Tuscany offers so many things to do, that it’s easy to forget that there are things you should not do while in Tuscany. After all, it’s your vacation, and it may be the only chance you have in a long time to truly unplug, relax, and escape from reality. So, amid those travel guides, local recommendations, and internet pleas of everything you absolutely must do, take some hints on a few things you should not do as well.
Do Not Take too Many Photos
Photos are great and will help preserve the memory and tell the story of the places you visited, so it’s important to take some really good photos. It’s also important to set the camera aside. A camera may separate you from the scenes of life – instead of being someone that is part of the picture; you’re separating yourself and taking the picture. You become the photographer rather than the subject. Give yourself some opportunities to be the subject, to blend into your surroundings, to feel one with the ambience of the place. Try other mediums of art expression as well. Write a few paragraphs describing a place or the taste of food. Draw pictures. No one has to see them – use creative expression to form lasting memories of your visit to Tuscany.
Do Not Book Questionable Accommodations
Your accommodations are a big part of your entire vacation experience. Be sure to book good accommodations. There are many wonderful villas for rent in Tuscany that will have you sleeping well and waking up to the beauty of the place. A hot bath, good wine, great food, and restful sleep are sometimes the most rejuvenating elements of a vacation. Take a hint from the Italian culture. Slow down the pace. Take an afternoon nap. Eat well. Enjoy company.
Do Not Stay Constantly Plugged
Laptop computers, iPads, and smartphones are all wonderful conveniences of modern invention, but they can really ruin your vacation. Sometimes we’re so intent on capturing and sharing experiences via social media that we’re more concerned with what our friends think of the experiences than what we think of them ourselves. Limit your use of electronics and social media. There’s a reason Europeans think Americans are obsessed with screens – because we are. Learn from this culture and experience people rather than pictures. You can share once you get home.
Janelle is a writer and frequent traveler who can’t wait to travel to Florence. She made a list of what not to do so that she can truly enjoy her traveling experience.
Photo from freedigitalphotos.net.
Leave a Reply