Celina Semente is a student at Montclair State University and an ISA Featured Blogger. She is currently studying abroad with ISA in Florence, Italy.
1. Booking as many weekend trips as possible.
Although traveling frequently is good for the soul, it is not so good for the bank account! Once I booked that first trip to Cinque Terre, it was nearly impossible to say “no” to others–especially when there are so many student travel agencies within walking distance around Florence to make weekend getaways such a breeze! Slowly but surely, my bank account has dwindled from repeatedly scheduling a visit to a new destination every weekend.
2. Wanting to try every kind of pizza I can get my hands on.
Of course, pizza is one of Italy’s many staples. In fact, it seems as if every block in Florence has a pizzeria that is unique to its competitors. How can I turn down trying new kinds of pizza when there are so many out there for so little Euros?! My taste buds have thanked me, but those extra pounds have not!
3. Taking advantage of the Italian “siestas.”
Being immersed in a culture where “siestas,” or naps, are totally acceptable, it is hard not to take full advantage. After a long day of class and adventuring (and eating) around Florence, deciding to take a siesta can be extremely tempting. Although it is hard to imagine my day without a siesta now that I have been in Italy for some time, I know I should be out exploring the city, rather than snuggling up in my bed for a mid-day nap!
4. Avoiding my laundry at all costs.
Between the plethora of washing machine settings and the endless clothing pins, laundry can be a hassle when studying abroad. Completing a load of laundry can be much more complicated in another country, as opposed to the United States, because of the differences in temperature and language. However, even though it may seem difficult at first, it actually becomes fun once you get it down! I still need that English washing machine manual to guide me through the many cycle options, but there is nothing like the smell of clothes that have been hang drying outside on a fresh, beautiful day!
5. Being unable to pass a gelato shop without going inside.
Similar to my recent pizza addiction, sampling gelato flavors has become a hobby of mine. With the amount of gelaterias around (shops that sell gelato), walking past without going inside can actually seem like a crime. Many gelaterias will allow you to sample a gelato flavor or two for free – who could say “no” to that?! My personal favorite is coconut, but there are an endless amount of flavors out there just waiting to be sampled!
The world awaits…discover it.