March Madness

March was busy. Not in a stressed work load way, but in a running around like a crazy headless chicken way. February ended with my 21st birthday that was spent sick in bed with the stomach bug. Definitely not a birthday I will forget and plenty of time to make it up.

My family came in the middle of march for an amazing trip. We explored Rome in two packed days with Joe as put travel guide. Then made our way to Florence where time was spent strolling the streets, climbing the duomo, hanging in wine bars, and pizzerias for lunch. Food food wine and more food were the themes of their stay.  

Having been in Italy for almost two months, I was growing used to and almost taking for granted the amazing dishes that surround me. Though my family I relived the initial pleasure that comes with tasting pasta, pizza, cheese, gelato, and of course wine here. Memorable meals included a great restaurant in Rome where the mozzarella was the best I've had and pizza and paninis in Florence at my favorite places.

Saying bye to my parents and Luke was hard but I had to quickly refocus my attention on my next adventure: spring break.

Joe and I set out and in seven days and 6 plane rides later, covered four different countries.

First was Nice along the French Riviera.  Even more beautiful than I remember from three years ago. The beach promenade was lovely and sunny and the gelato was to die for.  We spend our time walking along the rock beaches and finding great crepes.

Next was Geneva. A change in climate but absolutely gorgeous. We had the chance to meet up with Mary, a wonderful women who I know through a friend. She treated us to an amazing lunch complete with traditional cheese fondue!  We took a boat ride across the lake (Lake Lemon) and saw on of the biggest fountains in the world.

We then set off for Barcelona a lively city with a young feel and never a dull moment. The central outdoor market was my favorite along with the sandy beach. We visited the 1992 Olympic stadium and parks around the city. Tapas for dinner and a Spanish dance show completed our Spanish experience.

 

The last few days were spent on Malta, islands south of Sicily. The weather was in the 70s but the water was freezing! Took a ferry to a near by island and the blue lagoon for picturesque beaches. Also found out they don't sell over SPF 4 sunscreen so came back having a reddish glow to say the least.

Being back in Florence felt great. Tourist season has officially begun and restaurants are expanding onto the streets embracing the warm weather (70 degrees is average!).  I feel like a true resident the more and more tourists I see and want to embrace as much of this city as I can before heading back to the states.

I’ll be updating more frequently from now on!

Ciao!