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Experiencing a Roman Coffee "Bar"

Coffee in Italy (and the culture that surrounds it) is a completely different animal than what you're used to back home (e.g., Starbucks). When in Rome, stop in for caffè and cappuccino at as many different bars as you can. Witness the bustle and the gestures of the people, and without comprehending a word of what they're saying, you'll get a great feel for what Romans are like. Note that Romans don't “hang out” in their coffee bars: they arrive; down their drinks while standing at the bar; engage in brief but dynamic conversations; and exit with a rousing “Arrivederci, grazie,” having audibly left a few coins' tip.