Studying abroad sometimes can feel like a lot of travel, constantly going from one city to the next, but some of my favorite weekends have been the ones spent exploring the local treasures near CIMBA. Staying back instead of traveling far has given me the chance to truly immerse myself in the culture of Paderno del Grappa and the surrounding towns, and I wouldn’t trade those experiences for anything.
I’ve had the chance to visit nearby towns like Asolo, Bassano, and Verona, each with its own charm and unique atmosphere. Beyond sightseeing, I’ve come to love the simple joys of local life. I shop at small supermarkets, grab a coffee at the neighborhood café, and just take time to slow down and appreciate my surroundings. One of my favorite traditions has been visiting our local gelato spot after class with friends. There’s something comforting about sitting outside enjoying a fresh scoop of gelato and watching the town. It’s the little moments that make this place feel like home. We also love going to the local pizzeria across the street, called Al Sole, where the owners are some of the funniest and kindest people I have ever met. We get free goodies all the time!
A favorite student hangout spot is Jack’s, a little cafe on campus where students go to hang out and play card games. It’s the perfect place to have those funny conversations with your friends, and if you ever need a quick snack, you can runover and grab a sandwich from there as well. There’s something comforting about having a familiar go-to spot, and Jack’s has definitely become a popular place for students looking to take a break from studying or just enjoy some time with friends.
CIMBA also offers students many opportunities to engage with Italian culture beyond the classroom. I’ve had the chance to take part in a pizza-making class and a pasta-making workshop, both of which were not only fun but also delicious. Some professors even take students out to dinner, which is such a cool way to connect outside of class. And if you’re looking for a different kind of meal, I can’t recommend the all-you-can-eat sushi spot enough.
One experience I highly recommend to future CIMBA students is visiting an agriturismo. These farm-to-table restaurants serve fresh, locally sourced meals that showcase the best of Italian cuisine. The food is made with so much care, and it’s a great way to experience the regional specialties of Northern Italy while supporting local farmers. Eating at an agriturismo is not just about the food it’s also about the entire experience. The countryside setting to the warm hospitality makes you feel like part of the family.
What makes staying local so special is the people. The residents of Paderno del Grappa are incredibly welcoming and take pride in sharing their culture with us. Whether it’s a friendly conversation at the café, a restaurant owner recommending their favorite dish, or just the everyday kindness of those around us, there’s a genuine warmth in this town that makes it feel like more than just a temporary home.
For anyone studying abroad, I highly recommend taking the time to slow down and enjoy the place where you’re staying. Traveling to new countries is amazing but don’t let the local beauties go unappreciated. Exploring the small towns around CIMBA has given me a deeper appreciation for Italian culture and a sense of connection to the community that I wouldn’t have found by constantly being on the move. Sometimes some of the best experiences aren’t in the big cities, they’re in your everyday life!