Ecstacy:

     I was nervous like a little boy.  We were headed to Space discoteque to dance and party the night away.  Here I would have to dance to remixed italian songs that now included heavy baselines and electronic interludes.  Like this one.

I would much have prefer the version I watched in The Talented Mr. Ripley with Matt Damon and Jude Law in Italian class.

     My one priority in Florence was to eat at La Giostra, an age old restaurant rumored to be owned by "the prince."  This prince, of Medici origin (as the legend goes), gave up his elitist life of luxury to follow his dream of cooking.  Now owned by the son, the restaurant has not lost any of its ancient glory despite gaining favor of many celebrities.

     The dinner was magical; courses were well composed and paired well with our accompanying wine.  Stuffed and satiated our group, Josh, Jaime, Caitlin, Blair and I made our way outside towards the club.  
     I had set up the dinner a month earlier (reservations are tough to come buy) and hadn't made room for my new found flame.  We had only kissed a week earlier and I did not have a clue as to where our paths would take us.  She, of course, would be at Space. Here I needed to reengage things, develop a rapport, if I hoped to turn it into a relationship.

     Fortunately the booze, beats, and base eased this process.  We danced amongst the crowds of mainly study abroaders, laughing and smiling amidst the chaos.  Eruptions of excitement burst out of the crowd voicing approval when the DJ spun american records.  The bustling dance floor swayed rhythmically as each song built upon the last.  
     An effervescence grew.  Soon our bodies were entangled.  And my nervous energy was casted away.  Priorities changed as the trip progressed.  The night had its way with us.




Done with the clubs and after a few weeks in Rome, our journey continues south.  Please travel to the beaches of Gaeta (1 city south of Rome).