What roman people never do

If you are one of those people that would prefer being part of the cast, rather than of the audience, then take this post of mine as a joke. But if instead, when finding yourself in a bush, you'd rather turn into a chameleon than into a zebra, remember that there are a few things that, if done, might easily unmask your disguise. 

In fact, a pure roman would...

...never drink cappuccino after a meal.
There's no question about it: cappuccino is strictly part of the breakfast. After lunch, order instead an espresso, while after dinner, having most people problems with caffeine, simply finish your wine or order a so-called "digestivo" (like a limoncello or, if you prefer an "amaro").

...never wear bermudas when they're in town.

Both Italian men and women consider this outfit perfect for a day at the beach, or for a morning/afternoon walk at the seaside, but they would never ever wear it for a urban stroll.

...never be punctual.

All genuine inhabitants of the capital are
neglectful to the timetable. Forget your Swiss origins if you are invited to dinner by a roman friend. Just be from 15' to 30' minutes late, otherwise you risk to be parked in the living-room, while he's taking a pre-dinner shower.

...never roll spaghetti up with the help of a spoon.

This is the most difficult kind of pasta to be properly eaten, especially when dressed with tomato sauce. Furthermore, rolling spaghetti up requires an exhausting training, just like the one needed to eat Cantonese rice. So, if you are not so agile with your fingers, order a short kind of pasta, and...buon appetito!

...never wear sneakers with a skirt.

Unless you're Scottish, this advice is for women only. If you want to feel comfortable, simply wear a pair of leather pumps. Local fashion addicts, think that sneakers worn with a skirt are to an american, like pizza is to an italian.

...never ask the waiter for a left-overs take-away.

Unacceptable! Believe me, any Italian sitting with you at a restaurant table, will be horrified at this request, even if he smiles and tells you that he loves your spontaneity!

...never order a salad as a starter.

I must admit that this is a great wit to prevent hungry people from ordering the whole menu list, but, in Italy, salad can only be served as a one-course-menu or as a side-dish to meat or fish. 

These few "rules" are surely only a "first-aid kit" to not be immediately identified as a foreigner. There are certainly a lot more. So, if you have any doubt, or need some further advice, just write to me, and I will be more than pleased to help you!