FDG Around the World
Taylor’s Travels in Italy
October brought adventures galore for Taylor who traveled across the pond to attend the Marmomac Marble and Stone Conference in Verona, Italy. While there, Taylor set aside time to explore the diverse and cultured country, visiting Florence and Venice, and experiencing all that these dynamic cities had to offer!
Q: What countries did you visit and how long did you stay?
A: I visited Verona, Venice, and Florence, Italy for 10 days.
Q: How long did it take you to reach your initial destination?
A: The flight from Dallas to Venice was 13 hours with one stop in New York, and an additional 2.5 hours from Venice to Verona where the Marmomac Marble and Stone Conference was held.
Q: What was your favorite activity throughout the trip?
A: Seeing the beautiful stone at the conference and visiting the ancient Roman amphitheater, Arena di Verona was great. I also met up with my college professor and had dinner with her students studying abroad at Santa Reparata International School of Art in Florence. I saw Michelangelo’s David sculpture at the Accademia Gallery and took water taxis to explore Venice. Trying all the food was wonderful!
Q: What was your favorite location throughout your visit?
A: I loved the tour of the historical market then the cooking class located in the hills of the Tuscan countryside on a private estate.
Q: What are some cultural differences that you found interesting?
A: Eating dinner for 2-3 hours starting at 8:00 P.M. was the biggest cultural difference.
Q: Would you recommend these destinations for those looking to travel?
A: Absolutely, I would!
What would you suggest trying for those visiting the area?
A: I would suggest visiting the Piazza del Duomo to see the cathedral Santa Maria del Fiore di Firenze.
Q: Did your travels inspire creativity?
A: Yes!
Q: What are some design aesthetics from your travels that you would integrate into an FDG project?
A: The intricate stone flooring inlay and detailed door hardware was very interesting.
Q: What was your favorite architectural design you saw while traveling?
A: I really enjoyed the architecture of the Santa Maria del Fiore di Firenze.
