Siena + San Gimignano

Romper (similar)-Anthropologie// Sweater- Forever 21

If I could describe the atmosphere in Florence I would definitely say its much like New York. Very busy streets, a lot going on and shops lining every corner. Although I love the big city feel and hustle and bustle of Florence, it was refreshing to take a day trip to Sienna and San Gimignano to get a taste of the small town feel of Italy. Since both towns were quite small, there wasn’t a whole lot to do other than shopping and eating (which are actually my two favorite things so I’m not complaining). However, I really enjoyed just exploring the towns and taking in all of their beauty. In Sienna I had the most amazing lasagna, made by the cutest mother and daughter. Even though that was probably the best food I have had in Italy yet, I actually like San Gimignano better because it gave me more of a homey feel (and I also had the most amazing gelato of my life so you know that might have swayed my opinion too). If you get a chance I would highly recommend visiting either of these two cities. Xoxo Kendall

The Boboli Gardens

Romper-Free People// Sweater- Free People

If you want to feel like a fairytale princess, you must go to the Boboli Gardens at the Piti Palace. The greenery is perfectly sculpted, the flowers are beautifully bloomed and the view is unreal. If it wasn’t 10 euros, I would go there everyday to read a book and have a picnic on the lawn. Its just one of those places that makes you feel so relaxed. If I were here for longer, I would definitely make a trip back. Xoxo Kendall

Cinque Terre: Day Two!

Bathing suit- Free People top+Victoria's Secret Bottoms// Dress (similar)- Free People// Sunglasses- Ray Bans

Since we pretty much walked (and ate) all day Saturday, there was a mutual agreement amongst the group that we could use a day of relaxing by the water. Since Monterosso had the largest beach area, we headed there first. Our day was filled with rock climbing, beach laying, stuffing face and pina coladas! It was nice to enjoy a day at the beach because, for us Floridians, it felt like a little piece of home (especially since we were all missing our momma’s this Mother’s Day, Love you mom!). We met the nicest Italian man on the rock we swam out to. He told us about how at our age he was fearless and would jump off of the rocks head first into the water. What he said really got me thinking about how much being afraid affects our lives. I really want to make a conscious effort to try new things without a paralyzing fear of the what ifs. After one week I have already learned so much about myself from this culture and these people. I can’t wait to see what’s to come! Xoxo Kendall

Cinque Terre: Day One!

Kimono (similar)- Forever 21// Shorts- Vintage// Top- Free People 

My first free weekend in Italy was spent at the most beautiful place on Earth, Cinque Terre! These five villages along the west coast of Italy are filled with beautiful beaches, hiking trails, vibrant towns and lots of water! The first day we arrived, we checked into our hotel and quickly headed over to the train to begin our adventures in the first town, Riomaggiore. I absolutely loved Riomaggiore because of the waterfront views and colorful buildings. Although very few people spoke English, everyone was so much friendlier than in Florence. After eating at a hilltop restaurant and exploring the town, we headed over to Monterosso Al Mare, which is the farthest town. This town had more of a resort style vibe with a huge beach surrounded by greenery. Since it was starting to get late (and very cold!) we stopped at Vernazza (the second to last town) and ate a quick dinner overlooking a boat pier before heading to La Spezia, where our hotel was.