Interview with Nardini in Lombardy

Name: Peter

Date of Interview: December 14, 2007

Area of Italy you live in?

Lombardy

Let us know a little about yourself?

I'm married and in semi-retirement. My wife is just retired (thank you Italy for early retirement).

Why did you decide/have you decided to move to Italy?

My wife is Italian, born and bred. It was the logical choice, as well as the best one for me.

What type of process did you go through to be able to move here?

As a EU citizen with an Italian wife, I have experienced no problems at all - but I am quite used to the "Italian Way" of doing things.

What problems did you run into during the initial process and how were you able to fix them ?

Piano, piano - always.

How long have you been here?

6 years full-time. Quite a few more part-time (43 of them, actually).

What type of adjustment problems have you had?

Language has always been a bit of a problem and it seems to get worse as I get older and forget more things - yes, both my English AND my Italian.

What do you wish someone had told you before you made the leap?

That it would be so easy and so rewarding. I would have moved 43 years ago if I had known that.

What inside secret could you pass on to others looking to move over?

The best advice is to keep calm. Learn Italian. Keep calm. Forget the rules of your own country - you are here now. Keep calm. Smile a lot and... KEEP CALM.

Do you have any disappointments, things you thought would happen but haven't for whatever reasons ?

None come to mind.

What has changed about you since you have been here ?

I am generally much calmer now and far less stressed with life. And suntanned.

Do you think that you will stay forever?

I wish I could. Unfortunately, death will take me first.

Comments?

I haven't seen enough of the site yet to comment really.