When Pietro and I decided to move abroad, we were driven by a mix of excitement and uncertainty. Leaving Italy, where our lives were deeply rooted, felt like stepping into the unknown. We had a comfortable life surrounded by family and friends, yet the allure of new experiences and opportunities was too compelling to ignore. Little did we know that this decision would profoundly impact our lives in ways we couldn’t have imagined.
Adjusting to England
Our move to England was a whirlwind of new experiences. The weather was the first major shock. Italy’s sun-drenched days seemed a world away from England’s persistent rain and high humidity. I vividly remember my first winter there, grey skies and drizzle became the backdrop to our daily life. It was a stark contrast to the vibrant sunshine we were used to. While the rain was incessant, it created an unexpected beauty. England’s lush, green landscapes, thriving despite the weather, became something we grew to appreciate deeply.
Social interactions in England were another adjustment. The British are known for their politeness, which initially felt distant compared to the expressive, animated conversations we were accustomed to in Italy. I recall my first few weeks trying to get used to the understated way the British communicate. It was a change from the hearty Italian gestures and passionate debates. Over time, I learned to appreciate the British emphasis on politeness and consideration, even if it meant dialing down my exuberance.
Food was another adventure. Italian cuisine is all about fresh, bold flavors, so adapting to the more subdued British palate was a challenge. I missed the robust tastes of Italian dishes but found solace in exploring British food traditions. Afternoon tea became a cherished ritual, and I grew fond of traditional dishes like shepherd’s pie and scones. It was a reminder that even if the food wasn’t what I was used to, it had its charm and significance.
Finding common ground in Arizona
Our move to Arizona brought its own set of surprises and adjustments. The most striking similarity between Italian and American cultures, particularly in Arizona, is the influence of Mexican culture. The warmth, family orientation, and love of food here felt familiar and comforting. The way Mexican cuisine has integrated into everyday life in Arizona, with its vibrant flavors and communal gatherings, reminded us of the Italian emphasis on family and food.
The desert landscape was a dramatic departure from the green hills of Italy. The vast, open spaces and the intense heat were overwhelming at first. I remember the first time we experienced a 45°C (118°F) day in July. The heat was oppressive, and it felt like stepping into an oven. Yet, there was a unique beauty in the desert’s starkness. The expansive skies and breathtaking sunsets created a different kind of wonder. It was a lesson in appreciating the beauty of a place, even if it was vastly different from what we were used to.
Adjusting to the heat also meant changing our daily routines. We adapted by scheduling activities for cooler parts of the day and making sure our home was well-equipped to handle the heat. Despite the challenges, I learned to appreciate the desert’s unique beauty and the way the intense heat intensified the colors of the landscape.
Building connections and embracing new cultures
One of the most rewarding aspects of our journey has been immersing ourselves in each new culture. We firmly believe that truly understanding a place requires living in it. A vacation can offer a glimpse, but it is not the same as experiencing daily life. In England, we engaged with local customs, participated in community events, and built relationships with our neighbors. These experiences gave us a deeper appreciation for British culture.
In Arizona, we have made many new friends, and they have become our extended family abroad. We celebrate holidays and special occasions with them, creating new traditions and sharing our lives in a meaningful way. While we haven’t actively sought out Italian communities, we have found that through Pietro’s work and school, and thanks to my character, we have connected with wonderful people who have welcomed us warmly.
Related posts:
- 10 Tips for living abroad as an expat
- Embracing cultural diversity: our weekend immersed in Indian traditions
- A fascinating journey with tea: from Alaska to England and beyond
Personal growth and family bonds
Our moves have also had a significant impact on our family dynamics. Before moving to England, my family was very involved in our children’s lives, spending time with them regularly while we worked. Moving abroad changed this dynamic, as we had to rely more on each other. This experience has strengthened our relationship as a family. Pietro and I have become a more cohesive team, supporting each other through the challenges of adapting to new environments.
Pietro’s minimalist approach contrasts with my tendency to hold on to things, but our moves have taught me the value of focusing on collecting moments rather than material possessions. I no longer keep souvenirs from our travels; instead, I cherish the experiences and memories we create. This shift has allowed me to appreciate the richness of our journey without the need for physical reminders.
Acknowledging the full package of moving
When you decide to move to a new country, you embrace the full package that comes with it. It is not just about the excitement of a new place; it also involves adapting to the quirks and challenges that come with it. We have loved living in both England and America, each offering its unique charm and opportunities. The weather, the food, the people all these aspects contribute to the experience, and accepting them as part of the adventure has made our journey richer.
Reflecting on our journey
Each move has been like hitting a reset button on our perception of time. Living in Italy, England, and now Arizona has given us a unique perspective on our past. The distinct chapters of our lives in each place have provided reference points that make it easier to recall and appreciate our experiences.
Our journey has also broadened our understanding of the world. Engaging with different cultures has deepened our appreciation for diversity and taught us to approach life with an open mind. Each culture has its customs, rituals, and ways of thinking, and interacting with these differences has enriched our lives.
Embracing change
Our journey from Italy to the UK and then to Arizona has been a transformative experience. It has taught us valuable lessons about adaptation, immersion, and personal growth. We have learned to appreciate the unique aspects of each culture, build meaningful relationships, and embrace the challenges and rewards of living abroad.
Thanks for hanging out with me today!
See you next time.
Valentina
Leave a Reply