So it has been a really busy couple weeks for me in Florence. Between midterms, several Carnevale events, and day trips, I have constantly been on the go. Last weekend I went on a school sponsored day trip Modena and Bologna. In Modena we ventured to a balsamic vinegar farm in the outskirts of the city. We took tours of the balsamic vinegar brewing/storage rooms and the vineyards. I tasted balsamic vinegar that was over 30 years old. From there, we went to Bologna. Bologna is the college town of Italy. There isn’t much to do there really besides climb a tower and see the oldest university in Europe.
My friend Becky and I stayed at our friend Kelly’s for the night in Bologna. Kelly goes to the U of M with us, and she is studying at the university there. She had a Carnevale party which was a lot of fun. A short explanation about Carnevale is that it is a big festival throughout parts of the world that lead up to Mardi Gras. People wear costumes and throw parties to celebrate, and I would say it is equivalent to our Halloween. At this Carnevale party no one really spoke English, so it was a good experience to meet real Italian students not the typical Americans studying in Italy that I am used to being with.
One of the best places to celebrate Carnevale is Venice which is where I went this weekend with some friends from school. The day started out at 7:30 in the morning for a 3 hour bus ride followed by a short boat ride that took us right into Venice. The city was jam packed with all sorts of people costumes and music. We spent a lot of time in the San Marco Square and then weaved in out of side streets. The day wouldn’t be complete without a gondola ride, and it was absolutely worth it. We also saw a glass blowing exhibit and ate some great pizza! Venice is such a unique city, it doesn't compare to anything else I've seen Italy.
Now that Carnevale is ending and spring break is coming up, I have to revert back to school mode and study for midterms. I have 4 midterms this week and then a week long break in the Greek Islands and Athens.
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