Franca (my host grandma) told me about a flea market happening at the piazza right around the corner (Santo Spirito). It is there every 2nd Sunday of the month. I wandered there in the afternoon, and really didn't even need to know where I was going -- so many locals were heading there and leaving, you just had to follow the crowd.
I wanted to share this authentic experience through the lens of my camera, showing you the camaraderie atmosphere of the locals in Florence.
The soaps below are made in Fiesole (see post here).
From my limited understanding of Italian, I'm pretty sure they are some sort of vegan or organic soap.
These gummy candies were definitely the most flavorful I've had! The soft, chewy texture lets the fruity taste sink in, while not sticking to your mouth like Swedish fish.
I loved capturing these photos and had a lot of fun simply exploring the different shops!
The markets in Santo Spirito are worth stopping by and taking a look at.
Here are some more photos of the market, but from the following week:
Placing yourself with the locals will show you all what Florence has to offer -- beyond the touristy places. It's a great opportunity to strike up conversations with new people (mostly Italians, a few Americans) and practice your Italian.
I chatted with a lady from Boston, who is currently studying art history and gallery work. Upon hearing that I was studying with Richmond, she exclaimed, "I almost studied with them back in the day -- but I didn't, and here I am now!" The things I learn and the people I meet continue to fascinate me and deepen my curiosity about the world around me. I hope I've inspired you all and perhaps passed on the travel/culture bug!
"No culture can live, if it attempts to be exclusive." - Mahatma Ghandi
I have to say, after speaking with you yesterday, I was struck with this strange sense/feeling. Here in America, most people (myself included), live in this bubble. If you do not go out of your way to think about the world, you miss so many things. Sitting here in the warmth of my house, it is hard to imagine another perspective of life and culture existing on the other side of the planet. Especially one that could be so different and full of a rich, beautiful history. Seeing the pictures you have posted of your journey there have really put things into perspective. I think I can go today thinking less about myself and more about how unique and special everyone else in this world is. But, I will stop rambling for now so this post doesn't become too long :).
ReplyDeleteI meant to post a picture of the snow outside of my window (my perspective), but I can't figure out how to post a picture on your blog....I don't think there is any other person under the age of 25 who suffers with technology as much as myself.
ReplyDeleteMichelle! I wouldn't know how to post a picture either.. so you are doing just fine! And yes, I do agree. Being here has made me think about how I'm going to strive to take advantage and explore Dayton/Cincinnati. I didn't put myself out there as much as I'd like! We tend to fall into a routine of comfortableness (as I see Florentines doing here) but studying abroad in Florence is a continuous reminder for me to seize every moment because time flies.
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