How young people flirt in Italy, Germany and Russia

Scene: The next day after the seminar. Maria, Hannah, and Anya are

back at the café. This time — with cappuccinos and pastries. The topic? Flirting.

Anya: Okay girls, since we’ve already compared how we talk… now let’s get to the real topic. How do people flirt in your countries?

Maria: Oooh mamma mia, I’m an expert here. In Italy, flirting is like art. It all starts with a look. A long one. And then… sorriso misterioso — the mysterious smile. Passion in your eyes and gestures. Like you’re in a perfume commercial.

Hannah: A perfume commercial? In Germany, flirting is more like writing a technical manual. „Willst du mit mir einen Kaffee trinken?“ — would you like to have coffee with me? If yes — let’s go. If no — no hard feelings.

Anya: Hahaha, even flirting is logistics for you! In Russia, it’s different: you just sit there, stare at the floor, stay silent and hope someone feels your presence. Or — the opposite: you joke hard. Sarcasm is our catapult of feelings.

Maria: Yes, I’ve seen that! Russian guys say things like “You’re weird, but I’m still here” — and that’s considered romantic?

Anya: Well, if he didn’t leave — it means he likes you. 😂

Hannah: In Germany, if someone says „Du bist hübsch“ — you’re pretty — it’s basically a declaration of love. Everything must be clear, polite, and with zero ambiguity.

Maria: Oh no, in Italy it’s the opposite! The more double meaning — the better. You can talk about the weather all evening and secretly hint at desire. Like: “Che caldo stasera…” — “It’s so hot tonight...” — and it’s basically a kiss proposal.

Anya: In Russia, someone might say: “You have fire in your eyes” — and that’s the hint. One hour later you’re discussing the meaning of life.

Hannah: „Sinn des Lebens“ — sounds like the first date conversation in Berlin.

Maria: Are you serious? Philosophy on a first date?

Hannah: Sometimes. Or the tax system. But there is romance too. It just arrives after the third meeting, a signed form, and committee approval. 😁

Anya: Haha, in Russia, romance starts when you text “Where are you?” and he replies: “Coming to you”. That’s it. Go time.

Maria: In Italy, flirting is a constant tension between “I adore you” and “I’m too proud to admit it.”You walk down the street, someone yells “Bellissimaaa!” — and you’re like “Chi? Io?” (Who, me?) — but you slow your walk.

Hannah: In Germany, if someone yells at you on the street — call the police. „Das ist nicht normal.“

Anya: In Russia, you just walk faster — but maybe smile. If the voice isn’t creepy.

Maria: I swear, if an Italian tried to flirt like a German, he’d cry from the structure.

Hannah: And if a German flirted like a Russian, he’d think he was being hated, not loved.

Anya: And if a Russian tried the Italian style — he’d just drown in emotions and forget what he wanted.

[They all laugh.]

Maria: We definitely need a podcast. Or a Netflix show.

Anya: International Flirting Academy.

Hannah: With schedules and subtitles, please.