Now that it’s October, the fall weather is in full swing. Sweaters and sunglasses are a must here in Florence! Every morning starts off brisk, but as the sun comes out, it warms up and it is bright and beautiful. The best way to see fall in action is through fashion. There’s plenty of markets to buy vintage jackets, and you can easily find anything from leather or wool, depending on your style. Otherwise, fall in Firenze is similar to fall back home, and with the cool weather, I am happy to spend my time cooking over the warm stovetop or by the oven.
The food culture is very different from home and was a big challenge for me. While I’ve lived in an apartment and cooked my own meals before, I had to get adjusted to “grocery culture.” There’s no weekly grocery run; you have to go every few days. While initially that frustrated me that I had to walk to the grocery store multiple times a week, think multiple times about what to buy, and then repeat every 2-3 days, I have gotten used to it and adjusted. Now I can stop into the grocery store on my way home with an extra bag tucked into my backpack while coming home from classes so the location and distance is more convenient. I also never plan more than two days in advance, so I don’t overwhelm myself with options. Also, now that I am cooking so frequently rather than making a big batch to microwave throughout the week, I’ve gotten much better. Check out my take on pasta alle checca, a traditionally Roman dish!
Besides the challenges that come with living in a new place, I am constantly being challenged at my internship. Since I am working at an AI startup, I must learn new technology skills, and have already gotten more familiar with Python, DBeaver, and Docker, all tools typically associated with databases and their management or manipulation. These are tools that I had either never heard of or not used significantly, and I frequently have to spend time debugging errors. Additionally, since in a start-up ideas or intentions do not always go as planned, I have learned to be more flexible with getting information and frequently check-in with my mentor to ensure I am working towards the right direction.
Even after a month, there are more museums to see, more cafes to visit, and more food to try. Even though I am in my routine, I am constantly trying to break it to keep challenging myself to try new things. I want to experience Firenze (and Italy!) as thoroughly as I can before it gets too cold!