My first trip to Rome was in 2008 and I’m just as in love with Rome now as I was at first sight, though perhaps my love has mellowed. When I think of Rome today it’s more as if Rome is an old friend with whom I have created some really great memories. However, when I talk to strangers about Rome, or people who’ve never been to Rome, I still feel the same passion and enthusiasm and I want them to feel it too. I want everyone to love Rome as much as I do.
I think the reason I fell so hard was because I didn’t expect to. It didn’t happen like a lightning bolt, but more like a strong steady rain that catches you a little off guard, and even though you take cover, you still end up drenched.
Good memories and good trips are made up of moments in time. A collection of great moments is like a photo album, with each turn of the page another memory springs to mind. Another experience that you will always remember.
My memories of Rome are so powerful I can actually see myself in Rome walking down the street, or at a specific piazza. I remember what time of day it was, what I was wearing, and most importantly, how I felt. Excited. Curious. Hopeful. Joyful.
On assignment in Rome, Italy
1. Stepping inside St. Peter’s Cathedral for the first time
The power of the Roman Catholic Church is clearly evident here. You don’t need to be Catholic or religious, it’s impressive!
Exterior St. Peter’s Cathedral, Rome
2. The Capitoline Hill at sunset
If I was going to choose a number one favorite moment in Rome, it would probably be watching the sun set over the Roman Forum from the Capitoline Hill. Here you will see the ruins of what was once the most powerful country in the world! I never get enough of this view, and I always take friends there.
Sunset at the Roman Forum
3. Riding a scooter
There’s something quintessentially Roman about Vespas.. You must do it! I ended up on the back of a scooter with a total stranger. Call me crazy. I am here to tell the tale and obviously came through unscathed. You don’t have to be as daring as I was. Nowadays, many companies rent scooters. You can even go on scooter tours. Try this Tripadvisor link to book a Vespa tour in Rome. If you book through my affiliate link I get a small commission at no additional cost to you.
scene from the film Roman Holiday courtesy Wiki creativecommons
4. Eating Bucatini all’ Amatriciana
This is a classic Roman dish. The sauce is made with tomatoes, black pepper, a bit of red pepper flake, and pork jowl or pancetta. I tried this on my first visit to Rome. Molto Italiano!
5. Drink a spritz standing at the bar, Italian style
Drink whatever you like but do it the Italian way. If you stand at the bar you’re more likely to strike up a conversation with a local and you can practice your Italian. Note: only the tourists sit down.
Tourists enjoying a sunny day in Piazza Navona.
6. Watch the sunrise on the Tiber River from Ponte Sant’ Angelo
The Ponte Sant’ Angelo is a bridge with great historical and religious significance and it is a big tourist attraction. It’s worth it to get up early and go there before the crowds arrive. Who knows, perhaps gazing upon Bernini’s sublime angels lining the bridge first thing in the morning you will feel even closer to God.
Sunrise at Ponte Sant’ Angelo
Of course, I have other memories of Rome but I can’t write about all of them here. No matter where I stay, what I eat, or who I’m with, the beauty of Rome is that it is always memorable.
What are your most memorable moments in Rome?
