Do as the Romans do. And we did. We napped in the Forum, sipped cappuccino, went for a stroll and chatted about the future over dinner.

Our first day was spent admiring our view of the Church of San Giovanni and Rome’s city walls from our penthouse studio (5 floors up with no elevator) in Pilgrim’s Rome. Our landlord Gabriella (who owned a B&B across the way) was so nice! Our studio apartment had a large terrace, a bedroom off to the side, and a full bath and kitchen.

This is Gabriella.

After we got settled in, we set off for the Colosseum, Forum and Pantheon.

We look a little tired and sweaty here – but happy!!

That first night we got lost for a few hours, and when we finally found our rental, we stopped and picked up some wine, cheese, meat and crackers to enjoy on our patio. It was exactly what we needed after walking around Rome all day.

The morning after:

Our second day in Rome was spent in Vatican City.

It was incredibly humid so we stopped and had some cold beer.

That evening we took a night walk across Rome, starting at the Spanish Steps. After the steps we splurged on dinner, then headed to the Trevi Fountain and Piazza Navona to people watch. We ended our walk in Campo De’ Fiori and sat and watched the young bar scene. Sort of felt like Mill Ave., but cooler since we were in Rome.

Rome was one of the most amazing places I’ve ever been. So much to do and see! We’re already planning our next European vacation, and it starts with Rome again! Then, France, and London and Ireland… he.he.

Part 2 to come later…