strawberry fields | bada lee

002 | it is summer but i hardly recovered from winter

You made a reservation at Hotel Giubileo- a choice driven by both affordability and the beautiful photos you had seen online. You had invested a considerable amount of time searching for various hotel options on booking websites, and you settled on this one for its appealing features: a botanical garden, a pool, and, most importantly, a complimentary breakfast buffet. It felt like you had stumbled upon the deal of a lifetime, securing a stay at a four-star hotel for just 59 euros a day.

As you arrived at the hotel, you were captivated by the natural beauty of the surroundings- vibrant, colorful flowers and plants adorned the landscape. The moonlight cast a glow upon your path, guiding you to the front desk, where you placed your luggage in a corner before checking in with the front desk lady. She seemed to sense your nervousness and went out of her way to assist you, while it wasn't usual for the hotel to host foreigners, they were very welcome there.

"Di dove sei, ragazza?" The lady asked curiously where you were from while activating the room key. She was just making conversation to pass the time.

You answered the question while smiling. After being handed the key, you put it in your wallet, so you would not lose it. You were clumsy with little items like that, often losing lip tints or misplacing your keys.

"Ohh, c'è un'altra ragazza straniera che alloggia qui!" Her comment piqued your curiosity. Another foreign girl staying at the same hotel in Potenza?

That was unusual, as most tourists opted for cities like Naples or Milan, the most talked-about destinations. You found the idea of having another traveler as a friend during your stay quite appealing. So, if you happened to spot the girl the lady had mentioned, you would try to approach her.

After thanking the front desk lady, you took the elevator to the second floor in search of room number 32. As you stepped inside, you were greeted by a minimalistic yet elegant room. You even had a coffee maker and a well-stocked mini bar, ideal for a midnight snack.

You unpacked your belongings and placed them in the closet and bedside table, ensuring everything was organized. Before going to bed, you took a moment to freshen up, washing your face and changing into your pajamas.

You opened the window to see the captivating moon and stars. The view was stunning- Potenza is a city where nature and history blend beautifully, it was just out your window, but you could see the buildings dimly illuminated by street lamps, the fields of flowers and fruit, and a fresh breeze. It was a dreamlike panorama, that you could not wait to explore and adventure in, it was so much to experience and you had so little time.