Pre-Departure

I have nine days until I depart for Florence, Italy, however to no surprise I'll most likely procrastinate packing until the night before. My suite case is going to look much different than usual. In Italy they say dress to impress, which means no Nike shorts or t-shirts for the next six weeks. The weather is going to be very different than South Florida, with an average of 50 to 80 degrees. For those who don't realize how us Floridians feel about 50 degree weather, that means leather jacket and boots. Just thinking about the delicious Italian food I will be eating makes me want to bring some clothes that are a size to big, as I anticipate to get fat while being abroad (don't worry mom, I won't get too fat).

I will be taking two classes at Florence University of the Arts; Beginning Italian and The Art of Italian Family Business. At FUA we only have classes Tuesdays, Wednesdays, & Thursdays, which means four day weekends (perfect for traveling)! I will be living in an apartment with two of my very close sorority sisters, Nicole & Sam. If Florence can handle Snooki, then I think it can handle the three of us....

This next week home will consist of anticipation for my adventure abroad, bonding with the family, seeing old friends, and hitting the beach.

I plan to take full advantage of every opportunity presented to me. I want to make friends with the locals,  try different foods, appreciate the art and culture around me, and learn as much as I can about myself and the world during my time in Italy.

Melissa- You'll be with me throughout all of my travels. Our dream of traveling Europe has finally come true.