Embedded Files
Students who enroll in the University of Florence program live with Italian families in what are called homestays. All families who open their homes to Holy Cross students do so because they want to, believing strongly in the cultural exchange, linguistic benefits, and friendships that homestays can provide. Although host families vary in size and location around Florence, all provide partial board - i.e., breakfast and dinner M-F. Students therefore will be charged partial board on their HC Bursar's bill and are strongly encouraged to budget appropriately to cover those meals eaten while out and about (Numbeo.com is a helpful tool for anticipating food costs in Florence.) The Study Abroad office will also help you anticipate your expenses!
What's the story with laundry?
What's the story with laundry?
Your Italian family will provide you access to laundry, whether that means doing it for you or teaching you how to use their machine. Some families own dryers, some do not. Drying racks are the norm in Italy. This is but one cultural difference that you will learn to embrace!
Food options
Food options
Food in Italy is relatively cheap and exceedingly good. In fact, it's typically amazing! Whether you eat at home, grab a panini for lunch, or dine out for dinner, the expectations Italians have about the quality of their food and the way specific dishes should taste are exceptionally high. Therefore, you can expect the truest-tasting tomatoes, superb olive oil and savory meals in this slow-food-minded nation, all for lower prices relative to the U.S.
Florence operates much like a small Italian town in that you will have access to grocery stores, open produce markets, and privately owned mom-and-pop style forni (bakeries), fruit and vegetable stands (frutterie) and delicatessens (salumerie). Buying food at any one of these kinds of venues will provide you with high-quality ingredients and prepared foods, plus the opportunity to practice your Italian language skills!
What about the Gym?
What about the Gym?
You will walk a great deal each day in Florence, but if you wish to join a gym, you will need to seek out a local venue and pay for a membership yourself. Your HC study abroad program fee does NOT cover a gym membership while you study abroad.
Page updated
Report abuse