We have been to the immigration office (La Questura) three times to get what is called a permesso, or a long term visa. Each time has been a nightmare. Mobs of people, lots of confusion and a healthy dose of Italian disorganization. Today, we had an appointment at 11:30 to do the last step, to pick up our permanent visa cards. After waiting in a mob for almost 2 hours in a bitter cold wind, we decided to go get some lunch. Afterwards we returned to find they would not reopen until 3 pm. While we waited in sort of a line, we struck up a conversation with Hussein, from Bangladesh. He's lived in Italy for 4 years and loves his job at a Sushi bar. He is married and his wife and 3 kids are back in his native land. He was very personable. Thank goodness, as our experience continued to be long and frustrating. FINALLY, at about 4:45, we got our cards. As we left, we walked along with Hussein. He took us to the restaurant where he works and insisted on buying us some refreshment. The good news of the day is two-fold; We have our permessi and we have a new friend.
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