Ciao again from Italy! Week two wrapped me in its warm embrace, filled with laughter, adventures, and surprises. Join me as I share the highlights of this memorable week, from navigating the bustling streets of Torino, settling into my new routine, exploring the tranquil beauty of an Italian lake and the castle ruins of Castello di Avigliana, to celebrating another year of life!

Settling into Torino:

Navigating the lively streets of Torino for the first time was both exhilarating and a little challenging. One significant challenge was obtaining the transportation card, a key to exploring Torino’s nooks and crannies. Getting our hands on these cards became a mission in itself, involving multiple visits to the office and a fair share of Italian bureaucracy. Yet, the perseverance paid off, and with the card in hand, the city’s vibrant public transportation network became our oyster – metros, buses, and trams giving us a backstage pass to the city’s vibrant hustle and bustle.

As I settled into Torino, the anticipation of the academic journey added a layer of excitement. The first glimpse of my school schedule brought a mix of nerves and eagerness – a roadmap to the knowledge and experiences that awaited me in the coming months. I’m taking 5 classes this semester, learning a new language, traveling to new places, and doing all of this while nurturing and building new relationships!

Lakeside Escapade in Avigliana:

Sponsored by USAC, my roommates and I embarked on a group excursion to the charming town of Avigliana. Nestled against the backdrop of rolling hills, Avigliana is a hidden gem that revealed itself through its medieval castle ruins and breathtaking lake, which cradled the town in its beautiful waters. The day started with a hike up to the Castello di Avigliana. It wasn’t an easy hike, but it was 100% worth it. The views were amazing!

The day continued with an embrace of Avigliana’s lake. As my roommates and I were a little exhausted from the hike, the first thing we looked for was food. We were happy to find that surrounding the lake were a bunch of cute little cafés and gelato shops! After eating, we took a refreshing dip in the lake. The picturesque surroundings served as a perfect canvas for making memories and strengthening these new relationships.

Birthday Celebrations:

Turning a year older in a foreign land – talk about a birthday to remember! The day began with surprises from my roommates! My room was filled with pink balloons (that to this day, are thriving in a corner) and lovely gifts. We celebrated by going to a nice seafood restaurant for dinner, wandered over to our local pub for a quick game night session, and then ended the night at a karaoke bar. It was a slice of home, a comforting reminder that even miles away, celebrations carry the same warmth. Laughter, chatter, and the clinking of glasses created a soundtrack for the evening.

Reflections on Week Two:

As week two came to a close, I found myself reflecting on the diversity of experiences Italy continued to offer. From the intimate moments shared with roommates to the thrill of exploring new landscapes, each day felt like a brushstroke contributing to the vibrant canvas of my study abroad journey. The beauty lay not only in the iconic landmarks but also in the simple joys and connections formed along the way.

Conclusion:

Ciao Italia, you outdid yourself once again. As I step into the upcoming weeks with a heart full of gratitude and anticipation, I am reminded that the real magic of this adventure lies in the people and places that made each day an unforgettable chapter in my Italian story.