My first week in Rome enjoying the sights and food and getting ready for my TEFL in Italy class!
Hello! My name is Soledad Garcia-King. I am from New Mexico, USA. I am a veteran teacher of languages. This is my passion. Today I find myself taking the TEFL in Italy course but my teaching journey has been long and full of adventures along the way. I just finished a teaching for a program called Peace Corps where I taught English to secondary students and adults in Boyacá, Colombia. This has been one of my favorite teaching assignments so far. Before that I taught Spanish to adults at the University of New Mexico Valencia campus for 20 years both online and face to face. Needless to say, I love teaching languages. This is why I decided to do the TEFL certification here in Rome. I aim to continue teaching English abroad and online and this certification will allow me to carry out this dream for my life.
Experiences from my first week
Embarking on my TEFL in Italy Roman adventure was a dream come true for me. I packed my bags, left the familiar and came to take the four-week TEFL Certification class and I am glad I did! I am happy to be here and experience the Eternal city through the five senses. Every moment in this ancient city is a feast for the eyes, ears, nose, mouth, and skin, each sense offering a unique introduction to Rome’s timeless culture.
Sight
Rome’s visual uniqueness greeted me at every turn. The majestic Colosseum loomed large, its ancient stones whispering tales of gladiators and emperors. The Pantheon’s grand dome, an architectural marvel, left me in awe. Wandering through the cobblestone streets of Trastevere, the colorful scenes of centuries-old buildings, adorned with vibrant flowers, created a picturesque memory straight out of a painting. Fountains, such as the iconic Trevi Fountain, with its intricate sculptures and gushing waters, temp me to toss in a coin and make a wish.
Sound
The sounds of Rome enveloped me immediately. The melodic chatter of locals conversing animatedly over espresso echoed in traditional cafés. Street musicians serenaded tourists with the soothing strains of violin and accordion, adding a romantic soundtrack to my evening strolls. The rhythmic clatter of the metro and the distant hum of Vespas provided a modern contrast to the timeless tolling of church bells from ancient basilicas. At the lively Campo de’ Fiori market, vendors shouted to sell their products, giving the the air a lively, spirited energy.
Smell
The aromatic journey through Rome is unforgettable. The tantalizing scent of freshly baked pizza trailed from pizzerias, mingling with the fragrant aroma of the ristorantes nearby. In the morning, the rich, bold fragrance of Italian espresso drew me into cafés, where the scent of fresh pastries filled the air. The aromatic smell of blooming jasmine and roses in the city’s gardens provided a fragrant comparison from the urban hustle. Even the historic ruins seemed to have their own distinct earthy scent, a reminder of the city’s ancient past.
Taste
Rome is a culinary paradise that drew me in with every bite. Creamy gelato in flavors like pistachio and stracciatella melted on my tongue, a sweet and much needed antidote to the summer heat. My first bite of a perfectly crafted Margherita pizza, with its thin crust, fresh tomatoes, and mozzarella, was nothing short of divine. Plates of pasta, whether carbonara or cacio e pepe, showcased the city’s love affair with simple yet exquisite ingredients. Freshly baked bread dipped in golden olive oil, paired with robust red wine, completed my evening meals and each bite was a celebration of flavor.
Touch
Rome invited me to touch its history and embrace its textures. The cool, smooth marble of ancient statues and the rough stones of centuries-old buildings connected me to the past. The warmth of the sun on my skin as I sat on the Spanish Steps, and the refreshing splash of water from a fountain as I dipped my fingers, enhanced experiences. Walking through the soft grass of Villa Borghese gardens, fully present in the moment, appreciating the blend of nature and history. Walking back in time while taking in the present.
My first week in Rome, week one of my TEFL in Italy course was not only a dream fulfilled, it was a sensory immersion. I would not have had the opportunity to experience all of this if I hadn’t joined the four week face to face course here in Rome. It offers a captivating introduction to a city where every sense is engaged in a delightful dance. Rome’s culture, experienced through sight, sound, smell, taste, and touch, left an indelible mark on my soul, promising countless more adventures in this eternal city. You should come experience it too!
To learn more about TEFL in Italy programs, click here.
