Is the Grass Always Greener?

Next week my Italian bandmates will arrive in full force. We have concerts scheduled and lots of things to do. I love having them here and they love being here. More than once I have been told by one or two that they would rather live here, in Boston, than in Trieste. But why?

They tell me that Trieste is a city of old people. They tell me that Trieste is boring. They tell me that Trieste has no music scene or nightlife. They tell me that Boston is SO much cooler than Trieste. Well, it’s time for me to set things straight.

Trieste is an old city by Boston standards. There is a lot of history that goes WAY back. Think medieval. Boston isn’t quite that old. Look at the buildings in Trieste. Disregard the streets that look like ashtrays. Walk the winding streets and hills. Trieste is a city of stairs and little mountains. Have a coffee. Go to the top of San Giusto and look out over the Adriatic sea. Take a ride along the Miramare road. Absolutely stunning.

And what of the music scene and the nightlife? Well that last time I checked (a little over a month ago) there were events happening every night of the week. Clubs with live music all over the place. I need a scorecard to decide on which band to see.

A city of old people? I don’t think so. Yes, as in every city there are people of every age. But I am amazed that for a small city there is so much going on all the time. Especially music. Rock, jazz, folk, blues, classical. And the art and theater scenes are wonderful as well. And it doesn’t cost a mortgage to attend, unlike Boston, which can cost an entire paycheck.

Triestins are a tough group to please. They are set in their ways. Most are not in love with change and those who are, are hesitant in making it happen. Italian red tape.  A lot of young people go to colleges and universities in other cities. Many move away but just as many return home.

Trieste is not in the tourist guides. I just recently discovered that there is a whole group of ex pats living in Trieste. My close friends didn’t even know this. Each time I am there I learn something new about my beloved little city.

So I say to my bandmates and other friends who are looking over the fence: Embrace your little city. It’s a diamond in the rough. And remember, Boston will always welcome you. Just let me know when you are arriving so I can change the sheets in the guestroom!

A presto e tanti baci da Boston!