ROME

Is there anything that hasn't been said or written about Roma? From books, to movies to TV we have all seen the gladiator and Roman Empire movies. So maybe not, but that doesn't change the fact that it must be seen in person to be truly appreciated. There is so much to see and experience, in old Rome, and the countryside, so try to spend a reasonable amount of time in order to drink in everything that the area has to offer. There is much more to see than I can begin to do justice to in this blog, so let yourself go and look around every corner to find more wonders.

The Roman Empire from its inception to its "fall" has left us architectural, engineering, political, and cultural firsts, many of which have withstood the test of time. The election process, the creation of a legislative body called the Senate, and, imagine, even the idea of input from the populace, to name a few, have been replicated all over the world. Engineering and architectural wonders such as aqueducts, roads like the Appian Way, the Colosseum, and so many more physical designs are still with us. In fact, many are still in use in Rome, and others have been models for todays deisigns.

Even with all there is to do and see related to Rome's history, don't forget to eat. Roman cuisine is very good especially if you stick to their specialties. Try the Carbonara, Rome's most notable dish, or Cacio Pepe (black pepper), or spaghetti alle vongole (spaghetti and fresh clams). Tuesday is fresh catch day in all the restaurants, so you won't go wrong with seafood. Regarding wines, white wines are more notable in Rome, but local reds are on the rise. Of course, because Rome is an "international" destination, you will find manay different cuisines, and wines from nearly everywhere.
Some of the local scenery and points of interest are seen in the photos included here, but again, there is so much to explore on your own.

There are hundreds of hotels in Rome of all sizes and quality but for location, the Mozart Hotel is very convenient  for being able to walk to many points of interest. They are also very restaurant savvy and will point you to the non-touristy locations.

For a convenient and reasonably priced place to eat, try Taverna del Corso, close by the Mozart Hotel.

Start packing and enjoy your journey to Rome and beyond!!

The Spanish Steps

Inside Colosseum

St Peter's Basilica, Vatican City