Italians are notorious for not following rules. You will see people lighting up a cigarette directly under a No Smoking sign or overtake beside a No Overtaking sign (yes, there are road rules in Italy, I have read the rule book from cover to cover when I had to go through the hideous experience of getting my Italian licence). But sometimes they follow rules to the letter even when they are ridiculous.
Recently we were shopping for a new kitchen for the Vergemoli house at a large group of shops near Pisa. Later we were having a gelato near the supermarket Ipercoop. I thought I would duck in to buy a couple of things. I walked into the shop and was immediately shouted at by 2 assistants (and I use the term loosely). They informed me that I had come in through an incorrect entrance. I said that I was sorry and that I would not do it again, but that was not enough. They shouted again that I had to leave the store and go through the correct entrance some distance away. I thought they were joking and replied that I was already inside the shop and what would be the point of walking out and coming in again – not good enough for them. They insisted that I leave. I pointed out that if I left I would not be re-entering – ever.
These 2 fools insisted that I leave. They did not offer a reason why it is necessary to enter in a particular place. They were not polite. They shouted and waved their arms. To say that I was furious would be an understatement.
I will never set foot inside that shop ever. They have lost a customer permanently. Take note Ipercoop.
If you want to read about the horror of obtaining a drivers’ licence in Italy click here.