Experiencing the Best of Europe
Day 13: Exploration
“Travel is more than the seeing of sights; it is a change that goes on, deep and permanent, in the ideas of living.” – Miriam Beard
Best Moments
1. Transportation strike day in Italy
2. Easy access into the Vatican
3. Gazing up at the "School of Athens"
4. Understanding that great works like the Sistine Chapel would be best viewed alone
5. Taking a cab through Rome
6. Shopping on the streets of Rome
7. Spending time with good company
Daily Recap
*We were told early in the day that there would be a challenge with the transportation. We would have no problem getting to the Vatican, but getting back would be another story. Strikes are common in Italy. We could either walk back or get a taxi.
*It was very nice not having to wait in the lines to get into the Vatican. It seemed like there were thousands of people there.
*One of my favorite sights at the Vatican was seeing the "School of Athens." I've had a print of it hung up in my room since high school. I loved learning about it. Seeing it in person was very rewarding.
*I was so excited to see the Sistine Chapel, but I found it difficult to enjoy. We went in knowing there would be crowds, but it was overwhelming.
Personal Connections
*I typically love being around people, but I found it to be too much at the Vatican. As I stood in the Sistine Chapel, I tried to ignore everyone around me and take in what I was seeing. I found it so hard with the loud roar and constant flashing of cameras (even though you are not supposed to take photos). Something I learned about travel is that it is important to go in with a positive attitude and try not to dwell on things that are upsetting. The truth is there are frustrating moments, even when traveling.
*As we were walking through the Vatican, one of my friends shared with me that she had George Michael's "Faith" song stuck in her head. I'm sure you can imagine what played through my mind the rest of the day.
*A few of us opted to take the taxi back to our hotel. I recommend doing this while in Rome. It offers another dimension of the people and place.
Stub Hub
I have been amazed by the artwork that fills Italy. So many famous painters and sculptors have come from this country and their work fills the museums and churches.
The Vatican is overflowing with amazing work. If at all possible, the next time I return I will try to make sure it is in the Spring. I think I would gain so much more from the experience if I wasn't sharing it with hundreds of other people. I'd love to just lay on the floor and look up.
After the taxi ride back to our neighborhood, we grabbed some lunch. We saw all the workers crowding in this restaurant, so we tried it. I ordered a salad that was full of good ingredients and the price was very reasonable. When in doubt, follow the Romans.