Spring is Here!

Spring has officially arrived! I know this because my allergies have really started to kick in… But aside from that, there are plenty of other things that just yell out spring!

I have finally put away my hat and gloves (thank goodness!) and started pulling out my colorful tops and lightweight jackets. Surprisingly, this doesn’t seem like the case for the Italians of Rome. I’ve noticed that some people are still bundled up in their puffy jackets and scarves, and even still wearing their winter boots. I think that boots, as well as dark colors – particularly black – are just part of the Italian fashion. I almost feel out of place when I wear my sandals on the subway. I am aware that it’s a big no-no to wear flip-flops and short denim shorts any place aside from the beach, whereas in America, it is customary for girls (and guys) to wear these items of clothing anywhere in the warm weather.

Springtime doesn’t just bring out the flowers, but also the tourists. Warm weather means more time to spend outside, which also means that more people want to travel. Of course I’ve seen plenty of tourists in Rome over the winter, but nowhere near as many as I am seeing now. Common tourist attractions, like St. Peter’s Square and the Trevi Fountain, are more crowded than ever. I’ve been hearing a lot of English from American and British travelers!

Like all the people who are traveling to Rome, I want to spend more time outside walking around my neighborhood. This past weekend, I walked a few blocks around the street that I live on- something I haven’t yet done since arriving. I found it hard to believe that I had been living here all this time, and I didn’t even know what kind of shops and restaurants were behind the Residence! I wandered around with my camera, not sure what I was going to come across. I found a cute little park where I saw some people had brought their dogs, as well as some shops. Unfortunately, they were all closed because it was a Sunday, so I’ll have to go back another time.

With the warm weather, I feel more motivated to walk to and from school instead of taking the subway or bus. I also want to start sitting outside when I eat my lunch, and maybe go for a little more gelato!

I definitely have plans to spend more time out of doors within the upcoming week. This weekend, I am traveling to Florence for my High Renaissance class, and I couldn’t be more excited! I’ve been waiting all semester to travel to this beautiful city, and I can’t wait to look at all the amazing art and architecture. Also, next Monday night, I am going to my first-ever European soccer (well, football) game! Rome is playing Genoa, and I can’t wait to be in the crowd with all the hyped fans. I plan on blogging about both of these events next week. Ciao!