72 Hours in Milano

The sites, the sounds, the smells.

My School! Universita Cattolica Del Sacro Cuore

“You may have the Universe if I may have Have Italy” -Guiseppe Verdi

Although I have only been in Italy for three days, it feels closer to three weeks. The culture shock and adjustment to city living is enough to throw anyone for a loop. I am finally starting to feel settled (and less jet lagged.)

I am living in an apartment with 5 other people: Lizzie (my roommate), Rocco, Welington, Sarah, and Mayra. All of which are lovely. The homesickness hasn't quite set in yet, as I am I constantly doing new things and meeting new people. This is actually the first free minute I have had since I've been here. I've even forgotten to eat a few times--which I know is surprising.

I certainly miss my bed at home, as well as the ease of being able to get around without a language barrier, but I am quickly falling in love with Italians. They are, by far, the most dramatic people on the face of the Earth (I have never felt more at home.) They live their lives so richly and fully. Every moment is enjoyed. Because so much has happened in such a short amount a time I'll just give you the top 6 things I've learned since I have stepped foot in Milan.

1. Apperitivo

Apperitivo is the centerpiece of Italian food culture. Similar to the American happy hour, it is a time to drink with friends and family before dinner. Unlike America, where this is reserved for specific venues, from 6:30-9:00 pm every night Italian Appertivo happens everywhere, and everyone participates. For about a 6-10 EU drink, you get an all you can eat buffet of Italian breads, cheeses, meats, pastas, and deserts. It is by far the most fabulous thing I have ever encountered.

2. Milano Women's Fashion

Milano Woman are a superior form of human being. I quickly learned I have a lot of catching up to do in every department. Whether they are riding the metro, going on a date, or just walking to work every woman in Milan is dressed to the nines. Each in their all black signature uniform, which always includes a little bit of fur. Hair slicked into a sharp pony tail accentuating their angular jaw lines. It is rare to see much color in their outfits, you'll see it only in accessories like a classic hermes scarf or a red lip. Although they all seem to eat a steady diet of meat, cheese, and bread I have yet to see one fat person here as well. Every person looks as though they just stepped off the runway. All classic, all simple, all superior.

3. Smoking

I feel like I am in an episode of Mad Men here. Everyone smokes. In an American city its common to see professionals walking fast with their coffees in hand. Here, noone drinks coffee to go, but everyone saunters down the street holding a cigarette.

4. Caffeine

Fear not coffee drinkers, just because Milano's don't take their coffee to go, they still enjoy coffee. Actually, it's much more intense here than in the U.S. Your Espresso is to be taken like a shot. One or two sips. They can tell you're American if you add sugar. To me this sounded disgusting, but after having my first Italian espresso shot, I have to say I am a fan. It's rich and creamy and bold. It's quite a treat (and harder to spill on myself all day.)

5. Food

I feel like I am in an episode of Mad Men here. Everyone smokes. In an American city its common to see professionals walking fast with their coffees in hand. Here, no one drinks coffee to go, but everyone saunters down the street holding a cigarette. Allergic to many fruits, they make my mouth swell and my throat start to close. Here I have had no problem and the taste is unreal. No fruit tastes bitter, everything is sweet. It does go bad quickly so eat it fast.

6. Romance

In honor of Valentines day its important to note one large cultural difference here: everyday. is. Valentines day. Couples everywhere are madly in love and not afraid to show it. Very different than the cold northeast that I am used to. The PDA is everywhere, and relentless.

Overall, I am having such a fun time! Everyday I meet new people and make new friends. I am so thankful to be in a place where I can be surrounded by beautiful architecture, art, and superior clothing. I am inspired constantly. I am having such a good time, I haven't stopped to take many pictures. So there will be more as I post later on and go on a few more adventures.

Ciao!

Fall count: 2

Italian Word of the week: Andiamo; Lets go!