Madeline in Prague

Madeline's travel blog

  • Is Fashion PR in Prague Really Like the Movies? My First Month Behind the Scenes

    When I named my blog Madeline in Prague, it was with the intention of being a playful nod to the show Emily in Paris. Like Emily, I am navigating cultural differences and learning how to live and work abroad, collecting new perspectives with each new experience. Four weeks into my internship with Friendly Friends, a Prague-based creative agency that specializes in fashion and lifestyle PR, I have discovered an honest truth: fashion PR really can feel like the movies and TV shows that romanticize this industry.

    I have discovered it is less about the dramatic, main-character breakthrough moments that give the industry its cut-throat reputation, but more about the real-life, constant demand for creativity, teamwork, and thoughtful planning.

    What makes the industry so inspiring is the talent that each person on the team contributes to make a campaign or event come to life. They work extremely hard to set a vision and tone, creating a magic that, to me, is what makes the industry feel like a movie.

    I gravitate toward fashion because it serves as an outlet for self-expression, and I personally love to show the world who I am through a creative curation of clothing. Our clothes tell a story, but before we give those clothes a story, brands help lay the foundation for it. Through fashion PR, brands build a reputation, cultivate a community, and create an identity that people connect with. Then, we make those pieces our own.

    Suddenly, that necklace is more than just a necklace – it is the one you bought while studying abroad. A pair of boots reminds you of going to the pumpkin patch with your college roommates. Your mom’s dress becomes the one you wore for your first job interview. Fashion becomes personal because we weave our own stories into the stories brands have already begun to tell.

    That intersection of storytelling, creativity, and human connection is what I am most passionate about, and it is exactly what I am eager to learn more about during my internship.

    Every day, I am in awe that I get to step into the world of fashion PR and fulfill a dream I have had since I was a little girl. My routine is one that I cherish each day: I leave my apartment, grab my favorite almond croissant from a local café in my neighborhood, hop on the metro, and walk through the luxury district – looking at my reflection in the windows to make sure my outfit is on par.

    I then arrive at my office, buzzing in with a “Dobrý den, this is Madeline” (I just realized that rhymes!). And then the magic happens: each day is different. One day I might be preparing for an event. The next, I’m organizing influencer data or helping brainstorm how a brand can better connect with its audience. I have learned quickly that there is no “typical” day in fashion PR, and that is exactly what I love about it.

    It feels so rewarding to contribute my creativity, analytical, and organizational skills to support the agency. Some tasks have been as simple as gathering and creating event assets. I cherish my time in the showrooms, which truly do feel like the movies. The building is older and offers a charm through its crisp white walls and light brown hardwood floors. The showrooms are filled with an assortment of clothing, accessories, and shoes from different clients.

    I admire the neatly hung racks: tulle and denim, leather and lace, statement colors and sleek neutrals. Heels, loafers, and sneakers. Belts and sunglasses. It is a place of curated, tasteful displays that shine light (literally – the large windows in each room offer natural light that brings a warm energy to the room) on each piece.

    Knowing stylists visit to select pieces for photoshoots is surreal to me. This takes me back to the reason I love PR: it offers opportunities to build relationships not only with those across the communications industry, such as journalists and photographers, but also with those in completely different creative industries.

    PR heavily depends on culture, and I have discovered that my outside perspective serves as both a challenge and another angle. I have learned that trends do not spread the same everywhere in terms of timing or length. Additionally, influencers are not identical from country to country and all offer their own curated brand.

    In navigating the challenge of not being as familiar with Czech social media culture, I have realized that I need to think less like an American intern and more like a global communicator who works to first understand an audience before trying to reach them.

    So, was Emily in Paris right? In some ways, yes and no.

    There are no unapproved, spur-of-the-moment, “main character” ideas that save the day, but rather everyday problem-solving that creates a space of shared creativity and vision for brands. There are glamorous showrooms, influencer events, and campaigns that feel cinematic – but because of the thoughtful brainstorming and collaboration that brings them to life.

    And perhaps that is why I am loving this experience so much. The real magic of fashion PR is not in the drama, but in the creatives who bring unique ideas to life every day, shaping the way brands connect with people.

    Stay tuned for more of my Pre-Prague Adventures and Prague favorites!

    Ahoj Friends!

  • Pre-Prague Adventures: One Short Day in Fair Verona

    I’ve made the executive decision to keep this post short(ish) and sweet, just like our day trip to Verona. After all, this is Madeline in Prague, so I need to start writing about my experiences here, even though I love the idea of going chronologically. However, I do have a special Fourth of July post from Germany, so stay tuned.

    We began our journey where it all started – Milan. After returning from Rapallo, we spent our evening visiting Milan’s iconic sites: The Duomo, Galleria Vittorio Emanuele II, and that is about all we had time for! The Duomo was stunning inside and out, and I marveled at the craftsmanship that went into creating such art. I felt so small looking up at the carved ceilings. The Galleria was the epitome of luxury and sophistication. Somehow, the entire space felt like the color gold.

    I feel that Milan gets a bad reputation for having “nothing” to do. We quickly discovered that wasn’t the case. We concluded our evening by walking through the fragrance district, a must-see for my fragrance-expert brother. I always feel cool being in the know about “niche” perfumes and asking salespeople if they carry Penhaligon’s. We also loved walking the streets of the Brera district. As we entered, vendors were closing their booths. I sighed as I saw vintage and other artisanal accessories being packed up. While Italians love a late dinner, that does not apply to shopping. Farther into the district, we were met with hanging lights, lively restaurants, and bougie outdoor seating (obviously).

    However, after leaving the district, we were reminded that while Milan features areas that are polished and pristine there are also areas that are gritty and graffitied. It’s a huge city with life at every corner, postcard-ready or not.

    To be honest, after leaving Milan’s iconic sites, we thought it was a one-and-done city. But after exploring more of its hidden gems and shopping scene, we left with the desire to see more. All that said, Verona was a must-see. With layers of Ancient Roman, medieval and Renaissance history, it was a standout city. Colorful buildings decorated with faded frescoes shared space with the ancient arena (which predates the Roman Colosseum) and medieval cathedrals, all standing in harmony with one another despite such architectural differences. Seeing literal layers of history coexist was beautiful.

    We went inside Castelvecchio, a medieval castle. Its mighty stone walls housed medieval art, much of it depicting the Madonna and Child. This is where we began to wonder – what is the difference between a castle and a palace? Apparently, castles were built for defense, while palaces were built for luxury. Castles, primarily from the Middle Ages, featured fortified walls, towers, and moats, whereas palaces emphasized comfort with ornate facades, expansive windows, and elaborate gardens.

    If you didn’t already know that, I hope you enjoyed the brief history lesson. We continued our day trip by getting cornettos (apricot for me please!) and coffees (I always got chamomile tea actually) at cafés and exploring different shops. 

    By wandering down a few side streets, we stumbled upon a local perfumer who walked us through his fragrance line, explaining how each scent was inspired by Verona and Italy.

    One fragrance represented the relationship between northern and southern Italy. He explained that people in the North often view Southerners as too carefree and not hardworking, while those in the South see Northerners as workaholics who forget to enjoy life. Verona, he said, sits happily in the middle – a place where people work hard but still embrace a vibrant way of life.

    The fragrance was lovely, so my mom took a bottle home as a souvenir, and the perfumer kindly gave my brother and me samples of our favorite scents. I’ve come to love souvenirs you can smell or taste (tea is always my favorite to bring home) because they let you relive a memory through your senses.

    We also stepped inside the arena, which is still used today for concerts. The view inside was less historically striking because the rows featured modern chairs and the center of the arena was blocked by a wooden set design for the opera. Nevertheless, we admired the fact that we were able to visit and see an ancient ruin with our own eyes.

    We couldn’t visit fair Verona without stopping by Juliet’s House. Fun fact: according to historical records, Shakespeare never actually visited Verona. The iconic balcony was romantic, and the courtyard transported visitors into the tragic, yet frustrating, love story.

    Juliet’s statue stands in one corner of the courtyard. Tradition says touching her chest brings good luck. I found the custom a little unsettling, especially knowing Juliet was only 14 years old in Shakespeare’s play. I opted to shake her hand instead.

    We ended the day by getting the best charcuterie I have ever had. With an assortment of cheeses, meats, jams, fruit, and salad, the spread was a delightful combination of salty and sweet. I felt like Remi (from Ratatouille) with each pairing. 

    Overall, our time in Milan and Verona reminded me of what people are capable of creating – and of the importance of preserving those places so future generations can experience them, too.

    Ciao for now (stay tuned for a new language)!

  • Pre-Prague Adventures: The Italian Riviera, Beyond the Postcards

    Our visit to the Italian Riviera offered more than an Instagrammable, picture-perfect montage of views. It also opened us up to the more lived-in, authentic areas of Liguria, reminding us that beauty isn’t always found in perfection.

    Going from Bellagio, Lake Como, to Rapallo, Liguria, in one day featured almost every mode of transportation short of flying. Step one was taking a taxi (car) to the port of Bellagio. Step two was taking a ferry (boat) to Varenna. Step three was taking the train to Milan and then transferring to another train to get to Rapallo.

    When we arrived in Rapallo, we were not immediately met with a postcard-perfect, pastel waterfront beach town. Instead, the train station connected to a very residential area sprinkled with local cafés and convenience stores. I grew to love the area because it offered a better glimpse into residential living and everyday life in an Italian beach town.

    Once we dropped our things off and walked to the main part of town, we were met with a charming city filled with colorful painted facades and a lively atmosphere. Vendors lined the walkway overlooking the harbor, selling unique handcrafted goods. We also took in the medieval fortress standing proudly along the coast. I felt excited to be exploring a new region of Italy!

    In Rapallo, we had our first truly impressive aperitivo, which featured a spread of cheeses, bread, mortadella, marinated cannellini beans (a new love of mine), carrots, and other snacks. No shade, but Bellagio only offered those things if you paid extra! The Liguria region is known for its focaccia and pesto, and I really enjoyed trying both from different restaurants. However, my brother – who knows what he likes and sticks to it – would frequently order a Margherita pizza with buffalo mozzarella. My mom and I – the ones who like to branch out and try something new – would often end up with food envy after trying his!

    The plan for the Italian Riviera had been simple: swim and relax. However, when the weather is in the low 70s and you feel compelled to wear pants every day, you begin to realize you might need to rethink the itinerary. So, my mom spent the train ride researching things to do around the Italian Riviera.

    While the Italian Riviera is known for its pristine, crystal-clear turquoise waters, luxurious beach clubs, high-end shopping, and picturesque coastal restaurants, we decided to venture beyond its polished façade. On a whim, we planned a day trip to Genoa to experience a different side of the Liguria region.

    Exploring Genoa offered a glimpse into what a lived-in, historic Italian city feels like. Narrow alleys wound throughout the city, revealing its medieval roots. There was graffiti and grit, but there was also beauty in the historic palazzos.

    During our day trip, we explored multiple museums and cathedrals, one of which we climbed a spiraling staircase to reach the top and enjoy a 360-degree view of the city. As I took in the view, I could feel the layers of history and liveliness surrounding me. Genoa didn’t have the polished charm of Lake Como or Portofino, but instead offered an authenticity that I grew to appreciate. It was powerful to see such realness and activity – large cruise ships docked in the distance, buildings from different centuries rose at varying heights, seagulls soared overhead, and church bells rang in the distance.

    As much as I admired Genoa’s unfiltered charm, Portofino was breathtaking.

    We decided to tackle the more than three-mile hike from Santa Margherita Ligure to Portofino. We began our journey by visiting a stunning villa in Santa Margherita Ligure. The entrance was lined with a canopy of vibrant purple flowers, and by the time we reached the villa – which was a steep walk – we were rewarded with views of the coastline and boats scattered along the horizon. We enjoyed taking pictures before beginning our hike to Portofino. A shout out to my brother, who is basically trained in taking aesthetic, Insta-worthy photos for me (no matter how many times I hand him back the phone and ask him to fix the angle).

    For nearly the entire hike, we walked alongside the coast. The water glistened and shimmered. We watched a pretty blue gradually transform into a strikingly clear turquoise as we got closer to Portofino.

    We passed beach clubs and admired those who swam despite the cool water temperature. By then, the day had warmed into the upper 70s, so swimming honestly felt doable to me, and I was glad I had packed a swimsuit. My mom, however, was less optimistic and warned that the water would be too cold.

    Eventually, we reached a point where the sidewalk ended, right beside the patterned green-and-white umbrellas of the luxurious Dolce & Gabbana beach club, and followed the arrow pointing toward Portofino up the mountain. The views of the water as we began our ascent were unreal. The canopy of trees cooled us off, and we savored every moment of the hike.

    My favorite moment was seeing Baia Cannone – a Pinterest-worthy picture of tranquility. Two stunning villas sat tucked beside a quaint swimming hole. I made sure I got a closer look and convinced my mom and brother to promise we’d stop there later that day.

    After passing the beach, we made our way into the elegant Portofino harbor. The town itself was quite small, but the number of photos I took would suggest otherwise. Portofino exuded luxury, and I enjoyed window-shopping. I will say, though, that it was hard to avoid overpriced tourist traps when it came to food, so we settled on splitting a pizza before getting gelato later.

    We eventually made our way back to Baia Cannone, and up close it was absolutely ethereal. Through the crystal-clear water, I could see an assortment of rocks in every shape, size, and color. The rhythmic swoosh of the waves against the shore was comforting and called me to dip my feet in. Unfortunately, my mom was right – the water was too cold for me to want to swim. Even so, the view and atmosphere made returning completely worthwhile, and I felt a sense of awe knowing I would always have the memory of visiting such a beautiful place.

    For our final activity, we hiked to an old castle overlooking Portofino. The castle itself was fairly plain and nothing particularly memorable. However, the panoramic view of the Portofino harbor made the hike completely worth it. All the boats – or yachts, I should say – floated together below us. We could even see parts of our earlier hike stretching along the coastline and admired the deep blue sea extending into the distance.

    We ended our day by taking a scenic ferry back to Rapallo. Once we docked, we enjoyed another aperitivo before having a delicious dinner at a charming restaurant. (I had pesto pasta!)

    Looking back, the hike to Portofino may have been the highlight, but what I’ll remember just as much are the quieter moments in Rapallo and Genoa that reminded me beauty isn’t always found in the places that make the postcards. Stay tuned for our time in Milan and a romantic day trip to Verona!

    Ciao for now!

  • Pre-Prague Adventures: Bellagio, Villas, and One Very Stressed Taxi Driver

    I take travel planning very seriously. So seriously that when my vision starts to blur, I take it as a sign that I’ve maxed out on planning for the day. From flights and Airbnbs to the infinite number of TikTok-recommended “must-see” activities, I had a vision for the dream family European vacation.

    The travel plan was ambitious: fly from Nashville to Milan, spend three nights exploring Lake Como, make our way down to the Italian Riviera, return to Milan (with a day trip to Verona, naturally), then fly to Vienna before ending our journey in Prague.

    Simple.

    Now, while this itinerary was preplanned, a family trip would not be a family trip without a sprinkle of spontaneity. After all, that’s what makes a story interesting. People want to hear the juicy bits.

    Not that Bellagio, Lake Como, wasn’t one of the most beautiful places ever. We were fortunate to spend our time visiting stunning villas and roaming uphill cobblestone streets. We would have aperitivo overlooking the lake and wander into little shops (rarely buying anything, but looking nonetheless).

    They want to hear that our Airbnb was about a 20-minute walk from the city center… uphill… with no sidewalks on the winding roads, drivers who were both fast and furious, and taxis that were harder to come by than you’d think.

    They want to hear about the time we finally got a taxi in Bellagio.

    We told the driver our drop-off address, and she said she knew exactly where it was. My mom began to pull out her phone to show the directions, but the driver insisted she didn’t need them. The ride was scenic, with our driver pointing out must-see destinations on her GPS. The vibe was carefree, and we felt the accomplishment of securing a taxi (the daily challenge).

    However, we began to notice that the driver was taking us a way we had never gone before.

    My mom looked back at my brother and me, mouthing that this seemed wrong, but we reassured her to trust the driver. I should have known, though. Moms are always right.

    So, of course, we arrived at the wrong destination.

    When we explained to the driver that this was, in fact, not our Airbnb, the vibe completely changed. What was once relaxed became increasingly panicked. The driver had another ride! She had to get to them! We were still 10 minutes away from our Airbnb, and she wasn’t about to leave us.

    Gulp.

    Right?

    Okay, corny writing aside, the point is that we were very anxious now.

    The taxi driver pulled out quickly, and we heard, “Madonna Mia!” followed by a string of other Italian pleas. She hit the gas, and the next thing we knew, we were flying. Zooming our way around the windiest and steepest roads ever. I’m from Tennessee and I have seen my fair share of country back roads. This was worse. Much worse.

    You could have heard a pin drop in the silence.

    Each turn felt like beating the odds. I was afraid to breathe.

    We began to slow down because there was another driver on the road. My mom broke the tension (or attempted to) by saying, “It’s frustrating when you’re in a hurry and stuck behind a slow driver.”

    Silence.

    My brother and I side-eyed each other.

    The car pulled away, and we were back in the action sequence. We glanced at the speedometer, and she’s pushing 35 as we zigzag up a mountain. My seatbelt worked overtime to keep me in my seat.

    We finally began the last trek up the hill to our Airbnb and all let out a breath of relief. The taxi driver pulled onto the gravel driveway and whipped out the card reader. My mom paid, we said our thanks, and we exited with shaky legs. We made it alive!

    You seriously had to be there.

    That is a story I will carry with me forever when I think about the first time I went to Europe with my family.

    In Lake Como, we stayed just outside Bellagio and took day trips to Menaggio, Tremezzo, and Lenno. In Bellagio, we visited Villa Melzi. In Tremezzo, we visited Villa Carlotta. In Lenno, we visited Villa del Balbianello (the Hayden Christensen Star Wars villa). The views were spectacular, the gardens were lush, and the architecture was grand.

    10/10 on the villas.

    Overall, I learned that no matter the stressors of a family vacation, being able to be present in the moment is so grounding.

    My brother and I came up with a phrase to say whenever we were overcome with 1) hanger (hungry + angry), 2) tanger (tired + angry), and 3) hot + angry (which is basically hanger again?).

    We would say, “Look around you right now.”

    And it actually always worked.

    Because there is no reason to be crashing out in such a gorgeous place.

    Sometimes it was even funny when we were in less aesthetically pleasing locations, such as the Milan train station (the train area, not the beautiful station itself). We’d look around and just feel grateful to experience another part of the world.

    That’s my recap of Lake Como! Stay tuned for our journey to the Italian Riviera… I did find my love in Portofino!

    Ciao for now? (I missed saying that! Iykyk)

  • First Day Feeling

    On the first day of my internship in Prague, I woke up feeling eager, nervous and proud. Eager, because for months I had dreamed a hundred different ways my first day would go – and it was finally becoming a reality. Nervous, because in some of those dreams I was late. And proud, because no matter what, I had earned the opportunity to intern in global fashion PR.

    My routine for the first day was simple and methodical. I made myself a cup of tea, did my morning skincare routine, and applied my makeup. I then put on the outfit I had picked out the night before – my estate sale navy blue trousers with a red and white accent at the hem, a solid white V-neck top, my grandmother’s red cardigan from the 50s and my red flats. I wore my hair in a sleek bun and accessorized with chunky gold hoops.

    I left for work with a quiet excitement, navigating my way from my apartment to the metro. I made sure to keep to the right side of the escalator and stayed quiet for the ride (norms of Czech culture). On my way to the office, I stopped to grab a chocolate croissant and sat at a café taking in the colorful, intricately designed buildings lining the streets. I then continued on my way and picked up a peppermint tea from a cozy café just across from the office. Time moved quickly, and before I knew it, I was ringing the office buzzer and beginning my first day as an intern in Prague.

    When I walked in, I was welcomed warmly by everyone and felt my nerves ease almost immediately. I felt completely immersed in the world of fashion PR – the showrooms looked like something out of a movie, with red-carpet gowns hung on racks and different brands displayed throughout the rooms. I felt my chest squeeze with excitement knowing I had finally made a dream come true. On my first day, I learned about the company’s clients and their goals, completed my first task alongside another intern, and left with the quiet accomplishment of a successful first day. I am eager to learn from my new colleagues and to understand what it truly means to navigate global PR in the fashion and lifestyle space.

    After traveling for so long (stay tuned for a story on my pre-Prague adventures) the structure of new work and a new rhythm of energy was a welcome comfort. I hope to grow as a global communicator, brand strategist and PR professional as I continue my internship.

    Ahoj Friends!

  • My first weekend adventure: Cinque Terre

    Cinque Terre was my first excursion beyond Florence. With my roommates, we learned how to navigate Florence’s train system and sightsee all in one day. We had one mission: go to the beach and see more of Italy.

    Our first train ride to Pisa Centrale was stunning. I fell in love with the mountains and vineyards of the Tuscan countryside. I saw poppy fields that made me understand Monet’s need to paint such landscapes. It felt like a movie, with an imaginary camera alternating between shots of me gazing out the window and mysteriously reading my book (a romantic comedy, of course).

    After arriving at Pisa Centrale (sadly, we didn’t stop to see the Leaning Tower), we connected to La Spezia, and I continued to enjoy the live-action painting unfolding outside my window.

    Eventually, we made it to Monterosso, Cinque Terre. As soon as we stepped off the train, we were greeted by salt air, sweet summer heat, and crystal-clear blue water. To say it was magical is an understatement. I couldn’t help but think, Somebody pinch me—am I actually on a beach in Italy?!

    Going to Cinque Terre served as more than just a spontaneous day trip from Florence. It marked an accomplishment—exploring more of Italy and making it outside of my study abroad “headquarters.” When I first dreamed of studying abroad—a dream that once felt so out of reach—I only hoped to see more of Italy. And here I was, standing on the most beautiful beach surrounded by mountains on my very first weekend abroad.

    The steps for our movie-montage-worthy beach day were simple: find something to eat, get towels, and then swim.

    We first stopped at the cutest focaccia place by the beach, where I got a fabulous olive and tomato loaf (oliva e pomodoro).

    Next door at a souvenir shop, I found the perfect blue “Dolce Vita” towel with little lemons on it—very coastal, very Italian.

    With food and towels in tow, we made our way to the beach. It was covered in smooth stones of varying colors and sizes. The area where people laid out was made of finer rocks that gave the illusion of sand. The water was crystal clear and ombré-d into a rich, deep blue. While the water alone was breathtaking, the surrounding Northern Apennines made the scene even more stunning. Colorful homes were scattered across the mountains, adding a cheerful charm to the powerful stillness of the landscape. ABBA’s Chiquitita was playing on a loop in my head.

    After eating and applying sunscreen (a must in the Italian sun), we eagerly made our way into the water. It was a crisp kiss of cool in the blazing heat. (Getting in the water had me feeling poetic—what can I say?)

    We were little mermaids out there, and I had no desire to leave until it was time to catch our next train. I truly wanted to be part of that world.

    After hours of swimming and making new friends who were also studying abroad, we decided to catch a train to another Cinque Terre village: Riomaggiore.

    Catching the train wasn’t without its challenges—delays and confusion over which line to take tested our patience. But we made it, and I learned the value of staying calm and flexible when it comes to public transportation.

    Riomaggiore was another breathtaking sight. More colorful houses dotted the cliffs, and the view of the vast ocean offered a whole new, enchanting angle.

    We stopped for aperitifs at a restaurant tucked into the side of a mountain. As we ate our caprese salads and sipped Hugo Spritzes, we took in the natural beauty of the northern Italian Riviera coastline.

    After dinner, we ascended further into the village, surrounded by orange and pink houses, wildflowers, and sailboats in the distance. We even ran into a beach cat perched on a heater, lazily enjoying the evening in one of the most beautiful places on Earth.

    Eventually, we made our way back to the train station and called it a day. Cinque Terre was a spontaneous and peaceful escape—an unforgettable start to my Italian adventure.

    My journey in Italy has now come to an end, but I’m excited to use this blog as an outlet to reminisce on my travels and all the valuable lessons I’ve learned while studying abroad. Stay tuned for Siena and Lake Como!

    Ciao for now,
    Madeline

  • My Roman Empire?

    I’m now officially only impressed if I’m looking at historical landmarks or artifacts from before the Middle Ages. Rome spoiled me — blame it on the Colosseum and its ancient awesomeness!

    Last weekend, I visited Rome and Vatican City with my roommates, and it completely opened my eyes to the beauty of enduring architecture and the power of true craftsmanship. It was surreal to stand before the Forum and the Colosseum, knowing they’ve been standing since the first centuries — or even earlier.

    On the first day, we walked around the outside of the Forum and Colosseum. I was overwhelmed with awe, taking in the height and longevity of each ruin. We wandered the little cobblestone streets, and I had my first carbonara at dinner. It was delicious — I appreciated the flavor of freshly made spaghetti, the saltiness of the guanciale, and the richness of the Pecorino Romano cheese and egg yolk. However, cacio e pepe still has my heart.

    The next day, we got up bright and early and headed to Vatican City — which turned out to be a learning lesson: book your tickets in advance! While that should have been obvious (especially with the Jubilee going on), we assumed we could stroll into the Vatican, flash our passports, and enjoy all the sights. That was not the case. We ended up waiting in line for an hour, but thanks to an unstructured queue, we were able to casually filter in without walking back a whole block and wasting the entire day.

    From the museum, the view of the top of Saint Peter’s Basilica was beautiful, and the glimpse I caught of the lush gardens and trees of the city was breathtaking. We then made our way through the Vatican Museums, and this is where I officially decided: I am no longer impressed by history from the 18th century and forward. I am now, officially, a history snob.

    I saw a mummy and artifacts from Ancient Egypt — which was already considered “ancient” during the Roman Empire. The ceiling paintings throughout the museum were jaw-dropping. I kept running into people in front of and behind me because I couldn’t stop looking up in awe.

    We got to delve into the fascinating world of Roman mythology. I saw a gold statue of Hercules and many other stunning sculptures of Roman gods and goddesses. It was incredible to witness the talent of humans from so long ago.

    After hours of swiveling my head in every direction to take in the vast history around me, we finally arrived inside the Sistine Chapel. Seeing the work of Michelangelo was surreal. The detail and vibrancy of the paint covering the walls and ceiling were magical. Since photography is not allowed inside the Sistine Chapel, I was so focused on scanning the room that I completely missed one of the most iconic works of art in the world: the “Creation of Adam” — aka “the hands touching one.” I have to laugh, or I’d be too frustrated with myself… because how did I miss that?! Thankfully, I got a magnet from the gift shop to make up for it.

    After taking in the vibrant tapestries depicting Bible stories, old maps of Italy, and intricate metal and glasswork, we exited the museum and headed to our tour of the Catacombs of St. Callixtus in Rome. Around half a million Christians were buried there, including many martyrs and 16 popes. The catacombs date all the way back to the second half of the 2nd century AD. Another defining moment of my history snob era.

    We toured the second of four levels of the catacombs. I was pleasantly spooked by the chilly air as we descended. While the tombs were empty due to years of historical removals, I still felt the weight of knowing so many people were once laid to rest there. We saw ancient paintings on the walls and discovered chambers where popes had been buried. Overall, it was a fascinating look into the darker side of Roman history.

    After the tour (and two bus rides in the wrong direction), we stumbled across the cutest restaurant: Osteria der Belli. The atmosphere was cozy, and the food was phenomenal. I ordered lamb and artichoke ragu — and my life was changed. The pasta was so fresh and the ragu was perfect. Hands down, my favorite meal in Italy so far.

    On our final day, we explored the inside of the Colosseum, the Forum, and Largo di Torre Argentina — the site where Julius Caesar was assassinated. This was definitely my favorite day. Touching ancient Roman columns that date back to the B.C. era was something I never thought I’d get to do.

    We first explored the Colosseum. Being inside the ruins reminded me what a privilege it is to witness ancient history up close. The fact that people once watched gladiators fight to the death for entertainment felt disturbingly real — not just like something in the movies. I honestly felt a wave of sadness thinking about how many lives were lost there, whether for sport or punishment. I also have a deep appreciation for those in the 19th century who preserved and rebuilt the structure so we could experience it today.

    After the Colosseum, we walked through the Forum. I marveled at the intricate details of the columns and the skill behind each sculpture. When I closed my eyes, I could almost picture the bustling ancient marketplace. I tried to read the Latin inscriptions carved into marble but quickly resorted to the plaques beside the ruins to understand their significance. It’s fascinating to realize how much humans valued visual storytelling, through sculpture, even thousands of years ago.

    Next, we climbed the steps of the Monument to Victor Emmanuel II. While it was built in the late 1800s — modern history compared to the ruins of the Roman Empire — it was still a work of art. The white marble and lavish gold accents were breathtaking, and the view of Rome from the top was unreal. We sat in the shade at the top to gather our strength for the next stop: the cat sanctuary, aka the site where Julius Caesar was stabbed in 44 B.C.

    It’s wild that ruins from one of the most infamous historical events still exist — and that they now host sleepy cats. We couldn’t walk through the ruins, but the cats of Rome could. The contrast between imagining Shakespearean drama and petting purring cats? Surprisingly perfect. Ten out of ten experience.

    To wrap up our final day, we hit the tourist essentials: the Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon, and the Spanish Steps. The Trevi Fountain was stunning — and the aquamarine water was almost too tempting in the 90-degree heat. The Pantheon was another perfect example of ancient Roman craftsmanship and fulfilled my inner elementary school mythology nerd. The Spanish Steps were an intriguing site and a hike we left for the other tourists.

    Rome wasn’t built in a day, but that didn’t stop me from trying to see it all in one! I left the city feeling sentimental, realizing that even thousands of years ago, people just wanted to build beautiful things and tell captivating stories on the big screen (ceilings and walls).

    I visited Lake Como this weekend and will recap my adventures to Cinque Terre and Siena soon! But for now… are you not entertained? (Gladiator reference, obviously).

    Ciao for now,

    Madeline

  • A Taste of Italy: Lessons, Markets, and Moments

    I am amazed by how much I’ve gotten to explore Italy in my first two weeks. Besides Florence, I’ve taken day trips to Cinque Terre, Monteriggioni, Siena, and San Gimignano, and I just spent a weekend visiting Rome and Vatican City!

    Alongside all this travel, I finished my first week of classes — and I have to say, I absolutely love both of them.

    In my Florence Bites class, I’ve already delved into the rich history of Italy, learning about the Etruscans, who were the first important civilization to colonize the Tuscany region, and then moving on to the Roman Empire. We explored the importance of grapes, olives, and wheat to the food system of the Empire.

    I also learned about the significance of Catherina de’ Medici and her influence on the way we approach gastronomy. She introduced “novelties” at the table like the fork, napkin, and individual glass. She also helped shape the early foundations of modern table service, elevating the experience of dining and contributing to the emergence of more formal roles like waiters. She also introduced the sequence of courses by separating sweet from salty — for example, fruit became the closing plate instead of part of the entrée.

    In this class, we visited wine windows throughout Florence and learned that they originated during the Black Plague as a contactless way for people to receive their wine. Thanks to social media and their “Instagrammable” charm, wine windows have made a modern comeback.

    Today, we visited the Mercato Centrale of Florence and had a cheese tasting — it was truly the best cheese I’ve ever had. We sampled cheese made from cow’s, goat’s, and sheep’s milk. Some were aged for months, some were soft and decadent, and others were dry and sharp — all were amazing.

    We were guided by a local cheese and cold cuts vendor at Mercato Centrale in Florence. I loved seeing the friendliness between my professor and the cheese expert, it showed the sense of community within the market. That idea of community was a central part of our lesson and provided me real insight into Italian culture.

    Markets are such an important place to shop here because they allow us to make connections with the people who are providing our food. Food becomes a cultural practice — reflecting the customs, values, and traditions of a place. As my professor put it: “Our choices matter, so choose wisely.”

    Local markets offer us a chance to connect with vendors who are genuinely passionate about their products. They are also serve as a space where regional and traditional recipes are passed down through generations, helping to bridge both cultural and generational gaps.

    I really appreciate the value Italians place on markets and am inspired to shop at my local farmers market when I return to Tennessee!

    As for my Luxury Brand Management class, I’ve gotten to be super creative in my projects. We’ve been analyzing the French luxury brand Jacquemus, exploring everything from its brand identity and business model to its marketing strategy, business proposition, and market insights.

    Our last assignment was to create a cross-industry strategy for Jacquemus’s expansion into the United States. My group developed a collaboration with Alo Yoga to promote modern wellness through the lens of French minimalism and fresh, modern coastal aesthetics.

    We’re now in the process of building a new luxury lifestyle brand that could become a rival to Jacquemus. I’ve honestly felt very “Emily in Paris” while brainstorming creative ideas through the lens of luxury branding.

    Now, nearly two weeks into my study abroad journey, I already feel like I’ve gained valuable lessons that will stay with me long into the future.

    I have so much more to share about my weekend adventures and look forward to giving each destination its own post.

    Stay tuned for Cinque Terre!

    Ciao for now,

    Madeline

  • Ciao, from Florence

    The city is more beautiful than I could have imagined. With each winding cobblestone road, the scent of fresh leather and pasta hits me.

    The city buzzes with Vespa motors, a medley of multilingual conversation and rich Italian history. What once felt like a dream in the far future is now a beautiful reality.

    I can’t help but feel a sense of accomplishment because this opportunity is a result of my hard work and determination. After many hours of scholarship applications, advisor meetings and information sessions with the programs abroad office, this experience stands as a true testament to perseverance and the rewards of chasing your dreams.

    I am eager to learn more about the culture of Florence and the history this city was built on. I will visit museums, explore historical landmarks and ruins, and participate in cultural events. After just one day in this enchanting city, I am overjoyed to improve my cross-cultural communications skills.

    I will be taking two classes during my month-long summer term: “Florence Bites: Understanding a City through Food,” which will immerse me in the cultural significance of Florentine cuisine through experiential learning — gastronomical tasting and site visits (a dream elective!). I will also be taking a “Luxury Brand Management” class which will introduce me to the world of managing luxury fashion and service brands.

    Studying abroad presents so many opportunities to learn more about the world and myself. I will navigate language barriers, adapt to new cultural norms and grow more confident my ability to connect with a different culture. This is a journey of discovery — both internally and externally.

    With exciting weekend and day trips scheduled ahead, exciting new classes on my two favorite topics: food and fashion, a long list of unique vintage stores and countless new restaurants and dishes to try, this blog will capture my Italian adventure of a lifetime.

    So I invite you to follow along as I learn and live in this wonderful country.

    Ciao for now,

    Madeline