The Moody Traveler Meets More Friends in Florence, Italy 2021

Part 1: Caffe’ Michelangelo

Marco – Owner of Caffe’ Michelangolo

When I attended a four hour Italian language class at Michelangelo Institute in the mornings, I frequently stopped at Caffe’ Michelangelo for my coffee break. It was conveniently located about a block away from the school. Marco, the owner, would welcome me each and every time as if I were part of his family. Along with Marco, I was able to meet his aunt, and another dedicated employee, Rita , who worked efficiently in this lively little café which has been on the street of Via Ghibellina 116R, for 20 years.

Sometimes, as I stopped by to visit for my usual ice coffee, I was even given treats to take back to my apartment! One day I was given fresh watermelon chunks and another day a delicious pasta meal. Occasionally, I was happy to be able to bring along a few friends from my language school who also enjoyed this quaint, cozy coffee house.

One afternoon, towards the end of my stay in Florence, I couldn’t help but ask Marco how his business had fared during the pandemic. He came to my table and seemed anxious to explain the details. Luckily, while many other restaurants closed permanently in Florence, his café closed for only three months during the pandemic. When permission was granted to open, new rules were required for patrons, such as only being able to stand to have a beverage and food. Marco claimed he had lost 75% of his business and gained back only 20% the following year in 2021. I was so glad to see this lovely café’ still open.

I plan to visit Marco and his café’ again this year in June 2022! Thank you Marco! You are a treasure (tesoro)!

Unknown's avatar

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!

Leave a comment