How to live life to the fullest while studying abroad in Firenze Italia

Day one – Arriving can be thrilling, scary, and exhausting, but adjusting to any city is never easy. The first piece of advice I can give is to immediately start exploring the city: walk down the Arno River, find the duomo, and explore the area around your apartment. Every street will look the same in the beginning, but it is good to start memorizing signs and locating major landmarks. 

The 1st time I saw the Duomo

Week one – I know you will want to travel and take advantage of the proximity Florence is to other amazing cities. However, try not to get wrapped up in the idea of traveling all over. Florence has so much to offer and to see that you would never realize. So, my second piece of advice would be to spend your first and last weekend in Florence. Get acquainted with the nightlife, food, people and go make new friends. Of course, first go to the American study abroad bars but after that make an effort to try new things and venture out to local spots.

Skiing in the Swiss Alps

Month one – Looking back, your time here flies by. So, my third piece of advice would be to stay present. Yes, you left a whole life behind in America, but you will also never have the opportunity again to be this free and have this much time to learn about yourself and create the most amazing memories: so, go watch the sunset at Piazza Michelangelo, grab a spritz at View on Art, and read a book in Area Cani Pando as much as possible. Because, four months down the road you will regret focusing on your school and home life in the US and not taking full advantage of your life here. And trust me, you will miss Florence way more than you think. It becomes your home. 

I would give anything to start my experience over. You are extremely lucky, so enjoy every moment of it. For more recommendations, visit my travel Instagram @carsyntravels

St. Patrick’s Day in Dublin

Written by: Carsyn, Florence Spring student from University of Georgia