How to Beat the Italian Heat This Summer
These tips will help keep you cool and calm no matter the temperature...
I truly can’t believe it’s already July. Even though summer officially began on June 21st, here in Italy, in my mind, the season began much earlier. Once we turn on the AC and need a daily Affogato (ice cream and espresso), it’s summer to me.
This isn’t my first summer here in Italy, but if it’s yours, there are a few things that you should know. Whether you’re vacationing or have already made the move, there are some amazing and not-so-amazing things to keep in mind during this time of year.
Summer equals lido-lined beaches, rooftop happy hours (or “aperitivi”), and a party every weekend. But, it also equals scorching sun, sweltering humidity, a surplus of tourists, and pesky mosquitoes that swarm around me like Pig-pen in Charlie Brown.
First things first, air conditioning. Now, I know that many Italians think it will kill you, and I’ve tried the “fans are just as good” method to carefree Tuscany country summers, but as I get older, my tolerance of being uncomfortable has become very low. My first suggestion is to check that your rental or home has air conditioning. The summers here are not like what you’re used to - and they last a very long time. So trade in the sweaty days and nights, for a good Penguino (portable air conditioner) and get a good night’s sleep. I promise the next day at 40 Celsius will feel a lot less daunting when you wake up refreshed.
If you can’t get AC, or simply want to do as the Romans do, there are other ways to beat the heat at home. Living in residential areas with lots of nature really does help. People keep their windows open for most of the day, except for the hottest times, which would be mid-day and the afternoon. Then, it’s best to pull your blinds down to keep the sun out. You’ll want to invest in some fans, a lot of fans!
For those of you in mid-sized or big cities, stop by one of the many kiosks you’ll come across and purchase a handheld fan. You know, those old-fashioned ones that you’d see in Elizabethan films? They knew what they were doing! I have three in my purse at any given time. One that I love, one in case it breaks, and one for the person next to me sweating into his shorts.
If you are looking for cool places to escape to, try a museum or church. There seems to be one around every corner and they are quite fresh inside. Just remember there are certain dress codes and many churches require you to cover your shoulders and knees. Famous sites like St. Peter’s Basilica and the Duomo of Florence, will have vendors near selling shawls, but I always keep a light scarf in my bag for these occasions - or to sit on the grass for an impromptu snooze under a tree.
Now, if you hear the word zanzara, or the plural zanzare, I hope you have bug spray near. Mosquitos really are crazy here, pazzo pazzo! And if you are like me, it will take just a couple of minutes before you start to see the bits appear. As soon as you get a chance, head to a pharmacy to find a good sprey or even hand wipes. Just make sure the product you choose contains DEET or Icaridin. Some sprays can even be used on clothes since these pesky critters can still bite through. Honestly, the mosquitoes in Italy are a real problem.
If you are living in an old building, make sure you get screens installed in the windows and at least one RAID plugged in, in each room. Some people opt for a canopy, which has sort of a whimsical look, to cover their bed.
Then, there are citronella candles, which you can find at most supermarkets. Some plants have a similar effect, for those who are into gardening! Plants such as lavender, rosemary, and basil are popular picks. You will likely need to break out the chemicals with Deet, but every little bit helps.
As I’m typing away this Tuesday afternoon, I can’t help but dream of a beach day. If you’re looking for a spot with less crowds than the fan favorites, here are some alternatives on the mainland. If you love the Islands, Sardinia is our recent fave (you can read more about it in our recent issue) . And while some might still be worth a visit - you can always choose a calmer base and then venture out in the daytime! Here is my suggestion for this or that!
Instead of Lake Como: Lake Iseo OR Lake Orta
Instead of Venice: Treviso
Instead of Capri: Ischia
Instead of Portofino: Portovenere
Instead of Polignano a Mare: Monopoli OR Fasano
Instead of the Aeolian Islands: Egadi Islands
Summer is not my favorite season in Italy, but it is still quite beautiful. There’s something special about each season here in Italy and I can’t wait for you to experience your first summer. And hey, there’s nothing like a cold gelato on a warm summer day to get you through the heatwave!