Today all public transit in Italy went on strike, so I was unable to attend school. Even though I badly wanted to take the hour bus ride–aka sweat bath–into downtown, I managed to fend off withdrawals by going jogging with a neighbor girl, hiking a hillside farm, and swimming at Lorenza’s private club. Not to mention the three gigantic meals that the grandparents cooked for the family. It’s a hard life, I know.

A week ago I traveled to Capri, but never got around to relaying the story. The total excursion included stops in Sorento, Napoli, and Pompeii, the latter of which I thought surreal to walk through. The ancient cities are like fairy tales to me; I’ve been told about them since childhood, and I find it incredible to finally see them in person. Even so, Capri proved to be my favorite city so far. The water around the island rivals that of the Bahamas (well, close) and was definitely the most beautiful that I’ve ever seen! Imagine swimming out as far as you dare, looking down, and being able to see fish darting about all the way to the sea floor. Be sure and look at my photos. I was only able to spend one full day in Capri, but it ranks as one of the best of my life. Italy continues to amaze.

In three days I will be returning to America. The space between will be filled with field trips, last minute studying, final exams, a performance in Italian, one more visit to the Colosseum, and dinner with all of the host families. I feel like I should only be halfway through my trip, but instead I’m preparing to leave behind all that Italia has become to me. Is the dream really almost over?

I experienced so much and exposed my mind to all sorts of new ideas while traveling and I am so grateful for all those who made it possible. My life has been enriched beyond measure. This trip proved priceless simply by allowing me to walk the life of someone completely different and see a perspective alien to my own. Throw in the cultural, artistic, historical, and yes, the juvenile encounters, and I must say that I’ve had quite the journey.

Next time you hear from me I will be in the states. Arrivederce!