Shirley Tandy
Reflection no. 2
June 8, 2017

The prices in Italy were a shock to me.  I would never pay for water and a sprite costing three euros was absurd to me. Paying to use a restroom was unusual also and it irritated me a bit. I had to realize that this is how they bring in their income. It is their livelihood. Nothing comes for free but at a price. We are privileged in the states to have accommodations and lower costs in the states. I am accustomed to having basic needs such as water and access to a restroom given to me. I did not think you could put a price on those items but they do in Italy.

I am a religious person but not of catholic faith but visiting the churches was emotionally in a way. I would close my eyes and imagine how a service would be in such an amazing place.  It was interesting to see how people admired and worshipped in the earlier centuries. The décor of St. Mark’s Basilica was breath taking and the images do not do it justice. The fine details of the mosaics, the Pala d’Oro and exterior were a sight to see.

The Italian lake country was my favorite out of the three locations we visited in the last few days.  I enjoyed the water taxi and speeding across the lake. Verona was a bucket list item because of Romeo and Juliet. Shakespeare’s love story along with other locations such ads the amphitheater brings in so much tourism to contribute to area. Like Verona, I did not like the crowds of Venice.  I thought it took away the authenticity of the city.  Venice is slowly sinking and water levels are rising. I wonder what the city will look like in fifty years if this problem is not controlled. 

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