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Natalie

American experiences culture shock

         Ahh, Italia! The perfect romantic destination for two. Experience the historical buildings, priceless masterpieces, and friendly locals! These are some of the enchanting thoughts we all have had about unknown destinations. Maybe for the normal ten day vacation, tourists can feel this sense of satisfaction when arriving. However, what am I considered?

         I am a full-blooded American living in Florence, Italy. The fast-paced, convenient, hard-working society of my country is what bases my personality. My comfort zone has been tampered with. I am no longer a tourist. I wash and dry my clothes myself, I buy food at the market to cook everyday, I walk to school and run errands just like any other local. The only difference... I cant speak Italian.

         As you all know, I am a proud extrovert, and not being able to connect with the locals who are fed up with tourists, is difficult for me. My positive attitude has not disintegrated though. For example, today I went and explored by myself and ate at Eby's. The burrito I had was made by an Ecuadorian lady who made one of the best burritos I have ever had. It was only 4 euro. I have to put myself out there more than I ever have to make friends.

         Being out of my comfort zone is teaching me a lot about myself and life. I have a new respect for my country and where I live. I am discovering what is truly important; life is too short to spend it worrying. Every museum, artwork, or building I experience, I am reminded of how these people left their footprint for others to admire. Eventhough they are gone forever, their lives will always be remembered and are timeless. When I started letting the good in with the bad, my experience in Italy became purposeful. Just ask yourself, is this worth it? If it is, roll with the punches and the rewards will be plentiful!

Italian culture enlightens student

            Waking up to a boom of thunder and pouring down rain outside the apartment window created an apathetic mood amongst the students.  However, because my favorite part of Italy is the food, I became eager to start the morning.  When we finally arrived at the open-air market, everyone dispersed to explore the people, culture, and food.

I first noticed how the produce appeared to be brighter and less damaged than any produce I have ever seen.  My excitement rose as soon as I saw the red, juicy tomatoes and the shiny, big apples.  Cooking is a staple in my family, so the fresh vegetables and fruits increased my anticipation.  The cheese wheels were all stacked in an interesting fashion, and the instant I walked into the covered area of the market, the fresh seafood smell delighted my senses.  In the end, I decided to buy the big and small tomatoes, fresh basil, a head of garlic, and a loaf of bread to make bruschetta for lunch later on.

Observing the locals shopping at the market, I concluded that everyone is on a completely different time schedule.  A woman continued to study her book peacefully, as I browsed her wine options.  Another vendor also continued to read his newspaper in no hurry to help customers.  Time is not of the essence in this culture, at least not in the way Americans interpret it.  The Italians continued to linger from vendor to vendor reacting to each person as if they were family.  When I asked the butcher if a picture would be appropriate, he smiled and nodded enthusiastically.  He smiled at me as long as I held my camera up and even afterward.

           The love of people and food bring a community together at the open-air markets in Florence, Italy.  Immersing myself in this culture has been a difficult and exciting journey, and I am ready to learn more.