First Impressions of Italy

My first impressions of living and working in Italy as a tour guide.

Despite the title, this is not my first time in Italy.

My first visit to this beautiful country was in 1996 as an infant.

Then, my family proceeded to live here from 1999 to 2000.

Since then I’ve been lucky enough to visit multiple times over the years. Every time I return, nostalgia overwhelms my senses.

Italy has a rich and distinct culture.

It also has an immense history and a heartwarming energy that some may find addictive.

Every time I drive through the peaceful green countryside, or stumble along the uneven stone streets, or indulge in the fresh, hearty cuisine, I feel the same sense of comfort I felt as a child.

I used to live in Soave, a small town in the northern Veneto region of Italy.

Growing up there was a child’s paradise. Though I didn’t truly appreciate it until now.

Most of my days were spent playing in castles, taking dog walks through vineyards, eating gelato and pasta every day.

The town is so intimate that my sister and I could run through the streets unsupervised and everyone would watch out for us.

Everyone in that town became like family, and I’m so grateful for the time I spent there.

Now, I am living in Rome working for a student tour company called Smart Trip.

I titled this post “First Impressions” because I feel like I am basically starting over.

The last time I came to Italy was in 2014. Though the wonderful Italian culture remains the same, I have changed so much as a person.

This is my first time in Italy without any family to guide me.

I’m diving into a new job as a tour promoter and tour guide, with other unique, fun, like-minded people as coworkers and roommates.

I have an incredible opportunity to live in the Eternal City, where I can walk by ancient ruins daily and try to pick up some Italian along the way.