Travel to Italy and Belgium before Study Abroad Program in Amsterdam and Denmark!
I have had the wonderful opportunity to travel to two other European countries prior to my 4-week faculty-led program in Amsterdam and Denmark that begins tomorrow! Last week, my family and I flew from my hometown of Atlanta, GA to Naples, Italy where we traveled the Amalfi coast. While staying in the beautiful town of Sorrento, we were able to experience the culture of Southern Italy and the coastal region. There were people from all over the world there on vacation (or “holiday” as the lovely British couple we met called it), as well as many locals who were all very friendly and welcoming. During our three days in Italy, we took a ferry to Amalfi and enjoyed shopping the busy streets of local vendors and eating Italian gelato. We had fresh sea food from local ristorantes and tavernas! We also visited the island, Capri, off the coast of Italy that was one of the most beautiful places I have ever seen. Our boat took us to explore the Blue Grotto, a sea cave with electric-blue water that we entered via tiny row boats. We also went swimming in the crystal-blue waters of the Tyrrhenian Sea. I highly enjoyed Italy and want to go back one day to visit the other regions and cities we did not get to see on this trip!
On Sunday, we took a direct flight from the Napoli airport to Brussels, Belgium. Given Brussels is just a short train ride from Amsterdam, we decided this would be the perfect country to stop in before I begin my program. I have LOVED the last couple days in this country! We have eaten traditional Belgian frites, yummy waffles, and decadent chocolate. Yesterday, we took a train to Bruges, Belgium and saw its beautiful architecture and medieval- style landscape. This morning, we had the opportunity to tour the capital building of the European Union and learn about the structure of the EU. It was a very educational experience learning about how the the EU has grown from six to twenty-seven countries since it was created and how the leaders of the EU are democratically elected every five years to serve.
Given this is my first time traveling to Europe, I have been amazed at how similar yet different certain things are in comparison to the various cities I have visited in the United States. Similarly, I have loved the variety of culture, nationality, and language that has been present within both locations I have visited in the past week. I am so excited to continue to explore Europe and cannot wait to start my study abroad program tomorrow!