Anticipation

From the Cornfields of Iowa to the Coast of Italy

“This heart of mine was made to travel this world,”

Sorrento, Italy. Just the name of it causes me to smile and daydream of my upcoming journey to this beautiful place. Hi, my name is Mandi, and welcome to my blog! Growing up surrounded by cornfields and livestock, I’ve always had an itch to travel this amazing world and immerse myself into different ways of life. While I absolutely adore the Midwest & wouldn’t trade my bringing up for anything, I feel ready for new experiences in an area of the world completely different from my own.

All of my life, I’ve been one to believe this world is far too beautiful and life is far too short not to travel! Did you know only 42 percent of Americans have a passport? I’m sure happy I’m one of them. When the opportunity to study abroad came up, I gratefully jumped on board. My love for Italy stems from the people, the food, the history, the language, the culture, and of course- the natural beauty. It truly amazes me that this world is so diverse in people, cultures, food, everyday life, and especially – views. All of this will now be paired with another one of my passions – multimedia. Bringing my camera along, I’m eager to shoot photos that will allow me not only to capture the many beauties of Italy but also improve my skills in multimedia.

Guten tag! The 3 hour layover in Munich, Germany was spent exploring the new sights, sounds, and tastes.

Plans. Even before confirming my program in Sorrento, I knew I would create a blog. Not only would this allow me to recount my experiences, but it would give me the opportunity to share tips, suggestions, and stories with others. The course I am taking at Sant’Anna Institute is International Multimedia Journalism: Communication, Culture, and the Amalfi Coast. The structure of the class allows me to explore other parts of this amazing country. I plan to visit Capri, Pompeii, Positano, and possibly Rome. Something that already amazes me about Europe includes the ease of traveling. Did you know a train from Naples to Rome (227 km/141 mi) can cost as low as $15 and take only 2 hours! I’m thrilled to visit different parts of Italy and learn how they differ in regard to culture, norms, people, and food. I’m also eager to meet new people and make connections that will last a lifetime.

It’s refreshing to see that the locals of Sorrento showcase their pride in this culturally-rich & uniquely-beautiful country.

Preparation. Preparing for a trip abroad is really important. Ironically, I type that as an empty suitcase sits just 5 feet away from me. I began preparing for my trip in March by doing research about Italy in general, about Sorrento in detail, and about studying abroad. First, it’s important to read websites containing information about going overseas; a useful site that I found was GoAbroad.com. Simply from reading, I learned a great deal about life in Italy, norms to follow, things to avoid, and even what to pack and not pack. It’s also vital to realize all of the differences between the U.S. and Italy. A few examples are the outlets, voltages, currency, norms, pickpockets, and means of transportation. Reading books based on Italy, using language apps such as Duolingo, and socializing with those who have experience abroad are other ways to prepare for a journey abroad. I suggest purchasing an adapter or convertor beforehand as a layover in a foreign country may trouble you if universal outlets are absent. Sim Cards for a cell phone are also beneficial to possess. While I plan to be immersing myself into everything Italy has to offer, I do find importance in having an operable phone while in a foreign country by myself. Amazon reigns as one of the best for gathering many of these items. With nearly 232 billion dollars in annual net sales, Amazon proves to be a powerful retailer to use when preparing for any trip. While physically preparing is essential, mentally preparing is equally as important. I prepared by researching and allowing myself to understand I will be in a completely different place than ever before and that’s okay. In fact, it’s great! I’m excited for this new growth as an individual and experiencing new things.

Anticipation. Now this blog would not be completely truthful if I didn’t say I was nervous to leave everything and everyone I know. I will miss my family, friends, and boyfriend much. Adjusting to an entire new area and way of living will be difficult. Culture shock, defined as an experience a person may have when one moves to a cultural environment which is different from one’s own, is likely to occur as I’ve never been outside of the states. This can take a toll on one’s emotional health, so it’s important to prepare. One can do this by beginning to understand the norms well before arriving in the new area. Making adjustments to a sleep schedule beforehand can help avoid jet lag too. Nonetheless, I’m so excited and thankful for this once in a lifetime opportunity. Sorrento simply appears like a golden place rich in history, culture, and beauty.

The view overlooking Marina Piccola proves to be worth the anticipation.

Italy has been at the top of my bucket list and in the midst of my day dreams for quite some time. I’m endlessly grateful for the opportunity to travel across the world. Although it will be difficult adjusting to a new everyday life, I plan to soak in every sight, every ray of sunshine, and every moment. As I continue my experience on the Amalfi Coast, I will be posting a new blog weekly, each covering different experiences in Italy: the history and background of the areas I visit, the cultures, things to do, the language, and the food. Stay tuned and ciao for now!

One of my first meals in Sorrento, Ravioli Capresi, at Trattoria Da Emilia’s near the Marina Grande.
Where else can you enjoy a delicious beverage and a breathtaking view for only 4 euros?
I enjoyed a chocolate chip croissant and cafe macchiato at Puro.