I'm here! Officially a resident of Florence, Italy. There is still a lot of adjusting to do, but so far I am loving being here. Currently it is 12 noon and about 5 huge church bells in our area are ringing all at the same time - it sounds insane!
The trip here was long and getting to my apartment was a dream come true. My place is close to all of the university buildings, about 10 minutes. Today I had orientation so I got to make the walk over there and I didn't even get lost. Palazzi doesn't have a traditional campus like in the states; instead the buildings are situated within the city in old buildings. For instance we found out that the student life office and Ganzo are next door. Student life handles lots of trips and events on campus so that will be convenient but more importantly, Ganzo is one of the cafes run by Palazzi! It is operated by students and serves meals inspired and cooked by the culinary program. Yes, I might have to go to an extra work out class or ten. Speaking of my apartment, my roommates have all finally arrived! My roommates are from all around the world: Amber is from Holland, Maria is from Taiwan, Renee from the Philippines, Kay is from India and Katherine is from Canada. Amber and I are sharing a room. We are all studying different things and are at different points in our education it is an eclectic mix.
The group of Palazzi students that met at the airport.
Camera da letto. I think my bed is made of straw...
There are 2 other bedrooms also. They basically have 2 beds and a dresser like mine.
Salone
Cucina
Terrazzino. Below is part of Ganzo.
Last night a few of us went on a little adventure. We found out that there are about 100 delicious smelling restaurants in a mile radius packed with Italians (a sign of a good find). Also, the Duomo is just down the street. It is HUGE! We checked out some super markets around the house where we're going to shop later today for groceries. We of course got some gelato. I wasn't crazy about one of the flavors that I got but I'm positive I will find a few favorites before I leave.
First meal in Italy. Split a vegetarian pizza with the roomies for 5 Euro. Very tasty.
Gelato :)
Walking with the roomies (left to right) Renee, Amber, Maria.
Il Duomo
Here are some pictures, I will upload albums on facebook with more when I have more to share!
One love, VA
