Nothing says “Buongiorno!” like waking up to a rich Italian breakfast of crisp croissants, hardboiled eggs, and fresh fruit. The Park Hotel in Castiglion Fiorentino has welcomed us with open arms, showering us with Italian hospitality. The comfy beds and hot showers prepared us for the day of adventure ahead.
After a short orientation for our stay in Castiglion Fiorentino, we met Giovanni, our proudly Italian tour guide. His energetic personality felt like a substitute for caffeine. He led us through the cobblestone streets of the city, pointing out flags and sandstone monuments along the way until we arrived at a twelfth-century Etruscan temple on display at the museum. We saw ancient pottery and intricate jewelry as we marveled at the rich Italian history filling the countryside. The courtyard of the museum served as a great picture spot as it overlooked the spectacular landscape.
After leaving the museum Giovanni led us through the streets of the city to The Garden, our lunch spot located at the edge of a beautiful hill covered with umbrella pines. They served a great array of Italian food in addition to juicy hamburgers and fresh salads. In our free time after lunch, small groups got gelato or explored the town.
Afterward, we regrouped at the studio for presentations by our student leaders over important aspects of life at A&M, followed by an Italian lesson. At dinner, we were served scrumptious lasagna; we followed it up with creamy gelato and headed to bed, ready to begin another day.
Buona notte,
Evelyn & Afnaan ’23
