Florence, Italy

Photo Friday: Florence, Italy

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My first time in Florence also happened to be only my second time out of the country—England with my parents and sister the first—and was with 15 of my high school classmates, my AP English teacher and a few moms (mine included). It was one of the best trips of my life, but 12 years and more than 100 countries later, I hardly remembered anything about my favorite Italian city.

Florence, ItalyI did know when I saw we were scheduled to dock in Livorno—just 100 kilometers from Florence—that we would be spending our two days in Italy in Florence. It made sense given the proximity—and the fact that 71.5 percent of our group had never been before.

Florence, ItalyI found us the most darling hotel right near the Duomo—the Tornabuoni Beacchi, for which we paid around $170 a night (including lackluster Wi-Fi and a breakfast feast)—and it embodied everything I love about the romance and architecture of Italy.

Florence, ItalyAnd once we checked in, we were out the door, ready for a wander. People ask me how I travel—meaning what’s the first thing I do in a place—and there’s honestly not much method to the madness. Eat, drink, photograph, wander. I love to get lost more than anything (provided I have a map to get me “found” again).

Florence, ItalyItaly was no different. I mean, the epitome of Italy is eat, drink, photograph, wander—am I right? I’m pretty sure it says so somewhere on the country’s marketing materials.

Florence, ItalyAnd wander we did. For nine solid miles the first day (thanks, FitBit).

Florence, ItalyWe saw canals. We saw bridges.

Florence, ItalyWe saw people en masse coming to Florence for some crazy all-night lights festival and lines four hours long to get into famous museums (which I opted out of, obviously).

Florence, ItalyAnd we saw a whole bunch of naked dudes rendered in stone.

Florence, ItalyFlorence, ItalyI guess they didn’t much like clothes back in ancient times. No bigs. I don’t judge.

Florence, ItalyApologies for my infrequency of posting these past few weeks. As noted before, I’m traveling on Enrichment Voyages as the Communications Coordinator, and Internet access is far less accessible—not to mention, completely unreliable—than I expected. The only means of communication I seem to be able to access regularly is Facebook, so please follow along in real time on the EV Facebook page, as well as my C&C Facebook page.

COMMENTS
  • May 10, 2013

    🙂 I love Florence and never tire of looking at photos or reading about it. I recently spent a week there (it was my 5th time there) and was just as in love with the city as I was back in my early 20s. I agree–eat, drink, photograph, and wander make the recipe for a perfect trip to Italy.

  • May 11, 2013
    Haidang

    Florence is my favorite ‘italian’ city too but I dont remember much about it. Thumbs up for gelato! And when did you pass 100 countries? There was supposed to be a 100th country celebration post hey! : ) Congrats.

  • May 11, 2013

    These pictures are so lovely. I can feel the intrigue and romance nature of the city all the way here in Missouri!

  • May 11, 2013

    I adore Florence. Thanks for reminding me how much. xo

    http://sagebrushgazette.blogspot.com/

  • May 12, 2013

    Kristin! I had a similar experience with Florence, traveling there in high school with a group. I have yet to return, although I’ve been to Italy five times since then. I can’t wait to go back and soak up the culture and beauty of the city at a slower, more appreciative pace. Since I love your blog so much, I’ve nominated you for several awards! You can view and accept them here http://thetraveluster.com/2013/05/07/more-blogging-awards/
    Very jealous and wish I was on the Enrichment Voyage with you! But hopefully TBEX in Toronto will be as rewarding as I expect it to be. And maybe I can make it on the next enrichment voyage if you do the blogging workshop again!

  • May 12, 2013

    I would go to Florence just for the statues. The detail in every one is astounding.

  • May 13, 2013
    Huey

    Italy is my favourite country of all time! Despite having been there a number of times, I’ve still not found the time to visit Florence, and your photos are telling me that I’m missing out on a lot!

  • May 14, 2013

    There are some places, you always long to visit but could not because of a lots of reasons, Florence is one such place and my reason has just been plain laziness and not being able to push myself enough(common problem with me, people who know me loathe this trait of mine).
    More than often, I need to be inspired and motivated.

    But looking here at these photographs, I feel I am getting excited about visiting this beautiful city!

  • May 14, 2013

    I hear so many wonderful things about Florence, especially for art lovers like me. I love your gelato picture and black and white series at the end! When I was in Italy y a few years ago I ate mint chocolate chip gelato for breakfast lunch and dinner! Soooo good!!

  • May 14, 2013

    Can you believe I’ve never been to Florence?! Your pretty photos will have to suffice for now =) Feel better & keep on posting… when you can!

  • May 16, 2013

    Really some of the best lens work …after looking these snaps i really assume i am there only thanks a ton for sharing

  • May 16, 2013

    Hi everyone! I just wanted to say how much I enjoy reading the blog. I’d love to have all of you join our Facebook group, as we’re trying to create a fabulous “Travel Tips” page for those traveling through Italy!

    Thanks!

    https://www.facebook.com/groups/toptraveltipsitaly/

  • May 22, 2013
    Allison Strong

    Thanks for the pics. I love those basic yet elegant Italian hotel rooms. The gelato pic is super!

  • May 27, 2013

    Florence is gorgeous! I’ve been there for the first time this year, but I will definitely be back. Too bad our weather in March wasn’t as great.

  • May 29, 2013

    Truly a beautiful city. I love the black and white photos.

  • June 2, 2013
    JeJeLuna

    Love it too!

  • June 3, 2013

    Love your hotel room! I’m dying to return to Italy with my hubby. Gorgeous pics of the statues!!!

  • June 21, 2013
    ashree

    Not being interested on Italy other than Venice. But this seems like Florence is beautiful as well! Great shots!

    Regards.
    http://www.jakpost.travel/

  • July 20, 2013

    Firenze is nice, but I really love Arezzo and Siena.

  • August 8, 2013

    Florence has been a while for me too, and these pics have me yearning to go back to get re- acquainted!

  • August 16, 2013

    Beautiful Florence! Next time you return to Tuscany, if you are looking for something less touristy.. I suggest the Maremma in the south, idyllic landscapes, beaches, vineyards on hills, medieval villages and great food & wine

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