Whisky, especially single malts, tend to be drunk like cognac, after dinner. In old-fashioned, single command elevators, there is usually discussion amongst the passengers to determine which floor each person is going to, and then the buttons are pushed one at a time in the right sequence. By honoring traditional roles, children continue to be brought up surrounded by attentive and dedicated parents and relatives. Women in particular may be kept from career opportunities, but they largely feel that parenting is a more important role. An undeniable result is that Italian society appears to be full of basically well-adjusted, tolerant and humane people.
Children stay with their class through several years of school and hang out together.
Groups of 8 or more will commonly go off on their August holidays together. Dinners, too, often include larger groups of people than you might be used to. It is normal here, and appreciated, to attend a funeral even if you are not next of kin or a very close friend. When you go, shake hands with the family members after the mass, and if you are close, go on to the cemetery. At the service there may be a book to sign or a bowl where business cards are placed.