april 2024
April was an extraordinary month! Full of trips, important decisions, and new beginnings. The last two are a bit difficult to analyze at this point because they are in progress and I need some valuable time to digest so much new information. So, I would rather stick with the fun part of the month, the trips.
To celebrate Dora’s name day and take a much-needed break, we decided to visit Bologna for the first time, and what a perfect idea it was! The truth is that I always wanted to visit Bologna and the reason is the rich history, the great culture and of course the FOOD! It was a 4-day trip but due to the size of the city, it was more than enough to get the feeling of belonging.
Bologna, located in the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy, is a historic city known for well-preserved medieval architecture, and a prestigious university (the oldest in the Western world) that beautifully contrasts with the modern buzz of the city center. Although the old town is very picturesque and full of wonderful attractions, and it is kind of inevitable not to get crowded, somehow it has a different vibe from the classic Western tourist towns. Bologna's rich cultural heritage is evident in its numerous art galleries, museums, and annual festivals, attracting visitors from around the world. Due to the many students, the city provides a vibrant and diverse nightlife which calls you to explore. From trendy bars and cozy cafes to pulsating nightclubs, students mingle with locals and tourists, creating a dynamic mix of people. The historic streets come alive after dark, with live music echoing through the cobblestone alleys.
Now the FOOD. Bologna, renowned for its rich culinary tradition, boasts a gastronomic scene deeply rooted in Italian heritage. Walking through the narrow streets, visitors are greeted with charming cafes, artisan shops, and bustling markets offering an array of local delicacies, and the aroma of delicious street food tempting passersby. The food is literally everywhere! From fresh handmade pasta dishes like tagliatelle al ragù and tortellini en brodo, to the celebration of cured meats like the famous mortadella, each day in Bologna is a constant fight with carbs! Spoiler alert I lost emphatically!
In conclusion, the trip to Bologna was a very pleasant surprise. When you come back from a trip and you have a feeling of unfinished business with that place, it is something special.
I raise my glass of Negroni and I salute la Dotta, la Grassa, la Rossa. To be continued!