Sant'Agnello

I quite like it here. I find our hostel, though that is a demeaning word I would not diminish our stay with if I had the choice, seems to be a haven of relaxation for me. I laid on the roofs of our building, which have been converted to decks, sprawled on one of the many lawn chairs and couches that are strewn about the area. From here, I am able to see the imposing blue ocean (a thing I had since forgotten and taken for granted, having lived in the middle of Spain for some three weeks), and I watch the surrounding mountains hold off the ominous clouds which I am sure are to bring rain right after we have escaped back to Madrid. A forgiving breeze blows every couple of minutes, allowing me to cool down and remain on the deck with my book in hand, not worrying about what time it is, or where I have to go or the things I must see while I’m on the trip. It is truly my first day of vacation. I feel incredibly grateful to have this time out from reality, a day where time stands still, and my only concern being if those mountains will no longer be able to fend off the looming clouds.


When I get too hot, I am able to retreat to our room, to be greeted by something which is a luxury that I have not been able to enjoy in Europe: air conditioning. It revitalizes me, giving me back energy that had been previously sapped away by the Italian sun. Our hostel also gives us access the internet for free, so I am able to write and post my experiences as they happen, rather than when we get back.

Laila went out exploring on her own today, and I am sure that she will have an amazing time and I cant wait to see the pictures that she has taken. Hopefully, as we did last night, we will be able to walk down into town and get dinner at one of the restaurants located on one of cliffs overlooking the sea. It should be an amazing end to an amazing day. I am envious of the people who get to live here, although I doubt they get to spend their days in the fashion that I have spent mine. As much as I am enjoying myself in Italy, I am fairly certain that the mosquitoes here are enjoying me more. I have an upward of seven bites already, with three making a kind of interesting triangle pattern on my bicep. I hope they go away soon, as I also have two on my face that look rather unpleasant and I will be happy when they are gone.

Anyways, I am going to return to my book, and lose track of time again. The sun is still waiting for me, inviting me to get lost in the picturesque setting that can only be offered by a place in the sun surrounded by mountains, tropical trees, and an ocean in the distance. Tomorrow will bring with it travels, a return to the life in a busy city, and schoolwork. But today, today I will try to make it last as long as possible, out in the sun, not worrying about tomorrow.

-M