A Tale of Two Cities

Like most cities that have a long history, Florence has an “old” version of itself and a newer more modern area that outskirts the first. We live closer to the “old town,” which is not to say that we live primitively; quite the contrary. Our palazzo is located near all points of interests, from a touristic perspective and offers all the comforts we need. We are within the walls of the city (the remains of which can be seen on various street corners).

Side View of the Porta Romana

 I jog, when motivated, to the Porta Romana where a fine dog park nearby offers me canine company and an oblong flat circuit where my MP3 and I exercise without shame. (Florence has a running club—20 Euros to join—that meets every Wednesday night to  roam the town at the speed of gazelles while dressed like models. Even the slowest of runners here is vested in the best and latest moisture-wicking, ventilated bionic gear. All look ready to run a marathon in style while I look ready to crack open a diet soda and a tube of Pringles in front of the tv. I must mention that I forgot my running outfit in VA. I thought I had packed it but it is nowhere to be seen, so I wear black pants and a long sleeve shirt. At the very least, I have running shoes but no running socks—also left behind.)

Porta Romana

The sidewalks are narrow and the streets precarious. The pavement of old cobbles necessitates vigilance, especially with weak ankles which I've had from the time I was old enough to sprain/break each of them. The streets are very narrow but beautiful. However, it would be a mistake to let myself be distracted by the scenery and the architectural beauty of the place. It might mean personal contact with the “gifts” of Florence’s four-legged furry friends. (I saw a man picking up after his dog the other day; I almost kissed him!)

Urie and I have devised several running paths: Along the Arno one way; along the Arno, the other; over the many bridges; to the park near the pool; to the park near the gate. We have not attempted the Boboli gardens because you need a museum card to access them, which we have—but I doubt the curator would appreciate us running up and down the paths made for appreciation of plants, flowers, and landscape designs.

The Dog Park Where I Run (trail is on the right)

So running, because of the narrowness of the streets and sidewalks can be challenging. Still, on a beautiful day, it is fun to hit the pavement and do a spin around town. (I am easily distracted. I saw a poster yesterday announcing a play with Claudio Bisio, whom I saw in the movie Benvenutti al Sud a couple of years ago. Won't see this play; I will be out of the Schengen zone when it has its "run.")

The Sidewalks Are Narrow

And Uneven (sometimes)

Shopping also has two faces: The "supermarket" and the farmers' market. Urie and I do both. We buy the typical milk, cheese, meats, paper products, bread at the supermarket and the fruits and veggies from a cute lady who often throws in a bag of smoked almonds when I stop by. Of course, there is a huge central market place but I have yet to venture there to buy anything. It's a bit intimidating at first to go in the market where everyone knows how to behave except for me! The food is fresh and the atmosphere inviting. Picture to come.

Old town, newer areas; old style market, newer market, Florence has something to offer to everyone who will take the time to discover its beauty. It's the perfect place for a study-abroad experience, and I feel priviledged and lucky to be here.