STUDY ABROAD SUMMER 16'
During the summer of 2016 I had the opportunity to study abroad through the University of Missouri school of Business. This experience taught me a lot about learning different countries customs, traveling, different worldly viewpoints, and much more. Throughout my experience I was fortunate to travel to several different countries over the weekends with several students from MU. During the program, I took two courses to help me obtain my minor in business. I completed Managing Projects and International Marketing. These classes offered many projects that involved MU students getting to know more about the Italian culture and lifestyle. One of the courses was taught by an MU professor and the other an Italian professor from the University of Bergamo, Italy. Classes were a mixture of MU students and Bergamo students. One of my favorite experiences was being able to be a part of the Italian aperitivo with my fellow classmates. This experience was one of a life time that I will always treasure.
BERGAMO, ITALY
The authenticity of the city was incomparable and it was the perfect place to be. When you picture a quaint italian city with views of the countryside on the horizon, Bergamo is what you picture. This Lombard city offers scenic views of Italy and the Swiss Alps from the famed hilltop known as Citta Alta. The lower city and the upper city, Citta Alta, have differing identities with medieval Renaissance undertones. Like a castle, the upper city is praised by the community as a luxury hot spot. Citta Alta was the center of the rest of the city, looked up to by the locals as a symbol of their unique place in the country. The narrow stone streets and beautiful greenery encourage visitors to embrace the peaceful country-side. For me, it was the views. In every direction something new was to be discovered and a story to be told. The raw purity and ancient aroma the city held was unlike any other place I’ve visited. Unmasked by the world of tourism, Bergamo sits waiting to welcome its visitors home. I will miss the “who cares” attitude that surrounded all the locals, unphased by the world’s worries. After long weekends of travel, it was easy to see why it was so loved and called home. The undeniable culture and genuine spirits of the locals was hard to say goodbye to. The pure Italian food paired with the cities fresh wine created a flavor unlike any other. Bergamo was natural, authentic, private and truly remarkable. I imagined returning one day on a honeymoon or relaxing vacation. Located so centrally close to popular day trips such as Milan, Venice and Lake Como, it is a wonder Bergamo has a remained a hidden gem. I hope one day I can return to this beguiling place.
PRAGUE, CZECH REPUBLIC
My first weekend trip in Europe was unlike the rest. At this point in time, I was blindly unaware of how completely different European countries were from one another. Stepping off the airplane in the Czech Republic, I could quickly sense the profound cultural differences between Prague and Italy. It was as if I had arrived to Europe all over again. On the flight over, a group of men were on clearly on their way to a Bachelor party in Prague. They made sure the entire flight knew. It was clear we did not realize how lively the adventure we were about to embark on was. Everything about Prague was unique. The medieval vibes, charming castles, gothic architecture and undeniable history was like walking into ancient times. Nothing was familiar. Once we arrived at our hostel, it was clear that Prague's culture was celebrated by lots of partying and infamous bar crawls. Walking along the St. Charles bridge, I thought about the strong sensation and whispers of untold stories that existed there. I thought about how much I did not know and how suddenly large the world felt. As a travel enthusiast, I have always enjoyed new experiences, but this was the first time I was completely in awe of how contrasting this was from home and how far away I was. The fun times Prague were of the most lively and memorable. The city is one for any adventure-seekers and there is truly something for everyone to enjoy there.
MYKONOS, GREECE
Off the coast of Athens in the Aegean Sea, Mykonos is a glowing island full of life and color. Known for its bustling beach parties and summer sun, the island is full of bespoke activities. Among the fun was the robust Mediterranean flavors. Everything was brighter, fresher by far tastier. Personally, I was shocked by how fast my taste buds changed after that trip. Never before had I been so obsessed with kalamata olives, cherry tomatoes, baked feta and pita (The obsession continues to this day). Of course my already large seafood addiction was set to continue on, but this was truly an authentic flavor unlike any other. Greece was just like I imagined. The glistening bright blue water matched the picturesque buildings along the water. In town, the island was clearly a metropolis and hot spot for nightlife, shopping and beach parties yet it maintained its specific polish. Getting lost among the white washed steps, churches and beaches I truly would not have cared if I ever left. It was the perfect place to end a perfect trip.
ST. BARTHELEMY (ST. BARTS)
St. Barts, commonly remembered from celebrity spotting on Daily Mail and People magazine, is a glamorous and infatuating place I dream of visiting again. After my trip there this past March I quickly realized why the island is so coveted. Nearby St. Maartin, St. Barts is tucked away in all of its beauty. The island is spectacular because of the many beaches one can travel too. There is truly a beach for every want, need, personality in St. Barts. Niki beach, home of a dazzling beach front restaurant and delectable food is known for its beach parties and impeccable guest service. While the Nikki beach restaurant and its amazing crab roll appetizer has worked its way up to my favorite food, I love the smaller quiet beaches. Saline and Shell beach are key for those looking to relax and getaway. The contrast they offer to the extravagant restaurants and energetic nightlife is essential.
I would be truly lucky to visit this fantastic island again. While it is on the pricer side, there are definitely ways to work ones way around it and dive into the Parisian island culture.
Some of my favorites below:
Le Select
La Plague
Nikki Beach
Shell Beach
Bonito
Bagatelle
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VENICE, ITALY
BARCELONA, SPAIN
LONDON, ENGLAND
STONEHENGE
FORTNUM & MASON
BATH, ENGLAND
PARIS, FRANCE