Italia // 2012 — some saltwater

Back in the summer of 2012, my family and I embarked on the trip of a lifetime to Italy for a week and a half. It would be our first time to Europe, but I think my dad was the most excited out of all of us to set foot on the motherland's soil. Driving around the Tuscan countryside, eating gelato every single day, seeing all of the iconic landmarks with my own eyes and making memories will always be something I cherish. These are a few of my favorite photos amongst the thousand we took.

Lucca

After a whirlwind arrival, Lucca was one of the first cities we visited. I had never heard of it, but my dad and sister assured me that it was a hidden gem. They were right. This walled city was one of my favorites with yellow homes and large piazzas. It's my dream to live here some day.

Firenze

We had the opportunity to walk around Florence a few times and found something new each visit. Whether it be the black and white striped cathedrals or the beautiful renaissance artwork, we were captivated. This is the famous Il Duomo de Firenze.

Cinque Terre

Hands down one of the hottest days of the trip and we ventured to the Mediterranean to check out this rad coastal city. The pastel colors and classicItalian lifestyle make this one of my favorite places in the world. Plus, we had the most refreshing lemon gelato to cool off.

Pisa

Pisa is one place EVERYONE knows solely because of the Leaning Tower of Pisa. We honestly spent almost two hours taking pictures of the tower, trying to achieve the perfect "I'm holding it up" photo. Afterwards, we climbed the marble spiral staircase to the top and saw all of Pisa and the Tuscan country side.

Roma

Once again, Swiss Family Robinson was on the move, and we saw all of Rome (+ the Vatican) in about 8 hours of the sweltering Italian heat (not something I recommend, but hey you've got to do what you've got to do). I felt like I was time traveling or walking into history book. We went to the Colosseum, Spanish Steps, Sistine Chapel, Forum, and much more. Rome is truly the Eternal City. Here's the Trevi Fountain where I got to live out all of my Lizzie McGuire dreams and vow to return to Italy.