Day 37

Today was pretty busy; we had our "finals" and evaluations for the program. I was very honest in my evaluation of AIFS...this summer was much different than last summer in Paris because of AIFS. In some ways it was better, but I think I probably would have been more comfortable in Paris. I'm actually ready to get home, and I was far from ready last summer. I'm even all packed up a day early. Hailey and I did that on purpose though, because we plan on going to see the David, Santa Croce, and the Ferragamo museum all day tomorrow. There's still a lot that I didn't get to do in Florence, but there's always next summer!

I really did enjoy my ULL classes this summer even if AIFS was terrible. Being able to learn about management and business practices while in another country was a really unique experience. We were able to compare the differences (especially in the food industry) firsthand. The main differences were clearly in the service we received, because tips aren't required here. And the salespeople here are a lot more pushy than at home, which is kind of uncomfortable for me. I guess they're kind of like those weird people that work at the kiosks in the mall that try to put lotion on you...but I'm not comfortable with them either.

Other than that, it was pretty easy to navigate the businesses here. I don't think I got ripped off or anything, but I guess I could have been had I not haggled...I guess it's just because it's what I'm used to, but I definitely prefer the service and business practices in the states.

Yeah, I'm so ready to come home!!

Love and Miss Y'all!
Allie