Arrivederci Roma: It's time to say goodbye

Seattle Times Travel editor Terry Tazioli is on his annual quest for good food, good wine, good friends and a new Italian verb form or two.

Time to wrap up this Rome adventure.

It's been lots of fun. But it's time to get back to the U.S. and back to work after a month of exploring and studying Italian in the city.

I'm bringing lots of memories with me and a promise to myself to return as much as I can. Rome's a great city and being able to live here for a while and learn the language is my idea of perfect travel.

I have a bit of advice to offer those interested in such a sojourn. First: Just do it. As far as I know, we only get one crack at being on this planet. We should seize the moment, no matter how small or grand the dream.

Second, learn a bit of the language of the country you're visiting. It isn't difficult. A few hours of study should give you enough to at least be polite. Remember what our parents taught us? Please, thank you, good morning, good evening, pardon me, I'm sorry I don't speak your language, could you help me find, you are very kind.

The other night I was stopped in the street by an American couple. They were an example of what not to do. Mind you, I'm trusting they are not typical of American travelers, but maybe they can teach us a lesson.

I was on my way to see some friends when the man walked up to me and said (in English), "Do you live here or are you a visitor?" Those were the first words out of his mouth. I repeat, in English.

For a second, I just stared at him. My upbringing by the good sisters of my Catholic school helped me keep myself in check — well, nearly.

I said, in Italian, "Entrambi," which translates to "Both." Then, he said, "You can't help me," and started to walk away. In my most perfect American English, I said, "Can I help you find something?"

He held out a slip of paper with the name and the address of a restaurant he and his wife were trying to find. He said they'd seen it in a guidebook, gave the address to a cab driver and that he had just dropped them off in this spot.

"He didn't say anything. He just left us here. We don't know where it is," complained the man.

I smiled and pointed to the door right behind us. "It's right here," I said, sweetly.

In they went. I don't remember whether they said thank you. I don't remember what they said. I only remember shaking my head for a few blocks and thinking no wonder so many people in the service industry, no matter where they are, become a bit grumpy with travelers who forget they're visiting someone else's home.

That said, I read of a recent survey the other day that found Americans now rank way up there in terms of politeness when we travel. I sure hope that's the truth and that this couple was an anomaly.

I wish you well in your travels. I hope you get a chance to do something like this some day. It will be good for your heart and soul.

Arrivederci.