Okay, so you’re in a new country, you barely know the language, or the customs. How quickly can you adjust? There’s no specific time limit or methodology to how you can best orient yourself when moving to another country, but those first few days are the most crucial. I’ve been in Florence for two weeks and I’ve learned how to navigate these cramped streets with the wild vespa riders, I’ve remembered to use gloves while handling food at the grocery store, and best of all, I’ve learned to speak some key Italian phrases! I’ve got another three and a half months to go, but before then, I’ll share some tips to help you survive in the beautiful, the classic, and artful Firenze!

Firenze, my new home

The Duomo speaks for itself

THE DUOMO IS YOUR BEST FRIEND—The historical and religious high point of Florence is the magnificent Duomo— literally. Designed by Filippo Brunelleschi over 6 centuries ago, the Duomo continues to leave people awe-struck. It also serves as the perfect landmark to help you navigate. Do you live on the same side as the Duomo? The Duomo, the Fiume Arno, and the bridges are the easiest landmarks to help you find your way in this historically rich city.

The phenomenal view from Piazza Michelangelo

DO NOT MAKE EYE CONTACT— The streets of Firenze are bustling with tour groups, strange street vendors, and everyone in between. Making eye contact in the U.S. is generally considered courteous and respectful. But in Firenze, glancing at the street vendors selling selfie sticks or the Middle Eastern guys selling knock off Ray bans is an invitation to haggle you.

Day one: luggage didn’t arrive, but plenty of closet space!

BRING COMFY SHOES!— Despite how beautiful the architecture of Firenze is, the streets have tons of cracks and crevices that make it easy to trip and hurt yourself. Plus, on average, you’re walking about 1-2 miles a day, so you need to take care of your feet!

Breathtaking

ORDER AND GO— If you’re getting food at an informal place, regardless of whether it’s a pizzeria or a gelateria, ordering and taking a seat at a table usually incurs an extra fee, so save yourself some money and enjoy your food on the steps of Santa Croce or other nearby piazzas.

So many pretty colors :)

BEWARE OF TOURIST GELATO!— One of the first things I noticed about Firenze was how many gelato shops there are. Literally three or four will be on the same street, but be weary of the ones piled high with pretty fruits and swirls. They catch your eye, but usually aren’t very good.

Gorgeous frescoes inside the Duomo

NO GLOVE, NO LOVE. Sorry if that conjured up images you weren’t prepared for, but make sure to wear gloves when you weigh your fruits and veggies at the grocery store! I made the mistake of not weighing my grapes my first time in Sapori Dintori and I had to hold up the whole line. Super awkward.

CUT YOUR PIZZA— This may seem bizarre, but most Florentines cut their pizza with a fork and knife. On my first night in Firenze, I was so hungry and still felt ‘American,’ so I stuck to using my hands.

My quaint and quiet neighbors on Via Dell’Orto

KNOW YOUR NEIGHBORS— My dad has a gold card membership to Costco. We shop there so often we might as well be the brand ambassadors, but here in Firenze, getting to know your local grocer is the way to go and they’ll often offer recipe ideas.

GET LOST. No, really. Let yourself wander around town for a few hours. You’ll be surprised how much more relaxing it is to get a little lost, especially if you end up finding a new route to your apartment or class.

Coast of Cinque Terre!

TRAVEL! TRAVEL! TRAVEL! You’re in Europe, just hours away from dozens of other countries. This is the best time to travel, especially considering there are numerous student promos from various agencies including Bus2Alps, Florence for Fun, Smart Trip, and Euro Adventures.

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Mariam is a current student at George Washington University studying at Florence University of the Arts during the Fall 2015 term.