{"id":64323,"date":"2024-12-06T11:49:35","date_gmt":"2024-12-06T15:49:35","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/www.italyperfect.com\/blog\/?p=64323"},"modified":"2024-12-06T11:49:35","modified_gmt":"2024-12-06T15:49:35","slug":"at-home-in-florence-with-georgette-jupe-from-girl-in-florence","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.italyperfect.com\/blog\/at-home-in-florence-with-georgette-jupe-from-girl-in-florence.html","title":{"rendered":"At Home in Florence with Georgette Jupe from Girl in Florence"},"content":{"rendered":"

\"Georgette<\/p>\n

Few places capture the imagination quite like Florence, a city steeped in history, art and historic charm. For Georgette Jupe<\/strong>, the woman behind Girl in Florence<\/strong><\/a>, what began as a study-abroad adventure turned into a lifelong love affair with Tuscany\u2019s capital. Now she has sat down with us to share about her journey from Texas to Tuscany, what makes Florence such a special place to call home and\u2014as a special feature\u2014her favorite hidden gems for travelers looking to experience the city like a local.<\/p>\n

We’ve enjoyed following you as Girl In Florence on Instagram for many years. What first brought you to Florence? When did you know you wanted to stay?<\/h3>\n

I first came to Florence when I was almost 21, originally as a study abroad student on a plane with 30 other people who had mapped out what they thought Italy would be like. At the time, I had my heart set on living in London, but I ended up in Italy by chance, a happy accident. I thought my time here would be short and sweet \u2013 an exciting detour before returning home. Little did I know, I would end up calling Florence home for over 15 years with a three year stint in Switzerland. In a way, coming here without any expectations is what allowed me to fall in love with the country in the first place.<\/p>\n

So many aspects of life in Italy were different from what I knew growing up in the suburbs of San Antonio, Texas \u2013 the walking culture, the architecture, the access to other European cities and, of course, the simple, delicious local cuisine that had me breaking out from my student diet of sandwiches and salads. I had also just returned from a two-month stint teaching English in China, and 2005 turned out to be an incredibly pivotal year for me. It felt like the world was opening up, and with it, the possibilities of what my life could be.<\/p>\n

Though I was born and raised in Texas, I always felt like my true home was somewhere else, though I wasn’t sure where. Italy, with its unique mix of chaos and comfort, both challenged and captivated me. After finishing my degree in Los Angeles, I decided to return to Florence, but it wasn’t an easy decision. Life as a student here was one thing; living and working as an adult in a foreign country was a whole different reality.<\/p>\n

I had to find odd jobs that paid very little, navigate the complicated process of securing a work visa, and, most importantly, learn Italian. There were plenty of moments when I thought about packing it all in and heading back to the USA. But in the end, I’m grateful I stayed. All of the challenges I faced\u2014difficult as they were\u2014helped me grow into a more resilient person, someone who now tackles challenges head-on without hesitation.<\/p>\n

\"Georgette<\/p>\n

What are the aspects of Florence life that you enjoy most? What makes the local community so special?<\/h3>\n

Over the years, my life in Florence has taken many different shapes, from when I first arrived at 21 to now, at 40. But one constant that has never changed is my love for the size of the city. Florence is small enough to explore on foot or by bike without getting too annoyed by the frequent transport strikes, and I\u2019ve always felt that just walking through the center is an experience in itself. There’s always something happening \u2013 festivals, exhibitions, new restaurants and bars and though it can be very busy at times there are always hidden detours through crowds. It never gets boring.<\/p>\n

Because the city is so compact, you constantly run into people you know, which makes me feel more connected to the community and up-to-date as to what people are up to. After 15 years, I\u2019ve built up a real sense of familiarity here. Whether it\u2019s at a local market or just walking down the street, I always bump into friendly faces, and that sense of belonging adds so much to my experience of the city.<\/p>\n

For travelers staying longer in Florence, or returning for a deeper visit, what are the experiences they should seek out?<\/h3>\n

For a richer experience in Florence beyond the typical tourist attractions, consider exploring things and engaging in activities based on hobbies or curiosities you already have instead of visiting something just because you think you should or for a photo op. Into art but craving something a little less crowded? Begin with a visit to the Stibbert Museum, a lesser-known treasure showcasing an extensive collection of armor and art before stopping by the Horne Museum close to the Arno river. The Horne Museum, another secret Florentine gem. Herbert Percy Horne was a late-Victorian Englishman who came to Florence to study the Renaissance and filled his house with the sort of art that would have been seen in a home of the period. Here you\u2019ll find work by key artists such as Giotto, Filippo Lippi and Giambologna, as well as furniture and domestic objects from the period.<\/p>\n

Consider making a Google map of small shops, authentic boutiques and artisans and make that an entire afternoon activity after lunch. For an authentic culinary experience, make it a point to visit local markets such as Sant\u2019Ambrogio or the weekend farmer\u2019s market in Cascine Park. Avoid the crowded eateries near major sights and instead visit a family-run trattoria a little further out fro the center. So much of the beauty of Florence is just enjoying it on a slower, daily basis without feeling like you need to rush everything, even after 15 years I continue to be inspired.<\/p>\n

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A post shared by Georgette Jupe (@girlinflorence)<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/blockquote>\n