Third Culture Odyssey: Embracing Rome

In the heart of Rome, where the ancient whispers mingle with the modern hum, I, a 34-year-old Third Culture Kid, seeks to find my place under the Mediterranean sun. Born in the vibrant landscapes of California, my roots sprawl across continents; my father is Italian, and my mother is Chilean. My nomadic soul, nurtured by years in London, Chile, and China, now finds solace and adventure in the eternal city.

My journey to Rome is a culmination of diverse experiences, a tapestry woven with threads of varied cultures. As a junior project manager for an engineering consultancy firm specializing in dam construction, I bring a global perspective to my work, enriching every project with the richness of my multicultural upbringing.

I dived into the Roman life whirlwind

For me, Rome is more than just a city; it’s a canvas where history meets innovation, and tradition dances with modernity. In my three months here, I have dived headfirst into the whirlwind of Roman life, navigating the cobblestone streets with a newcomer’s curiosity and a returning friend’s familiarity.

The essence of Rome, with its grandeur and chaos, resonates deeply with my multifaceted identity. From savouring the simplicity of a morning espresso at a corner café to indulging in hearty family gatherings filled with laughter and homemade pasta, I seamlessly merge into the fabric of Roman life.

While an iconic Italian city rich in history and culture, Rome is not immune to the tendencies one would experience in any big city anywhere else around the world. On average, a Roman enjoying a cornetto and a cappuccino on their way to work might encounter situations that provoke frustration. If something goes wrong, they are often quite conspicuous in expressing their anger or disappointment. These instances make me realize that living in a bustling metropolis like Rome builds character, as the daily challenges and interactions shape the resilience and expressiveness of its inhabitants.

I find echoes of my journey

Amidst the ancient ruins and Renaissance marvels, I find echoes of my own journey, the resilience forged through years of adaptation, and the wisdom gleaned from traversing cultural boundaries. Each day is a new chapter in my Roman odyssey, a blend of nostalgia and anticipation, as I unravel the city’s secrets one cobblestone at a time.

Yet, Rome isn’t without its challenges. As a Third Culture Kid, I grapple with the constant flux of identity and the perpetual longing for belonging. But in Rome, amidst its mosaic of cultures and histories, I find a sense of home that transcends borders and boundaries.

I explore Rome’s hidden gems in my downtime, from tucked-away trattorias serving authentic Roman cuisine to vibrant street markets brimming with local artisans. Every encounter is an opportunity to connect, to bridge the gap between past and present, between East and West.

I reflect on my journey

As the sun sets over the Tiber River, casting a golden glow over the ancient city, I reflect on my journey so far. With each passing day, I embrace the contradictions and complexities of my Third Culture identity, weaving them into the rich tapestry of Roman life.

For me, Rome is more than just a destination; it’s a state of mind, a testament to the beauty of cultural diversity and the power of embracing one’s roots while reaching for new horizons.

I realize that home isn’t just a place; it’s a feeling that transcends borders and binds us together in the tapestry of humanity. I had a memorable encounter during a walk near the Colosseum. As I marvelled at the ancient amphitheatre, I conversed with a group of Chinese tourists. It was impossible for me to not think about my time in China. Through broken Italian and improvised gestures, we exchanged stories of our respective homelands (whatever that means for me), forging connections that defied linguistic barriers.

The past is not a relic

In a city steeped in history, I constantly discover that the past is not just a relic confined to museums; it’s a living, breathing entity that shapes our present and inspires our future. From the ruins of the Forum to the majestic dome of St Peter’s Basilica, every stone tells a story, and every whisper of the wind carries echoes of bygone eras.

As I continue to navigate the complexities of Roman life, I embrace each new experience with an open heart and a curious mind. Whether it’s mastering the art of making perfect carbonara or learning the intricacies of Roman dialect, I approach every challenge with a sense of adventure and a willingness to learn.

In the bustling streets of Rome, I discover that cultural diversity isn’t just a buzzword; it’s a lived reality that enriches our lives in ways we never imagined. From the fusion of flavours in Roman cuisine to the melodic cadence of Italian opera, every aspect of Roman life bears the imprint of centuries of cross-cultural exchange.

Rome has a sense of belonging

And so, as my Roman odyssey unfolds, I realize that I am not just a spectator but an active participant in the ongoing dialogue between past and present, between tradition and innovation. In Rome, where the ancient coexists with the modern, I find a sense of belonging that transcends the boundaries of geography and nationality.

As the sun sets over the rooftops of Rome, painting the sky in hues of orange and gold, I reflect on the journey that brought me here – a journey marked by moments of joy, discovery, and connection. In the eternal city, where every corner holds a story waiting to be told, I know my adventure is far from over.

Third Culture kid has found a home

For me, Rome is more than just a destination; it’s a way of life, a celebration of the richness of human experience. And as I continue to wander the labyrinthine streets of the eternal city, I do so with a sense of wonder and gratitude, knowing that each new encounter is an opportunity to learn, grow, and embrace the beauty of cultural diversity.