It is common to give air kisses on both cheeks (starting with your left) when greeting those you know well. This is called the il bacetto. However, in Southern Italy, men generally only kiss family members and prefer to give a pat on the back to show affection in a greeting.

Do Italians kiss both cheeks when saying hello and goodbye?

If you are greeting younger people, or friends and relatives you can simply say ciao (hello, goodbye). When meeting new people, Italians greet them by shaking hands. They use two kisses (first on the right cheek and second on the left cheek) or a hug with friends (amici) theyve known for a long time.

Why do Hispanics kiss each other on the cheek?

1. Double cheek kissing. In Spain, people greet each other and say goodbye with a kiss on each cheek. People dont do this every morning when they come into work, but if you meet a friend for drinks or are introduced to someone new, the double cheek kiss is given to say hello and goodbye.

Which cheek do you kiss first in Italy?

In Italy (especially southern and central Italy) it is common for men to kiss men, especially relatives or friends. In most Southern European countries, kissing is initiated by leaning to the left side and joining the right cheeks and if theres a second kiss, changing to the left cheeks.