Rome
When in Rome
09.02.2009 - 09.02.2009
28 °C
Many people travel Europe by train. It can be really easy if you go to major
cities and travel extremely light. You will miss the random side trips-and have
to travel on a schedule.
We have too much luggage. no elevators or ramps in the stations or up to train.
It was so hot out. This train to Rome was on time and quick- 1.5 hours. This
year, I was not dealing with the get a cab to hotel. Last year it was pouring
and cab kicked us out 8 blocks from hotel and pointed in opposite direction(I
had a map). Getting to the train wasn't difficult-if we didn't have 2 large
bags, 2 backpacks and large shopping bag.
We then had a walk(4 blocks) to the hotel. We are at The Westin on Via Venuto.
Beautiful and historical designed. I must have accumulated lots of points
because we were upgraded and escorted to our room-had a bowl of fruit
delivered-very nice.
Lincoln decided to do some laundry-we have a balcony- he rates this hotel #1 for
hand washing-drys instantly.
I never had the chance to sight see in Rome last year. We were on Lincoln's art
hunt-scattered throughout the city. Found little churches with Michangelo
sculptures and other Renaissance painters. If the entry is free, they have a pay
box for a minute of light. You see how cheap people are- literally waiting with
cameras to snap pictures when someone ponies up. Remember to wear longer shorts
and covered shoulders.
In between art scavenger hunting, went into the Pantheon-oldest continuously
used building-the prototype for most churches. Walked to the Colosseum and Roman
Forum. It was so hot out. There was some kind of protest rally in the
area-closed off walkways.
We are pretty much over the long dinners- just want casual. Tried to find a
decent pizza place- all tourist traps. Lincoln learned not to hiss at the waiter
for attention- we were scolded- the tourists and Italians are brutal-rude and no
situational awareness- the servers do not have regulars-so no incentive to
provide good service- hard to get what you order. Oh well.
I'm at that point in my trip that I just want to eat at home!
Posted by Jcarrara 09.03.2009 15:53 Archived in Italy Tagged tourist_sites
