I slept the whole flight – exhausted from the already busy wedding season.
I woke up to a hot and humid Rome.

I was scheduled to take an late afternoon train from Rome to Lecce – the city where the wedding would take place.
I had to kill some time and was on an empty stomach.
I scoured the city to find the most legitimate and ‘mom and pop’ style establishment.

FML.

I looked at my phone and realized it was 2pm.
A lot of the recommended stores were closed.

I found one that was open, but with no one inside.
“Anyone here?”
I didn’t want to showoff my American-ness with my ignorance by speaking English, but it had to be done; I needed sustenance.
It seemed like they were taking their time and at the slowest pace service I could have imagined.

“No Justin.
You’re doing it all wrong.
You don’t bring your damn culture and expect the same pace.
Slow down.
Enjoy.
No need to rush.“

The following photographs are from Lecce and, later from Rome.
Lecce is an absolutely gorgeous small town.
While many others may visit other popularized locations, this was perfect and fit the exact lifestyle and vibe I was looking for.

For the first time, I had authentic Italian cooking.
It was legitimately a carb fest, with large doses of espresso, desserts and gelato.
I do not regret any of it.

While I was in Rome, my phone went haywire so I walked aimlessly for about 4-5 hours.
It was very stressful, yet comforting since I had nowhere to be or no one to see.

Thanks for taking interest in my travels! You can find more info, tips and guides here: Travel: Tips and Guides