“When in Rome, do as the Romans do”. Did you ever wonder what that truly means?
When I visited Rome a few years ago, it was my first trip to Europe and I was very excited to see what everyone was always talking about! My first experience was stepping out of the hotel with my husband and walking to the Spanish Steps nearby. We were at the top and looking down, I was amazed at all the people, mostly, sitting on the steps, having lunch, meeting friends or loved ones, laughing and talking. Just taking in the beautiful sunshine. No rushing around. No hustle and bustle. We walked down the steps into the neighborhood to grab a slice of pizza. Rounding the corner, the smell of fresh garlic being sautéed and fresh bread baking. I closed my eyes and drank it all in. I was in Rome! And we’re going back there October 9th!
Imagine exploring ancient Rome through the Circus Maximus Palatine hill with a stop at the Colosseum. If you close your eyes, you can hear the roar of the chariots and conjure up Roman soldiers sparring with lions. Standing at the top of the Colosseum, you’ll get a tingle up your spine as the reality of the history that happened below begins to hit your senses. It’s truly amazing. . .
Enjoy your first afternoon on your own exploring or we can arrange an optional tour of the Vatican Museums and Sistine Chapel so that you skip the long entry line and discover the artistic masterpieces inside, including Michelangelo’s famed ceiling. When I saw the Sistine Chapel for the first time, I stood in awe trying to capture all of into my memory. You CANNOT take any pictures of it as the flash from your cameras has been causing the deterioration of it over time. The Security Guards are on their game in guarding this beautiful artistic buffet, so don’t even try to sneak it in. They become quite offended. This is their history and heritage and you need to respect it.
In the evening, we begin our culinary adventure on a walking tour of Campo dei Fiori, Trastevere, the historical Jewish Ghetto, and Piazza Navona. During tonight’s tour you will meet vendors, taste local specialties and live the ambiance just like a Roman. Rounding out the night’s fun, a stop at a famous local Gelateria for delicious artisanal gelato. And I can assure that what you thought was gelato in the United States is nothing like true gelato in Italy So many flavors and combinations and so little time!
This is the first of the culinary “footsteps” we’ll be taking beginning on October 9th of this year . . . stay tuned for our next stop on this 10 day tour! Ciao!
