Italy

If you are in Tuscany in the summer months, try to make it to Siena to see Il Palio. Il Palio is a horse race that takes place between different neighborhoods in Siena. There is a lot at stake for the participants and locals- pride and MONEY (major betting).

Attending the race is free if you stand in the middle of Il Campo with thousands of other spectators (which is part of the experience). Get there early to save a spot along the track. If you plan to stay the night, be sure to book accomodations in advance because all places will be complete well before the date.

The race is an intense and emotional experience. The race involves a lot of tradition and ceremony. What I felt surprised me. Watching locals respond is also rather interesting. I was standing near a guy who was shaking with anticipation and crying before the race even began.

The night after the race is also loads of fun. People from the winning neighborhood parade around town singing, cheering, and playing music. This only becomes more entertaining as they become more and more intoxicated. The energy of the whole experience is off the charts. DO NOT MISS IT!

In the August craziness of Italy travel, I decided to stop in Verona on my way from Firenze to Venezia. It is so worth it. Though it is still busy at that time of year, it is a little quieter and more intimate an experience. Juliet’s house is a cool place to visit, mostly to read the love messages left by people from all over the world. There are some lovely piazze and the view from the bridges of the river is so nice. (I sat on the ledge at sunset and wrote my postcards. PERFECT!!!)

There is a hostel there that is an old villa. The rooms have many beds, but it is still a pretty cool place to stay.

Lastly, and most importantly, there is a colosseum in Verona. In the summer months (except for Mondays, I think) you can see an opera performed in the Colosseum!