Traveling has opened my mind to understanding people based on their own unique backgrounds and not necessarily depending on my outlook in life. Being in Italy for four months made me realize that there’s a world out there full of opportunities and beauty. Opportunities to meet people from different countries, visit places that look just like paintings, and taste food that is beyond what I’ve tasted. Now I do not want to live a life that is constricted to one vision and one place. Consequently, I have a desire in me to know the world and its people better. Additionally, it has made me realize the importance of deep and meaningful relationships. It is important to know who “your people” are, to love them and to be thankful that they are in your life. I have come back to the States more grateful for family and friends.
Regarding first impressions, I thought the pizza in Italy was going to be the best. I soon realized that Venice, which is located in northeastern Italy, is not a pizza place. Don’t get me wrong, the pizza is good … however, you need to head to the south of Italy if you want to eat delicious pizza. I was also under the impression that Venice was not the safest place just because of the pickpocket warnings on the tram and stories that were passed down to me. However, after a couple of weeks, I realized that it was safe. Also, Italians are known for using hand gestures when talking. However, to my surprise that was not the case, most of the Italians that I spoke to did not use hand motions. To conclude, I believe that being surrounded by Italians has broadened my perspective by knowing more about myself and my surroundings.