Living as an expatriate in Italy, particularly within bustling urban centers like Milan, presents a unique blend of opportunity and challenges. A long-term resident shared valuable insights into navigating daily life in the city, highlighting both its charms and potential pitfalls.
Vlada, who has called Milan home for six years, acknowledged that while generally safe, the city requires vigilance. “Milan is mostly safe,” she noted, “but like any major city, there are things to be mindful of.” Sharing her experiences on her YouTube channel, Ciao Vlada, she recounted a personal incident: “My bike was stolen right in front of my University. I locked it up one morning, and when I returned, it was gone. Unfortunately, I’m not alone; several friends have experienced the same thing.”
Bike theft is reportedly widespread in Milan. To mitigate risk, Vlada recommends opting for a less expensive bicycle.
Public transportation also requires caution. Riding the bus can be risky due to pickpockets, who frequently target crowded vehicles. “Pickpockets thrive on packed buses,” she explained. “If you’re carrying a bag, keep it in front of you and ensure all pockets are zipped shut. I once had a friend doze off on a bus, only to find their phone missing.”
The main train station is another area where caution is advised. Vlada strongly discourages lingering outside with luggage after dark, describing it as one of the city’s less desirable areas. “Stay inside the station,” she urged. “I’ve heard countless stories and personally felt very uncomfortable there.”
On a more positive note, Milan’s Metro system is highly regarded. It boasts excellent connectivity and offers a significantly safer environment compared to systems in cities like New York. “Metro stations are conveniently close together,” Vlada pointed out. “If anything were to happen, you can simply walk to another station.” The extensive network even extends to surrounding municipalities, making it possible to reside just outside Milan while maintaining easy access to the city center.
For those considering living outside of Milan and commuting in, she suggested exploring towns located on the “end of the green line”. As she stated: “You can have the best of both worlds – nature, fewer crowds, and still direct access to the city.”
Beyond Milan, another expat offered a broader perspective on life in Italy. Gregor Brown, an Italian resident for two decades, cautioned that the romantic image of Italy doesn’t always reflect reality. “It’s not all wine and sunsets,” he admitted via his YouTube channel. “Italy is wonderful – the relaxed pace of life, the incredible food, the rich culture. However, there are numerous differences from your home country which can present unexpected challenges.”
