I consider myself an "urban tourist" since I love exploring new cities and neighbourhoods and really experiencing what life in that place would be like if I lived there. That is fun!
I also like going to those must see spots, maybe out of FOMO, or just because I have the opportunity to be there, so, why not! So having a sandwich from the Antico Vinaio situated just behind The Uffizi Gallery in Florence was an experience and doing so at around 6:00 PM on a Tuesday in February was exactly the right time to do so, for precisely the reasons that you mention in your Greece experience - there were no crowds, no lineups, I got to talk to the sandwich maker and try a few different "samples" and take a few pictures without getting in anyone's way. So those normally crowded places can be enjoyed without the discomfort that you might normally associate with those locations. I've had similar experiences at The Accademia, viewing The David, at the Pitti Palace, experiencing the royal apartments and in other locations and famous places in Vietnam, Peru and many other countries and cities around the globe. My idea of a great afternoon is to get lost in a new neighbourhood, in a city that I'm not overly familiar with, and, at some point, just siting, with a cold or hot drink and watching the world go by and really seeing what life looks like for locals and visitors alike.
The other side of travel is my experience visiting the Val d'Orica region of Tuscany last March. Rather than going from town to town and walking the streets or touring through local landmarks, I was treated to half a dozen amazing experiences that I would not have had as an urban tourist. At the same time, I was able to spend time in several amazing Tuscan towns, including some that are not likely part of most itineraries. It was an special and unforgettable experience that created new friends and incredible memories.
Hi Ken! I totally agree with you, seeing the must-see places during the low season is the best thing you can do. February in Florence is truly the perfect month for that. People tend to be afraid of the weather in winter, but actually, it’s often sunny with a gorgeous blue sky. I’m so glad you got to enjoy the famous panino without waiting in line for two hours! I’m sure the food would’ve tasted the same, but the experience would’ve been very different. I also love the idea of getting lost in a neighborhood, it’s what the French call being a flâneur. No rush or expectations, just wander!
I consider myself an "urban tourist" since I love exploring new cities and neighbourhoods and really experiencing what life in that place would be like if I lived there. That is fun!
I also like going to those must see spots, maybe out of FOMO, or just because I have the opportunity to be there, so, why not! So having a sandwich from the Antico Vinaio situated just behind The Uffizi Gallery in Florence was an experience and doing so at around 6:00 PM on a Tuesday in February was exactly the right time to do so, for precisely the reasons that you mention in your Greece experience - there were no crowds, no lineups, I got to talk to the sandwich maker and try a few different "samples" and take a few pictures without getting in anyone's way. So those normally crowded places can be enjoyed without the discomfort that you might normally associate with those locations. I've had similar experiences at The Accademia, viewing The David, at the Pitti Palace, experiencing the royal apartments and in other locations and famous places in Vietnam, Peru and many other countries and cities around the globe. My idea of a great afternoon is to get lost in a new neighbourhood, in a city that I'm not overly familiar with, and, at some point, just siting, with a cold or hot drink and watching the world go by and really seeing what life looks like for locals and visitors alike.
The other side of travel is my experience visiting the Val d'Orica region of Tuscany last March. Rather than going from town to town and walking the streets or touring through local landmarks, I was treated to half a dozen amazing experiences that I would not have had as an urban tourist. At the same time, I was able to spend time in several amazing Tuscan towns, including some that are not likely part of most itineraries. It was an special and unforgettable experience that created new friends and incredible memories.
Hi Ken! I totally agree with you, seeing the must-see places during the low season is the best thing you can do. February in Florence is truly the perfect month for that. People tend to be afraid of the weather in winter, but actually, it’s often sunny with a gorgeous blue sky. I’m so glad you got to enjoy the famous panino without waiting in line for two hours! I’m sure the food would’ve tasted the same, but the experience would’ve been very different. I also love the idea of getting lost in a neighborhood, it’s what the French call being a flâneur. No rush or expectations, just wander!