The staring and constant sexual harassment was very difficult at first.  We're taught that it's rude to stare so we've never had to experience it.  At first I would want to ask them what they're looking at or be rude to a guy who grabs your hand while walking down the street to tell you that you're beautiful, etc.  Now I've learned by observation that the Italian girls don't get bothered like this by avoiding eye contact and not answering the men. I've actually gotten really good at this so I don't notice it as much and I feel better prepared to handle it when I'm unable to ignore.  I'm a little concerned that being so hardened while walking down the streets of Italy, that I will have problems going back to normal (saying hi and smiling at strangers) when I get home.  But I'm also concerned that I'll be a bit sad not to be complimented 20 times a day!