Florence. Known for its picturesque views and home to incredible monuments such as the Duomo, Ponte Vecchio, Uffizi gallery, and many more. It is difficult to articulate with words how beautiful this city really is, and no picture can do it justice. The cobblestone streets, grand apartment doors, textile roofs, and even storefronts are breathtaking. The buildings originating from hundreds of years ago take you back in time and provide a deeper appreciation for art and architecture; something I never thought I would be interested in.
I have completely fallen in love with this city already and am eager to explore every inch of it during my time here. Despite Florence being a heavily tourist ridden city, it still manages to maintain authentic and genuine Italian culture. Everywhere you turn, you can hear soft conversations being held over espresso or gelato, outside a small cafe, or just walking through the streets.
I have had the best food of my life in the few days I have been here, and I'm sure I will say that with each new day and new food I try. It's too early to declare my favorite one, so I will save them all for the end of my semester and compile a list for anyone visiting or studying abroad in Florence in the future.It is truly an adjustment living in a place where there is a language barrier and daily life is different, but it has already taught me so much about humans and our means of interaction. We find ways to communicate, and although language is important, it can be overcome. There are small differences between Italian and American culture that make a big impact, such as the lack of dryers in apartments; something I have now learned I took for granted. The simplistic rooms with just the necessities in them, has taught me that less is more. The positive, relaxed way of life that contradicts the busy, bustling, stressful days of Americans has helped me to stop and look around; enjoying the view and all that surrounds me. I have developed a deeper appreciation for life, that will only grow with each day I spend here.
As they say it here, fino alla prossima volta; until next time.