“Friending” in Florence: Special People in a Special Place

Part IV

Laurie & a coworker

Shopping in Florence can be quite overwhelming at times! Where to go..how much time there is……to look for jewelry, clothes, souvenirs, etc., etc. especially when you are not sure where to go. If you are not on a tour and being rushed around like a herd of cattle, it is relaxing to take a day to browse around the Ponte Vecchio and the center of Florence near the Duomo and Giatto’s tower. My addiction to costume jewelry led me to a discovery of the Colours & Beauty store located along one of the main streets coming from the center of the city. Not only does the store jump out at you with bright “colours” and a tempting glittery array of pretty jewelry, but the smiles radiate from the store employees.

Laurie and her coworker were very patient and accommodating as I took my time to choose from what seemed to be an endless selection of earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and so much more, packed into this quaint store. (Here is a link to the website for you to window shop from the comfort of your home! https://www.coloursandbeauty.it/) The next time you are able to shop in Florence, put the name of this store in your Google search and follow the walking map. You won’t be disappointed! Laurie loves interacting with customers and speaks English very well.

More shopping friends!

Friendly and a bit shy, Raffaela tried to hide from my cell phone camera in the “Accessorize” store, which I have visited for the past 4 years. This store is easy to find and always has a lot of good sales on jewelry and other fashionable items for your wardrobe! During this visit, I was searching for a small leather backpack to bring home to my daughter. I found the perfect size in black just at a reasonable cost. For the past two years I had recognized two employees but did not see them this year. I introduced myself to a shy young woman stationed behind the register counter. She listened attentively as I explained in Italian who I was looking for, one of which had a beautiful detailed tattoo of a rose on her arm. I showed Raffaela photos on my phone and she told me the two employees were off that day. At first, she tried to duck behind the counter to avoid having her photo taken. But, after my insistence and words of encouragement, she kindly obliged. Thank you Raffaela!

Towels? Who buys them while on vacation? Me, of course! In my apartment everything was wonderful, however, I only wanted a softer towel. Therefore, during one of my leisurely strolls, on a nice warm sunny day in Florence, I decided to try a quaint store with towels and many other types of linens. I introduced myself in Italian to an amicable trio of grinning sales associates and asked them to pose for a photo. The men struck a pose right away. However, the woman tried to escape and hide in another aisle! My coaxing words (Tu sei bella! Ma dai! – You are beautiful! Come on!) led her back to join the others in a lovely photo.

After a friendly conversation with these fun folks, I found a set pretty pink set of soft bath towels. The store owner was so kind to cut the price for me to 20 euros! (I didn’t ask him to!) Memories of people like this in Florence make me even more sad that I cannot board a plane yet to revisit what felt like my second home!

Uddin Md Nazim happily selling his abundance of colorful scarves & shawls!

This vendor seemed to really enjoy what he was doing! A great big smile for all who passed in one of many crowded areas of central Florence. Uddin was very patient and kind while I chose a beautiful orange scarf to give to my daughter! (I enjoy spoiling my family!) I hope one day soon to see these vendors again. I loved seeing all the varieties of souvenirs and talking with the sellers. Many came from Morocco and Bangladesh and would tell me stories of their family backgrounds. Other vendors were natives of Florence and quite proud to have been doing their jobs for a long time. Now, during this difficult world pandemic, the streets are more subdued without the presence of vendors and tourists. I hope my vendor friends are safe and have found another way to financially support their families.

“Friending” in Florence: Special People in a Special Place

Part III

Seeing this friendly woman for several years at Caffe Corsini in the heart of Florence made me super happy! She always remembered me!

Every morning, I watch the daily Italian news on my computer by using the website Rainews (https://www.rainews.it/dl/rainews/live/ContentItem-3156f2f2-dc70-4953-8e2f-70d7489d4ce9.html) and read parts of the online newspaper La Nazione Firenze (https://www.lanazione.it/firenze). I not only use this to help improve my Italian language skills but also to stay up-to-date with what is going on for our dear friends in Italy during these difficult COVID 19 Pandemic times. At this point in time, the borders of Italy are still closed to the United States and other countries for tourism. This is striking a large blow to the economy of this beautiful country. As we approach the Fall season, it is sad to know that we are not yet seeing any positive signs for this to change. People only express annoyance with the political system and frustration at the delay in opening Italy to allow its lovely streets to fill with the sound of happy tourists and great performances by entertainers again. We must keep our hopes up for change…

Now I bring to you another delightful Florentine friendship experience in August 2019 while visiting Caffe Corsini, also known as the “Snack Bar Caffe.” This nice little eatery was a pleasant break during my shopping experience in one of the most “touristy” places in Florence. It seemed always hot and crowded not far from the Duomo and Giatto’s Tower area and many different shops, gelatarerias, and restaurants lined the surrounding streets. Caffe’ Corsini became my favorite place to relax and eat my gelato while watching the tourist crowds go by. I am sorry to say that I never asked for the name of the two employees who always recognized me with a friendly greeting at the counter which was filled with an amazing selection of colorful foods. The two pleasant people who worked there were always so busy that I was afraid to interrupt them….. except this year, I took the liberty of obtaining quite a few photos with my cell phone! Also, I was able to talk briefly with a new employee who delivered my “snack”to my table upstairs. He spoke English fluently as well as Italian. It seemed funny to me that I never consumed soda in the United States. However, for some strange reason, while in Florence my taste buds liked the combination of Coke and gelato together! I have faith that soon I will return to Caffe Corsini and raise my Coke Zero in a “salute” to my dear friends.

“Friending ” in Florence: Special People in a Special Place

Part II

Francesca Battisti at the Caffe’ Dolce Amaro

The Friendship Journey Continues

I am wishing my Florence friends a better year to come in 2021, filled with happiness and success in spite of this surreal time with the COVID-19 virus Pandemic. As we approach gradual lifting of restrictions for businesses and more relaxed social gatherings, my hope is that a vaccine is approved and that our world will return to some type of normalcy. Unfortunately, at this time, the United States, along with other countries, has been in a terrible crisis with COVID cases. I am glad that Italy rose like the “Phoenix” out of the ashes by being a great success at controlling the virus after suffering through a total lock down for months.

At this time, I am sad to say that my trip to Florence this year has been delayed. I am keeping my fingers crossed and filling my mind with optimistic thoughts of seeing my lovely Italian friends soon. In this latest blog addition, I would like to share more of my delightful moments with Florentine friends during the summer of 2019.

During my two week visit to Florence in the summer of August 2019, after attending language school, I would walk back to Via La Luna (Literal translation:The Moon Street) to take a break in my cozy first floor apartment while passing numerous places to eat. One of my favorite places, which I chose just because the food looked so appetizing, was Cafe’ Dolce Amaro. There I met Francesca Battisti, a friendly, dedicated worker. Francesca could quickly and efficiently deliver whatever food a customer requested. I became hooked on a delicious veggie “panini” that was warm and very tasty. I would ask for it to be “porta via” (To go and the literal translation is “take away.”). Once inside my apartment, I used the microwave to reheat this delectable, juicy veggie sandwich. During one of my trips to Dolce Amaro, I couldn’t resist adding a dessert. Sorry I can’t recall the name of it….I just know it was super creamy and delicious! Check out the photo below. I’m sure it will make your mouth water! Francesca was a pleasure to converse with and enjoyed having her photo taken.

"Friending" in Florence: Special People in a Special Place

Part I

Martina graciously posing with me during my visit in August 2019 at the Antica Torre di Via Tornabuoni 1

A Journey of Friendships

This post is dedicated to my friends in Florence and all of Italy as they have struggled, like most or our world, with the Coronavirus (COVID 19) illness. With people forced to be confined to their homes and “social distancing” becoming the new daily reality, we need as much optimism and strength as possible. At this time, various places are gradually reopening but it will take time to return to some type of normalcy within our environments. I hope my latest post brings a little light into our currently surreal but always beautiful world.

One of my most rewarding experiences of solo traveling has always been to meet new people, many of which have turned into lasting friendships. Florence seems to hypnotize me with all of its rich history and culture. Also, it is my preferred place to learn the language. Every time I visit there is never enough time to experience all of the beauty, including the people, who make the city even more appealing.

During my first solo trip to Florence, I met Martina, a lovely receptionist who worked at the front desk of the Antica Torre Via Tournabouni. This lovely historical tower seated in the central part of the city is a wonderful treat for anyone who wants to experience a gorgeous room for an overnight stay or longer. It is also available for hosting business conventions, and other special events. Martina’s kind and friendly personality made it easy for me to connect with her . Her excellent command of the English language, patience with my stumbling Italian words, and contagious smile made my first visit relaxed and memorable. When I returned in August 2019, Matina greeted me with open arms and her coworker offered to take quite a few photos of us together. To this day we continue to communicate through Instagram! I plan to visit her again this year.

Laughing with Martina is always a moment to treasure!

Luca, one of the receptionists of the San Giorgio hotel, located near the Santa Novella train station, is another joyous, dedicated employee who I enjoy visiting. During my most recent trip, I was able to learn that Luca worked in this hotel for close to 20 years and has several children. This hotel is family owned and for a reasonable cost guests enjoy all types of clean rooms with a tasty breakfast. Luca greeted me with a warm welcome complete with a cup of espresso! I reminded him about how much he had helped me during my first solo trip when I had trouble with air conditioning at another hotel. I recall being desperate and not wanting to sleep in a hot room. So, I decided to call the San Giorgio hotel (I had stayed there the previous day while on a quest to review different hotels.). Luca had such a kind voice and told me he would do his best to find an available room immediately. And that he did! In the same day for the cost of 50 euros I was able to return to a comfortable room complete with AC! Thank you Luca!:)

Luca, of the San Giorgio hotel. A true gentleman and gracious host!

As I returned home from my trip during the second week of August 2019, I felt disappointed in not being able to locate a note with contact information for a amicable young lady I met one day on my way back from the San Minato Al Monte church, which is located near the Piazzale Michelangelo. How I met Lucia was quite coincidental. As I trekked in the hot sun through many streets I noticed a quaint souvenir shop that looked a bit different from the others. While eyeing various temptations in the store (Tough for me to control those shopping urges when traveling!) I heard a friendly voice emerge from the back of the store. Seated with her head barely peaking above the sales counter was a petite, pretty young lady with a contagious smile. I quickly introduced myself in Italian and her face lit up. Finding out where I was from sparked a conversation about her previous visits to the United States to see a friend. She proudly told me that her name, Lucia, meant “the light” and invited me to stay with her family the following year. I was amazed at such a gesture of friendly hospitality! However, when I returned to the U.S., I gave up hope of ever seeing her again – until one night while I was perusing my Facebook travel page.

Lucia (“The Light!”)

I glanced through the “likes” for one of my posts and noticed one profile that resembled Lucia, with of course, the same name. Seriously? What are the odds? I immediately recognized her facial features and I became so excited! (Like a detective finding a missing person!) I knew that infectious smile anywhere! I messaged her and received a quick response. It was indeed the Lucia I had met in Florence! Our conversation on Facebook messenger gave me such a warm feeling. At this time, Lucia does not know if the store she worked in will reopen. However, she is studying art history in college and will continue to complete her studies once schools reopen in Italy. I can’t wait to see her again, hopefully, this August 2020!

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

This

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/

The Moody Traveler Becomes Daring in Florence 2019

Part IV Continued

Riding a Horse Drawn Carriage Through the Heart of Florence!

During my previous visits to Florence I felt a bit envious of the couples and families smiling as they rode horse drawn carriages through the streets of one of my favorite cities! A few of my Florentine friends had told me it was just a cheeky tourist attraction and not worth the 50 euros. Thus, foolishly, for the last five years, I talked myself out of my yearning to experience this excursion. This year I was determined to ignore the negativity stuck in my head! So, on a warm, slightly cloudy day, I walked to the Duomo/Giotto’s Tower area, part of the main amazing historical attraction that marks the center of this city, and stared momentarily at a group of horses taking a break near their carriages. I took a deep breath, cleared my mind, and walked over to one of the drivers or fiaccherai (singular is fiacchero) as they are called in Florence, to request a ride.

I decided to choose a driver who was sitting comfortably in a carriage while his horse was eating. Other drivers were conversing happily with each other. As I spoke in my labored Italian (with an obvious American accent) to this happy fellow, a broad grin broke out on on his face. He introduced himself as Cristiano and assisted me onto a comfortable leather seat in his carriage. While he expertly maneuvered the carriage through the crowds, Cristiano proudly told me about his job and family. I even learned that his horse, “Giotto,” was named after the famous Giotto’s Bell Tower located near the Duomo. To me it was worth the 50 euros to ride like a princess and enjoy this lovely city in a more relaxed manner instead of a sitting on a crowded tour bus. I didn’t feel the least bit nervous or uncomfortable to be riding alone. Cristiano gave me his own tour through many side streets in the city and along the Arno River. I remember wishing for the ride to be longer than a half hour!

Cristiano posing joyfully by his carriage

The Moody Traveler Becomes Daring in Florence 2019

Part IV

Going Solo to a Nightclub and Riding a Horse Drawn Carriage!

My first look at La Loggia restaurant in Florence as I walked from the taxi!

For several years, I was curious about nightclubs in Florence. I read about them in travel books and wondered if they were any different from american nightclubs. Last year, I ate dinner frequently at a quaint, new restaurant, Borgo La Croce, which had been open for only six months. One night, during one of my dinner conversations with Francesca, a very friendly waitress, I was told to try a local nightclub called Flo. It happened to be located on the other side of Florence. Since one of my favorite social activities has always been to dance with friends, I was very tempted to go. Unfortunately, I had to travel home the next day and the thought of possibly not getting enough sleep from a dancing excursion ruled out the experience.

This year, I was determined to finally see a nightclub especially since some of my Florentine friends insisted that Flo was very safe. I decided that life was too short to not try something I always wanted to do! First, I invited a friend who retired several years ago in Florence, but she said her plans were already made for the evening. I told myself to stop being a wimp, pulled myself together into a bright multi-colored orange and green summer dress, and called a taxi.

As I got out of the taxi, I saw a restaurant with large street lights located practically across the street from the night club. Since I hadn’t eaten dinner yet I walked up to what appeared to be a well lit outdoor dining area in front of a building resembling a museum. La Loggia del Piazzale Michelangelo is an upscale restaurant well known to the locals and it sits directly across from the Piazzale Michelangelo square with a spectacular view of Florence. This posh restaurant has been at it’s current location for many years. Many people come here for dinner or just to have an apertivo (Italian name for a before dinner drink) with tasty appetizers. For more information on this lovely restaurant and a colorful photographic video, follow this link: https://loggiapiazzalemichelangelo.com/

My view across the street from the Piazzale Michelangelo

On this particular August evening, the weather was slightly warm and people were seated at tables draped with pretty white linen. I was glad that it wasn’t crowded. A kind waiter hurried over and offered me at a table not far from a jovial entertainer singing Italian and American songs while playing a piano organ. Pretty colorful lights swirled above his head under what appeared to be a large white umbrella. The waiter brought a small tray of snacks to accompany my glass of wine. I wasn’t really sure what type of fish dinner I ordered but it was the cheapest on the menu. This was one of the few times that I paid more than I wanted to for dinner! The prices were a bit extravagant but, thankfully, the food was tasty.

After dinner, I returned downhill on the path by La Loggia to make my way across the street to the nightclub. I was relieved to see four men in security shirts standing by the club entrance. They informed me that there was no cover charge that evening. As I entered through the doorway the interior was similar to other nightclubs I had been to in the United States. It was large and decorated with just enough light for ambiance and plenty of small tables and large areas for sitting. The DJ was playing recognizable american dance music blended with other types of music. The sound was fantastic! Of course, there were the usual swirling lights on a sizable floor with plenty of room for dancing. I walked through the nightclub to get my bearings and try to figure out the best place to sit.

Then I thought, why not get a glass of wine first? Well, I was completely caught off guard when the bar tender told me I had to pay and get a ticket for my wine from a separate booth first. I returned with the ticket and watched the bartender poor shaved ice into a pretty glass decorated with a frosted white pattern. He proceeded to shake out the ice and then filled the glass with wine!

After asking the bartender to smile for a photo (He was one of the few people I encountered who was not very sociable.) I chose to sit across from the DJ on a white bench in what appeared to be a special seating area. There were so many security men around that I never felt concerned for my safety. The rules in Flo are very strict regarding anyone who has ideas about drinking too much. I enjoyed the music and watching groups of people in nice dressy outfits dance the night away.

I didn’t have the courage to dance alone so around midnight, I headed out the door, and called a taxi! By that time the crowd had grown and people kept pouring in. I was surprised at how quickly the taxi came for me! The only issue I experienced was that my taxi driver became lost and appeared to not know how to get to my address. When I asked in Italian if he was going to charge me more since he was taking a longer drive, he quickly decreased the price on the meter. Ah ha! Taxi tip: Don’t be surprised if a taxi driver tries to take you on a longer ride to make more money!

Salute!:)

The Moody Traveler Returns to Florence 2019

Part III

An Exciting Side Trip to See an Opera!

One of my favorite parts of this trip was traveling by train to see an opera located in San Casciano, a small village in the commune of Casciano within the province of Pisa. I always wanted to see an opera performed in Italy and was lucky to find an online advertisement for Cavalleria Rusticana, performed by professional singers as a special benefit for the Parish Church of Saints Ippolito and Casciano and free to the public. When I researched my train tickets, I discovered it was about an hour and a half from Florence. However, when I arrived at the Santa Maria Novella train station, I found out I needed to purchase another ticket in order to take two trains! The taxi driver, Enzo, arrived in a small black town car and was very helpful and kind. He exclaimed to me that he did not know there was such a great show in his village and refused to charge me any money for the ride!

  • Hoping to make the show in time!
  • Beautiful scenery on the way to San Casciano
  • San Casciano Station
  • Waiting on what appeared to be a desolate street for Enzo the town car driver.
  • Enzo – a fabulous driver!
Waiting for a train and not sure if I would make it in time to see Cavelleria Rusticana was worth the stress after being picked up in a lovely town car by Enzo in San Casciano!

When I arrived at the front of the church there were at least two hundred people in the audience seated outside in white chairs. I had no trouble finding a seat. The beauty of the lit-up church was hypnotic. There was a full cast and musical accompaniment by a talented pianist and electronic organist. I was mesmerized by the spectacular voices of these singers! I felt like the luckiest person in the world and honored to attend a free show with such unbelievable talent.

The Moody Traveler Returns to Florence 2019 Part II

Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella

The Santa Maria Novella perfumery-pharmacy is one of the oldest pharmacies in the world ( about 600 years old). It is a place that many visitors do not get a chance to see. It took me a while to find, even after I asked several employees inside the Santa Maria Novella train station. Finally, after taking a long walk through the mall in the train station and following the directions of a cigar shop employee (Walk straight (“dritto”), then turn right (“a destra”), walk a bit and then turn left (“a sinistra”), I almost walked right past the sign above the doorway. It seemed to blend in with the other businesses on a side street. I couldn’t believe I found it!

As I entered the pristine doorway, I was delighted to see colorful frescoes adorning the walls and ceilings. Further down a short hallway I entered a large room of nicely set up counters with professional employees assisting customers with specially made perfumes, soaps, and other types of skin products. I couldn’t believe the amount of rooms to browse in, some with large glass cases displaying many different types of products. Another surprise was a free museum filled with interesting antiques and even a quaint tea room!

  • Albana, a pleasure to talk to!
  • Lovely tea room

As a solo traveler, I have so much fun meeting new people and it is always a great pleasure for me to converse with many friendly Florentines. At this historical perfumery I felt lucky to become acquainted with a pleasant employee named Albana. We had a lovely conversation and I added her to my long list of employees who seem dedicated to their jobs in this beautiful city. To learn more about the Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella follow this link to an informative article: https://www.forbes.com/sites/debbikickham/2018/05/30/santa-maria-novella-the-worlds-oldest-pharmacy-is-a-best-kept-beauty-secret/#2b4749f865b4

Albana at your service at Officina Profumo-Farmaceutica di Santa Maria Novella

The Moody Traveler Returns to Florence 2019

Part I

Share my latest visits to San Miniato al Monte, Santa Maria Novella Parfumeria, & and a special opera in San Casciano, Pisa!

View from Piazzale MIchelangelo

The Apartment

“How many times you coming in Florence now?,” a friendly Italian clothing store owner asked me. I responded to him with a confident, “This is my fifth time!” To which he exclaimed, “Meraviglioso! I am happy that you love our country so much!”

My return to Florence, Italy in the beginning of August 2019 was a wondrous maze of experiences intertwined with new adventures and a few unexpected situations. (When traveling, I always know there will be little surprises of possible interruptions to my comfort zone!) My first stop after a nice fight on Swiss airlines to Zurich and then to Petrola airport in Florence was my apartment on Via La Luna (La Luna Street). I always enjoy trying out my Italian language skills even though I am a little hesitant starting out. Taxi drivers are always kind and willing to engage in conversation when I explain how long I have been learning Italian! As the taxi approached my street I texted one of the owners, Matteo, about my arrival. As the taxi pulled directly up to the street in front of a walkway leading directly to the apartment there was Matteo waiting for me.

I was so surprised because this never happened to me before. Usually, I have to struggle with my luggage going up at least one flight of stairs. However, this time, Matteo was there promptly to greet me and assisted with taking my belongings to the ground level apartment. He was very kind and immediately spoke in Italian to me because he knew I was trying to learn. He was very courteous and encouraging as I did my best to converse in his language! Matteo took his time explaining about the apartment and local stores, tours, etc. I was happy to listen to him talk about his personal experience of living in the United States for several years as a musician. There was even a lovely bottle of wine on the table in the kitchen. This is why I love Airbnb .com for finding places to stay when traveling! They always seem to be true to their ratings and Matteo and Monica were rated highly on the website!

This apartment was a gem! Everything was clean and there was a full kitchen/living room complete with two coffee makers (one american and the other an Italian percolator that Matteo taught me how to use on the stove top.). There were plenty of various spices and pasta on the shelves, in case I wanted to cook and even a bottle of Lemoncello in the refrigerator. The bedroom was a nice large size complete with a spacious mirrored closet. There were even 2 air conditioners, one in the living room and one in the bedroom. Two bathrooms were available as well! One had a toilet and the other had a shower…both had sinks! I was happy there was a washer and a portable fold-up wire stand that was a perfect size to dry my clothes. The cost for my two week stay was very affordable!

  • The walk to the apartment was nice in this quiet area.
  • A solid door with a solid glass screen door inside. Very secure!
  • These lovely flowered vines belonged to the La Luna restaurant which I passed every day on my way to the apartment.
  • This cat loved to lie among the aloe plants near the apartment and gradually became my little friend.
  • Nice efficient kitchen – just the right size for me!
  • The bedroom was perfect!
  • I loved the closet space and took full advantage of the hanging post for my long sun dresses!
  • Some days I didn’t mind grabbing a sandwich from the local supermarket for a quick lunch.
  • I sat at this table daily to relax and watch a nice TV. I left those bottles of wine for Matteo and Monica as a gift on my last day.

La Luna

Matteo told me there was a convenient place to eat, which was just a few steps away from the apartment. Of course, this restaurant was named after the street of La Luna. I enjoyed some delicious meals there and even a take away pizza one night. The wait staff was delighted to make my acquaintance and would give me two menus every time I visited – one in English and the other in Italian! I enjoyed talking to the waitresses and they were delighted to pose in photos for me. In the photo below, the manager was making Corina, Kejsi, Jessica and I laugh. Everyone laughed even harder when I said, “Che cosa fai?!” (What are you doing?)

San Miniato al Monte

San Miniato Al Monte basilica, was my first researched tour and is located very close to the famous Piazzale Michelangelo. This year the church turned a thousand years old! It is located atop one of the highest points in Florence with a reputation as being one of the most scenic views in Italy. The day before I planned to see this church, I was told by several of my Florentine friends to take a bus or taxi because walking would be difficult due to the distance from my apartment. Additionally, there are many steps to climb leading up to this attraction. However, I challenged myself into braving the walk from my apartment since Google maps showed the walking distance to be a half hour. Even though it was a very hot day, walking turned out to be a good choice for me and as I approached my destination, I noticed quite a few helpful street signs pointing out the direction of both San Minato and Piazzale Michelangelo. When I finally reached the cascade of wide steps and ascended to the top, I exclaimed to an artist seated on the steps with his paintings for sale, “Ho fatto!” (I did it He responded by lightly slapping my hand with a high five and cheery “Fantastico!”

 Piazzale Michelangelo was my first reward at the top of the steps with a magnificent view of the city and a replica statue of Michelangelo’s David. Seeing the great icons of Florence from this height, such as the Duomo and Giatto’s tower, was breathtaking.

After taking endless photos with my camera and cell phone, I followed Google maps to San Miniato al Monte. More steps were there for me to climb and the second reward appeared at the top as I witnessed another gorgeous view of the city.

  • “I made it!”
  • San Minato al Monte