When in Rome

After a 4 1/2 hour bus ride winding through the Italian countryside, we finally arrived in Rome; tired but excited. Our hotel was a welcome sight, even if there was only a brief moment to drop our bags before we were shuttled straight into the heart of the city for our first walking tour.

Rome wastes no time impressing. From the moment our feet hit the cobblestones, we were surrounded by layers of history. We wandered through stunning churches, each one more ornate than the last, and made the essential stop at the iconic Trevi Fountain, tossing in coins with a hopeful flick (yes, we want to come back!).

Lunch was a quick grab, panini on the run, Italian-style, but no complaints here when the bread is that good. We kept moving past impressive monuments and buildings, feeling the weight of ancient history beneath our feet, and ended the tour outside the magnificent Colosseum, its arches glowing in the late afternoon light.

Of course, it wouldn’t be a proper first day in a big European city without a few hazards: spruikers, pickpocket warnings, and the occasional uneven cobblestone ambush kept us on our toes. And just to make sure we were properly initiated into Rome, the skies opened with a burst of rain, only to clear up soon after into hot sunshine. Classic Roman drama.

Dinner was a quick affair back near the hotel, and we were more than ready to crash into bed—exhausted, full, and happy.

Tomorrow brings the Colosseum from the inside and the Vatican, and we can’t wait to dive deeper into the Eternal City. Stay tuned!