good idea to know common road signs and understand some basic directions.  BTW, there are a number of map apps that can help you find the places you want to visit, but from my driving experiences in Italy, MAPS.ME, is a highly reliable (and free) offline GPS navigation app: http://maps.me/en/home

Pronunciation/Pronuncia

Here’s one of many videos on Italian pronunciation:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxb62L0Lujc&t=98s

Some key words and common road signs/Alcune parole chiave e cartelli (or segnale) stradale commune

Area di servizio (on Autostradas and highways)

Gas station with other services, including restrooms, real food and coffee (sometimes a sit-down restaurant), Wi-Fi service, children's play areas, and more.

Check out these articles on the infamous Autogrills:

The Autogrill Rest Stop on the Autostrada

http://www.slowtrav.com/italy/driving/autogrill.htm

A Day of Autogrills: Eating through Italy's highway rest stops

http://www.saveur.com/article/blog/a-day-of-autogrills-eating-through-italys-rest-stops

Assicurazione

Insurance

Attenzione

Caution

Autostrada

Expressway with tolls

Benzina

Gas

Benzina senza piombo

Unleaded gas

Benzinaio

Gas station

Casello

Toll both

Centro

Center of Town

Corsia

Lane

Dare la precedenza

Yield

Deviazione

Detour

Entrata

Entrance

Entrata Vietata

No Entry

Lavori In Corso

Road Work Ahead

Limite di velocità

Speed limit

Macchina

Car

Parcheggio

Parking

Parcheggio a pagamento

Pay parking

Parcheggio Vietato

No Parking

Patente

Driver’s license

Pedaggio

Toll

Pedaggio autostrada

Toll road

Rallentare

Slow Down

Ritirare il biglietto

Take a ticket

Semaforo

Traffic light

Senso unico

One way

Stop (on a street sign)

Stop

Strada

Street

Strada statale (abbreviated as SS)

State highway

Uscita

Exit

Via

Road/street

Vietato l'Accesso

Keep Out

Vietato parcheggiare

No parking

Zona Pedonale

Pedestrian Zone

Check out these links to see the various road signs in Italy:

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Road_signs_in_Italy

http://italyexplained.com/driving-road-signs-italy/

http://www.slowtrav.com/italy/driving/parking.htm

Directions/Direzione

East

Est

Left

Sinistra

North

Nord

Right

Destra

Straight (straight ahead)

Diritto

South

Sud

West

Ovest

Davanti a . . .

In front of

Di fianco a . . .

Besides

Dietro a . . .

Behind

Di fronte a. . .

Opposite

Dopo il  . . .

Past the . . .

Giri a destra

Turn right

Giri a sinistra

Turn left

Lontano

Far away

Prima del . . .

Before the . . .

Verso il . . .

Towards the . . .

Vicino a . . .

Next to

Phrases/Frasi

How do I get to _____ ?

Come si arriva a _____ ?

... the airport?

...all'aeroporto?

...the American Consulate?

...al consolato Americano

...the American Embassy?

...all'Ambasciata Americana

... the bus station?

...alla stazione dell'autobus?

...downtown?

...in centro?

...the hotel?

...all'albergo/hotel?

...the nearest gas station?

...benzinaio più vicina?

... the railway station?

...alla stazione ferroviaria?

... the restaurant?

... al ristorante ?

... the winery?

... all'azienda vinicola?

… (name of town)

... ____________________?

Can I get insurance?

Posso avere un'assicurazione?

Can I park here?

Posso parcheggiare qui?

Fill it up with unleaded gas, please

Metta il pieno di benzina senza piombo, per favore.

How long can I park here?

Quanto tempo posso parcheggiare qui?

How much does parking cost?

Quanto costa il parcheggio

I have a flat tire

Ho una gomma a terra

I want to rent a car.

Vorrei noleggiare una macchina.

Which is the road for __________?

Quale è la strada per __________?

Al semaforo prenda la prima via a destra

At the lights take the first street on the right

All’ incrocio prenda la seconda via a sinistra

At the intersection take the second street on the left

Alla rotonda giri nella seconda via

At the roundabout turn into the second street

Sempre dritto fino al semaforo

Go straight to the lights

Sempre dritto fino all’incrocio

Go straight to the intersection

Sempre dritto fino alla rotonda

Go straight to the roundabout

Michael Scardaville has us ready to hit the ground running!

But don't run. It's Italy! Take your time. Stop for wine.

Weather and some useful words and phrases

Pronunciation/Pronuncia

Here’s one of many videos on Italian pronunciation:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxb62L0Lujc&t=98s

Weather/Tempo

What's the weather like (today)?

Che tempo fa (oggi)?

What's the weather for tomorrow?

Che tempo farà domani?

It’s beautiful weather/bad weather

Fa bel tempo/brutto tempo

It's nice/bad

Fa bello/brutto

It's sunny

C'è il sole

It's cold/hot/cool

Fa freddo/caldo/fresco

It’s humid

È umido

It's windy

C'è vento

It's cloudy/windy

È nuvoloso/ventoso

It's raining

Piove

It’s stormy

È tempestoso

What’s the temperature?

Quanti gradi ci sono?

It’s 30 degrees (Celsius)? (86 Fahrenheit)

Ci sono trenta gradi

Some useful words and phrases/Alcune parole e frasi utili

Do you speak English?

Parla inglese?

I don't speak Italian

Non parlo italiano

Speak more slowly, please.

Parla più lentamente, per favore

I don't understand

Non capisco

I understand Italian a little.

Capisco l’italiano solo un po'.

I speak a little Italian. 

Parlo un po di italiano

Is there someone who speaks English?

Qualcuno parla inglese?

What did you say?

Come?

How do you say . . . ?

Come si dice . . . ?

What does it/that mean?

Che cosa significa?

What day is it (today)?

Che giorno è (oggi)?

Today is Wednesday, May twenty four

Oggi è mercoledì, e ventiquattro maggio

Excuse me, what time is it?

Mi scusi, che ore sono?

At what time?

A che ora?

How long?

Quanto tempo?

I am hot/cold

Ho caldo/freddo

I am hungry/thirsty

Ho fame/sete

I am 55 years old

Ho cinquantacinque anni

I am in a hurry

Ho fretta

I am sleepy

Ho sonno

I am tired

Sono stanco

Please

Per favore

You’re welcome

Prego

Thank you/many thanks/thank you very much

Grazie/molto grazie/mille grazie (or grazie mille)

Good/very good

Bene/benissimo

Excellent

Ottimo

I like it

Mi piace

I don’t like it

Non mi piace

I’m sorry

Mi dispiace

Excuse me (when want to ask question)

Mi scusi

May I come in? or want to pass/excuse me)

Permesso?

How much/many?

Quanto? Quanti?

How much does it cost?

Quanto costa?

Where?

Dove?

Where is . . . ?

 Dov'è . . .?

Where is the bathroom? 

Dov'è il bagno?

Where is an ATM?

Dov'è il bancomat?

When?

Quando

Why?

Perché?

Who?

Chi?

How?

Come?

What?

Che cosa?

For how long?

Per quanto tempo?

How often?

Con che frequenza?

How long ago?

Quanto tempo fa?

Three days ago

Tre giorni fa

I am sick

Sto male

I am lost

Sono perso

Michael Scardaville helps us navigate the basics. We will, one step at a time, be able to work our way to and from and through a piazza and everything it has to offer before too long. Parla Italiano! Grazie Michael.

Time and the Calendar

Pronunciation/Pronuncia

Here’s one of many videos on Italian pronunciation:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=rxb62L0Lujc&t=98s

Months, Days and Seasons/Mesi, giorni e stagioni

What is today's date?

Che giorno è oggi?

Today is May 18

Oggi è il 18 maggio (or simply il 18 maggio)

Is today Thursday or Friday?

È oggi giovedì o venerdì?

I like summer

Mi piace l'estate

Let’s go to Italy in September.

Andiamo in Italia a settembre.

Months/Mesi

January

gennaio

February

febbraio

March

marzo

April

aprile

May

maggio

June

giugno

July

luglio

August

agosto

September

settembre

October

ottobre

November

novembre

December

dicembre

Days/Giorni

Monday

lunedì

Tuesday

martedì

Wednesday

mercoledì

Thursday

giovedì

Friday

venerdì

Saturday

sabato

Sunday

domenica

Seasons/stagioni

Spring

la primavera

Summer

l'estate

Autumn

l'autunno

Winter

l'inverno

Telling Time/Leggere l'ora

What time is it?

Che ora è?  or Che ore sono?

Excuse me, what time is it?

Scusi, che ore sono?

For one o'clock and for noon or midnight the answer is  E' + the hour

It's one o'clock

È l'una (or simply  L'una).

It's noon/midday.

È mezzogiorno (or simply mezzogiorno)

It's midnight.

È mezzanotte (or simply mezzanotte).

For all other times of the day, the answer is Sono le + the hour

Four o'clock

Sono le quattro (or simply Le quattro).

Nine o'clock

Sono le nove (Le nove).

Ten o'clock

Sono le dieci (or simply Le dieci).

Fractions of an hour are introduced by the conjunction  'e' followed by the minutes elapsed.

11:10

Le undici e dieci

3:25

Le tre e venticinque.

You can choose to indicate 'quindici or trenta minuti', (fifteen or thirty minutes), using 'un quarto' (a quarter) or 'mezza' (a half) introduced by 'e' instead

3:15

Le tre e un quarto.

10:30

Le dieci e trenta.

From the half hour to the next hour, time can also be expressed by giving the coming hour 'meno' (minus) the number of minutes before the next one.

2:40 (Twenty to three)

Le tre meno venti.

3:55 (Five to four)

Le quattro meno cinque.

To indicate fifteen minutes, you can use also 'un quarto’ using it in the following expressions:

2:45 (Fifteen to three)

Le tre meno un quarto.

3:45 (Fifteen to four)

Le quattro meno un quarto.

Italians generally indicate A.M and P.M as follows:

From 1:00 - 3:00 AM

Time + di notte (2:00 AM: Le due di notte)

From 4:00 - 6:00 AM

Time + del mattino (5:00 AM: Le cinque del mattino)

From 6:00 AM - noon

Time + di mattina (10:30 AM: Le dieci e trenta di mattina)

From 1:00 PM – 5:00 PM

Time + del pomeriggio (4:15 PM: Le quattro e un quarto del pomeriggio)

From 6:00 – 11:00 PM

Time + di sera ((9:00 PM: Le nove di sera)

From Paola (with the baby) at Bele Casel. Thank you Paola for helping us to "Learn Italian"

Mark you calendar for "SKYPE the Winemaker" with Paola on November 14th at 5:30

Here's the link of our youtube page where you can find lots of videos, the links of the most interesting ones with English subtitles are below. If you need the files I can send them too, no problem

(Qui i link della nostra pagina youtube dove puoi trovare tanti video, i link dei più interessanti con sottotitoli in inglese sono sotto. Se hai bisogno dei file posso inviarli senza problemi)

Have a great day and don't hesitate to send me emails or facebook messages if you have any doubts about Italian! (I sent you a friend request)

(Buona giornata e non esitare a mandarmi email o messaggi su facebook se hai qualche dubbio a proposito dell'italiano)

Paola