Things to do in Italy During the Coronavirus

By Zuhri Sinclair, Senior BA student

Covid-19 has been difficult for people all around the world and has changed the dynamics of how we interact and socialize. As a study abroad student living in Florence, the difference is noticeable in what is available to do around the city and you might even have to get more creative in coming up with activities. While social events have become almost non-existent, this provides the opportunity to discover more parts of Florence that might have gone over one’s head if life was still normal. Since there are very limited indoor activities or places to hang out, I have found myself finding things to do outside, especially now since we are all required to stay at home after 10 pm.

One of the first things I did once quarantine restrictions became more strict is I finally took a trip to Fiesole, a beautiful area outside of the city center. This area is quite popular for its tremendous panoramic views of the city, as well as a quaint town and beautiful hiking paths. The vibe in this area is quite different from that in the center, people seemed more open and my friends and I randomly made conversation with an old Italian woman who briefed us on the history of Fiesole. The trip is a quick and easy excursion, we took the bus from Santa Maria Novella, only about a 20-minute ride and well worth the time, and there is even a gelateria right next to the bus stop upon arrival.

Finally, coronavirus made me rekindle my love for one of my first sports: tennis. Tennis has been my number one sport since age seven, and it turns out to be one of the best sports in the time of coronavirus, where everyone must stay socially distanced. I was lucky enough to meet someone who played tennis and we eventually started to play once to twice a week. The tennis courts I discovered can be found right behind Piazzale Michelangelo and are called Terrazze Michelangelo. There are two courts connected to a pizzeria and bar, so after tennis, you can grab a bite to eat. You can even schedule night sessions which give a unique and professional atmosphere to the activity. Courts can be reserved for about ten euros an hour and racquets can also be reserved. Even for someone who has never played tennis before, this quarantine time of our lives lets us try new things that could potentially become a new hobby.

In essence, coronavirus does not mean an end to the study experience in Italy. In fact, it has created opportunities to explore unconventional aspects of the city that could effectively give you a new understanding of the Italian culture.