Does anyone have any advice for visiting children or grandchildren while they are taking a semester in Florence? We have no clue where they are staying and obviously they will be busy during the day, but do they have time for a dinner or a day trip? Just wondering how much time I should set aside to visit with them. This wasn't a thing back when I was in school. Any information will be helpful. Don't worry I have more than enough things I want to do to keep myself busy, but it would be nice to spend some time with the student.
Posted by
Tresana, Highlands Ranch, CO, USA
23574 posts
First, I would try to visit when they were on a scheduled break or holiday. Probably would not have time for a day trip but evenings should be OK and sometimes morning breakfasts. Ask them to lay out a schedule for you with regard to their free time. Put their address in goggle maps for a feeling of where they are in Florence.
When we visited our son in Madrid it was more complicated because the university had arranged for internships with local businesses. So his free non-class time was occupied with other activities. Also we were requested to bring an empty suitcase so he could return all of his "American" clothes. We visited over his spring break. For us it worked well.
Posted by
New Orleans
1215 posts
As a mom who visited each of my three when they were each studying in Europe for a semester (Denmark, London, Denmark), here's my two cents: First, involve them in the planning. They might have only 4 days of classes each week, or have other unusual schedules. Also, they may have outings with friends, or class field trips, that would take them out of Florence for a day or two or more. Knowing when they are available - and not studying for mid-terms, etc, - will make it easier for all of you to plan dinners, outings, etc. I also experienced that my three were each very glad to be taken out to a restaurant for dinner, or to a music event, etc., on my cc. Also, it might be that yours have a mid-term break or a long holiday while you are there that would make it possible to have a trip together out of Florence. I planned my trip to visit my daughter in London around a 4-day autumn school holiday of hers. She had long wanted to visit Pompeii, so we took a quick evening flight to Naples, spent 3 nights there, and then I flew home and she flew back to London. With so many wonderful places to visit within a quick flight of Florence - or quick train trip from Florence - it might be that a long weekend with your student in a different locale might be a real treat for you all.
Posted by
OP
Florida
26 posts
Thank You for your tips! I will look more closely at the class schedule. And definitely ask what is needed from the US before visiting. Thanks for the good advice.