day 13 more Roma

Last night after my post we went for a walk to the Spanish Steps. It wasn’t too far away, just 15 or 20 minutes later we arrived at the top of the steps. It was a game of ‘Where’s Waldo’ when we sent Carm on his own to the very bottom. He made it down and then back up, arriving out of breath but really thrilled.

We strolled back to the hotel, stopping at a nearby restaurant for a fantastic meal. There aren’t many restaurants nearby so we’ll go to the same place tonight.

We got going early again this morning, not 5am early but 7am. A quick breakfast in the hotel and then we made our way to the first ‘on off’ bus stop to wait for the first bus.

First stop: colosseum and forum.

After a quick visit inside the Colosseum we boarded the bus for the next attraction: Trevi Fountain.  Jo Ellen and Don stayed on the bus to get back to the hotel, but we still had a bit of energy left.

The crowds at the fountain were out of this world. Row upon row of people filled up every space. Selfie sticks were everywhere. It was chaos, but wow, what a fountain. It had been under renovation until a few weeks ago so we were lucky to see it. Freshly washed, the white marble glowed in the hot sun.

From there we wandered down some side streets till we found the Pantheon. The imposing facade dominated the square.

Stepping inside I felt a wave of emotion. This is the third building that has caused an emotional response. The ceiling was incredible and the way the light came through the centre was goosebump making.

We made our way back to the hotel at this point for a short rest, afterwhich we met Jo Ellen and Don on the rooftop terrace for a cold drink. We are having a little break now and will soon be meeting for supper and then an early night. The alarm will be set for 3:15am...

Our last day of vacation was unforgettable. Hot Mediterranean sun and amazing sights made the day. Rome is an incredible city and we will certainly visit again, next time for longer. Orange trees growing along busy streets, narrow busy streets, cars and people everywhere, scooters driving like maniacs - it is all so wonderful.