When In Rome

Lately I’ve been revisiting all the photographs I’ve taken through all the travels I’ve done.  My travel bug is definitely biting again and I have some exciting plans to share with you in the upcoming months but in the mean time I thought it would be worth sharing some of the trips I have already done with you.  There are thousands of pictures from my travels that I haven’t posted so I thought I’d like to share more of my biggest passion in life with you.  The travel section of my blog already takes you on quite a few journeys over quite a few countries (and continents) but there is still so much more that I’ve done and I’m looking forward to sharing that with you.

To begin with today I thought I’d revisit Rome.  While in Rome I visited the Roman Forum, home of Julius Cesar and Roman Dutch law too (the lawyer in me absolutely loved that fact so I just had to throw that out there).  So rich in history it was so intriguing taking a tour of the ruins of the Roman Empire.  Across the street is the Colosseum which is the historical landmark that back in the day brought in thousands of people for a full day of entertainment.  From the poorest of the poor to the extremely wealthy, the crowds would gather to watch performances, see exotic animals from foreign lands and, of course, anticipate the fight of the gladiators.

In the centre of Rome I enjoyed the coffee culture with the locals, sat on the Spanish Steps with gelato.  I walked along the side streets to find a cosy spot for a traditional Roman dinner.  The side streets are always the best place to find authentic restaurants and hidden gems.  I always like to avoid the touristy hot spots in the main streets and Rome is definitely a place where its worth digging a little bit deeper into the city to find wonderful spots.

While in Rome I also visited the Trevi Fountain for some wish-making.  Legend has it that if you make a wish and toss a coin in the fountain that you will return to the city again.  Let’s hope that’s true!

To end my stay in Rome I visited the Vatican, home to the Holy Roman Catholic church.  This truly is sacred ground and you can definitely feel that when you’re there.  I felt completely humbled and awed the size of St Peter’s Basilica.  Everything from the pillars, the paintings, gold leafing and height of the ceiling were so astounding.  I couldn’t help but feel a very proud Catholic.

In Rome the streets are paved with the most interesting history, art and all round beauty.  I absolutely love this city.  Have you been?  What was your favourite part of the city?