Il Ghiottone, Autogrill, and Lucca
Our last excursion to Lucca, filled with history, gratitude, and faith.
Il Ghiottone, Autogrill, and Lucca Read More »
Gesti, Genuine Cuisine, and Great Companions
An easygoing day made exceptional by a fun class and time spent with friends.
Gesti, Genuine Cuisine, and Great Companions Read More »
Venturing Across the Arno
Cross that bridge when you get there! The Oltrarno has so much to offer.
Venturing Across the Arno Read More »
Colle di Val d’Elsa, Monteriggioni, and Siena
Over the hills and far away, a discovery of time honored Tuscan traditions.
Colle di Val d’Elsa, Monteriggioni, and Siena Read More »
Palazzo Davanzati, Caffè Gilli, Uffizi
A noble home, the caffè culture of dissidents, and Renaissance masterpieces made the day unforgettable.
Palazzo Davanzati, Caffè Gilli, Uffizi Read More »
Piazza Michelangelo, San Miniato, and Fiesole
First excursion to the Oltrarno and ancient ruins in Fiesole made this overcast day one of the brightest.
Piazza Michelangelo, San Miniato, and Fiesole Read More »
Cortona and Spirited Evening Conversation
Cortona is a beautiful Tuscan gem, glistening with Etruscan history, and fantastic views onto the Val de Chiana.
Cortona and Spirited Evening Conversation Read More »
La Pesca del Palazzo, Medici Chapel, and Sunset at Rinascente
An unexpected gift makes me feel at home. Today was a perfect blend of history, heart, and perspective.
La Pesca del Palazzo, Medici Chapel, and Sunset at Rinascente Read More »
Mercato di Sant’ Ambrogio, San Marco, Accademia, Museo di Medici
An epic tour of sites and museums on a rainy day that offers many surprises and some great photos.
Mercato di Sant’ Ambrogio, San Marco, Accademia, Museo di Medici Read More »
Palazzo Vecchio, Gran Caffè San Marco, and Novecento
Skip the line access is well worth the cost. Especially if you go to Palazzo Vecchio three times.
Palazzo Vecchio, Gran Caffè San Marco, and Novecento Read More »
Wine Window and Santa Croce
After language class and lunch, most of the day is spent at the largest Franciscan church in the world. A must see!
Wine Window and Santa Croce Read More »
San Gimignano, Castellina, Monsanto
Our first excursion outside of Florence and into the rolling hills of the Tuscan countryside!
San Gimignano, Castellina, Monsanto Read More »
This Guy Comes Out of Nowhere…
A woman shouts, “Aiutami—he stole my phone!” Without hesitation, I’m chasing a stranger down the street.
This Guy Comes Out of Nowhere… Read More »
There’s Only So Much Time
Piazza San Jacopino is the beating heart of a lively neighborhood and offers everything for living la dolce vita.
There’s Only So Much Time Read More »
Wandering Through Florence On My Own
Backstreets and alleyways lead to unexpected discoveries before language class. All who wander are not lost.
Wandering Through Florence On My Own Read More »
First day in Florence
Seeing the Duomo in the distance for the first time, pinch me! I must be dreaming.
First day in Florence Read More »
Departure and Arrival
Sitting for a while and deprived of rest, my head snapped sharply towards sleep. “DO NOT MISS THIS FLIGHT!!”
Departure and Arrival Read More »
Steps to Prepare
Tips for planning your trip. Learn some Italian and how to pack light. Get familiar, then get lost.
The Backstory
Italy has always called to me. Not only because of familial ties but the gravitas of history, art, and architecture that have defined Western civilization