PDA approved

Studying abroad in Florence for a semester was everything it was cracked up to be— delicious food, warm people and breathtaking scenery. I walked to school to soak in the nice weather and neighborly vibes I got from the outdoor markets. There was something reassuring about people arguing over the prices of fresh produce.

One morning as I passed by the local high school, my ease was abruptly disturbed. I literally ran into a couple kissing. I’m not talking about the kiss on each cheek custom. I'm talking about a bona fide PDA session. (Think Chuck and Blair in the back of the taxicab) Around them stood a large circle of friends who were chatting and going about their business. They were completely unbothered by the fact that their two friends were eating one another’s face right before their eyes!

Confused and grossed out, I fled the scene and was early to Italian class for the first time. On day two, when I spotted touchy couple and company I crossed the street to avoid them. By day three, I considered taking the bus.

That weekend I noticed couples making out everywhere — parks, restaurants and even the supermarket. Still, Italians were not phased by the dramatic acts of public love.

The next week, the PDA-comfortable group didn’t irritate me at all. Don’t get me wrong, I don’t particularly enjoy watching people make out in public. In fact, in middle school I recall fully supporting a “no PDA” rule that my friend mandated to end couples being too touchy feely at her house. After seeing so much PDA, I decided it was pretty admirable that these teens were so relaxed with affection. Sure, it's somewhat strange, but I guess that's amore!

So tell me, what do you think about PDA? How much is too much?

Sealed with a kiss,

Michelle Toglia
Web Intern