Travels of Tuscany

Sunday, May 19

We met in the Villa dining room this morning at 9 a.m. for a lovely breakfast, then we were off to Florence. Our first stop was the great view of the city. From there we walked to the Ponte Vecchio and then found Pitti Palace. We saw the beautiful backyard garden with many fountains and a great view after a bit of hike. Then we walked through the Galleria to see the stunning artwork in each room. Then we went to Galleria Uffizi. This was filled with artwork as well. After touring Uffizi, we walked to the Spinning Pig and then through the leather market. After spending an hour there, we headed back to the bus to return to the villa.

Monday, May 20

The class went to Florence again for more touring. Our first stop was Santa Croce, a beautiful church. Inside were graves of many historical artists and composers. I lit a candle and enjoyed the stain glass artwork. Then we visited the Duomo. There were beautiful trees for prayer candles and a large crucifix that tourists crowded to see. After that, a few of us headed to the leather market. I bought a very sexy leather jacket for only 100 euro and lots of other souvenirs for friends and family. We met back at the Duomo to walk to Trattoria for a fancy dinner. I ordered pappardella pasticciatta (al forno). It was the dish of the table. It was similar to lasagna but so much better! I couldn’t eat it all, so other students gladly helped me. Then we headed back to the Villa.

Tuesday, May 21

We were given a free day to either rest from all the touring and go back to Florence for a short time to see The David. I took this day off to sleep in, catch up on laundry and relax. Only 5 other students stayed at the Villa, and the rest went into Florence. I actually would have gone with them as well, but most of the time would have been spent on a train. They only had about 2 hours in the actual city. I snacked on breakfast food all day until we met up with the other students and went to the local supermarket for groceries. Keri and I shared ours so we could split the bill. I took that as an opportunity to be some liquor also. I’m excited to bring that home!

Wednesday, May 22

We took off to Luca and rode bicycles around the entire city. It was beautiful and green! I was excited that the weather was finally warm! After the bike ride, we headed to the Leaning Tower of Pisa and climbed to the top! I was afraid I wouldn’t be able to make it there, but I did!! Coming back down was a bit scary though. Then we went to see the sea. We had a nice dinner in a small restaurant next to the water and some gelato from a Gelateria after.

Thursday, May 23

We were given another day to relax so we hung out by the pool most of the day. We also went to the store to get more groceries and I bought a new outfit. I made a gnocchi dinner for Keri and myself. It was yummy.

Friday, May 24

The class took a tour of the villa vineyard to learn about the different wines made here. It was interesting but long and cold. After the two-hour tour, we went to Sienna, saw another duomo, and shopped around the piazza. It was our last night at the villa so we were served another lovely 3-course meal: lasagna, potatoes and chicken, and torta. Tuscany was absolutely amazing. I just wish the weather could have been nicer.