✈️ From Hong Kong to Italy 🍝

Interviewer: Sua Jung
Interviewee: Selina Chong

As I embarked on my exchange journey in Munich, l was able to form meaningful connections with individuals from around the globe. Among them were my Italian friends, who shared their language and culture with me and ignited a profound fascination for their homeland, Italy. Recently, one of my dearest friends from Hong Kong embarked on an adventure to Italy, which intrigued my interest and I couldn’t resist the opportunity to listen to her firsthand account of her journey. 

👩🏻‍💻: Why did you decide to go to Italy?
👩🏻: I took a trip to Italy because pasta is my absolute favourite food. So, when I had the chance to travel, I had to go to Italy, the birthplace of pasta. I wanted to experience pasta in all its glory. I wanted to taste the handmade, perfectly cooked pasta that Italians have been mastering for centuries. And, of course, I wanted to dive into the diverse regional pasta dishes that make Italy a culinary wonderland. So yeah, I went to Italy because pasta holds a special place in my heart and stomach.

👩🏻‍💻: Can you take us through your journey in Italy? How did you travel, and where did you visit?
👩🏻: I wanted to explore as much as possible, so I decided to go from the south all the way up to the north. And let me tell you, each place had its unique charm and beauty. 

I started my Italian escapade in the south, in the vibrant city of Naples. The energy there is infectious, with bustling streets filled with locals and incredible pizza joints on every corner. From Naples, I hopped on a boat to the dreamy island of Capri. 

Next up was Sorrento, a charming coastal town known for its lemon groves and limoncello. Then, it was off to the eternal city, Rome! The history and grandeur of the Colosseum, the Roman Forum, and the Vatican were absolutely breathtaking.

After Rome, I made my way to Florence, the birthplace of the Renaissance. The art and culture there are simply mind-blowing. It truly felt like stepping into a living museum. From Florence, I ventured to Bologna, a city known for its incredible food scene. Bologna is a food lover’s paradise, and I savoured every single bite.

The next stop was the magical city of Venice, with its enchanting canals and romantic atmosphere. I took a gondola ride through the winding waterways, explored the stunning St. Mark’s Square, and got lost in the labyrinth of charming streets. 

Lastly, I reached the bustling metropolis of Milan, the fashion capital of Italy. The city’s vibrant energy and stylish vibe were palpable. I indulged in retail therapy, visited iconic landmarks like the magnificent Duomo, and marvelled at the innovative architecture. I wish to revisit Milan.

Throughout my journey, I noticed a shift in development as I travelled from the south to the north. The southern regions, like Naples and Sorrento, had a more laid-back and traditional vibe. But as I made my way north, I could see the influence of modernity and development, with Milan being the epitome of a bustling, cosmopolitan city.

👩🏻‍💻: What was your favourite thing about Italy?
👩🏻: Besides the incredible pasta, one thing that blew me away was the architecture. I mean, seriously, it’s like stepping into a time machine and being transported back to the grandeur of the Roman Empire! Everywhere you look, there are architectural marvels that leave you in awe. From the iconic Colosseum in Rome to the magnificent ruins of Pompeii, history comes alive through these ancient structures.

Italy’s architecture is a living testament to the country’s rich history and cultural heritage. It’s a visual journey through time, and being able to witness it firsthand was genuinely awe-inspiring. So, if you ever find yourself in Italy, make sure to look up and soak in the architecture that surrounds you. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

👩🏻‍💻: What was the most delicious dish you had?
👩🏻: While I devoured my fair share of pasta and pizza in Italy, there was one sweet treat that stole my heart: tiramisu. What I love about tiramisu is that it’s the perfect ending to a meal. It’s not overly sweet or heavy, but it still satisfies that sweet tooth craving in the most delightful way.