One of the many perks that come along with studying abroad through SAI are the opportunities for students to go on amazing day trips for free (after a 10€ deposit that you get back on the trip)! This semester I went on trips to thermal baths, a Fiorentina calcio (soccer) match, and historical cities surrounding Florence such as Lucca, San Gimangiano and Prato. My favorite by far though was the trip we took to a Tuscan farm, Fattoria Di Maiano. It was an amazing day spent hiking the countryside, learning about the history of the land, watching farm animals stroll around and tasting olive oil that the farm produces themselves, all overlooking Florence from Fiesole. I am so thankful that SAI arranged these trips for us and put so much effort into making sure their students see and do as much as possible – it is always nice to have a trip fully planned and to not have to worry about the logistics and be able to enjoy your time with a group of great people.

The farm offers safari tours!

Looking out towards Florence from Fiesole

Group of donkeys at feeding time!     

My Roommate and I at the farm! 

The cutest donkey!       

The Beautiful Tuscan countryside   

A wine press on the farm

Views from inside the olive oil shop!

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Caroline is a spring 2018 SAI Florence student from University of Central Florida.