Pisa & Livorno

by Lauren

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I recently had the privilege to meet up with one of my favorite people, my middle school math teacher, and one of my mom’s best friends in Livorno, Italy. We had a blast and I absolutely fell in love with Italy and her family!

Livorno is rich in history, and is home to multiple churches that may be unassuming on the outside, but are full of grandeur on the inside. I had the treat of an impromptu tour with Mrs. Azmoudeh’s brother, Karim, who showed us the highlights of the incredible churches in Livorno.

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Ricola Land: Zermatt, Switzerland

by Lauren

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Almost everyone in my senior class of high school new that I had a bit of a cough drop addiction. I don’t know why, but they were delicious and I ate them like candy. In high school, I was all about Hall’s Cherry cough drops. Since then, I’ve moved onwards and upwards to Ricola Honey Lemon cough drops. Yum!

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Laduree-Land: Monaco

by Lauren

Is anyone else totally in love with the pastels, bright white, and gold trend going on this summer? Or, alternatively, the vibrant neon color trend? Personally, I can’t choose which one I like better. But summer colors and trends are my absolute favorite! Recently, I visited Monaco, a tiny country along the southern coast of France (an easy breezy 20 minute train ride from Nice), and I am convinced that this country has unintentionally (or maybe intentionally, who knows) created a kick-ass color scheme that makes is absolutely stunning and incredible to visit, especially in the summer. Seriously, go to Monaco and simply feast your eyes upon the beauty.

The country is small and definitely walkable, but there is a hop on/hop off bus option, as well as local buses if your feet are complaining a bit too much. However, Monaco is a great place for simply strolling along the waterfront or getting lost in tiny allies with little shops while eating gelato (the gelato is an important part!).

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