Another Crazy Adventure In Italy!!

Earlier this week a group of us who are studying in the medical field had the opportunity to experience a clinic in Brescia.  We went to the Poliambulanza clinic where the Director talked a little bit about the differences between health care between the U.S.A and Italy.  It was very interesting to see how the U.S is adopting some aspects of the Italian healthcare system and how Italy is also adopting some aspects of our healthcare system.  They still think theirs is better though.  The Clinic also has a laboratory where they are conducting experiments with placentas and stem cells.  They are one of the many labs studying this throughout the world.  It was also quite an experience getting to the clinic!  Since it is easier and cheaper to take the bikes, we did that.   We had to ride on some pretty busy roads and I thought I was the one that was going to end up in the clinic as a patient.  Italy has lots of circles in their road system.  Where we live in the U.S we have regular intersections, so riding a bike through those circles is pretty frightening.  But we eventually made it in one piece.    

Then, on June 2nd, we had the day off because it is a national holiday in Italy.  So everyone decided that it would be awesome to go to Lago di Garda!  It was beautiful!!!  Words and pictures could not describe the real beauty.  The view was amazing as you can see from the pictures.  The water was crystal clear and you had a panoramic view of what I believe is the Alps.  Many people come here because it is much closer than the actual beach.  The lake has a small beach but it was all rocks that did not feel so good on your feet!  It was definitely a different experience to be on a beach with Europeans.  I would say most of the men wore Speedos, which is not something that is very common at home.  There were also several women without tops on which is definitely not acceptable at home especially at a family beach.  This just goes to show the difference between cultures.  They are obviously less self conscious and less prudish like many Americans seem to be.  It was an amazing day at the lake and we definitely are going to get back there before we go home!!  Tomorrow we are off to Roma!  Talk to you after!!! Ciao!

-Jonathon