Today I arrived in Siena and met my host family. I'm staying outside the city with two sisters, Rita (18) and Tiziana (24). Right away they informed me they did not know a lot of English (and I do not know a lot of Italian). But after trying to communicate, I realized it is not too difficult to understand. I gave them chocolates and soaps which they adored. Also, I brought with me a photo album of my family and friends. After awhile of talking and translating (thanks to google) we took Rita's boyfriend to the train station and then went into the city. Walking around, the streets are very crowded and dirty.
A lot of people were eating gelato or sitting at an outside cafe. Almost immediately I noticed how different our cultures were. They dress very modest, yet fashionable here. Although, they do smell quite bad at the same time. The streets were full of little shops and wine tasting. Because the Palio is coming up there were parties in the streets with loud drums and people wearing flags. I canNOT understand a word anyone was saying. The architecture and scenery is absolutely beautiful. I feel myself wanting to take pictures every 5 feet. Tonight Rita and Tiziana made me dinner. It was something along the lines of french fries, vegetables (which tasted like no vegetable I have ever eaten before) and some sort of meat on a stick. They say it was chicken/white meat, but it most definately was not. And I decided it was probably best I did not ask what type of meat they used. I have orientation followed by class tomorrow so hopefully I will be learning Italian quickly and be able to have a conversation with my host family!
A lot of people were eating gelato or sitting at an outside cafe. Almost immediately I noticed how different our cultures were. They dress very modest, yet fashionable here. Although, they do smell quite bad at the same time. The streets were full of little shops and wine tasting. Because the Palio is coming up there were parties in the streets with loud drums and people wearing flags. I canNOT understand a word anyone was saying. The architecture and scenery is absolutely beautiful. I feel myself wanting to take pictures every 5 feet. Tonight Rita and Tiziana made me dinner. It was something along the lines of french fries, vegetables (which tasted like no vegetable I have ever eaten before) and some sort of meat on a stick. They say it was chicken/white meat, but it most definately was not. And I decided it was probably best I did not ask what type of meat they used. I have orientation followed by class tomorrow so hopefully I will be learning Italian quickly and be able to have a conversation with my host family!
Lauren you are so blessed...keep writing! Love the pictures..keep them coming.
ReplyDeleteGlad you arrived OK. Thanks for sharing the pictures. I know that I'll never travel that far. I couldn't stand the long flight or not knowing the language. Oh, to be young again! Enjoy your time there and the new culture.
ReplyDeleteTried this once, but I think it didn't work, so if you get 2 messages....
ReplyDeleteYour pictures are incredible. What a wonderful opportunity & experience you're going to have. (Don't forget about the wire mesh girdle!) I wish we had more modesty in this country, but I am thankful for deoderant! We'll be praying for you! Love Ya!