Urban Chronicles

‘Essence’ is the term you'll often find me using when talking about traveling, especially when discussing a few of my favorite places like Mumbai, Paris, or Hyderabad. At times, I've found it challenging to convey just how deeply I feel the essence being in these places. Upon reflection, I realized I often view these cities as living characters with unique personalities. I still struggle to explain this theory in my mind, so here's an attempt to introduce the Italian cities I visited as if they were humans.

Positano – Positano is a young, carefree girl. In her early 20s, she is always in a buoyant mood. Her family and friends adore her. I picture her in pretty, floral dresses with long, wavy hair. On a typical Sunday, she helps her mother pluck fresh lemons from their garden and makes some limoncello. But she takes the first chance to sneak out to meet her boyfriend, her first love. She loves going around the city with him, sitting behind him on his Vespa, and walking by the sea, catching the most beautiful sunsets. As she looks at the vast ocean and the ferries leave, she may dream of traveling or moving out. She loves her life here but sometimes wonders how the world could be on the other side.

Rome – Rome is a man in his 30s. He takes pride in traditions and is very connected to his roots. He is a little old school, starting his day with an espresso. He likes dressing up neatly, maybe a part of him trying to impress the women around. Charmingly, he will never shy away from flirting with any woman around and will not hold back to show his love and affection. (Now, this might not be limited to a lady.)

Naples – Naples is a man, an old man. His face is wrinkled, and he has big eyes that have seen the world change over the years. Maybe I see him with the backdrop of ancient Pompeii. He is not a very friendly old guy; he is a little intimidating, sometimes misunderstood. He might come off as too loud and messy. He might not dress in the most elegant, neat clothes. Let’s just say he is a tough nut to crack but holds a lot of wisdom. Someone you need time to warm up to but would find impressive the more you discover.

Milan – Milan is your city girl. On her Instagram, you see fashion, makeup, skincare. She is a hustler, described as a modern, independent woman. She is brave; the world she lives in might not be the safest, but she has learned to make her safe home. She is as friendly as she is fierce.

And lastly, my favorite, Florence…

Florence – Florence is a lady, one that defines beauty and grace. She seems to be in her 40s, having left her carefree youth behind. Now calm and a little more mature, she is artsy – writing poems, playing the piano, or maybe the violin – and dresses immaculately. She lives alone but has experienced intense and pure love. She spends her evenings reading or writing, admiring the beauty of the Duomo glowing in the golden rays of the setting sun, and enjoying Tuscan wine. Occasionally, she has her friends over for dinners and brunches. She knows how to fill any room with warmth and love.