During the month of February, Shirley Lin and her husband, Yurong, of Wildhorse, along with friends went on a very exciting trip to Italy. A country full of beauty, history, and art, it was the trip of a lifetime!

They visited many places across Italy including the historic streets of Rome, the artistry of Florence and the romantic canals of Venice. The Chen couple highly recommend the ancient ruins of the Roman Forum, St. Peter’s Basilica and breathtaking Sistine Chapel if you are in Rome. Michelangelo’s iconic David and the Leaning Tower of Pisa were their favorite sights in Florence. A gondola ride along the Grand Canal and St. Mark’s square felt like they were out of a fairytale and the islands of Burano and Murano only added to the adventure. 

The food was another highlight of their trip, with a special recommendation for Tenda Rossa in Florence, an amazing steak restaurant. While they thoroughly enjoyed their time in Italy, Rome’s reputation for pickpocketing proved true, with multiple attempts encountered. Fortunately, our awareness prevented any losses of our wallets, IDs or cash, but the experience served as a cautionary tale for future travelers.

Overall, the Chens had an awesome trip with an unforgettable experience. They would gladly return. Her advice? Enjoy the breathtaking sights but stay alert in crowded places. Italy is a dream destination worth experiencing at least once in a lifetime.