Skip to Main Content
Greetings, Introductions, and Farewells
Greetings, Introductions, and Farewells
A study of Italian or a visit to Italy won’t get very far without lessons in how and when to say “Ciao!” or “Buongiorno!” or “Buona sera!” or “Arrivederci!” This program introduces key Italian words, phrases, and expressions as it visits the dazzling Puccini Opera Festival, explores marble quarries made famous by Michelangelo, and mingles with Bologna’s university students. Besides learning common greetings, salutations, introductory customs, and friendly farewells, viewers will also receive information and insight that will help them talk about nationality, occupation, art, music, local traditions, and more. A BBC Production. A part of the series Talk Italian. (Italian and English, 15 minutes)
Food Shopping and Accommodations
Food Shopping and Accommodations
The typical Italian market is a treasure trove of flavorful meats and produce—but it’s all for nothing if you don’t know what to say to the merchants! This program introduces key Italian words, phrases, and expressions as it spotlights the best ways to buy food from local vendors. Viewers are also taken to a mountainside hotel and a family-owned farmhouse bed-and-breakfast that offer a real taste of Tuscany. From delicious cooking ingredients to the rugged scenery of the countryside, topics of conversation emerge that will help anyone learning the Italian language or planning a journey through rural Italy. A BBC Production. A part of the series Talk Italian. (Italian and English, 15 minutes)
Celebrations and Family Relationships
Celebrations and Family Relationships
It’s easy to get caught up in the joy and celebration of an Italian wedding, and anyone who visits Italy will find the same spirit of enjoyment surrounding the daily rituals of coffee and recreational drinking. This program introduces key Italian words, phrases, and expressions as it attends an elegant summer wedding, observes caffeine-fueled fellowship and conversation, and samples a variety of seasonal aperitivi. Viewers learn how to ask simple and tasteful questions about family relationships (such as “Is this your son?” and “Do you have sisters or brothers?”) as well as the best ways to order drinks, ask for the bill, and more. A BBC Production. A part of the series Talk Italian. (Italian and English, 15 minutes)
Transportation and Traditional Foods
Transportation and Traditional Foods
Using public transportation in Italy isn’t hard, as long as you’re equipped with the necessary vocabulary. And what’s the best reason for going mobile in the first place? Food, of course! This program introduces key Italian words, phrases, and expressions as it reveals the secrets of handmade pasta, provides guidance in ordering various delicacies, and illustrates how to get around by train and bus. Everything from “How long does it take to get there?” to “When does the last train leave” to “What do you recommend?” is covered, along with helpful depictions of venues selling pizza, salami, seafood, and more. A mechanic-turned-pasta chef is also featured. A BBC Production. A part of the series Talk Italian. (Italian and English, 15 minutes)
Sightseeing, Business, and Culture
Sightseeing, Business, and Culture
It’s easy to get caught up in the joy and celebration of an Italian wedding, and anyone who visits Italy will find the same spirit of enjoyment surrounding the daily rituals of coffee and recreational drinking. This program introduces key Italian words, phrases, and expressions as it attends an elegant summer wedding, observes caffeine-fueled fellowship and conversation, and samples a variety of seasonal aperitivi. Viewers learn how to ask simple and tasteful questions about family relationships (such as “Is this your son?” and “Do you have sisters or brothers?”) as well as the best ways to order drinks, ask for the bill, and more. A BBC Production. A part of the series Talk Italian. (Italian and English, 15 minutes)
Arcade Shopping and Nightlife
Arcade Shopping and Nightlife
Whether it’s the spectacle of a Carnival float, the rich variety of goods offered by local retailers, or the luxuriant joys of a beach vacation, a sojourn in Tuscany and Italy in general isn’t complete without good conversation. This program introduces key Italian words, phrases, and expressions as it illustrates shopping in Bologna’s famous arcades and dancing at a club in the coastal city of Viareggio, as well as other pursuits in the famous seaside resort. Viewers will learn how to inquire about the price of admission, how to discuss a purchase of clothing or other merchandise, how to seek out interesting activities, and more. A BBC Production. A part of the series Talk Italian. (Italian and English, 15 minutes)
