Living in Florence for a semester taught me so much more than I expected—not just through classes, but through the everyday details of life in Italy. Some of the most meaningful lessons came from observing the small differences in daily routines, stores, and even public transportation.

One of the first things that caught my attention was the pharmacies. Unlike in the U.S., where pharmacies often feel like a mix between a convenience store and a clinic, pharmacies in Florence were focused almost entirely on health and beauty. They had entire sections dedicated to sunscreen and skincare, along with a wide range of makeup products, but very little in the way of food or snacks. Their over-the-counter medications were also quite different from what I’m used to in the States. The selection was much slimmer, and the medications themselves contained different ingredients, making them noticeably less effective compared to the brands we rely on in the U.S. This really made me think about how much regional regulations and formulations shape our expectations when it comes to healthcare products.

Grocery shopping was another experience that felt both refreshing and eye-opening. Instead of aisles packed with canned goods or pre-made frozen meals, the stores in Florence were filled with fresh produce, meats, and eggs. I was surprised to see that eggs were unrefrigerated—something I had never encountered before. Prices for fresh fruit, vegetables, and meat were also much more affordable than in the U.S., and everything felt centered around freshness and quality. While they didn’t have the wide selection of frozen dinners that we’re used to, they offered pre-packaged pasta, which still felt more aligned with fresh, home-cooked meals than the highly processed options I often see back home.

Another detail that stood out to me was transportation. The train system in Italy made traveling on weekends so simple and affordable. It gave me the chance to explore new cities, experience different regions, and feel more connected to the country as a whole. I couldn’t help but wish that the U.S. had a similar system—one that made it easier and more affordable to visit loved ones or discover new places without the stress and expense of long drives or flights.

These small differences taught me to notice the systems and habits that shape how we live. Things like how we shop, how we travel, and even how we access basic healthcare products say a lot about cultural priorities. For me, Florence was not only beautiful for its art and architecture but for the perspective it gave me on the everyday choices that define our lives.