Years of planning and anticipation finally culminated in that moment…the moment I stepped off the plane and set foot in Florence, Italy. Prior to departure, I had a difficult time imagining what was to come since I knew the experience would be far outside my comfort zone. I knew I was in for an adventure, would meet new people, and learn new things. While still in the States, I kept trying to let various aspects of the trip sink in such as the fact I would be living with new people I had not yet met, I would have my first real apartment, I would be starting my last semester of classes, I would be in one of the most beautiful cities in the world! I could not truly imagine what would be in store so I just had to wait for the countdown to dwindle down.
Even though I have been here for days now, the experience still feels surreal.
Breathtaking view of the Arno River from a historic bridge.
The streets of Florence are breathtaking. I have gotten lost on multiple occasions because I get so caught up in appreciating the surroundings I have a hard time focusing on getting to one place. The more I travel the streets, the more I am able to both take in the surroundings and get where I am trying to go.
A great help in learning to get around was a walking tour of Florence led by one of the professors of Florence University of the Arts. She helped me get a better idea of how to discover which places are best. Many people flock to Florence as tourists so it is important to learn how to live as like an Italian rather than a tourist. This makes the experience even more rich and memorable. After the tour, I went with my roommates to eat at one of the recommended restaurants. I enjoyed the best pasta and cappuccino I had ever tasted.
The cappuccinos are a work of art, silky smooth and delicious.
I look forward to exploring new places, tasting more Italian food, and getting into classes. I have traveled before but this is a whole different experience. I will not be going home in a week or two. I get to stay. I have plenty of time to truly enjoy the surroundings and create lasting memories.
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Elizabeth is a student at St. Norbert College studying at Florence University during the Fall 2013 term.
