Move buddy...un-huh, doesn't happen. by mapakettle
Italians in general, upon meeting someone on the street, will often stop exactly where they met, and begin chatting. There is no attempt to move off to the side so as not to impede other pedestrian traffic. This is especially annoying if bicycles are involved. People are expected to walk around them, even if it means they might have to step into the gutter.The same thing goes when you have two or three people walking side by side, coming towards you. They do not budge, or even make an attempt to separate or 'lean in' so as to allow you to pass. The space they occupy is 'their' space.
None of this is done in a malicious or mean spirited way. This is just the way it is. Why is it done, I have no idea, but if any Italian readers can advise, I would love to hear from you.
In Canada, and once again I'm generalizing, every attempt is made as to avoid confrontation. We would step off the sidewalk in order to chat, and would part when walking together in order to allow others easy passage.
Different cultures, different ideas. You have to know this particular trait is quite common so don't take it personally.
