"Big dog! Big dog!" our guide shouts when one of the gals on our trip got stuck on the opposite side of a very busy Roman street. M explained to us, the big dog theory. In order to survive as a pedestrian in Italy, and specifically Rome, you must be the big dog. You pretend that you are the big dog, and the driver, a small dog. When two pups are nose to nose, the big dog stares the little dog down until he yields. This was our instruction on how not to get run over.
The Trevi Fountain is our first stop, and I am so excited as we turn the corner. The fountain is in the Trevi district in Rome, designed by architect Nicola Salvi, and is a Baroque masterpiece. It is a beautiful sunny day, everyone is out, and I sit at the fountain with the sun blazing. I swish my hand in the water, listen to Pavarotti at full volume, and eat the most gorgeous gelato. I watch people toss coins in, and I don't think I've ever been happier in my entire life. It is said that if you toss one coin in the fountain, you will return to Rome. Two coins -- you will return and fall in love. Three coins -- you will return, fall in love and marry. I tossed mine in before I left.
Next, it is on to the Pantheon. An architectural wonder, Pantheon means "honor all Gods" and was first built as a grand and impressive temple with statues honoring the greatest gods of Rome. It is now a catholic church, and is also a final resting place for Italian kings and artists. I loved my walk around the Pantheon, and was met by two handsome gladiators on my way out. One of them put a golden wreath on my head, handed me a sword and we engaged in a playful duel. I am not used to the attention that I am receiving from the Italians. It is fun.
I try to hitch a ride Audrey-style to the Spanish Steps, but I am having a more difficult time than one would imagine. Apparently, you need a helmet to lawfully ride a Vespa in Rome, and I didn't have one. So, instead, I enjoyed meandering the cobbled streets, window shopping in the luxurious Italian shops, eating more gelato. I really do feel like Princess Ania in Roman Holiday. I just allow myself to do anything I can dream up. It is like Rome has come to life just for me.
The evening finds me and the girls at Piazza Navona for an evening espresso. I order in perfect Italian and earn the respect of my server by doing so. It is a lovely night to sit outside, beside the Fountain of the Four Rivers. The girls get their palms read by a mysterious woman in the piazza, while I take it all in. I think of one of my best friends, Janelle, who had always loved studying foreign languages and traveling with me. When I get back to the hotel, I call Janelle and tell her about today, the best day of my life. I had to share it and I knew that she was the friend to receive this late night call from Rome.
The next morning, we head to the Vatican, Sistine Chapel and St. Peter's Basilica. I find it difficult to put into words the feelings evoked from these landmarks, but perhaps -- amazing, powerful, mysterious. I love seeing nuns, priests and monks walking this space. The Vatican is home to the Pope and filled with iconic art and architecture. I am most in awe of the frescoed ceiling of the Sistine Chapel. I stand there, enjoying absolute silence, looking up at Michelangelo's masterpiece. "Take this all in," I think. Many people will never see this in their entire lives.
The remainder of our day in Rome is spent exploring the Colosseum, the largest ancient amphitheatre ever built. It feels surreal to be here, on these ancient grounds, thinking about the gladiatorial games and events that took place. We also visit the Roman Forum, once the hub of political and social activity for the Romans. I love being here, in the Eternal City. I feel special, with my feet on these grounds. Like I am now part of history.
I do not get to visit The Mouth of Truth (Bocca della Verita), one of Audrey's Roman Holiday landmarks, so that is saved for the next trip. This last evening in Rome we take a walk with our guide around the city. This has become a favorite new tradition. M, our Swiss guide, remains nearby. Ahead of you, behind you, he always has you in his sight, nearby with a protective watch. I love it. I feel so safe, so happy. Whatever I was in my past life, I must have had a security team, because it feels so natural to me to have that kind of protection.
Insider Tip: Some of our favorite Stays!
Sini Bernini Bristol - located just steps from the Trevi Fountain
Hassler Roma - located at the top of the Spanish Steps
Portrait Roma - centrally located between Trevi Fountains and the Borghese Gardens
These beautiful hotels and a handful of other select properties in Rome and throughout Italy are part of our Signature Hotels and Resorts. All of these offer our guests exclusive amenities, VIP treatment, and personalized attention.
Don't miss the next part of our Italy story...onward to Florence and Tuscany!
