A few months ago I asked myself: “if you can do anything on this earth, what would that be?” My first instinct (which may have been influenced by Eat, Pray, Love by Elizabeth Gilbert) was: “I would love to learn how to speak Italian well”. Not for any rational reason, because let’s face it: there are few countries outside Italy, that actually use Italian as a language. I just think the language is drop dead gorgeous. So what is the best place to learn Italian? And how can I set myself up for success?
In mid-May I’m packing the few belongings that I still have, after decluttering multiple times in the past few years. Together with one of my best friends, I'll drive south. Via Germany and Switzerland we’ll continue our drive to Florence, Italy. After a few days my friend flies back to the Netherlands, and I’ll be by myself. Alone but not lonely. I continue to work remote and fly over to the United States whenever I need to. I just change my home office location.
Ever since I came back from the Unites States in January the number one question people tent to ask me is: “how do you like being back in your home country?” The truth is that I thoroughly enjoy being back among my friends and family. Yet, I’ve also realised that regardless of how long you haven’t been around someone, a relationship will work, if you both truly want it to.
I’m excited to get uncomfortable (and thus grow) while speaking Italian. I want to learn about- and immerse in Italian culture. Where does their passion come from? How do people interact with each other? How do they prepare a meal? What are their political and religious views? I want to make local friends. I’m so excited about this new chapter in my life. Stay tuned! Ciao.
ps. Starting today I write about my adventures in English. As traveling and exploring other cultures continues to add value to my life, my group of international friends will only expand. I like them to be able to read my stories as well. To all my Dutch friends: nodig me uit voor een kopje koffie en ik zal met alle liefde mijn ervaringen in het Nederlands delen, indien Engels lastig te volgen is.
I’m excited to get uncomfortable (and thus grow) while speaking Italian. I want to learn about- and immerse in Italian culture. Where does their passion come from? How do people interact with each other? How do they prepare a meal? What are their political and religious views? I want to make local friends. I’m so excited about this new chapter in my life. Stay tuned! Ciao.
ps. Starting today I write about my adventures in English. As traveling and exploring other cultures continues to add value to my life, my group of international friends will only expand. I like them to be able to read my stories as well. To all my Dutch friends: nodig me uit voor een kopje koffie en ik zal met alle liefde mijn ervaringen in het Nederlands delen, indien Engels lastig te volgen is.
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