I can't remember the last time I took a stroll in centro (downtown) after dinner. Because I usually work after dinner with my clients in the US, I never think about doing anything late at night. Usually, when I'm out, I feel hurried and walk to where I need to go, but I normally don't take my time and look at the well-lit shop windows and watch the people pass by me.
The weather has been fairly mild at night, so when a friend called and wanted to go outside for a passeggiata (stroll), I decided it would be a nice break since I had been working all day on a project.
We walked from my place in Piazza SS. Annunziata to the Duomo, then down via Calzaiuoli to the Arno, down to Piazza Santa Croce, then back up to via Calzaiuoli, and finally back to my place. It was nice to see so many people outside, locals and tourists alike.
I forgot how much I enjoy walking around without any real scopo (purpose). It was wonderful to see how the city quiets down and people seem calmer as they mill around.
The only shops open were the kebab shops, gelaterie (ice cream shops), and bars. As usual, people were standing outside of the bars smoking. Via dei Benci is always quite lively because of the numerous bars and restaurants located on the street. I usually avoid it because there is tanta confusione (a lot of people/chaos).
I didn't get home until a little after midnight. I enjoyed it so much that I'm thinking I should do it again some time soon. Especially now that the weather is so nice.
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