In Florence language is not a big problem. The native language of Italy is, of course, Italian. Most hotels have English speakers at their reception desks, and you can always find someone who speaks at least a little English otherwise. Remember that the Italian language is pronounced exactly as it is written (many Italians try to speak English by enunciating every syllable, with disconcerting results). You may run into a language barrier in the countryside, but a phrase book and close attention to the Italians' astonishing use of pantomime and expressive gestures will go a long way. Try to master a few phrases for daily use and familiarize yourself with the terms you'll need for deciphering signs and museum labels.
Yes=Si
No=No
Please=Per Favore
Maybe=Forse
Now=Adesso
After=Dietro
Before=Prima
Hello.Good morning=Buon giorno
Good evening=Buona sera
Good night=Buona notte
Mister =Signore
Miss=Signorina
Good-bye=Arriverderci
See you later=A piu tardi
See you tomorrow=A domani
How are you?=Come stai?
Very well, thank you=Bene, grazie.
And you?=E lei?
What did you say?=Che cosa ha detto?
Please speak more slowly.=Parli piu piano, per
favore.
What does this mean?=Che significa questo?
I don’t understand.=Non capisco.
