I have had the chance to explore some local coffee shops and my top 2 results are in (as of now) with La Cite and Cafe Letterario (also known as La Murate)! I also had a great salad from Shake Cafe, a much needed greenery added to the local common cuisine of carbs.

On Friday a few friends and I went on a Spa and wine tour of Tuscany with Smart Trips Europe. We started at Rapolano Terme for the spa. Here there were 7 pools at varying temperatures. Many local Italians were bathing here as well- the mineral properties of the water is said to help aid in the healing of many diseases! We soaked here for two hours and then headed onwards to a local winery.

The winery in Lucigano was very quaint. The Sangoivese grapes grown here produces some of the world’s most famous wine- Chianti. The Tuscan region is home to many great wineries! I also learned how the fermenting process of wine influences the taste- like barreling in wood adds a bit of an oaky flavor whereas concrete allows the grape to do the majority of the work.

Afterwards, we had a short drive to Monte San Savino where we tried a white, red, and rose (strawberry) wine! Each flavor was so good in their own way. We were also served bruschetta and small meats, a course of pasta, and a small dessert. The group sat at a long table (40 total!) and were served by the cutest and nicest Italian folk.

Once full on wine and pasta, we headed to Cortona (Under the Tuscan Sun was filmed here) and explored a bit. The town sits in the countryside, with steep roads and authentic buildings. The town stole my heart with views of the rolling hills and quiet atmosphere. The olive trees were also a beautiful touch! I had some Nutella and Strawberry gelato before heading home.

On Saturday, we basked in the sun by the Arno for a bit before watching the Florence Carnival Parade! The parade was much more relaxed than a typical American parade- nothing was gated off so the horse just led the way. Kids were dressed up in costumes all around throwing streamers and confetti! It was very neat to experience. There was also a chocolate festival going on- although the chocolate was expensive, the tastings were free!

Sunday I continued my typical tradition of doing homework at a coffee shop, although it wasn’t Ponder greatness, I finally figured out what drink is actually comparable to an American coffee (and it is not an Americano)- CafeLatte with a packet of cane sugar.

The weekend ended with a beautiful sunset over Florence.

In the past few days, there has been a bit of hysteria with the Coronavirus, all is safe here and there are precautions in place to hopefully aid in the spreading of the virus. I am hopeful that I will still be able to travel and see the world despite this health concern!

This week I also begin teaching English to the local middle schoolers… pray for me!

Ciao for now!