Like much of Western Europe, Italy has experienced a wave of immigration from Africa, Eastern Europe, and South America in recent years that has spurred some racial tension, especially over competition in the local economy. Particularly in southern Italy, travelers belonging to racial minorities or members of non-Christian religions may feel unwelcome or experience some hostility. Tension has always existed in Italy regarding gypsies from Romania and other parts of Eastern Europe. In terms of safety, there is no easy answer. Men and women should always travel in groups and avoid unsafe parts of town. The best answer to verbal harassment is often not to acknowledge it. A number of advocacy groups for immigrant rights have sprouted up throughout Italy, including Associazione Almaterra (☎01 12 46 70 02; www.arpnet.it/alma/) and NOSOTRAS (☎05 52 77 63 26; www.nosotras.it). The following organizations work to combat discrimination in Italy and can give advice and help in the event of an encounter with racism.
 |
 |
 |
 |
For 52 years, we have published the world’s favorite budget travel guides, written entirely by students and updated every year. With pen and notebook in hand and a few changes of underwear stuffed in our backpacks, we spend months roaming the globe in search of travel bargains.
Facebook
Twitter
You Tube
Foursquare
Newsletter
RSS Feed
Overview