Every country has something special. Europe has many things. Here are some of my favorite things (that I will sincerely miss) about Europe:)

1). The Fashion. 

Europeans don’t play when it comes to dressing. Especially Italians. The people I see on the street take such pride in their presentation. Unlike Americans—where a simple flip flop and cargo short will suffice—Italians show up in tailored jackets, fancy hats, and luxe shoes… even if it is just to have a smoke on the steps. 

People here have STYLE; style that is not limited by age, shape, or status. It is not so much about what designer you carry, what trend you follow, but rather what story your clothes tell about you… the impression you give to the world about who you are. During my time here in Italy, I have seen some of the most artful forms of dressing. From elegant elderly women waiting at bus stops, to groups of vibrant teenagers strutting through piazzas, to well-dressed males reading at cafe’s. 

It is beautiful to witness the variety of self expression around the city. It serves as a daily source of inspiration for me. Like my own real life Pinterest board lol. 

2). Aperitivo 

My favorite tradition here is aperitivo time. It’s pretty much a classier version of happy hour haha. From 6-9pm, Italians join together with friends at their local ristorante/bar to muse about life’s occurrences over a glass of wine. A single ‘aperitif’ session could last hours. And I love that. I love that people take time to sit down and contemplate either alone or with company. You also get free chips or olives to nibble on too, so that’s a plus!

3). Relaxation

Things move slower here in Italy. People here will take hours to eat a meal. They will take breaks in between their work day for a ‘siesta.’ Whereas in America, it is all about how much you can get done in a day, here it is about how pleasurable that day can be. There is this lovely quote from “Eat. Pray. Love.” (starring my forever girl crush Julia Roberts) and it reads,

“But you [Americans] don’t know pleasure. You have to be told you’ve earned it. You see a commercial that says: ‘It’s Miller Time!’ And you say, That’s right, now I’m going to buy a six pack. And then drink the whole thing and wake up the next morning and you feel terrible. But an Italian doesn’t need to be told. He walks by a sign that says: You deserve a break today. And he says, Yes, I know. “

This culture of relaxation is something I can get on board with. I am so over the idea that you have to work yourself to death to be happy. Over the idea you have to be stressed 24/7 for fulfillment. The Italian philosophy on relaxation is something I will be taking back with me to the States. 

(Plus I am notorious for giving myself rewards for the most minimal effort. Only now I don’t need to feel bad about it lol).

4). Aesthetic.

Europe is so photogenic. I am not kidding. Verona alone looks like something straight out of a fairytale. Explore beyond and you will witness some of the most beautiful cities, filled with charm and character. I find cities here enchanting, with their carved buildings, floral balconies, and bright skies. It makes me feel like I belong in a storybook. All I know, the skyscrapers of America will never fill my soul the way Europe has. 

5). Walking.

You can walk everywhere in Verona. Cars are actually not that convenient. The best form of transportation is public but you can’t appreciate anything from the confines of a bus. I have found no greater pleasure than feeling the crisp air as I stroll through marble sidewalks, crossing cobblestone streets through traffic and occasionally stopping to view the sun set on the river. There is always something new to see, something beautiful to admire. It is those moments I look in awe at the world—at my life—and give thanks to God. 

6). Easy to travel anywhere.

I love the fact I could be shopping in Milan one weekend to drinking vin brûlée on a snowy mountain top in Innsbruck the next. To think I am a mere train ride away from so much history, culture, and beauty is absolutely thrilling. In a way, the world feels like it’s in the palm of your hand. Or at the very least, like you actually have access to it.