Students met countless other teens at the Star Disco last night...from Spain, Australia, and of course Italy. Listening to them communicate was interesting. One young man from Florence told one of our students, "No one says 'Arrivederci'...only the old men who smoke!" We all made it back to the hotel just after midnight, but not before a little karaoke action. Lorenzo, our tour guide, noticed how quiet everyone was at breakfast...😴
A steady drizzle greeted us this morning as we loaded the busses for Pisa. Our tour there surprised the travelers with a wealth of information and beautiful architecture. Who knew Pisa was the only round bell tower (most are square) and that its baptistry is also round (versus the more traditional octogonal). Also, the church and bell tower have Moorish influence, another rarity for a Catholic cathedral. We heard a vocal demonstration in the baptistry and then students took turns taking iconic pictures for their Facebook pages. The street vendors continue to keep a close eye on our group. Today, they nicknamed individuals, calling out to them trying to entice their business. You will have to guess who "Lady Gaga," "Coach Mandy," and "Playboy" are!
Next, our group was treated by EF with a visit to San Gimignano. Not originally on the itinerary, it quickly became one of our favorite stops. Inside the medieval walls of the city were warm cafes, unique craft shops, spice factories, and "the best gelato in the world." Needless to say, Mr. Neighbors had his fill of pistachio gelato! (Many of the students ordered gelato from two different shops...so they could compare the taste and determine which is really the best in the world.)
Not even a building rain could dampen our enthusiasm as we departed for dinner in Florence. It was time to buy leather purses, visit the hospital (don't worry--it's NOT your child!) and eat our best meal so far this week. A small group even managed to climb the 414 steps to the top of the Duomo! Tired, wet, and ready for a flat bed and a flat pillow--it has been a terrific day in Italy...
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