Halfway Through The Semester

By Lisa Harvey

Sitting on the train from Rome to Florence, I look out over the passing landscape and realize that this fall break has come way too soon. And have heard confirmation of this statement echoing though the streets. It’s mid semester and no one is ready for it. The end is near, the calendar is full, and you’ve probably become so used to the swing of things in Florence you may have forgotten about what else there is to offer. No, I’m not going to tell you to go out to Piazzale Michaelangelo (but if you haven’t, go!) But there are some other secrets of Florence that can now be revealed seeing that you’ve exhausted all of your favorites.

If you’re missing your fall hikes like I am, Fiesole maybe a good option. Go up out of the smog of Florence and into the greenery and tourist-free living. Some have recently started venturing out into the hills of Florence. Check out some hiking information here.

Another green place for some quiet, just walking distance away is the Boboli Gardens. The Boboli Gardens were laid out for Eleonora di Toledo, the wife of Cosimo I de’ Medici. Built in the 16th century, this eleven acre getaway is ten euros to enter, but also includes enterance into the Pitti Palace as well and will give you some time to breathe the fresh air and see some great views of the surrounding olive groves!
Getting sick of Pino’s yet? ( Just kidding that won’t happen) but at this point in the semester, try and step out of your comfort zone with food selections. Head over to the central market (Mercato Centrale) and order some tripe or Lampredotto sandwich. Maybe even some rabbit or tongue. Florence is known for it’s “poor man’s” specialties, and though they may sound a little scary at first, after your first bite, you may just like it!
As we all exhaust the touristy options of our city, go off the map and become a little bit more familiarized with the real culture of Firenze as a Florentine, not an international student. From outlying towns to tasting tongue, you may just surprise yourself as to what experiences await!

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