Submitted by Danielle Leppo on the 2016 spring semester program in Rome, Italy…
This past weekend, I traveled with some friends to Cinque Terre, an absolutely breathtaking area along the coast of Italy. We decided to hike between the towns and through the mountains. This was physically draining and one of the most intense hikes I have ever been on in my life, but in the end it was so worth it. The incredible views of the towns and the Italian Riviera are among some of the most beautiful views I have ever seen. Sometimes in order to see the best views, you have to push yourself to the limit and beyond.
Your reward from these intensive hikes may not be just the views, but the food in each town was incredible and worth every pain in my legs and feet. In Corniglia we had pesto, where it was invented, and I was so amazed by how delicious it was, I momentarily forgot the long hike behind us. In each town there was also scrumptious gelato, often each town had its own specialty flavor. If you work hard, you will be rewarded; even if that reward is great food or beautiful views.