This past weekend I had a very successful trip to Milan Italy! It has been super interesting seeing the differences in architecture, culture, food, etc. between countries I have been visiting. I met up with my cousin who is studying abroad there with IES as well. It was very obvious that Milan is the business center of Italy because of the large amount of tourists and luxury shopping centers. There is also a warm vibe in Milan that I have not seen in other cities. The people are very welcoming and open to meeting new people. There is also a laid-back vibe where everything moves a bit slower than Amsterdam. Trains and Trams are late or don’t show up, there is no rush or emphasis on always working. The balance between work and life is very different in the States.

We took a day trip to Lake Como which was just a 40 min train out of Milan. Here you can hike, swim, and explore local towns along the lake. The views were gorgeous and it was the first time I had seen a genuine mountain since being in Europe. We met several students who were also studying abroad. The amount of connections I have made in Europe is unlike anything in the States. Locals, tourists, students, everyone wants to get to know you and make connections. I would say this is one of the biggest culture shocks to me. Although I have not done much traveling alone in the States, I still believe that meeting new people is easier in Europe.

The food was AMAZING! I loaded up on carbs this weekend with fantastic pasta, pizzas, baked goods, and gelato. My cousin knew all the best spots so I was lucky enough to have my food tours. I don’t think I could go back to other ice creams after experiencing Italian gelato.

The sun was a great break from the stormy Amsterdam weather. It was jacket weather but I appreciated I got to see the colorful city in nice weather.

Attached is Lake Como and the famous Cathedral in Milan called the Duomo di Milano.