More pictures from Ferrara!!!! Sadly no Ferrari

When I say Ferrara you say Ferrari!

Today, I woke up to cloudy weather here in Padova, but that did not stop me from taking a little day trip to a neighboring city... I thought that Venice would also be cloudy, and therefore had to forfeit my option of venturing out to the Venetian Islands, more specifically Torcello, which houses the oldest building (Cathedral, if you want to be exact,) in the entire island chain. having been constructed in AD 639. My second option was Bassano Del Grappa, but I have already been there and decided I should probably go somewhere new... Where other than Ferrara, however I wasn't looking into buying a Ferrari nor would I think it would be a good investment at the moment.

At first when I walked out of the station I think I said "cavolo" but who really cares. It seemed like a dump. However, once I followed the signs to centro and after a 20 minute walk I was in complete awe!

The city center was elaborate, vibrant and maintained it's own personality; one that was warm and welcoming. I have never really seen such beauty prior. However, small, the city had a lot to offer and see. From the welcoming side streets to pedestrian ally-ways, to the Duomo, to the Castle and of course to the food. Sadly, I didn't eat a memorable meal here.. just a pizza. Bummer, because Emilia Romagna is the region known for it's food! This is a city I will definitely have to take my parents to for the weekend. I know they would appreciate it for the food, art, and personality that it endures.

Ferrara maintained a hustle bustle feel similar to that of Padova on a typical Saturday as it is another University town. However, the climate was much warmer and graize dio, the sun was out.

So a lot has happened since my last post. Therefore, I need to update everyone on my adventures in Padova and of course Italy. Since my return I really haven't ventured outside the city yet, as I have been sedulously studying for the GRE on top of working in the lab. However, i am not locking myself inside like I did in college to torture myself to the bone. I am in Italy and I need to take advantage of my location and opportunities.

Last week was my friends birthday so we all went out to local Spanish joint outside of Padova in Salvezzano. A small town near Abano Terme. There we had the feast that never ended. Despite being served tiny portions, I must all in all the night was wonderful! What better to spend it then with friends? So after the 15 course meal... that's absolutely right! Your eyes aren't playing tricks on you! 15 courses! That's probably the biggest dinner I have ever had in my entire life!

The other night I decided to venture out into town to grab a bite to eat after contemplating what I was to do... Cook my own dinner, or be spontaneous and grab a bite to eat at an Osteria (Osteria Fabbri)
To be honest, I actually enjoyed eating out at the local Osteria. The food was great, and the environment was warm and welcoming. Nestled in the Ghetto, this Osteria offered a wide variety of selections. I however had the Lard and cooked rabbit with a balsamic reduction glaze sauce. Fantastic!

Now it is spring time in Padova, and the allergies are beginning to get me. Pretty soon they mutate and attack me head on....... Just like at F&M.I just need to survive through April 9th and assuming that all goes according to plan, and I don't bomb the GRE, it should all be smooth sailing from then on out. I would just need to write my essays, which would not be a problem! I love writing!

I am looking forward to the coming weeks! For Easter, I am going to Luzern, then I will be in Milano the following week for the GRE, then heading up (maybe) to Lugano, Switzerland for the night on Saturday, and then my friend comes to Padova to visit!

So I just recently returned to Padova after an unexpected 2 week trip home which I prefer not to get into. My first few days back I spent battling the infamous jet-lag that accompanies any trans-atlantic flight. Basically, I just vegged and ventured off into the city to purchase all the necessities such as food (something we all know I can't live without.) The past few days have been gorgeous; sunny and warm! To make matters even better, there is more day light! Finally, I can leave work at 6pm/7pm and still see the sun! It's amazing!

I am very happy to be back, and I am looking forward to seeing my friends and colleagues again! 
There are more adventures planned and more outings with friends! I am keeping this blog short because I am currently studying for the GRE which I take in 2 weeks! I have already been able to increase my math score by over 100 points! Now, if only I can repeat that on the test day! haha