Things I Wish I Knew Before Moving to South Italy

When I made the bold decision to move from London to South Italy in 2018, I was full of excitement and anticipation. I felt an undeniable connection to the region, drawn by its beauty, culture and warmth but as with any major life change, there were challenges I hadn’t anticipated.

Looking back, there are several things I wish I had known before making the move, which might have made my transition smoother. If you're considering a move to Italy, these insights could be invaluable.

1. Italy is a Country of Contrasts

Italy is often romanticised as a single, cohesive culture but the reality is much more complex. Italy feels like 101 different countries rolled into one, with stark contrasts between the Northern, Central and Southern regions. The divisions are not just cultural but also economic and infrastructural. The North generally offers more job opportunities, better infrastructure and higher pay, while the South, though rich in beauty and tradition, can feel lacking in these areas.

When I first moved, I didn’t fully grasp how these regional differences would impact my experience. If I had known, I might have been better prepared to handle the comments and judgments I received, both online and in person. Understanding these contrasts early on would have helped me approach my new life with a more realistic outlook, ready to navigate the complexities of living in such a diverse country.

2. The Language Barrier is Real

One of my biggest challenges has been the language barrier. Before moving, I naively underestimated just how crucial it is to speak Italian, especially in the South. English is not widely spoken and relying on it can lead to significant frustrations, particularly when dealing with bureaucracy or important daily tasks.

Had I known this, I would have focused more on language learning before moving and set more realistic expectations for myself. Instead, I found myself relying heavily on those around me, which chipped away at my confidence. If you’re planning to move to South Italy, I cannot stress enough how important it is to invest time in learning Italian. It will not only make your life easier but also help you integrate more fully into the community.

3. Other People’s Opinions Don’t Matter

One of the most important lessons I’ve learnt is to not let other people’s opinions dictate my choices. Moving to South Italy brought its fair share of criticism, particularly from fellow expats. Whether it’s about the challenges of finding work or the perceived difficulties of living in the South, there’s no shortage of negativity.

What I wish I had known from the start is that these opinions are often rooted in others' experiences and don’t necessarily apply to my journey. Everyone’s path is different and what matters most is staying true to your own goals and aspirations. So, if you’re facing doubts or criticism about your decision to move, remember that only you know what’s best for you.

4. The Working Culture is Wildly Different

The working culture in South Italy was another aspect that took me by surprise. Coming from London, where contracts are generally straightforward and employers are relatively reliable, I found the Southern Italian work environment to be much more unpredictable. It often feels like the Wild West, where nothing is as it seems and understanding your contract can be a challenge in itself.

If I had known this before moving, I might have saved myself a lot of stress and frustration. The key is to approach work with flexibility and an open mind, ready to navigate the uncertainties that come with the territory. Being prepared for this will help you to manage expectations and reduce the stress that can come from such a radically different working culture.

“South Italy, at its core, is the same as life anywhere else.”

5. Living Abroad Will Change You

Finally, one of the most profound realisations I’ve had is just how much living in South Italy has changed me. Over the years, I’ve adapted in ways I never expected—from my dinner habits to how I handle interpersonal relationships. Living abroad is one of the most transformative experiences you can undertake, pushing you out of your comfort zone and forcing you to grow in ways you might not have imagined.

While this change is ultimately rewarding, it can also be challenging, especially if you’re not prepared for it. If I had known just how much I would change, I might have been better equipped to handle the low moments and embrace the transformation with more grace.

Life is Life, No Matter Where You Are

At the end of the day, one of the most important things I’ve learnt is that life in South Italy, at its core, is the same as life anywhere else. Sure, there are the obvious perks—like the climate, the food and the culture—but people still face the same challenges, whether it’s work, relationships or personal struggles.

Understanding this can help you manage expectations and avoid the trap of thinking that a move to Italy (or anywhere else) will solve all your problems. Life will still have its ups and downs, but with the right mindset, you can make the most of your new adventure.

If you're considering a move to Italy, or any other country, I hope these insights help you prepare for the journey ahead. It’s a wild ride, but it’s one that can be incredibly rewarding if you go into it with open eyes and an open heart.