by Laura Noges
Laura is one of the recent recipients of a language study scholarship from the Umbra Institute of Perugia, scholarship partner of the Seattle Perugia Sister City Association.
After a long spring semester of choosing, applying for, and preparing for a fall semester abroad in Perugia, Italy, by the time August 30th, 2007 rolled around and I was boarding the transatlantic flight from New York, I was stoked with excitement. I mean, what can I expect when I step off this airborne mode of transportation in such an ancient and historic city as Rome? Boy was I in for a surprise. I was also in for the time of my life.
Upon arriving at my 3rd story apartment in the outskirts of Perugia centro, I immediately set off on foot to explore the small Etruscan town. Who knew that one of the first pizzerias I passed, Pizza e Musica, that is tucked away in quite an obscure alleyway, would soon become one of my favorite places in all of Italy. From day one, I began building a deep and intimate relationship with this Italian town that would be my home for the next 4 months. It is nearly impossible to describe the pleasure I had from getting acquainted with all aspects of Perugia: the shops on the main strip, the peculiar characters of the city, and the delicious and well-priced bakeries on every corner. Perugia is truly something you have to experience for yourself; no reading of Rick Steeves’ guide book can substitute walking around the real thing. Hopefully, you can pay Perugia a visit soon.
Laura
Making pizza in Perugia.
