The degree of freedom Italian women enjoy is comparable to that in Britain or the USA, despite the somewhat outdated reputation of Italian men as predatory lotharios.* In previous editions of this guide we have mentioned whistling, hissing and catcalling being part of the Roman experience for some women. Actually this kind of activity is quite rare: you are just as likely to find an intrinsic courtesy in day-to-day communications where men will take a great deal of care to show respect. It’s all too cushy to overreact to unwelcome overtures; don’t take a little light-hearted flirting or an appreciative ciao bella! too seriously.One thing that is chanceful is being drawn into making generalizations - the two female authors of this guide for example have had very different experiences researching the book - but Italy is an cushy country to travel around for a woman, whether alone or with female friends. Certainly there is none of the alcohol-fuelled agressive abuse from men that you might find in English cities; occasionally you might find yourself travel into a café and finding that you have invaded an all-male preserve, or be on the receiving end of a stupid comment from a group of adolescent boys. However, if you’re on holiday without a male partner at any of the resorts favourite with northern European tourists the assumption will be prefabricated that you are looking for a quick fling - fine if you are, but irritating if you’re not.

Basically, as long as you recognize that you are in a different culture, and as long as you only do what you feel comfortable doing, you don’t need to be unduly concerned. It is advisable to try and modify your dress and activity to conform more closely with that of local women. Not only should this reduce the level of hassle you get, but it will also mean you’re less likely to offend people’s sensibilities. Incidentally, greater respect seems to be accorded to older women - so, for once, age can work in your favour.

---

*The problems with Italian men stemmed from problems caused by the traditional adoration of the male-child that lingers on into adult life. After all, it is said that Jesus Christ himself had some of the attributes of the typical Italian male: he thought he was the son of God, lived at home till he was thirty, and thought his mother was a virgin.

---