FLORENCE, Italy - We made it to our second stop today! After a rainy breakfast in Rome, we hopped on the bus for the four-hour journey to Florence.

After two days of heavy walking and sightseeing, it was nice to have a day to kick back and relax. Upon arrival, we stopped at an overlook to see the city in its entirety. To say it was magnificent would be an understatement.

Then we made it to the Star Hotels Michelangelo where we ran into members of the Providence women's basketball team who were checking out a leaving for their game. We received some quick tips on the city and exchanged itineraries before heading on our way.

Our guide, Johan, led us to the center of the city and took us to one of the many leather shops. With so many in the group, we were able to negotiate a discount and shop we did! It seems almost everyone is coming back with some sort of leather wallet, purse or jacket.

From that point on, we were on our own to tour the squares and get another delicious Italian dinner.

"It has been a magical experience so far. Viewing the ruins of Roma and indulging in delicious Italian food for days," said graduate student Jasmine Jackson (Old Bridge, N.J./Old Bridge) . It was a much-needed day of rest for the team as we prepare for our first game tomorrow evening against Cameroon's National Team.

"I loved all the free time we had today," said senior Logan Battle (Springfield, Va./West Springfield). "It was nice to look around at the culture and the different stores. It's really different than what we're used to. Nighttime was the best with the breeze, the view and the sunset."

Now it's time to hit the hay and rest up for another amazing day tomorrow.

Ciao!