How many of the tourist attractions in your own backyard have you vsisted? If you’re anything like me, I’d guess not many. I lived in Oxford for 10 years and visited a grand total of one college. To me, it was just home. Home which meant PJs and gardening and friends at the weekend, not queuing up with the tourist throngs.
As an expat, however, things are a little different. Since we arrived in Italy (nearly four years ago now!) we’ve always tried to “make the most of it” and do stuff. Because the flat we were renting felt a little too empty, a little too lonely, at least at first. Because we know are very likely to move on eventually. Because, though we may not be in picturesque Tuscany, Italy really is as beautiful as they say. Because the trains are just so cheap and reliable when you’re used to the horrors of British public transport. Because, most of all, exploring the unknown without any sort of agenda other than “let’s see what fascinatingly Italian stuff we can find” is the greatest perk of being an expat.
And so it was on Sunday, while the summer warmth gave its last hurrah, that we hopped on a train to Monza Park.
As an expat, however, things are a little different. Since we arrived in Italy (nearly four years ago now!) we’ve always tried to “make the most of it” and do stuff. Because the flat we were renting felt a little too empty, a little too lonely, at least at first. Because we know are very likely to move on eventually. Because, though we may not be in picturesque Tuscany, Italy really is as beautiful as they say. Because the trains are just so cheap and reliable when you’re used to the horrors of British public transport. Because, most of all, exploring the unknown without any sort of agenda other than “let’s see what fascinatingly Italian stuff we can find” is the greatest perk of being an expat.
And so it was on Sunday, while the summer warmth gave its last hurrah, that we hopped on a train to Monza Park.
To Mr. P&P and I:
Respite from the city, a little sun on our backs, a first glimpse of the colours of autumn.
Respite from the city, a little sun on our backs, a first glimpse of the colours of autumn.
To the Bean:
A thoroughly fun afternoon rounded off with the treatiest of treats, ice cream.
A thoroughly fun afternoon rounded off with the treatiest of treats, ice cream.
To Mr. P&P and I:
A very cultural afternoon at the Villa Reale…
Okay fine - we skipped the exhibits and headed straight down to the bar for ice cream.
But isn’t it the most stylish and Italian of bars?!
A very cultural afternoon at the Villa Reale…
Okay fine - we skipped the exhibits and headed straight down to the bar for ice cream.
But isn’t it the most stylish and Italian of bars?!
And to you, should you ever be in the area:
