In Italy, do men generally kiss each other twice on the cheeks to say hello? ?

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Alfredo

It's common in Italy- among good friends who know each other. Some just touch cheeks. Others make slight kissing sounds, and others actually have lip to cheek contact (more common among females).

Look, if it happens to you just go with it. The first time can be awkward for us western males having been brought up in a homophobic culture in the US- it's amazing how different cultures consider what is "cool" and what is "uncool" so differently.

Anyhow, yes, you can do this with your Italian friend. Just let him initiate it.

Andie

In Italy it is a typical greeting to buss each others cheeks. However, let him make the overture. That way you don't necessarily look super awkward doing it. It wont be as bad as you are thinking, should it happen. You move in to hug your friend, and then they grab your shoulders and smooch smooch, you can even make fun of yourself and lighten the mood if you feel awkward during the exchange. I know that the first time that happened to me in the EU I laughed at myself and we made fun of the fact that "Americans are so weird." No awkward moments had! HAVE A WONDERFUL TRIP!

$ ÑÎ±Â¢Ð½Ñ”â„“Ñ” $ [H]OUSE MD

Yes, they do.
It's a typical italian greeting!
If you don't do this, your friend will do this!
We always kiss each other twice on the cheecks!!
I'm italian.

lion of judah

yes they do always go to your right first... to avoid headbutting your friend

or is this just southern italy thing?

conley39

Generally - no; however, you may see this on occassion. It is much more common with women.

ahferfuxsake

There is no rush, just watch and see for yourself. No, I never did.

milanina9427

Hi! I'm Italian, so...
Usualy men kiss each cheek twice if they are with people that they know. If your Italian friend is a woman i think that you can, but if your friend is a man...i think that is better if you shake his hand...naturally, if he kisses your cheeks do the same!
where are you going in Italy?
bye!

imhawda

if he is your friend yes, otherwise shake hands, don't kiss men you don't know... if you meet someone and he feels aquainted enough to kiss you aswell before leaving, then yes, but don't appraoch him yourself

Lisa Z

Yes is normal here in italy to give kiss each other, don't worry!

Commedia Dantesca

Actually it's just cheeks getting in contact and lips sort of "kissing the air". Lips don't touch cheeks.

Groovymule Odiato e Fiero

In south of Italy it's quite common, but it's not a real kiss. You have to move like you're going to kiss him but just make the sound, don't kiss him for real. Someone don't like the habit, so let your friend decide. It's more used when you meet a woman, and in center/north Italy they will kiss you three times.

Roxy

In France not in Italy.

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