By Eva Sandoval

To cross the street in Southern Italy, simply:

1. Position yourself at your intended crossing point
2. Wait for a reasonable gap in traffic – at least the length of a car
3. Begin to cross. Do this slowly, allowing the other drivers to see you. As if by magic, the cars – who were mere moments before cursing other cars – will slow to let you pass. As if you are Moses. As if you are the Emperor.
4. Arrive at the opposite side of the street unharmed

More Recommended Tips:

• Cross at designated crosswalks – the rows of white thick stripes on the street – or stoplights. It will give you a greater chance of being seen by other drivers, and be far less disruptive to the flow of traffic.
• Wave gratefully at the drivers who’ve let you pass. Pedestrians break up the line of traffic so often and so boldly that if you’re behind the wheel, the constant interruptions can become grating… forcing you to let out your rage on other drivers. And no one needs that on the road.

Hey expats and study-abroads – do you have any tips for surviving Italian traffic?