As a student in biology, I’ve always felt a great curiosity to explore the world; and Italy, with its rich history, art, and culture, has always fascinated me. That’s why, after finishing my degree and working for a few years, feeling a strong urge for change and challenge, I decided to take the leap and study abroad in Italy.
I was already fascinated by the country during a summer trip in 2023, and enchanted by the style of life, I knew I had to return. That’s when I discovered Italianforawhile and their welcoming community. I knew I wanted to immerse myself in a new environment and learn Italian (a language I’ve always wanted to speak); however it was only thanks to their help that I finally set my heart on a destination: Milan—a city that beautifully blends modernity and tradition. And, always with their help, I decided to stay for four full months, as I thought it would be a perfect length of time to start learning Italian.
One of the most delightful discoveries during my time in Milan was the aperitivo, a cherished Italian tradition involving gathering in the early evening to enjoy drinks and light snacks, creating a perfect prelude to dinner. We could say that this tradition is not just about food and drink; it's an authentic social ritual that fosters connection and relaxation. And as the tradition is deeply ingrained in the city’s rhythm, I found myself quickly embracing it as a daily highlight.
In the Brera district, close to my Italian language school, I almost immediately discovered Bauscia. This charming spot, with its unique blend of old charm and contemporary life, soon became one of my favorites. The warm environment, together with the delicious food and perfectly crafted cocktails make it an ideal place to unwind after a long day studying or working.
Whether enjoying a glass of Spritz or savoring a plate of bruschetta, Bauscia has always provided me with an authentic aperitivo experience and quickly became a staple of my evenings in Milan, allowing me to immerse myself fully in this beloved Milanese tradition.
Another gem I discovered in Milan was Bar Brera. This café, also situated in the heart of the Brera district, has a charming and vibrant atmosphere. Its prime location amidst cobblestone streets and historic buildings adds to its appeal, and I often found myself sitting outside, enjoying breakfast or aperitivo while watching the world go by.
As a real social hub where locals and tourists alike gather to enjoy the lively atmosphere, the café soon became a favorite spot for me and my friends. Speaking Italian with the locals and sharing stories with friends made every visit memorable!
Choosing to study in Italy, specifically Milan, turned out to be a life-changing decision. While the fast-paced life of a metropolis can seem overwhelming compared to smaller countryside or seaside towns, the warmth of the people and the richness of traditions left a lasting impact on me. My Italian lessons weren’t just about mastering the language—they were about understanding the culture and building connections.
The first few weeks in Milan were challenging, as I missed my friends and family back home, but they were also incredibly transformative. I had to relearn how to navigate life in a new place, and it felt like being born again in some ways—a beautiful moment of growth and rediscovery. Over time, I built a solid foundation in Italian and developed friendships that will last a lifetime. Traveling around Italy with these new friends has become one of the highlights of my journey, boosting my confidence in ways I never expected.
Looking back, I’m immensely grateful for the adventure and countless lessons I’ve learned—both language-wise and life-wise—during my time in Milan. The experience has broadened my horizons and deepened my appreciation for Italian culture. And the memories of aperitivo evenings at Bauscia and leisurely afternoons at Bar Brera will always hold a special place in my heart.
But my journey in Milan is far from over. In fact, I’ve decided to extend my stay because I love it so much! This experience has been transformative, and I look forward to making even more memories and continuing to immerse myself in the Italian way of life.
If I had one piece of advice for anyone considering a similar move, it would be to take that leap of faith and trust your instincts. Life truly is about experiences and relationships, and I can’t think of a better way to enhance both than by spending time abroad in a place as beautiful as Italy.
Take your chance and shape your future in the “Bel Paese”!
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