Before coming to Florence, we thought we’d return home with clothes and souvenirs. We will, but the most important parts we are taking back won’t fit in our suitcases.

I: Intention

Living in Florence completely changed how we approach everyday life, especially food. Back home, eating was quick and automatic, usually between doing ten other things. Here, it’s the opposite. Meals are intentional, and somehow end up lasting way longer than planned. One of the biggest things we’ll take back is actually slowing down. In Florence, no one rushes through a meal or cuts a conversation short. At first, it felt strange, but over time, it started to feel normal. We all realized we used to rush through everything without even noticing.

T: Tradition

Tradition is a huge part of everyday life in Florence that people take it seriously, but in the best way. There’s a right way to do things, whether it’s how food is made, when you drink certain coffees, or even how you order at a café. Espresso at the bar? Always. Cappuccino after the morning? Absolutely not. At first it feels like a lot of “rules,” but it’s really about pride and culture. Everyone just knows the way things are done, and it actually makes everything feel more authentic. Experiencing this made us realize tradition isn’t restrictive, it’s what makes everyday life here feel special.

A: Aperitivo

Doesn’t this just sound way better than happy hour? Aperitivo isn’t just grabbing a drink, it’s a whole vibe. You get a spritz, some small bites, and suddenly you’re sitting there for hours talking, laughing, and actually enjoying the moment. No rushing, no phones, no pressure. The best built-in pause in the day to unwind with people, and honestly, it makes you wonder why we don’t do it like this back in the States.

L: Leather

We can’t tell you how many leather shops we walk through on a daily basis, it’s honestly impossible not to stop and look. But being here made us realize it’s not about buying more, it’s about choosing better. One really well-made piece stands out way more than a bunch of random ones. And the same goes for food and experiences, a simple meal done right or one great memory beats trying to do everything just for the sake of it.

Y: Your Mindset

This semester, we’ve really tried to shift our mindset and just say yes more, even when it’s outside our comfort zones. Being in Florence makes that easier. People here are naturally friendly and outgoing, and you start to pick up on that. You find yourself more open, more willing to talk, and more comfortable putting yourself out there. It’s something that becomes part of your routine here and something we all definitely want to bring back home with us.

Florence just made us realize we’ve been doing life a little too fast. It is safe to say, we are all going home with more than just souvenirs. And honestly, we wouldn’t have it any other way.

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By: Dimore Hananel, Bria Bair, Ella Buckley, Jordi Kelman, Hope Smith, and Elizabeth Benvenuto