Jonico Hotel

I know what you're thinking when you read the title of this tip. You've crossed thousands of streets all over the world; you've survived much chaotic, big city traffic, so you don't need a lesson on crossing the streets anywhere. Nevertheless, you do, my friend, because crossing the streets in Rome is an art. Unless you were born with Michelangelo's talent, you do need to learn how to hold a brush.

Roman drivers were born differently. They've never learned to yield to anyone, whether it's another car, motorcycle, bus, or helpless pedestrian. It's easy if you cross the streets at a stop light, but if you need to be on the other side and there isn't a legal crosswalk nearby, you'll find yourself desperately craving a helping hand.

So here is your helping hand.

Check traffic on the left to see if there's enough space to step down from the curb. Once you step down, never, ever, under any circumstance, make eye contact with the drivers, nor change the speed and rhythm of your stride. Walk steadily, do not zigzag, do not run, do not stop to retrieve anything, do not point, do not look around, and do not turn your head to talk to your companions.

At the dividing line, check the traffic on the right from the corner of your eye. Again, do not make eye contact. Looking at the approaching drivers in the eye is a signal that you have seen them, you have recognized their approach, and you will take the responsibility of avoiding being hit.

Your speed and rhythm have to stay the same so the drivers can gauge how much space they would need to swerve around you without slowing down. Their responsibility is not hitting you. Your responsibility is not making their job difficult by changing the rules mid-game. Once you step foot onto the path of the oncoming traffic, you're entering in a contract that involves trust and harmony from both parties. If you do not breach the agreed upon rules, they will not have any reason to falter and hit you.

Now that you know the principle, why not start to practice? Happy crossing!