30 Days to London

      London is just one month away and there's so much left to do... mostly just little things. I got myself new suitcases for Christmas and went shopping for things I will need there. I got a new camera and I've found it helpful to read a bunch about Florentine life, and also about London's, since it gives one a sense of familiarity with the place. 

      I have started reading The civilized shopper's guide to Florence, by Louise Fili, and I find it quite handy as it includes important historical facts about Florence and how they influence its economy nowadays. It also brings maps and good advice when traveling to Florence.

      Also, I have read about Florence in Rick Steves' Florence and Tuscany, by Rick Steves and Gene Openshaw, which is a traveler's guide. It has a lot of information regarding Florence as well as directions and invaluable tips about getting around in the city.

 

      Best, 

     Rebecca S.

Coming soon to an airport near you: London

Merry Christmas!

      Today, I have started to decide what to pack and boy, is it hard. I admit it, I can't get over the idea that I can't bring my closet with me. Selecting the clothes I will be repeatedly wearing for four months can be quite frustrating.  But hey, it's all part of the experience. More on my packing tantrums later. There is also my worry about travelling alone, given the fact I'm making three plane connections and I don't wanna fall asleep at the airport so good luck to me. I have all my papers ready to go, the excitement is building up, and I just cannot wait to go abroad. I'm so eager to meet new people and learn about their customs and overall daily life. I want to visit museums and historical buildings and appreciate the beauty of the art. And last of all, I wanna learn to be more independent, so that would be a highlight. All I'll experience will certainly change me for the better so yay for that.

      I got a very interesting Christmas gift: four packages of Ziploc bags, different sizes. For a moment I could not understand the purpose of it, but then it hit me, and it was genius. With the different sizes of the bags, I can store items such as jewelry that I want to take care of, I can wrap a nice sweater in it, I can put makeup in the smaller ones and such. It's a good idea when packing small items such as nail polish so it doesn't spread all over your clothes.

     One Month away!!!!