Everyone knows there are two types of people in the world: Italians and people who wish they were Italian. Luckily, I am a member of the Scardamaglia family tree, making me a proud Italian. This past summer, I had the amazing opportunity to travel to Italy for a two-week trip. From the historical city of Rome to the Pope's home, to the gondola rides in Venice and the art of Florence, all the way to the beautiful Cinque Terre, the Italian culture can't be compared to anything else. Though my photos and memories do no justice to this amazing country, I hope they are able to show you at least a little peek at this amazing nation.
1. Rome
The Roman Empire has had so much influence on history, the opportunity to visit Rome was incredible. The photo above is of me inside the Colosseum, and even though my dad fell asleep on a rock inside of there, I was far too amazed to sleep despite the obvious jet-lag (I mean, look at my hair). Anyway, the Colosseum is just one of the many incredible historical sights in Rome. St. Peter's Basilica is beyond amazing, even though the gold everywhere made me feel broke. The Trevi fountain was under renovation while I was there (just my luck), but I was still able to throw my coin in. Legend has it that the people who throw a coin in will return at sometime, so I hope the next time I'm there, the fountain isn't covered in construction material. Rome is amazing, but possibly a bit too much like New York for me. Nearly everyone spoke English, and the city itself was very fast-paced. The food and the people were amazing, and I can't wait to get back.
2. The Vatican
The home of the Pope, the head of the Catholic Church, Donald Trump's justification for building a wall – whatever you call it, the Vatican is incredible. From the Sistine Chapel paintings to the Stanze di Raffaello, the Vatican is every art nerd's dream. While there, it was hard to believe Michelangelo himself had created some of this art so long ago. Not only was the art incredible, but our tour group got a glimpse of the Pope! Papa Francesco himself was delivering an address, and every boy and girl scout in Italy was there to see it. The Vatican is truly incredible for art lovers and theologists, but everyone can find something there they appreciate.
3. Venice
Even in Italy, you can't escape the Hard Rock Cafe. Venice is known for its glass blowing and gondola rides, both of which are incredible. The hand-blown glass demonstration we saw was fantastic, and the gondola ride was just like they show it in the movies. When the person guiding your gondola starts singing and the whole group is just having fun, the experience is so memorable. The Rialto bridge and the shops surrounding are a ton of fun to visit and just get lost in. As well, you have to visit the Piazza San Marco and just hang out in the square there for a bit. Venice is amazing, but the openness of the area makes it a prime spot of pick-pocketers, so make sure to pay extra attention to every move you make.
4. Florence
Even this gorgeous panoramic shot of the city doesn't do Florence any justice. This city is incredible. From the Uffizi museum to the original David statue in-person, Florence allowed me to prove to myself that I really am an art history nerd. I was in awe with everything I saw there. The Duomo in Florence is also incredible. I especially loved the area surrounding the Duomo (shoutout to my group for the memories we made there). Florence is something I can't put into words and was my favorite place we visited (though it's pretty difficult to choose just one favorite).
5. Cinque Terre
If Maui and Italy had a child, it would be the Cinque Terre. The views of this place are absolutely breathtaking. Although they literally took my breath (shoutout to Dan for saving my life), the hike to see this view was incredible. If you're not much of a walker, there's a train that goes through all five towns. The last town has this incredible beach with crystal-clear water. In the second town, I jumped off a rock into the sea, and it was a ton of fun. Cinque Terre is great for relaxing, hiking and being adventurous. It was the perfect goodbye.
I am so thankful for my dad and his wife for making this trip a possibility for me. I can't wait for our trip to London, Paris and Spain this summer. I love you guys.
