The Moody Traveler Goes to School in Florence 2019

Part V

The Michelangelo Institute – A Great Place to learn the Italian Language, Culture, & More!

Lapo, the efficient secretary, meeting with students on the first day of a school session. (Behind Lapo is a screen displaying a photo of the director/owner of the institute, Domenico Cancellieri.)

Most people agree that the best way to learn another language is to be surrounded by native speakers. I agree with that concept but since I am only able to travel two weeks per year….I must rely on a combination of other learning methods such as self-help books (I have a rather large collection.), watching Italian movies, and my online professor, Michel Altieri. However, several years ago I thought why not try taking a language course at a school or university in Italy and make it part of my travel itinerary? When I began my research I discovered that the origins of the Italian language emerged from varying dialects during the 14th century in central Tuscany. This developed further in Florence to become the official Italian language as we know it today. This made me more determined to locate an accredited language school in a place I love to visit. My Internet Google search pulled up various universities but my eyes were suddenly drawn to the Michelangelo Institute Italian Language and Culture school (Istituto di Lingua e Cultura Michelangelo).

A break during class allows for treat “to go” from the Caffe’ Michelangiolo, a short walk from the institute!

As I perused the well designed and informative website, https://www.michelangelo-edu.it/index.htm, I was excited by the variety of programs offered to learners of all levels and ages. Many reasonably priced language courses are offered along with art and cooking classes too!

On the first day of classes, visitors are given exams to determine the proper language level for group placement. (There are one-to-one courses available too.) Classes take place in nicely decorated, spacious rooms which fit up to 10 students, the limit for group instruction. Experienced instructors lead the lessons in full Italian language immersion.

During my attendance for the last two years, I experienced friendly and helpful instructors. Books were included in the cost to assist with grammar practice during and after classes. (Yes, there is homework!:)) Cultural activities are provided by the school such as social excursions to museums and markets in areas throughout Tuscany. And, if you are in need of a place to stay, the staff will gladly assist with accommodations conveniently located near the school.

Professor Savino – An experienced instructor of many years with the institute
Professor Savino posing with visiting students from Canada

This past summer, I had a great time in a Standard course that consisted of people from several different countries such as South America and Canada. The instructor, Savino, informed me that he had been a language instructor for twenty years. He was even kind enough to recommend a local restaurant that specialized in fish cuisine (my personal favorite) for dinner. The classes last four hours per day with a fifteen minute break. During that time I enjoyed taking a short walk to the local Caffe’ Michelangiolo to pick up a delicious sweet treat and a coffee!

https://www.michelangelo-edu.it/index.htm

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I have to say that my experience at the Michelangelo Institute has increased my confidence in speaking this romantic language. Last year, after returning home, my Italian language group members informed me that there was a definite improvement in my speaking skills. Aside from the education, the lively class conversations and social interactions with other students have led to some very special friendships.

On a side note I must mention that my continued email correspondence with Veronica, one of the institute staff members, has been a pleasure. Her prompt responses to my questions and kind words such as “un caro abbraccio” (a dear hug) at the end of an email, have given me a happy feeling each time I read them.

I am glad I could share the treasures of this institute with you! It has expanded my knowledge of the Italian language and exposed another valuable cultural experience that will last a lifetime! You may follow the institute on Facebook by clicking on this link: https://www.facebook.com/michelangeloinstitute/

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Author: vmcarson

Traveling has always been in my blood since I was very young. My family moved frequently to different locations throughout Pennsylvania and New Jersey in the United States due to my mother's teaching jobs. As a young girl, I would accompany my mother on bus trips to visit her relatives in different parts of the United States. Throughout my younger years, I could only dream of traveling to Italy and being fluent in the language. My father was Sicilian but rarely spoke in Italian. In 2013, my mother took me on my first international trip to Italy. I felt so fortunate to see Rome, Venice, Florence, and other regions of Tuscany. At that time, I became determined to return to Italy. I was obsessed with discovering the most economical way to solo travel. Eventually, I took a chance and learned along the way to solo travel. I was able to return to one of my favorite cities in Italy, Florence. In this area, I have enjoyed studying the Italian language and familiarizing myself with the art and culture. Furthermore, I have gained a new inner strength and the ability to expand my life. Every year, I try to explore and write about my travel experiences. I have made many wonderful friends and found endless new places to explore. It is my pleasure to inspire other travelers to unhook the inner fears of trying something that seems impossible. The results are incredible! You may contact me at vmcarson@aol.com with any solo traveling questions!

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