Discovery in a Medieval city.

There is so much to love about Perugia and the Umbrian region--the natural and ancient beauty being so memorable. I especially enjoyed walking the narrow streets of the city center. Since I was in the Umbra Institute's Food Studies Program, I payed careful attention to restaurants/the local food culture. My friends and I compiled a list of places to eat -- from recommendations of the Umbra staff and locals--and spent each week checking off a place. With the help of a professor, I also did a lot of my produce shopping in a backyard garden. Each week, I visited him with empty bags and left with the most beautiful vegetables! Because the city is so small in size, there is such a real opportunity to feel like you're a part of the community. From cafes to bars, frequent visits become part of your daily routine, right alongside the locals--who would recognize you and talk to you (in Italian). This was exhilarating, because you had opportunities outside of Italian class to practice. I think my favorite thing to do, on a beautiful afternoon, was walk the streets and just take it all in. Every afternoon could be an adventure.