Bellissima!

I'm going to tell you the story of a time in Italy. I boarded my 3:45pm flight leaving Houston to embark on my first journey outside of being enlisted. At this time I had only been out of the Navy a month and was going through the deepest of depression post-separation. I was anxious and so nervous about going somewhere I had never gone before while grieving my old life. After 9 hours and 30 minutes, I was on my first layover in Paris around 8:30am the next day, me and one of my girlfriends made our way to Florence around 11:45 ish. If you didn't know, Louis Vuitton is cheaper to buy along with Dior, and Gucci in France! 👜

Florence - Met 30+ new friends from various states on my tour and we all set out to hit the town. Gelato, wine, cheese, cobble stone, wine, and historical landmarks. Florence was absolute poetry, and is more beautiful than any adjective could ever describe. Florence gave me major "Love Story" Taylor Swift, "Letters To Juliet" Amanda Seyfield vibes even though that was based in Verona, BUT when I tell you I was open to finding the love of my life that summer, I was READY. Once I got to take a stroll down the streets with my new tour girlfriends, I was swept away by the essence of it all, afraid that if I blink I would miss something.

Let's talk about the gelato! Gelato is Italian-style ice cream that can literally be found anywhere, there is always an assorted range of flavors and toppings to make the perfect anytime sweet treat! 🍨 This city never seemed to sleep, me and my girlies were out so late and local businesses seem to serve as long as customers continued to pour in!

One thing I noticed about eating Italian in Italy is that, fettuccine Alfredo is NOT actually an Italian dish, nor is pepperoni pizza, Italian dressing, and garlic bread! My mind was blown I had no idea just how Americanized the named dishes are above. Everything that I tasted was made fresh and was not heavily salted, hydrogenated or deep fried. 😮

Cinque Terre - Five towns: Riomaggiore, Corniglia, Manarola, Vernazza and Monterossa. These centuries-old seaside villages upon the Riviera are known for being one of the world's most beautiful and iconic places in Italy. I can honestly say that I could not pick my jaw off the ground as I was emerged in such a scenic beauty such as this. I remember getting off of the train and feasting my eyes upon this was absolutely breath-taking and is something I feel as though everyone has to see at least once in their lifetime.

Orvieto - A small quiet town between Florence and Rome free of tourist crowds that give me major Bella Swan running to find Edward in "New Moon" vibes even though the movie was actually filmed in Montepulciano and not Volterra, like the book said.

Rome - I know what you're thinking, did I have my Lizzie McGuire Movie, "This Is What Dreams Are Made Of," moment? Short answer, hell yes! Well, sort of. Did I have my pop star moment in the Colosseum? Unfortunately not this time. I did get to toss a coin into the Trevi Fountain, made a wish, through it over my shoulder. Want to know what I wished for? I'll let you know when it comes true. ✨

The morning of the Colosseum tour it was scorching outside. The Colosseum is an amphitheater that is in a shape of an oval, is well over 1900 years old and is known as one of the new 7 wonders of the world! Gladiators are known to have sometimes battled to the death fighting exotic animals. Victors were monetary awarded, among other praises. As I walked up to each higher level I was in complete awe knowing that I walked and stood in something so ancient and it was such a humbling experience.

Vatican City - Home and headquarters to the Roman Catholic Church and the Pope. Women are NOT to enter The Vatican in low-cut apparel, bottoms that end above the knee, and shoulders must be cover or you will not permitted inside. The world famous Sistine Chapel ceiling painted by Michelangelo, is the most incredible thing I ever had the honor of seeing with my own eyes. Add this to your bucket list and you will not be sorry. Be advised that flash photography along with filming are both PROHIBITED and silence is encouraged while inside at all times.

The Vatican Museums were absolutely stunning. The pictures in the slide show do not do the real thing any actual justice. From murals to ancient tapestries, and sculptures, if historical culture is your thing, you'll be in the right place. So much to look at every where, there are no words to describe something truly has to be experienced to believe.

Coming to Italy just about cured my post-military depression. Before I left Houston I was barely getting through that day. I was grieving a decision to get out of the armed forces that I don't regret because my time was up and I wanted more. I had the time of my life. The journey didn't end here though, tune in for my next blog. 🇮🇹

How did this amazing experience come to fruition you ask? It was all thanks to EF Ultimate Break. If you're 18-35 old, US based, with a passport you can embark on such a journey as well. They plan every thing, some meals included, accommodations, insider tours, and flights all squared away! The link below will save you $100 on your next tour, check out the over 65+ trips with impressive itineraries!↘️

http://www.efultimatebreak.com/?ba=UAAushila10

Want to visit Italy?

• YES! 😍
• Definitely 😩