Arizona's summer trip offered something for everyone

By Marie McGee

For two weeks in May, the University of Arizona women's basketball team toured the country of Italy and gained a world of experience, both on and off the court. From Milan to Rome -- with stops everywhere in between -- the Wildcats became immersed in the culture and history of Italy. As Arizona guard Marie McGee discovered, Italy has something for everyone.

The ladies strike a pose in front of the ancient Colosseum in Rome. Photo courtesy of the University of Arizona

10. For the ladies ... the bragging rights to all your girlfriends that you had the chance to see George Clooney's Villa on Lake Como.

9. For the kids ... to be able to have a great tale of how you survived "The attack of the pigeons" in San Marco's Square.

8. For the romantics ... to be able to bear all and 'tag' your lovers name on the house of Capulet, where the greatest story of love and tragedy, in our history, took place.

7. For the frugal ... a paradise at a "special price for you" in the heart of Florence.

6. For the discouraged ... a bit of wishful thinking by tossing three coins into the Trevi Fountain will give hope to new beginnings.

5. For the guys ... peace and quite, gorgeous women in swimsuits, along with an ice-cold beverage on a sandy beach in Jesolo.

4. For the big spenders ... Italy offers authentic Louis Vuitton and Dolce & Gabbana stores as convenient as our local Wal-Marts.

3. For the religious ... mind boggling wonders and ideas at the Vatican await their discovery.

2. For the rebellious ... The faded blood and tortuous stories will welcome you with open arms at the Roman Colosseum.

1.5. For the food lovers ... The most delicious thing to grace lips, sweeter than the sweetest kiss, gelato awaits you and your spoon.

1. For teams that share the love ... To have the opportunity to be a part of an escape in a tiny bus with about 12 adults and nine basketball players who are lying and sleeping on top of your valuable luggage while you suffer from heat strokes because there is no air conditioning. Meanwhile, the driver does not speak a lick of English and coach Joan Bonvicini is on the microphone talking about anything and everything that comes to her mind (hahaha, this is what I call a bonding moment  that only a team could experience in Italy).

The moments, the memories ... for myself and others, a dream come true.