What do expats find most challenging?
We asked expats and digital nomads what they find the most challenging about the local culture in Tuscany. They wrote...
"Expats in Tuscay, Italy often find the language barrier to be the most challenging aspect of the local culture. Italian is the primary language spoken, and while some locals may speak English, it is not as common in smaller towns and rural areas. Another challenge is adjusting to the slower pace of life. Italians value a work-life balance, and this is reflected in their daily routines, which often include long lunch breaks and late dinners. This can be a significant adjustment for expats from fast-paced cultures. Understanding and navigating the Italian bureaucracy can also be a challenge. Whether it's dealing with immigration paperwork, setting up utilities, or navigating the healthcare system, the process can be complex and time-consuming. The cultural emphasis on relationships and networking can also be difficult for expats. Italians place a high value on personal relationships, and it can take time to build these connections and become accepted into local social circles. Lastly, while Italian food is world-renowned, expats may find the lack of variety in the local diet challenging. The Tuscan diet is heavily based on local, seasonal ingredients, and it can be difficult to find certain international foods or ingredients," commented one expat who made the move to Tuscany, Italy.

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Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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Become ‘Italian for a While’ with IFA! Learn in Italy on a 1-week to 12-month program - open to students, young adults, graduates, digital nomads, professionals, groups, faculty-led programs, and more. Take courses at an accredited school while immersing yourself in the language, life, and culture among your international peers. Submit an inquiry with IFA to learn more.
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Click connect to have our partner contact you via e-mail and/or phone.
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- What do expats find most challenging?
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- What are the schools in Tuscany like?
- What are healthcare services like in Tuscany?
- What are medical services in Tuscany like?
- Are healthcare and health insurance expensive in Tuscany?
- What are emergency services like in Tuscany?
- Will I need to travel to see a specialist?
- Are common prescription medications available in Tuscany?
- How are local medical facilities in Tuscany?
- As a foreigner living in Tuscany, will I have access to public healthcare? What is it like?
- What have your experiences during the pandemic with the local healthcare system been like?
What do expats find most challenging?
If you live in Tuscany, newcomers to Tuscany would love to hear your answer to this question.