Man, what a day! I swear, Rutigliano really knows how to throw a curveball. Woke up thinking it’d be just another chill day, ya know? But nah, the universe had other plans.
First off, I hit the streets of Rutigliano, and let me tell ya, the vibe was off. I mean, I love this place—those narrow streets like Via Roma and Via Dante, they got character, right? But today? Ugh. I’m walking, coffee in hand, feeling all fancy, when BAM! A pigeon decides my shoulder is its personal toilet. Like, seriously?! Thanks, buddy. Just what I needed.
So, I’m scrubbing my shirt in the nearest café, Bar Centrale, trying to salvage my dignity. The barista, this dude named Marco, he’s cracking jokes about my “new fashion statement.” I laugh it off, but inside, I’m like, “Dude, I’m not here for a comedy show.” But hey, at least the cappuccino was on point.
After that, I head over to the market on Piazza XX Settembre. Man, the energy there is electric! Fresh produce everywhere, people haggling like it’s the Olympics. I spot this old lady selling tomatoes, and she’s got the best ones. I’m talking juicy, red, the kind that makes your mouth water. I’m all in, ready to buy a bunch, when this guy cuts in front of me. Like, excuse me?! Rude much? I’m about to say something, but then I see he’s got a cute dog. So, I just roll my eyes and let it go.
Then, outta nowhere, it starts pouring. I mean, like, torrential downpour. I’m soaked in seconds. I dash for cover under the awning of a little shop on Via Cavour. I’m standing there, shivering, when I see this couple laughing and dancing in the rain. I’m like, “What the heck?!” They’re living their best life while I’m over here looking like a drowned rat. But honestly, it’s kinda infectious. I can’t help but smile.
Once the rain chills out, I decide to explore more. I wander down to the old town, and wow, the architecture is stunning. Those ancient buildings, the little alleys, it’s like stepping back in time. I snap a few pics for the ‘gram, but my phone dies. Of course! Just my luck.
So, I’m wandering around, trying to find my way back, and I end up on Via San Domenico. I’m lost, but it’s cool. I stumble upon this tiny gelato shop. I mean, who can resist gelato, right? I walk in, and the guy behind the counter is super chill. He’s got this wild mustache and a smile that could light up a room. I ask for a scoop of pistachio, and he gives me a double. I’m like, “Dude, you’re a legend!”
I sit outside, enjoying my gelato, and suddenly, I feel this wave of happiness. Like, yeah, today was a mess, but it’s moments like this that make it all worth it. I watch the locals go by, chatting, laughing, living life. Rutigliano, man, it’s got this charm that just pulls you in.
But then, just when I think it can’t get crazier, I hear this commotion. Turns out, there’s a street performer doing some wild tricks on Via Roma. I’m talking juggling flaming torches and all that jazz. I’m standing there, mouth agape, when one of the torches goes flying. It nearly takes out a guy’s hat! Everyone gasps, then bursts into laughter. I’m dying.
Finally, as the sun sets, I make my way back home. I’m exhausted but happy. Rutigliano, you wild little town, you’ve got my heart. I can’t wait to see what tomorrow brings. Just, please, no more pigeon incidents, okay?