As of 7:40 last night our plane pulled out of the terminal and onto the runway. Lifting itself to the skies and turning eastbound towards Europe. Free beer, and 7 hours later, Munich was entered. A short layover then the final flight to Florence. Upon arrival an overwhelming feeling of excitement and shock struck me. Never did I think I would living in a European country to study. An opportunity of a lifetime, and one that will never be forgotten.
Simon was the cab driver for Cayton and I. And the start to an experience of mopeds whizzing by, people gazing into the sky, and a language that at the time I cannot understand. 'Ciao bella' was what he told us to say to the women...'hi, pretty girl' was how Simon put it in his slightly broken English. Calling out different sites, and palazzos...mental overload.
4 total people living in our flat is the perfect amount. It is a simple and modest abode, and is perfectly suited for us. Tile floors, high ceilings, an underground bedroom, and a courtyard that is of utter beauty. Antonio is our landlord, a rather short, dark haired Italian man who at first seemed harsh, but after a few minutes of chatting is actually quite funny. After having us carry the baggage of some girls from Penn State up to their room, he gave us a subtle wink, as to let us know he's got our back.
The market was an overwhelming, exhausting, insane, crazy...madness is the best word for it...experience that ended in success and a short walk back to the flat. Only 45 euros were spent...we were expecting over 80, but to our surprise it came out to much less. Some items we bought were just out of shear guessing, none of us have any idea of what the words said. It looked like cheese, so we got it.
Dinner and wine. Broken wine bottle opener led to having to find a working one. And us meeting our first group of friends who are also living in our complex, Ghibella. Lion's Fountain and Gato are our first bars we will encounter, and who knows what is in store.
Welcome to Florence Matt Gallerani.
