Experiencing the Best of Europe
Day 12: Becoming a Roman
“If you reject the food, ignore the customs, fear the religion and avoid the people, you might better stay at home.” – James Michener
Best Moments
1. Finally getting to try zucchini flowers (and it is really good on pizza)
2. Feeling like a Roman with our guide Francesca's detailed explanations that involved all senses
3. Sensing a connection to Francesca because of the energy and emotion she put into our tour
4. Devouring a wonderful meal of a salad with pine nuts, parmesan, and balsamic vinegar and a cremini mushroom pasta near the Pantheon with good company
5.Engaging in conversation with a mother and son and being amazed at how cultured and respectful the sixth grade boy was
6. Escaping for an evening walk through Rome
7. Tossing my coin to make my wishes at the Trevi fountain
8. Savoring gelato in Italy
9. Rene always showing up at just the right moment
Daily Recap
*Today was huge. My adventures in Rome started with food. We found a little pizzeria near our hotel, so some of us stopped for a slice. I ordered a pizza with zucchini flowers. I've always wanted to try them, but they aren't really available where I live. They are so tasty!
*After lunch, we met in the hot afternoon with our guide Francesca. She was amazing. We began going through the Colosseum. To me, it felt smaller than I imagined, but not any less impressive.
*After envisioning the gladiators and the wild beasts, we left for the Forum. If I walked through this myself, I would not have gained anything, but to hear our guide speak of the times was enlightening.
*Our tour with her ended at the Pantheon. This is an example of a guide making travel meaningful.
Personal Connections
*If you have seen any of the Rome Rick Steves shows, then you probably know who Francesca is. She has got to be the top tour guide in Rome. She encourages people to use all of their senses as they walk through the historical ruins. Many of us felt a strong connection with her. Towards the end of the tour, she began to get emotional and I think it was because we valued what she was saying. Two hours together and we built a connection.
*For dinner, she recommended a little restaurant just down from the Pantheon. While there, we met this American woman and her son. They had been traveling all summer. He was only in 6th grade, yet he was so cultured and respectful. I wondered what it would be like to grow up traveling and learning at the places where the history actually happened. I wish I could take my students to all of these places.
Stub Hub
Our hotel was a few flights up, but it was a lovely, air conditioned place. There was a nice walkway with chairs and tables. Some of us gathered there to recharge our batteries and prepare for the heat.
Something great about all of the hotels we have stayed in has been the convenience. We have been close to transportation and all the action. This hotel has some great restaurants nearby, whether we were looking for a sit down meal, or some quick takeout.
I'm still working on my postcards. My aunt has been wanting to come to Rome for awhile now. Although she couldn't be there with me, I at least sent a postcard from Rome.
