What were you grateful for this week?The company of new friends. 

What was the most challenging part of this week?Navigating a new city. 

Tell us about a “wow” moment you had this week.My host family left for the week. On Friday the house maid left for the day then came right back moments after. She was concerned about what I would eat while they were gone, she stayed to give me suggestions on what to make. I thought it was so kind and so thoughtful of her! 

Tell us about your week!I’ve really wanted to go to Sperlonga since I’ve been out here. I planned to go last weekend but decided to stay in because I had the flu. So I bought my train ticket in advance for this upcoming weekend. I told another [Rome Abroad Traveler] (E) about it and invited her to come along. When I planned this out the weather was looking to be clear skies and warm temperatures! Approaching the weekend, the weather had a dramatic turn. High winds and cloudy skies, I started to become a bit intimidated by the inauspicious forecast. However, we still decided to give it a shot! We had a peaceful train ride along the countryside. I was so impressed by E’s Italian. She and another passenger conversed the whole time. It was lovely to witness the conversation! Upon arrival it was very windy but tolerable. We decided to wander around the villas along hill. Wow! What an enchanting place. It was so beautiful each corner offered something new to marvel at. The white-washed walls, green moss and small views of the beachfront was something out of a dream. E and I enjoyed a meal, walked along the beach and of course made another round through the villas, this time with gelato. I am very thankful for her company, it made for a memorable day!