Never in my life did I imagine that I would be calling Ariccia, Italy my home. It is a tiny town in the Roman countryside that not many people have heard of. It isn’t glamorous or fast-paced like Rome or Milan that are bustling with interesting people. There is hardly anyone here who speaks English, unlike in the bigger cities in Italy, which has proven to be a challenge. After a long weekend of traveling, there is nothing more refreshing than driving over the bridge into sweet Ariccia and feeling like I am home safe.
The area where we are in Italy, in my opinion, is a hidden gem. Rome is beautiful and large with so much to offer, but the Castelli Romani region where Ariccia is located is absolutely idyllic. Little towns like Nemi, Castel Gandolfo, and Frascati all have their quirks that make them so special. For the typical tourist who comes to Italy, these towns may not be on their radar, but I am so thankful that I’ve gotten a chance to see and learn about these places.
Living here and exploring the neighboring cities feels as classic Italy should-quaint family owned businesses on every corner and old Italian men sitting on the square solving all of life’s problems. People are friendly and are so thankful that we are here in their city wanting to learn from them.
Learn from them is exactly what I’ve done. From the mustache man who sells sandwiches to the sweet lady in the coffee bar, people here remind me of the Southern Alabama culture I left behind. People are what I was sad to leave behind in the US and people are what have made Ariccia feel like my adopted home. Even our professors are kind and make it easy to want to learn from them. Life here feels authentic and intentional. No one seems to be in a rush and the simple act of sharing a meal together is a celebration. Ariccia is home away from home and I am so thankful for this program that has brought me to it!

I will never get tired of this view from the bridge.