reflections.

one
Italians live a better life than US Citizens. Passport worthiness and access to international cuisine be damned, the Italia lifestyle is the pinnacle.

two
The train system in Italia is much more evolved than the US, yet, Italians see it as a system with little merit. I obviously love anything allowing me to not drive, but the (major?) trains were relatively timely, spacious, and comfortable, in my opinion. Eurail pass for non-European citizens is worth it’s wait in gold. 

three
I did, in fact, need to eat a salad a total of six times (not including the salads I made for myself almost every day). As in, I went to a restaurant with amazing pasta…and chose a salad. If you do not understand, you have not lived for an extended period in another country. Or Italia.

four
I’m still probably too into photography, but I hope this ‘blog’ is an entertaining read for you! I was all over Instagram Stories, but I’m trying to distance myself and photos from social media if possible. 

five
Roma is still my favorite part of Italia, but this was my first visit to Toscana…and it was fairly life changing. I think a full two weeks in Toscana is my next focus. 

six
I was devastated to come back to NYC/leave Italia for good. NYC has been good this past week, but Italia has my heart. I’ve only felt this pull when leaving a few places… 

seven
I did not find an Italian husband. Applications are still out. I also start my Italian lessons in June! 

eight
Still team ‘stay extended time frames’ vs quick visits to different cities. I would have done this trip slightly different, in only that I wouldn’t have moved around as much. No real regrets, but I am tired. More on that later. 

nine
Airline strikes in Europe are very real and never-ending.

ten
I would prioritize Sicily over Amalfi Coast for a longer trip… fighting words, I know. More on that later!