Travel Tip: Spend a Weekend in a Lesser-Known City

Most travelers are familiar with Italian cities such as Milan, Rome, and Naples. These are the cities with miraculous views, endless activities, and waves of interesting people. These are the “must see” cities, but they are not the only places to find adventure. After studying abroad in Italy, I would suggest visiting small, discrete places. Whether you visit for a day or a weekend, you never know what you may find. My friends and I spent a weekend in Padua, Italy, which (despite its many attractions) often goes unnoticed by the majority. After three train rides and a lot of confusion, we started to regret our decision to travel to this city. Upon our arrival, we were worried that Padua would be a disappointment, but despite our concerns, we ended up discovering the Arena Chapel, the Botanical Garden of Padova, and streets filled with restaurants and boutiques. I think going somewhere different offers a unique experience, something you'll never forget. As much as I loved Florence, Venice, and Milan, these cities tend to be overcrowded. With the tourist menus and English signs everywhere, you can sometimes miss the more authentic side of the country. The best advice is to go explore somewhere new. The risk is worth it.

 

By: Courtney Merolle, FSUIP Alumna

Florida State University Panama

Although this video is a few years old, the FSU International Program in Panama is the same life-changing experience. Students are fully emerged in the Panamanian lifestyle and encounter many academic, professional, and cultural experiences while studying here. Check out the video to see the beautiful scenery of Panama City, Panama!

What makes Valencia so Unique

By Parker Gordon

Before partaking in FSU’s study abroad program, I had no firsthand accounts of any European cities. I was so anxious to get off the plane and see for myself what architecture and atmosphere these places would consist of. Two months in Valencia provided me with all I needed to know to understand the uniqueness of the Valencian capital. Madrid and Barcelona are the two gems that people put on their lists of places to visit in Spain. However, they are melting pots of tourists and camera flashes that can sometimes overtake the extraordinary environment of the Spanish people, architecture, and culture.

The uniqueness of Valencia starts with an authentic environment of Spanish culture and everyday life. Siestas are a daily custom that will catch your eye as you walk through downtown Valencia in the afternoon. Cafes, shops, and other business close till the early evening. This displays the individuality of Spanish society compared to the United States and even other countries within the European Union. The absence of large tourists groups and commercialism throughout the city provides a perfect learning environment for students learning Spanish and studying abroad.

Valencia provides many flavors of culture that are unique to the city compared to other places. This city is littered with street art that you won’t find in bigger metropolises throughout Spain. The street art is a true expression of Spanish artwork and provides a positive essence for streetwalkers. Besides street art and authentic Spanish culture, Valencia contains a dried river-bed called Jardines de Turia. The river-bed is comprised of ponds, bridges, sculptures, sunbathers and talented street performers. There is also something to partake in this city without the hustle and bustle of vacationers overflowing the streets and sights.

Valencia is extremely unique and provides the perfect learning environment for FSU students. The uniqueness of FSU’s study center stands in the shadows of the Torres Del Serranos hugging the Jardines de Turia. There is no better location to fulfill your study abroad experience in all of Spain.