Do Italians hate it when Americans visit the villages of their ancestors?

Question:

Do Italians hate it when Americans visit the villages of their ancestors?

I know little about the old country except for town names and surnames. I know even less Italian. Should I learn Italian before visiting? Is it hard to learn?

Best Answer - Chosen by Asker: The Italians are very proud of their country and love to show it off. For the most part, they are a hospitable nation. What they do hate is when Americans come over with a "holier than thou" attitude and are rude. For instance, I have seen Americans make a fuss over having to pay for bottled water at a restaurant (the Italians do not serve free tap water) and generally come off like jerks. I have seen Americans become upset when an Italian doesn't speak English (hello, you are in Italy) and, again, come off as jerks.

I strongly advise you to buy an English-Italian dictionary and maybe a phrase book to take along with you. Learn the general greetings and use them whenever you enter a coffee bar, gelato stand, bakery, etc. In Europe, greetings are always exchanged before business transactions occur, forgo this and you will be considered rude. Some Italians speak English but not all do. Most Italians will greatly appreciate the effort of trying to converse in their language but don't be surprised if they interrupt you and start conversing in English. Also, don't be surprised if you have animated gesturing session with an Italian if you approach a local for directions.

As long as you are polite and gracious to the Italians and are accepting that things are done differently there, you will have no problems.

Enjoy your trip to Bella Italia. Go to Rome, it is spectacular!