Interlaken itself doesn't have ski slopes, but it serves as a convenient base for accessing several popular ski resorts in the Jungfrau Region. 

These include Grindelwald, Wengen, and Mürren, all reachable by train or bus from Interlaken.

(Left) Jaden, Gabbi, Jack, Helena, Alessia, Me (Right)

My roommate Jack and I were so lucky to experience front row seats to a professional soccer game provided by our host family. My first ever professional game and it was an exciting match since Fiorentina and Juventus were big rivals. 

Alessia and I took a day trip to Siena and explored the different contradas throughout the city. We ate at this farm to table restaurant called Ristorante/Pizzeria All'Orto de' Pecci, and I ate the most delicious Cacio e Pepe. On the farm, they had sheep, goats, chickens, and this unique robot sculpture.  

Alessia's family is from Alberobello which is located in Puglia on the southern part of Italy and it is a small town known for their Trullis which is a traditional dry stone hut with a conical roof. It was so peaceful and full of friendly people. 

Easter is a major celebration in Italy, with festivals happening all over the country. But Alessia and I decided to escape the crowds and spend the holiday weekend in Torino, visiting her cousin. While there, we explored a variety of restaurants and spent time at the fascinating Egyptian Museum.

On Easter day we had a great feast made from scratch. There was eggplant lasagna, garlic bread, spring rolls, and loaded potatos with ham.

Alessia and I spent four unforgettable days in Paris visiting her friend who was studying abroad. During our trip, we explored iconic landmarks like the Eiffel Tower, the Palace of Versailles, and the Notre-Dame Cathedral. We also indulged in some of the finest French cuisine—fresh oysters, escargot, classic French onion soup, and warm, crusty baguettes.

The best pinsa I had during my entire study abroad trip was in Catania, at a small, tucked-away pizzeria. It was topped with pistachios, a rich pistachio cream, caramelized onions, and savory guanciale which was an unforgettable combination of flavors.

Palermo, on the northern coast of Sicily, is known for its beautiful beaches and cliff-jumping spots. We found a perfect little area where we could swim and jump into the water. The sea was a stunning crystal blu, refreshing, and icy cold.

Malta was my favorite destination during my study abroad journey. The weather was absolutely perfect—the sun was shining, the sea was crystal clear, and we ended up spending five hours at a beautiful bay. It was truly one of the most stunning beaches I’ve ever visited. 

We took a 20 minute ski lift to the top of this mountain.

I ate this delious Cacio e Pepe with truffle and prawns

Alessia’s father was visiting Milan for a few days, so we decided to go and spend some time with him. I had an incredible experience shopping and dining at some of the best restaurants I’ve ever been to. One of the highlights was visiting the Duomo di Milano, the city’s iconic cathedral. Seeing it in person was absolutely breathtaking.

Alessia’s father took us to an authentic Sicilian restaurant, and it ended up being the best seafood I’ve ever had. Everything was incredibly fresh—especially the uni (sea urchin), which was by far the best I’ve ever tasted.

I was fortunate enough to celebrate my birthday in Florence, and as part of my gift, Alessia took me to an incredible family-owned restaurant in the hills above the city. Our table had a breathtaking view overlooking Florence and the stunning Tuscan landscape, an unforgettable experience.