My First International Adventure: Flying from Boston, USA to Florence, Italy

Aug 3, 2024

5 min read

I had the incredible chance to study abroad through my university. Never having left the United States and recently acquiring my passport, I jumped at the opportunity. Initially, I considered going to Japan 🇯🇵, but a friend suggested Italy 🇮🇹, and I’m so glad I listened! I chose a three-week program in Florence that was nothing short of magical 🌟. Immersing myself in a different culture, trying authentic Italian cuisine 🍝, and wandering through centuries-old streets was a dream come true!

Traveling abroad for the first time was a thrilling experience filled with anticipation and excitement. From the moment I boarded my flight in Boston to my arrival at my apartment in Florence, every step was a memorable adventure. This post is a glimpse into my journey, sharing the highlights of my travels and the first impressions of my arrival in Italy.

The Journey Begins: Boston’s Logan Airport

My adventure started at Logan Airport in Boston, Massachusetts, where I arrived three hours early. The airport was busier than usual, with families camped on air mattresses 🛏️ lining the entrance. Check-in was smooth, and flags from various countries decorated the ceiling. Flying business class on Swiss Airlines, I was permitted two carry-ons and two checked bags 🧳.

I checked one bag and brought two others as carry-ons. Security was fast because I had the Clear Pass and didn’t have to take any electronics out of my bags. I had forgotten my laptop 💻 at home, but once through the security check, I reluctantly purchased a new iPad from the iStore in Terminal E. Money exchange was easy since I ordered a small amount of euros 💶 a few days in advance through ICE Terminal E.

The premium business class experience began before takeoff with access to the exclusive Lufthansa Lounge in Boston. The lounge offered a peaceful environment to relax and unwind before my long flight. The receptionist confirmed that my suitcase had been brought to the carrier, easing any worries about lost luggage. I enjoyed free wi-fi, food, and a glass of wine 🍷 before leaving through a private exit to board the plane ✈️.

My flight from Boston to Zurich was lovely. In my next post, I’ll discuss my experience with Swiss Airlines Business Class in more detail. But for now, I must mention that lying down and sleeping on a 10-hour overnight flight was SO worth it 😴.

A Layover in Zurich

The layover at Zurich Airport was pleasant. I went through customs and told them I was studying in Florence for three weeks and got through with no problem. Since it was only a three-week program, I did not need a visa. I stopped at the first store I saw and bought a Swiss Army knife... when in Rome! The cashier asked me where I was from and warned me to put it in my checked luggage on my way home or they would confiscate it at security 🛡️.

Again, I had the privilege of accessing the Lufthansa Lounge in Terminal A, where I could refresh and enjoy some delicious Swiss treats ☕️. The bathrooms were clean and private, allowing me to freshen up after my 10-hour flight/nap. The lounge’s amenities made the time fly by, and after a short layover, a slight delay, and a shuttle bus ride across the runway, I was boarding my next flight.

Arriving in Florence: Amerigo Vespucci Airport

The 1-hour flight from Zurich to Florence was quick and easy compared to the flight from Boston, but it was filled with spectacular views 🌄. I gazed at Switzerland’s beautiful hills and green landscape below. As the plane descended towards Amerigo Vespucci Airport, I surged with excitement as I imagined what Italy would be like.

Upon arrival, a representative from my school was there to greet me. At first, she was hard to find, and I got a little nervous that they had forgotten about me. Most of the school reps held up signs, but mine only had a bright red shirt with the University logo (which I wasn’t too familiar with yet). She greeted me in English with a warm welcome 🤗 and escorted me back to my apartment. Since I was the only student from the program on my flight, I had an entire van to myself. For most of the ride, she spoke in Italian with the driver, and I finally downloaded a translator app called DeepL 🗣️ to pick up bits and pieces of what they were saying.

Settling In

I arrived in Florence on Sunday, June 2, smack dab in the middle of Calcio Storico Fiorentino. This tournament blends soccer ⚽, rugby 🏉, and wrestling 🤼‍♂️ with players wearing 16th-century costumes. My apartment was down the street from Santa Croce, where the tournament was held. The street was blocked from traffic, so we had to walk a short distance. All the excitement from the game just added to my own. I couldn’t wait to start exploring the cobblestone streets, historical sites 🏛️, and, of course, the incredible food 🍕!

I finally arrived at my apartment on Corso dei Tintori, right in the heart of Florence. Across the street from the lovely Champagneria 🥂 and next door to my class’ meeting point, it offered a cozy base for my adventures in one of the most beautiful cities in the world. There were a couple of flights of stairs up to my apartment, but the building had a small elevator to alleviate some of the struggles with my luggage. After helping me figure out how to open my door with an ancient-looking key 🔑, the school rep bid me farewell. I was now on my own and ready to start my Italian adventures!

Stay tuned for more information on the apartment, Corso dei Tintori 19—Chiara, in a future blog!

The first part of my journey was an incredible experience. Every moment was unforgettable, from the luxurious flights ✈️ to the warm welcome in Florence. This trip began an exciting chapter in my life, filled with learning, exploration, and countless memories 💫.

Stay tuned for more posts about my time in Florence, including tips on the best places to eat 🍝, visit 🏛️, and experience within this enchanting city!

Tips for future travelers

Plan Ahead: Ensure you have all necessary documents, including passports and visas, well in advance. I keep mine in a separate pocket of a carry-on for easy access.
Pack Wisely: Keep your essentials in your carry-on and adhere to airline baggage policies. Try not to overpack, and save room for souvenirs!
Dress Comfortably: Wear layers to accommodate different temperature changes. Also, make sure to have comfortable shoes! (Birkenstock is my go-to.) When wearing sandals, I also like to bring socks so I don't have to go through security barefoot.
Watch Layovers: Pay attention to when your layover starts boarding, and don't get too distracted by airport activities. You could potentially miss your flight! In my next blog, read about how I almost missed my layover.
Stay Calm: Traveling can be stressful, but a positive attitude and patience can make the journey smoother.