Rome

Rome. Such a historic, charming city. Capital of Italy. Rome is filled with so much iconic, remarkable ancient beauty. Every, eye-catching street corner, gave you a historic testament without even knowing it. The historical buildings, trendy restaurants, the shopping, diverse grocery markets, charmed fountains and friendly Italians, I couldn’t resist but to surrender myself inside Rome’s convolutions and perish a direction.

From the Spanish Steps, St. Peter’s Basilica, Vatican City, Museums, Colosseum, Palentino Hill, Roman Forum to the Fountain of Trevi. So much to experience, where do I begin.

Such monuments stand to be the utmost historical ancient sanctuaries to explore and experience. The best way to explore ancient Rome is by foot as it allows you to delve into each monument spontaneously unrestricted because they are a few miles apart. Along each historic shrine, you can also explore hidden gems such as alley ways, pizza parlors, numerous antique churches, rustic cobblestone houses or gelato spots, all before reaching your final destinations.

Along in exploring Rome, you will come across San’t Angelo Bridge in where Tiber River, a grand ravine flows through in between ancient landmarks that leads to Castel San’t Angelo. Spend some time by the bridge and appreciate all of its energy illuminating your soul against the history you are standing in. It is a very surreal moment.

Undertaking Rome’s rich history was singularly prosperous and yet beyond the tourism, my most enjoyable and passionate experience was really embodying and cultivating localism. Once my novelty of the city disappeared, I liked waking up in the morning, walking to the nearest coffee shop and ordering an espresso and croissant. Sitting by the window seat and observing the Italian community, language, gestures and culture. 

I seized a moment to write in my travel journal to record my presence, surroundings, gratitude and awareness which enables me to feel such appreciation of my venture.  If you have a moment during your vacation, a travel journal can help cherish your moment. Any time you find yourself taking a break, getting a cup of coffee or glaze over the sunset, it is always a good time to reminisce and appreciate your adventure. 

Once I spent about 3 weeks in Rome, I had learned my way near Piazza Navona neighborhood. I adored walking to the multi-cultured grocery store and discovering that they had a Mexican aisle. Not only did I feast on Italian dishes in my Airbnb but I began to incorporate Mexican foods as well to reminisce of my own culture. My culture food made me feel close to home, it was familiar and comfortable which enabled me to continue to grow in my travel journey.  It was the best of both worlds.

There is so much to see in Rome that it can feel overwhelming in trying it fit all the activities in your itinerary.  But I highlighted the must-see destinations of Rome in hopes that you find this list helpful.   

• Piazza Navona. It is a public charming square, filled with restaurants, trendy shops, bakeries, gelato spots, boardwalk vendors, street artists and several alley ways that lead to other boutiques and restaurants. The atmosphere is vibrant, uplifting and enticing. The connectedness amongst the locals was infectiously charming that I felt it fit my lifestyle.
• Colosseum. There is typically a line to enter but if can splurge a few more euros, you can skip the line. The colosseum has a rich and diverse ancient history that began in A.D 80, it was firstly known as an amphitheater that delivered gladiator combats and animals fights. Then in 18^th century, it was used as a source to build materials. Now it stands for tourism to capture the liveness it sustained throughout many lifetimes.
• Palentino Hill. It is most famous of the Romes 7 Hills. It stands 40metres above the Roman Forum. Palentino Hill contains the ruins of Flavian Palace and Stadium of Domitian, along with Hut of Romulus. The remains of the house of Augustus and the House of Livia have been also preserved. It is worth bringing in a picnic feast and enjoy the serene sounds amongst the manicured landscape while capturing the ancient ruins. All while withdrawing noise of the city which is just a few steps away.
• St. Peter’s Basilica. It is the Headquarters of the Holy Roman Church. Explore the renaissance art, religious artifacts, burials of various popes, statues and the rich traditions.  If you try to go in for free, there is typically a line. Depending on the time of year, the wait time can vary. During high tourism season, you may wait up to an hour.  However, the most I have waited was 30-40 minutes during the high season.  Or if you wish to skip the line, it will cost 17euros. You may also partake in a group tour or a self-guided tour, which is a great way to explore the entirety of St. Peter’s Basilica that will take you to see all the attractions such as Raphael’s Rooms, Sistine Chapel, and museums.  Keep in mind that you will need to dress appropriately to enter or you will be denied entrance. Cover your shoulders and wear something that fits below the knee.  
• The Spanish Steps. The Spanish Steps are a 5km away from Vatican and about 4km from Piazza Navona. The Spanish Steps connect at the foot of Piazza di Spagna and with the upper part of Piazza Trinita dei Monti. There, you will also see various stylish and upscale boutiques along with the cutest restaurants. The Spanish Steps just brings out a level of inspiration that enables you to learn more. Embark on the 135 steps to relish the artifact and scenery.  
• Roman Forum. It is the home to numerous ancient ruins of several government buildings that practiced political and social measures. Explore through Via Sacra, which connects you towards the Colosseum in Piazza del Campidoglio. The arch of the Titus recognizes victory over Jerusalem. The Curia, a building that was used by the senate to make all administrative decisions of the government. But there is so much to explore.

Roman Forum, Palentino Hill and the Colleseum are located in the same radius and are adjacent to each other.  Visit Viator to check out their deals. I highly recommend as it can be convenient to explore all of the rich history leisurely and gradually without feeling the rush or need to target your next location.

And lastly, schedule one day to spontaneously get lost in the city of Rome. You will never know what you will discover, enjoy, or appreciate.  There are museums, parks and gardens spread throughout the city. Step away from the tourist attractions and dive into the localism of the town. 

Visiting Rome was enchanting, yet one needs to be prepared in visiting a foreign country. Here are some tips:

• Carry cash.
• Keep your fanny-packs, purses or backpacks in front of you.
• Do your travel shopping at the end of your trip so that you won’t be stuck carrying it around while you are still sightseeing.
• Be wary of others offering discounts, always buy tickets from reputable companies.
• Make sure you wear comfortable shoes as there is tons of walking and Rome is best explored by walking.