Istituto Lorenzo de Medici (IDM)

Just make sure you take time to get away from the Americans and really try to meet some of the locals...otherwise you won't get the experience that you really could have!

Be willing to travel to the city outskirts in order to shop from a supermarket that you're used to in the states. There's none in the city center but you'll save much more by walking 30 minutes to it and taking the bus back with your groceries. Buying from the mom & pop corner store in a pinch is alright but it can get expensive. Also, seek out the markets that the locals go to to get produce and meats cheap. Also, this is Italy, reduce the urge to spend insanely on clothes and shoes. Have a few drinks before going out as well to stem the cost of nightlife.

They did a very good job at making sure our saftey was taken into consideration.

I took Italian for 2 years before I left, was a deciding factor in me going there to complete my required third year. Everyone basically speaks English in Florence b/c there are Americans everywhere. But, if you're willing to learn Italian and try it your speaking skills will improve big time! It's hard though to meet Italians to speak to for more than a requisite 5 minute conversation.