I like to think of myself now as an expert bus rider. No, I could not tell you the bus schedule (that’s in my phone) or even where the bus actually goes (other than my two stops); however, the bus drivers definitely know who I am. I like to think that my evening bus driver is especially fond of me. He’s an older man with a white, Santa Claus beard. He is usually on time (thank god) and always knows to stop for me. What I mean by that is, the evening bus is similar to the buses in Vina del Mar in that you need to wave them down. But, I do not even need to wave anymore because he knows I’m there! I board the bus, “buona sera” and he smiles on back (doesn’t with the other riders!). He also knows my stop and I’ve stopped pressing the button! Although sometimes I confuse him because I get off at the stop before my usual one if I’m going to Angela’s house. If that’s the case, he checks to make sure I wanted that stop and not my usual. He makes me feel like the most important rider on the bus and he doesn’t even know my name! (Nor do I know his)
This week is one of the most amazing and beautiful weeks of the year – CARNEVALE!
I was pumped up for Carnevale months ago when we toured RIO and went to “Samba School” to see one of the practices for the big day! Valentina and I were ready and talking all week about going to La Darsena in Viareggio Friday night. My mission for the entire week: find a costume to wear! I “hunted” and by “hunted” I mean wandered up Corso Italia in Pisa once or twice, until I used my head and went into the one super cheesey and cheap looking store. And let me tell you, it was cheap costume paradise! Everything from furry 8€ coats to flashy belts and pants….they had it all! I bought some gold sequined pants and a furry black vest and was satisfied, even though I had no idea what I would be in them. Friday night came and we headed out to the streets of Viareggio – Valentina, Beatrice (her cousin) and Federico (Bea’s BF). Man was it a beautiful sight! The streets were jam packed of Italians ready to party for Carnevale! It was like a combination of Halloween in Castro and Halloween when you’re five. Surprisingly, pretty much 95% of the people were dressed up, drinking, dancing, eating, having a great time. However, it was there costumes that reminded me of being five again. A majority of the costumes are store bought, furry animal full body suits. There were few homemade, inventive or weird costumes. However, many tigers, dogs, bunnies, etc… All the couples matched as well. That was weird. Boyfriends dressed up as a puppy to match their girl puppy girlfriends or couples dressed as smurfs. Some of the costumes were just mean for the guy. Carnevale, no matter if your single, dating, married, whatever, is still a great time! If you can let loose, dance away in the streets and just have fun, it’ll be an unforgettable experience! The streets are lined with DJs and crowds of people just having a good time! At one point we were dancing next to a priest (we think), with his face painted black (not sure why?), red robe and was pretending to sprinkle holy water on people with a toilet brush. Why? Who knows…
The Crowd!
I can't believe it's already March!
A dopo.
