Rome, Italy
As a history buff, visiting Italy was an easy decision. On the flight, I shared a row with Juana, an ex-nun (twice over) from Cuba. Who better to visit the Basilicas of Rome?
I chose to stay in a 15th century convent along the Tiber River in Trastevere, a neighborhood away from the crowds of central Rome, but within walking distance to all the tourist attractions.
To avoid the jet lag that comes with an overnight flight, I went on a food tour of Trastevere which has hundreds of restaurants and bars. The highlight of the tour for me was drinking wine in a wine cellar that predates the Colosseum by 150 years. That’s 70 B.C.!
Mission accomplished- I was able to stay up ‘til 9:30 pm Rome time.
I was a tourist on my third day in Rome and made my way to the other side of the Tiber River. I visited the Pantheon, the Forum, and the Colosseum. The Colosseum is an architectural wonder and full of what had to be state-of the art innovations for that time - I mean rope and pulley 'elevators' to bring the wild animals up to the Colosseum floor? Amazing. I did lots of walking that day, but that had been the theme since my arrival.
I treated myself to a lovely dinner at the trattoria across from the convent. This restaurant is reputed to have the best pasta in Rome. No wonder there were lines outside every night. Romans eat dinner late. Restaurants don't open until 7:30 pm.
Tip for Roaming
Before you leave home, using Google Maps, plot out the walking routes to the various attractions you plan to visit from your hotel or from each attraction to the next. Download the directions so you don't have to worry about getting lost if there's no WIFI.
I wasn’t sure it was wise to dine solo at such a popular restaurant on a Friday night, but after waiting in line for more than an hour, I was able to share a table with Agneta from Sweden, who was also traveling solo. She is a leadership development coach so we talked about limiting beliefs, mediation and the power of gratitude. For three hours - there's no rushing when it comes to dining in Rome, or anywhere in Italy.
About 11 pm, after hugs, she got on her bike to ride half hour back to her hotel. I was grateful that I only had to walk across the cobblestone lane to get to my room.
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