Italian summers can be blisteringly hot, and dealing with the heat is an art that locals have mastered over centuries. Join us as we explore how to beat the heat and stay comfortable during an Italian summer, learning to live like the locals and savor every moment in spite of the river of sweat running down your back!
A One-Way Ticket to Sniffle City.
In Italian culture, "colpo d'aria," which translates to "a blast of air" is a common belief in Italian culture that exposure to drafts or sudden changes in temperature, especially on the neck, can cause illness or discomfort. Italians hold this strong belief, attributing various ailments like headaches and muscle pain to it. Warnings against sitting in a draft or encountering sudden air currents, typically blamed on air conditioning or open windows, are common. Additionally, many Europeans resist air conditioning due to concerns about cost and environmental impact. Consequently, many Italians choose to endure the heat rather than risk the perceived health risks of air conditioning.
Splitting Hairs in Europe vs Blasting Cool in the US!
Meanwhile, back in the US, we pretty much run our central air conditioning relentlessly for three months, starting with the first day to hit the mid-seventies in the spring. We also sleep with ceiling fans to intentionally blast air while we sleep! While we have "smart" thermostats that adjust temperatures in different zones of our homes, it pretty much runs non-stop during summertime. A classic case of American excess plus less regard for ecological sensitivity and the exorbitant costs involved. We Americans do love our AC!
If you're booking an Italian vacation, it's not safe to assume that your accommodations will have air conditioning. Homes in Italy don't have the convenience of built-in central air conditioning, so it requires a whole different ball game to combat the heat. Go figure, homes simply weren't built in the 1600s with central air in mind, opting instead for methods like thick stone walls and strategic window placement to keep things cool. Plus, let's face it, the Italians have learned to embrace the Mediterranean breeze and find creative ways to stay cool, like sipping on Aperol spritzes under shady pergolas or taking leisurely evening strolls through cobblestone streets after the sun sets.
Homes in Italy that are equipped with air conditioning utilize splits. Instead of cooling your entire home at once, splits focus their efforts on individual rooms or zones, allowing for greater control over where and when you chill out. Both get the job done, but splits offer a more targeted approach, allowing you to customize your cooling experience to suit your specific needs. So, while central AC may be the norm in the States, air conditioning splits are the unsung heroes of Italian summers, quietly keeping homes cool one room at a time. One thing's for sure: when the mercury rises, it's nice to have options. One of the first improvements we made after our home purchase was to add some splits in the living areas.
The shocking truth about electricity bills in Europe
While it's no secret that keeping the lights on comes with a price tag, Europeans often find themselves facing a steeper bill than their American counterparts. We anticipated higher bills, but we were shocked when the first one arrived last summer and we discovered it was significantly less expensive to cool our single family home in Virginia!
With higher energy costs and strict regulations aimed at promoting conservation and sustainability, Europeans are constantly on the lookout for ways to trim their electricity usage. From investing in energy-efficient appliances to embracing the age-old art of unplugging unused devices, Europeans are masters of the energy-saving game. Mindful of consumption, you won't see Italians leaving lights on, let alone blasting AC in rooms they aren't occupying! While the cost of keeping things cool may be higher across the pond, Europeans are willing to pay the price for a greener, more sustainable future.
Some secrets to keeping your cool in Italy this summer:
Only Cool the Rooms You're In
Master the art of air conditioning splits. Only turn on the AC when you're home and solely in the rooms you're actually using. Keeping bedroom doors closed while you sleep will also help retain the cool air.
Embrace the power of darkness
There's a rhythm to it...Italians open the shutters and windows widely in the early morning to help the cool air come in, but then shut everything up tightly by about 9am when the sun and warmer air heat things up. We chose our home because of all of the natural light, so it didn't seem right to keep everything closed, but we quickly learned there's a method to the madness! Close those shutters and curtains tighter than a lid on a jar of Nutella. By keeping the sun out, you can keep things cooler. Our first summer in our home, we took cues from our neighbors and quickly got the hang of it.
Resist the urge to let the outside world in
I know, I know, those cobblestone streets and vine-covered balconies are tempting, but trust me, your air conditioning will thank you for keeping windows and doors shut tight while it's doing its thing. It's like trying to fill a leaky bucket – you want to keep all that precious cool air inside where it belongs.
Find that Goldilocks Temperature
Not too hot, not too cold, but just right. It's all about striking that perfect balance between comfort and conservation. The recommended temperature for air conditioning in Italy during the summer is typically around 24-26 degrees Celsius (75-79 degrees Fahrenheit), which is too warm by most American standards. This temperature range ensures a comfortable indoor environment while also helping to keep energy bills down. Setting the AC to a slightly higher temperature can significantly reduce energy consumption and costs while still providing adequate cooling. Utilizing supplemental fans can further enhance comfort and efficiency.
Stroll and Snack
Take a cue from the Italians and go for a passaggiata in the evening. Not only does it give you a chance to stretch your legs and enjoy the cooler air, but it also lets you soak up some of that authentic Italian charm.
You might even stumble upon a gelateria or two serving up the perfect antidote to the summer heat – nothing beats a scoop of gelato on a sweltering day for the perfect escape from the heat.
Embrace the "Pausa"
In some towns, like Lucca, stores still close in the afternoon. After enjoying a sizable lunch, a nap is highly recommended. As a tourist, make sure to start your day early to accommodate this long mid-day break. This downtime not only helps you stay cool during the hottest part of the day but also lets you experience a cherished Italian tradition.
Head to the Sea
Heading just 20 minutes from Lucca to the seaside is a fantastic way to escape the afternoon heat. The nearby coastal towns offer a refreshing breeze and the chance to cool off in the Mediterranean. Spend your day lounging on the beach, taking a dip, or enjoying a leisurely seaside meal with fresh seafood. This quick getaway provides a perfect respite from the heat and a delightful change of scenery, allowing you to
relax and recharge before returning to explore more of Lucca's charms.
コメント