How a canceled study abroad trip turned into an unexpected adventure!

Funny enough, Italy was never actually on my travel bucket list!

Back in March 2023, I was preparing to spend my spring break studying abroad in Argentina. That was the trip I originally signed up for, but unfortunately, it ended up getting canceled.

So, I had two choices: sign up for the study abroad trip to Italy or spend my spring break at home.

So of course, I chose to go to Italy.

I figured, why not? I had the opportunity to visit a new country, experience a different culture, and make some memories along the way. Even though Italy wasn’t somewhere I had originally planned to visit, I wasn’t about to pass up the chance to travel internationally!

And I’m so glad I went.

From the absolutely gorgeous architecture to the fashion in Milan, Italy gave me plenty of memories. It also taught me a few things I wish I’d known before going.

Oh, and I discovered something about myself that might be a little controversial… apparently, I’m not the biggest fan of Italian food. But we’ll get into that later!

Whether Italy has been on your bucket list for years or you’re considering a spontaneous trip like I did, here are five things I think you should know before visiting.

1. Learn a Few Italian Phrases Before You Go

You don’t need to be fluent in Italian to enjoy your trip, but knowing a few basic phrases can make your experience so much easier.

Even something as simple as saying hello, thank you, or asking someone if they speak English can go a long way.

Here are a few phrases worth learning:

• Ciao – Hello/Goodbye (informal)
• Buongiorno – Good morning/Good day
• Grazie – Thank you
• Per favore – Please
• Parla inglese? – Do you speak English?
• Quanto costa? – How much does it cost?

My advice? Save a few phrases on your phone before your trip. And don’t be afraid to try speaking Italian, even if your pronunciation isn’t perfect!

2. Keep an Eye on Your Belongings

Italy is a beautiful country, but like many popular tourist destinations, pickpocketing can be a concern, especially in crowded areas.

When you’re busy admiring a gorgeous building or trying to get the perfect picture, it’s easy to forget what’s happening around you.

A few things I’d recommend:

• Carry a crossbody bag that closes securely.
• Keep your phone and wallet somewhere safe.
• Be extra aware of your surroundings in crowded tourist areas and on public transportation.
• Avoid leaving your belongings unattended while taking pictures.

Now, I’m not saying you need to walk around scared the entire time. Absolutely not!

Just be aware of your surroundings so you can focus on enjoying your trip.

3. Be Prepared for the Culture Shock

Now, this one caught me off guard!

Being born and raised in the South, I’m used to Southern hospitality. We smile at strangers, speak when we pass people, and make small talk. So when I got to Italy, some interactions honestly came across as a little rude to me.

But I quickly realized that what’s considered polite in one culture might be completely different in another. People may communicate more directly or not be as big on small talk, and that doesn’t necessarily mean they’re being unfriendly.

My advice? Keep an open mind, don’t take everything personally, and remember that experiencing different cultures is part of the adventure!

As a Southern girl, it definitely took some getting used to!

4. Italy Is Basically a Fashion Show

Okay, can we talk about the fashion for a second?!

Especially in Milan!

If you know anything about Milan, you know it’s one of the fashion capitals of the world. And honestly, being there made me want to step my outfits up!

Of course, you don’t have to dress like you’re walking down a runway just to explore Italy. But if there’s ever a place to bring out those cute vacation outfits, Italy is definitely one of them.

My advice is to pack outfits that are both stylish AND comfortable.

You’ll probably be doing a lot of walking, so don’t sacrifice your feet just for a cute picture.

And trust me, with all the gorgeous architecture, you’re going to want to take plenty of pictures!

5. Slow Down and Enjoy the Experience

One thing to remember when visiting Italy is that dining can be a slower, more relaxed experience than what you may be used to in the United States.

Instead of rushing through a meal, take the opportunity to sit, enjoy your surroundings, and experience the culture.

Now, here’s my little unpopular opinion…

I went all the way to Italy and discovered that I’m not the biggest fan of Italian food! 😂

I KNOW. Don’t come for me!

I was so excited to try authentic Italian dishes, but a lot of the food just wasn’t my personal favorite.

However, the gelato?!

10/10. No complaints.

And the bread? Absolutely delicious!

But that’s part of traveling. You’re not going to love every single thing you try, and that’s okay. The important part is being open to new experiences.

And even though the food wasn’t my favorite, I’d still visit Italy again in a heartbeat!

My Favorite Part of Italy? The Architecture!

I couldn’t end this post without talking about the buildings.

Y’all, the architecture in Italy is absolutely GORGEOUS!

Seeing places like the Duomo di Milano and Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II in person was such a different experience from seeing them in pictures.

The details, the history, the size of the buildings… it’s honestly amazing to think about how much work went into creating them.

There were moments when I just wanted to stop and take everything in.

If you love beautiful architecture, Italy deserves a spot on your travel bucket list.

Final Thoughts

Looking back, it’s funny to think that I almost didn’t go to Italy at all.

If my original study abroad trip to Argentina hadn’t been canceled, I probably wouldn’t have experienced Italy when I did.

And while Italy wasn’t a destination I had been dreaming about visiting, it ended up being an experience I’m grateful for.

The architecture was absolutely breathtaking, I got to experience a new culture, and I learned that authentic Italian food might not be my thing (except the gelato and bread, of course).

But that’s what I love about traveling. Every destination gives you a different experience, and sometimes the places you never planned to visit end up surprising you the most.

So here’s your reminder: Don’t limit yourself to the destinations already on your bucket list. Sometimes the unexpected trips are worth taking, too!

Have you ever taken a trip somewhere you never originally planned to visit? I’d love to hear about it in the comments!

Until the next adventure,

Pretty Girl On The Go ✈️

Plan it. Pack it. Go.