Will and I spent our last day together exploring the Roman Forum again. It turns out that they only let you in once even if you have a 48-hour ticket...but we sweet talked our way in. Well, I wouldn't call it sweet talking, but we asked really nicely and the lady said "Don't get caught"Continue reading "Roma Pt. II"
Roma Pt. I
Thursday, 23 November Ah, Roma! One of the first things that struck me after stepping off the bus near our AirBnb was the immense amount of Roman structures still standing and being preserved. My brother and I were also struck by the terrible odor in our resting place, but that has been taken care of.Continue reading "Roma Pt. I"
Pistoia Pt. II
Pistoia, known as "Little Florence," offers charming medieval history, delightful gastronomy, and a comfortable atmosphere reminiscent of home. The author enjoys exploring the city while learning Italian and connecting with locals. Highlights include the Fortezza di Santa Barbara and the ongoing quest for the best pizza, with Master Pizza currently leading.
Florence
Florence was one of the busiest cities I've been to thus far. I thought I was here during the tourist off-season, but there were throngs of people! I think there's a local university with many study abroad students. On our train ride into the city, we sat near four girls who had a lot ofContinue reading "Florence"
Pistoia Pt. I
The author reflects on their mixed feelings about Milan, citing noisy hostel nights and a sense of disconnection from loved ones. Now in Pistoia, they appreciate the quieter atmosphere and local interactions while walking extensively. Excited about exploring nearby cities, they look forward to writing and enjoying Italian cuisine during their stay.
La Flaneur Guesthouse: First Hostel Experience
I traveled from Paris to Lyon, where I stayed at La Flaneur Guesthouse and met friends. I enjoyed exploring the city, visiting restaurants like Fiston, and experiencing my first rave. The journey to Milan was long due to a missed connection. Overall, Lyon was a memorable highlight of my trip.
Friends of Paris
The author shares experiences meeting new friends through language exchange events and casual encounters in Paris. They describe conversations on topics like philosophy and politics with various individuals, enjoy local cuisine, and document their networking journey. Excited about future encounters, they look forward to their travels in Lyon.
Rue du Révérend Père Christian Gilbert
This post describes Rue du Reverend Pere Christian Gilbert, a street named in honor of a Christian man killed by the Nazis during WWII. The post goes on to appreciate quick friendships and potential plans ahead.
Chez Ammad: Affordable beer, good cheer
On October 25, 2023, the author reflects on a day spent working and enjoying a quiet evening in Paris. Opting for an inexpensive night out, they visit a small bar called Chez Ammad. Conversations with locals, including Antoine, offer insights on life and language. The author values the transient moments shared with new acquaintances.
A Change in Destination – 24 Oct. 2023
The author initially planned to visit Normandy but opted against it due to high travel costs. Instead, they enjoyed pastries in Paris, including their first croissant, and explored local streets. The day included a delightful meal at Pink Mama, casual interactions at a bar, and reflection on cultural differences, ultimately leading to a satisfying experience.