In Roma...

In Roma...

Colosseo

When you imagine visiting Rome you picture: History, Culture, and more History. (and definitely some pizza thrown in somewhere). I'm happy to report that in our time in Rome, we indulged all three. Now, on the train to Rome, day dreams of Audrey Hepburn-esque charades filled my head. Roman Holiday is one of my favorite Hepburn films, and paying homage to her was one of the very first checks on the list. We only had two days in Rome so we had to pick which spots we could no way miss. However, I'm telling you guys two days was plenty. It was amazing how close everything was! We set up a tour with our hostel ( this is why we love hostels friends! They make it so easy! --> here's the link to the one we stayed at: Hostel Alessandro Palace and Bar--super clean and nice! About a three minute walk to the train station).  Here's the spots we hit and how we went about them.

The Colosseum

Quite literally one of the most amazing things I've ever seen. I mean you read about it  in history books and the bible and it just blows your mind. The crazy thing about Rome is its a mixture of thousand year old history and modern architecture. You can be driving through the streets and you turn the corner and BOOM, there's the "Colosseo'." When you get there, be prepared to be asked by bunches of tour guides for their "special pricing."  Megan and I decided to wait through the regular line and buy the 12 euro ticket. it doesn't come with the tour guide or the small hearing device but we got through everything just fine.  We went to every level and read through each story. I absolutely loved the history and the stories painted by the architecture and hidden rooms throughout. I can't believe I stood where thousands of Christians were slaughtered for their beliefs. How incredibly grateful I was to stand there in my freedom in Christ today.

Fontana de Trevi

Despite our best efforts, Paulo was no where to be found. We did however find and abundance of gelato and polaroid film. This is the most obvious spot most people want to visit during their stay in Rome.We were so happy to finally marvel at this fountain. It's absolutely stunning and even bigger than you can imagine. I suggest going towards the evening. It is a little less crowded and shines even more with its evening lights. Definitely make a stop here and make a wish!

Spanish Steps

If you're an Audrey fan, the Spanish steps are a must! I've always wanted to  be like Audrey. An adventurous spirit with a whole lot of love to give. Watching her movies and all the adventures she goes on. It  makes you want to be her kind of woman. Strong. Unafraid. It can be quite daunting walking into a city where you don't know the language, where you don't know the pace. But I found being here, standing where she stood, Maybe, just maybe I could..

The steps are a very famous spot in the middle of Rome, perfect for a gelato resting stop. Enjoy the views of a vibrant shopping area of Rome and many local street artists. I loved every minute of this area and its about a five minute walk to the trevi fountain!

Roman Forum

This was honestly one of my favorite spots. You literally are walking into a history book, it's astonishing. I am a complete history nerd so seeing the ruins of what once was a Roman City center was nothing short of amazing. What is so cool to see is how much of the city is actually still intact. You can still see the buildings, the houses or resting places of old officials. Wow. You definitely cannot pass this up, especially as it comes with your 12 euro ticket to the Colosseum. Not bad right?

The Vatican

Last but certainly not least, is the Vatican. This was an experience. I had no idea that the Vatican was its own "country." They have their own law system, postal system, official bird, etc. The pope is the leader of this country. Of course, you cannot get into the Vatican City unless you are extremely important, but nonetheless you can still visit the museum and surrounding area. We mostly went to see the art and most importantly: The Sistine Chapel. It's mostly known for the painting of the ceiling by artist Michaelangelo. Wow. I can't really put into words the beauty of the paintings but I can tell you that God's presence was there. Seeing the original paintings of Christ and the representation of Jesus and God was something I'll never forget. History. Beauty. Something you can only see by traveling and putting yourself outside of your comfort. 

All in all, I have to say Lizzie was right. Rome was definitely what dreams were made of. Pizza, art, History, culture. What more can we ask for? Oh yeah, more pizza.

xo,

Miranda