What to expect traveling as a woman of color in Italy
10
MAY 2019
There’s one question I get asked as a frequent traveler — and part-time resident in Italy. What’s it like traveling as a woman of color in Italy? It’s a topic I want to discuss having spent 4 years traveling —and staying there — for long periods of time.
Disclaimer: The following experiences are my own, and naturally will differ from other people’s experiences. I ask you take this into consideration while reading.
In the world of travel, Italy consistently ranks high on many travelers’ bucket lists. And quite rightly too. The landscapes are exactly how the guidebooks, travel guides and documentaries show them to be. In short, Italy is beautiful. However, every country has its downsides, and so does Italy. In recent years, it’s gained somewhat of a name for not being the most welcoming of nations to foreigners.
Traveling as a woman of color in Italy
People are more curious
Whether you want to call it glancing or staring, it’s something that happens a lot as a woman of color in Italy. And from personal experience, there are several reasons behind this.
- Admiring beauty. It’s widely known that Italians — especially men — like beautiful things, which also extends to women. The more unique, or exotic looking (I’ll come to that later) you are, the more likely you’ll turn some heads.
- Locals haven’t traveled as much. Depending on where in Italy you travel, those stares can stem from curiosity. It’s something that as a frequent traveler I don’t immediately think about and take for granted.
Storytime – Traveling as a woman of color in Italy
I remember the first time I visited Vicenza, a small city in the region of Veneto. Visitors here in general are more noticeable as it’s not a bigger city like Venice or Verona. One day, I noticed there were some women staring at me when I was out with my partner. I brushed it off, and carried on regardless. The staring began to grate on me the more noticed it, but I said nothing. I’ve never liked people staring at me, even in my home city of London. Eventually, we stopped at a bar for a coffee, and I was relieved for some respite. It didn’t last long.
After a waitress took our order, I saw that the lady serving behind the bar began staring too. Feeling my agitation returning, I decided to take a bathroom break.
Traveling as a woman of color in Italy – Piazza dei Signori in Vicenza
A whole lot of curiosity – a woman of color traveling in Italy
Upon returning, I confided in my partner. He simply explained, ‘they’re probably just curious’. He also added that in a place like Vicenza, many people had probably not traveled much, or left the city. Saying that, a new face is more likely to draw attention, more so a person of color.
My partner also told me that the lady behind the bar spoke to him while I was in the bathroom. She told him I was wonderful — for what reason I don’t know! And as we left, she gave us the biggest, most sincere, smile. I felt slightly embarrassed after by my earlier feelings, because as it turns out, it was nothing like I’d imagined.
That day really changed my perspective, and for the better. Nowadays when we’re back in Vicenza, or anywhere else in Italy, I don’t even notice if anyone’s staring.
Woman of color in Italy – Vicenza rooftops
“I can’t personally guarantee that your experience traveling as a woman of color in Italy will be a positive one. But, I’d encourage you to visit and make your own judgement.”
A woman of color in Italy – the exotic factor
Despite the fact that I’ve long brown hair and brown eyes like many Italian women, I’m seen as ‘exotic’. As a woman of color traveling in Italy, it’s something many women will, or have, probably experience/d.
While no-one wants to be labelled, being seen as exotic isn’t the worst thing for me. In fact, I’ve been hearing this since I was around 15/16 years old, so it’s nothing new.
Women of color in Italy – as exotic as this Bird of Paradise flower…
Very few people look like you – what’s it like traveling as a woman of color in Italy?
I remember traveling to Mexico a few years ago, and feeling immediately at ease. As well as recognizing similar cultural traditions, I was surrounded by other morenos that looked like me.
In Italy, this is of course more of a rarity. This isn’t to say it bothers me, but you naturally stand out more. There have been times where I’ve felt conscious, ie traveling to remote areas like the Dolomites. However, such feelings quickly disappeared, and I focused my attention on enjoying the scenery with friends and loved ones.
You’ll stand out from the crowd – traveling in Italy as a woman of color
The migrant situation – traveling as a woman of color in Italy
Unless you’ve been sleeping under a rock for the past 6 years, you’ll be familiar with the European migrant crisis. Italy has been one of the main countries receiving the majority of migrants arriving from Libya by boat. Over the years, the growing number of migrants have added increasing pressure on services in Italy. Add to this the existing socio-economic problems, particularly after the 2008 financial crisis, and you’ve got a pressure cooker about to explode.
The migrant situation has added to growing foreigner hostility Credit: ©Irish Defence Forces from Ireland
What does this mean for travelers of color visiting Italy?
In light of the current situation, there has been some growing hostility towards migrants. There have been many stories about African migrants experiencing racism in Italy, or being exploited by employers for cheap labor.
Saying that, black travelers may experience some hostility — depending on which part of the country you visit. Again, not every black traveler will experience this; there’s no one size fits all. Also, once the people realize you’re a visitor and not a migrant, you shouldn’t encounter any problems. This isn’t to condone any maltreatment towards migrants, but in the context of travel, you should be fine.
The current political party in Italy
Without boring you about Italian politics, let’s just say that the current party isn’t exactly very foreigner friendly. And by foreigner, this can also include those from other European countries, and not just migrants. The rhetoric of the present coalition party has added fuel to the fire about attitudes towards migrants.
The current ruling party isn’t positive about foreigners in general
A woman of color traveling in Italy – language opens doors
When I first traveled to Sicily, I was completely blindsided by the language barrier. Back then, I only had Spanish as a Latin language and was assured I’d be fine. Wrong. I struggled with just about everything and felt sad, despondent and altogether useless!
As soon as I arrived back home, I made it my mission to learn Italian. Though Sicily has its own dialect, I started learning Italian to not just converse there, but also in the north. And within 3 months, I was able to learn the basics and have a conversation.
As cliched as it sounds, language really does open doors. I’ve seen people’s expressions change from emotionless to smiles in seconds, upon realizing I can converse in their language. More importantly, as a woman of color, I feel proud to see that change in people.
I’m not suggesting you’ve to learn Italian if you’re a woman of color. What I’m saying is that having some knowledge of the language can play a role as to how some people treat you.
Language can open more doors, especially as a woman of color in Italy
Traveling as a woman of color in Italy – is Italy racist?
Speaking from personal experience, I’d say no. I’ve never had (touch wood) any kind of hostility as a woman of color traveling in Italy. On the contrary, I’ve met my partner, made some sweet new friends, and even see Italy as my second home (country). This isn’t to say that there are areas and regions that may not be as open to foreigners of color.
The only way to experience Italy as a woman of color is to see it for yourself
Visit Italy for yourself
I can’t personally guarantee that your experience traveling as a woman of color in Italy will be a positive one. But, I’d encourage you to visit and make your own judgement. For travel is about opening your eyes to the good, and the not so good aspects of any given destination.
What are your views on this subject? Have you traveled to Italy as a woman of color? What was your experience? Let me know in the comments below. Please keep comments civil.
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It’s interesting to read this perspective because while I’m mixed race I pass for white and I hardly ever get a second glance but I travel with “darker” friends who deal with stares and heads turning but unfortunately their experience isn’t as positive as yours appears to have been
That’s really sad for me to read. I’ve had nothing but positive experiences (touch wood) so far in Italy. Thank you for sharing your feedback x
Thank you for sharing your perspective on a very much needed talked about topic <3
You’re welcome, I think it’s good to give 2 sides of the subject 🙂
I found this a very thought-provoking article. I’m not a woman of colour but as a woman traveller I know we’ve probably all encountered the starting at some point and it is very uncomfortable. I don’t think there is any real solution apart from building our own self-confidence to be able to ignore it. It must be worse if you feel there’s a racial aspect to it. I’m also learning Italian. I think it makes a big difference when travelling to be able to speak the language although I’ll never be able to learn all the languages I’d like to.
Thank you so much Angela for your input. It’s something I get asked about a lot, so I wanted to share my, positive, experience with others. I too, hope things will change there. And great to read you’re learning Italian too, baci x
Thank you so much for sharing your story. Posts like this are really important to other WOC who are traveling to Italy so they know what to expect and that their feelings aren’t isolated. It was so well written as you balanced your own emotional experience and broke apart the political climate in Italy, the migration crisis, the culture in Italy. It must be so frustrating to never know why people are staring at you. I am glad overall, you didn’t have any direct hostility against you in Italy.
Thanks so much for your input. I agree it’s an important discussion, especially as I’ve seen more women travelers asking these questions in many travel forums and groups I belong to. I’m also glad that you enjoyed reading the context of the political and cultural influences here; I didn’t want to veer too off topic! x
This post was really eye-opening! I have to admit, it’s not something I’ve given much thought to before (I haven’t even had the chance to visit Italy yet!) but kudos for posting about this subject x
Thanks Louise, I appreciate you commenting even though you can’t relate. Visit Italy, it’s really wonderful x
I know all too well about some of the experiences you have mentioned. Thankfully most of the experiences have been positive otherwise I wouldnt return as much as I do.
That’s great to read, and it’s nice to know you enjoy Italy as much as I do 🙂
I have spent a lot of time in Italy and it is one of my favorite countries in Europe. Though I am not a woman of color, I do see how Italian men are more forward and not afraid to stare! Your experience was a bit different than mine but I am glad you love Italy just as much as me!
I do! It’s become my second (part-time) home and my experience is always good
It’s very interesting to read about this, and I never thought about people being curious if they’ve not travelled much. But it makes complete sense x
Thank you Rhian, it makes you think more when you travel 🙂
Thanks for sharing your experience Lisa. By spreading these kind of stories, you help spread understanding into the world. Us human beings need to know how it feels to be the other person … the way you presented this in a positive and straight-forward way was excellent. Thank you.
Thank you Karletta. I wanted to share my experiences as a woc, but understand that others may have a different experience x
This post is a new perspective and one which I had never thought or considered before. I personally didn’t know much about the Political climate of Italy, but I can see how being a WOC and the Migration crisis could make locals feel more aware of those traveling in Italy. Fantastic well written post. x
Thanks so much Olivia! I tried to write a balanced piece 🙂
I have been to Italy many times and was completely unaware of its reputation. However, your story in Vicenza was extremely reassuring that people’s stares can also simply be curiosity as they may not have ventured outside their own city’s walls. I’ve been learning Italian also and completely agree that it opens doors and tears down barriers between different cultures.
That’s why I wanted to share that story. It made me not jump immediately to something negative, but instead question why. Thank you so much for commenting.
I’ve been to Italy twice now and had the same experience as you! I’ve also heard some horror stories from friends, but I’m sure that can be said for any country. Great to read your perspective!
Thank you! I’m glad you had a positive time too in Italy 🙂
This is quite eye opening to hear of your experience whilst travelling.
Thanks for taking the time to comment
This is an interesting post to read.Though I never visited Italy but I know Italy is beautiful and hope you enjoyed your trip too. Good luck for coming trips.
Thank you, I love Italy, it’s my second home
This is an interesting read. Well im glad you loved Italy. Keep enjoying your travels
Thank you, and yes, I do!
I love your message Lisa; visit, and figure out how your experience goes. Such is the benefit of travel. We have different experiences, or at best similar. No 2 humans have the same experience. Ever.
Thanks so much Ryan. I really wanted to highlight the misunderstandings we can sometimes face when traveling; and they’re not always what they seem.
I admire how you managed to talk about my country out of the usual stereotypes and shared its authentic spirit!
Grazie Cristina, I’m glad you enjoyed it. And thank you for commenting too x
A very different kind of read for me today. I have never thought of this aspect how it would be to travel as a woman of color. I am glad to know Italy is not racist and I am very new to these experiences I read here. I am just brown, I am not sure if that would make any difference while I travel in Italy.
In my experience, it’s not, and I always enjoy being there. The only way is to go and see for yourself 🙂
I hate that there is so much racism and hostility in the world today. I’m sure it can make traveling more difficult. I’m glad that you had a positive experience in Italy – I would love to travel there one day.
Thanks Kristy, I really do. I love visiting and also wanted to debunk a few myths for other woc thinking of visiting x
I truly love reading your experience as a woman of color traveling in Italy, especially in the bar moment where someone stare at you, and you seemed like not comfortable at all. I guess that this is because they admire you because of your beauty and skin, and you seemed look new to them, especially for the locals.
Thank you, I’m glad you enjoyed it! I really wanted to share, that sometimes, it can just be a misunderstanding, and we should think twice before jumping to any conclusion 🙂
It’s so interesting to hear your perspective and great to hear it’s only been positive. I also love Italy, it’s such a beautiful country isn’t it? I haven’t been to Vicenza but would love to visit.
Yes, I’m, and have been lucky, that Italy’s been good to me! If you come to Vicenza, let me know; I may be there at the same time 😀
I must say I love Italy and have visited it a few times and must say never had any issues good or bad owing to the colour . I’m born Indian but not a lady so maybe different. As you say you need to experience it yourself and I have had only the best things to say when it comes to Italy and its welcoming people. Thanks for sharing a very interesting and different post.
That’s good to hear Amar, I’m glad you also love Italy as much as I do!
Lot of women of color traveling ti Italy will find this post useful. Nice reading your experience and tips.
Thank you for commenting
A really interesting read. It must feel good to be called exotic and wonderful. There is a string undercurrent of foreigner phobia across the world it seems, at least from the political news. But ppl in general are good to each other.
Thank you! And I agree that there are still kinder people, than not, in the world
That’s a perceptive and interesting read, especially in the light of the context you give of Italy’s political climate and its geographical place on key migrant routes. I’m glad that your personal experiences have been positive. It really made me think about the way in which others perceive us when we travel.
Thanks Bernie, that’s exactly what I was trying to communicate in the post. Thank you so much for taking the time to comment
This is so interesting and not something I would normally consider. Thanks for bringing this to light!
You’re welcome, thank you for reading
Thanks for sharing your travel experience. I would agree that this happens in many countries, sometimes because of curiosity and many times for other reasons. I am glad you had a positive experience while tripping through Italy.
I always do, I love coming back 🙂
I haven’t been in Italy, but this is such a great read. Have a nice vacation to those who are planning to visit sooner.
Thank you.
This is very interesting. I’m an Asian living in Barcelona and have to admit that as a woman of colour, it hasn’t been all smooth-sailing nor has it been difficult. I’m treated a little bit differently of course, but nothing that I can complain about!
That’s positive to read! I think we can all experience some ‘teething’ issues at the beginning but begin to better understand our surroundings as we assimilate x
I found this to be a very enlightening post. I’m not a woman of color, nor do I travel a lot, so I really didn’t know if there were issues outside the U.S. I wish I knew how to fix the problems that people of color face 🙁
Aw thanks Romy for commenting, I do appreciate it. My experience has been positive, but for other woc they may experience something less sadly
It was interesting to read your perspective on this subject. I’m glad your experiences to have been positive.
They have been, and I’m happy to promote Italy as a destination 🙂
This is quite an interesting read. As I never thought of it while traveling. Though it is obvious to get a few stares and glances when I step out of my home country as the look of mine is very distinct and can be identified the country i belong to. I haven’t been to Italy till now and I would like to experience it if it ever happens with me.
It’s good that you don’t pay attention to it. As I learned, it’s not necessarily what you think!
Can totally relate. I can get away with traveling in some places without people’s attention but in some more rural areas of countries where they aren’t used to foreigners I totally get most of these!
Sometimes it’s quite amusing! But mostly, it’s just curiosity 🙂
I loved reading your post, Lisa because I can relate to a lot of things you’ve mentioned here. Although when I travelled to Italy, I don’t remember having a similar experience, however, I’ve faced this in many other places around the world, and one particular place that I remember was Mostar in Bosnia. I felt so uncomfortable being stared at but I realised that a lot of that staring was mostly because of curiosity and I cannot really classify that as racism because they were not hostile, only really curious! Some people even stopped me on the road to ask me where I was because my ‘facial features looked very different from anyone they had ever seen’ 😀 Over the years, I’ve learned to be a little more carefree, as long as this staring doesn’t turn into a hostile act!
Thanks for sharing your story Medha. Yes, sometimes we’re too quick to judge and mistake it for simple curiosity. It’s easy to forget that when you’re a frequent traveler too 🙂
This is interesting to read a perspective about traveling to Italy or any place. I always like to know the facts based on personal experiences about a particular place. You did a great job in defining yours.
Thank you so much. It’s really a country I love, and want other woc to know my experience.
Well, I’ve never been in your shoes, but from personal experience I know Italians are interested by most women. Though never crossing any boundaries, I remember all the looks I got from grown men when I wasn’t even 18 during my first visit to Rome…
Lol yes, it happens a lot in Italy. Luckily, I’ve never experienced any crude behavior but you just never know! Thanks so much for your comments.
I love to go to Italy. It has more cities on my bucket list than any other place.
Hope you go one day!
Traveling abroad to any new culture can be an interesting, exciting, slightly scary experience. I agree with you though, we must not let that stop us. Thank you for sharing your experience.
Thanks Catherine, I appreciate your feedback
I haven’t been to Italy, but as a brown girl with a white husband I got lots of staring, even back in my own country. My take is, most people never leave their own country and don’t bother to learn about other people that are different from themselves. That’s why they staring at the first place. But, I don’t like addressing as exotic. There’s another connotation in this term, at least in my country.
Thank you for sharing your perspective! I completely agree that many people have probably never left their own countries, hence the curiosity.
Thank you for your comment, though you missed the point of the piece: I always have a positive time in Italy!
Italy is such a beautiful country isn’t it. I am glad that you found the country welcoming and friendly. I always find it helps to speak the language
Thanks Kara, I do! Sure, there are times when the language gets tricky but I always overcome it 🙂
Italy is such a beautiful country. love the perspective of going as a poc, something I cant not experience
Thanks Jasmine, I appreciate you taking the time to comment 🙂
Just do your thing, be safe and alert. Be aware of your surroundings and Italian men are known for cat-calling.
Thanks Suzanne. So far I’ve been good, and no catcalling either 🙂
Interesting post. Italy is such a beautiful country.
Thank you, yes it is!
Such a lovely evening read! I’ve been to Italy few years ago and it’s indeed a beautiful country to explore either alone or with family.
It is, and I’m glad you had a good time there too 🙂