CTEFL – Starting the adventure!

Hi Guys!

So I’ve arrived safely after a long day of travelling. After leaving at 4.30 in the morning, getting to Heathrow, two flights and a short taxi ride, I’m here in my apartment in Florence! The flight from Rome to Florence has to be one of the most beautiful things I have ever seen, though, so it was definitely worth it. It’s a shame that the flight with the prettiest views was the shortest – the flight was allocated 1 hour, and we got from Rome to Florence in 20 minutes ><

I’ve spent the remainder of my day exploring and meeting my classmates – they’re all lovely, and also a little surprised as I’m the only Brit there. The other 11 people in my class are all from the USA, so they’re having a whale of a time with my accent. Luckily a couple of them speak pretty decent Italian, so we aren’t likely to starve while we are out here. Always a bonus. Although after spending the entire day hearing and seeing the language, along with experiencing the country for the first time, my (very) broken Italian is starting to come back! Hurrah! I managed to ask a lady for directions to the school from my apartment, which I was really pleased about as she understood me. In hindsight, it would have helped if I had thought before I asked, as I didn’t understand a word of the response.

 ‘Grazie’. *Hides around the corner and checks Google Maps*.

Also, the apartment is about a ten minute walk from Duomo di Firenze, which is amazing. I don’t think I've ever seen such beautiful architecture. Purely the fact that I've noticed it is a pretty good sign, as normally I don’t really notice that sort of thing, especially when I’m in a foreign country on my own without being able to speak the language and not knowing anyone. It all sounds pretty terrifying, but I reckon it’ll be a great way to find out more about other cultures and new experiences, along with being able to show myself that I can do this sort of thing.

I really can’t get over how much bustle and life the city has – or how friendly everyone is! I've struggled with my Italian a couple of times, and the people I have met up to now seem eager to help me learn, which is fantastic. A quick exasperated look and saying the word in English has caused a few giggles so far when going shopping, however, the giggles have been followed by a polite smile and being told the word in Italian, which seems to be helping it stick.

After a bit of administrative juggling, I’ve been switched across to the intensive programme, giving me a little more time to explore when I finish, which should be nice. Managed to alter my flight too, so direct from Pisa to Stansted, so even more exploring for me! 

Anyways, end of the first day and I already have homework to do – must dash.

Arrivederci!