If you’re in the throes of planning an Italian getaway in the near future, it’s best to know what to expect once you arrive. Italy is a unique and wonderful place to vacation, but on certain occasions the customs can come as a shock to visitors.

One of the best parts of an Italian vacation: authentic Italian cuisine. While the food is glorious and you’re guaranteed to love it, there are a few Italian customs to know when it comes to dining. Italian tap water contains higher levels of chlorine than you may be used to, so it’s best to order bottled mineral water which ranges from fizzy to not, and there’s even an in between. In Italy, it’s rare to order customized orders, so don’t ask for a dish without onions or whatever. Children’s menus are non-existent in Italy, but you can ask for smaller portions for the half-pints.

Italians don’t put as much weight on alcohol consumption as a culture; this is a normal part of life for them. There is no minimum drinking age and little else in the way of restrictions. Most natives begin consuming watered-down alcohol before they’re old enough to drive. Drinks are rarely blended and mixed drinks are all the rage.

Since you’re visiting, you’re most likely to dine out most of the time. In restaurants, it’s considered in bad taste to cut food into small bites. The national dish, spaghetti, should be eaten by rolling up the noodles onto your fork or with a spoon. Most sit-down eateries expect patrons to enjoy two courses and stay awhile, so if you’re in a rush, pop into a pizzeria for a faster meal. Lunch and dinner are served a little later than you may be accustomed with peak lunch time being 1 pm and peak dinner time being 9 pm. Applying these tips can help you enjoy fine cuisine without feeling awkward or getting embarrassed.