Rome Italy

It had been quite a few years since I last visited Rome, and once again, I fell under her spell. The Eternal City never disappoints—it’s a little grubby and worn, busy and noisy, but so full of life and charm.

We stayed in a lovely apartment in Trastevere, a neighborhood across the river from the Roman city center. Trastevere, with its ancient roots, has been home to a melting pot of nationalities and cultures over the millennia. The winding cobbled streets and ancient houses have maintained their character, making it a delightful part of Rome to explore.

Each morning, we enjoyed a cappuccino and cornetti at the corner bar, and we found ourselves back there again for our evening spritz. The routine was a comforting anchor amid the bustling city.

We embraced the role of tourists, wandering through Rome’s historic center and visiting iconic sites such as Piazza Fiori and Piazza Navona. One day, we climbed the hill behind Trastevere for a stunning panoramic view of the city before ending up at the Vatican. As we stood in Piazza San Pietro, I took a nostalgic walk down memory lane, recalling the many times I had spent there during my years living in Italy. Those were happy memories.

By the end of the second day, we were ready for a break from the crowds. We chose to stay local, enjoying the tranquility of small piazzas while sipping coffee, tea, or wine. This slower pace allowed us to fully appreciate the essence of Rome.

One of the highlights of our trip was discovering a very local Roman trattoria serving seriously authentic Roman cuisine. Each dish was a testament to the city’s rich culinary heritage. Another delightful find was an amazing gelateria just around the corner from our apartment. The creamy, flavorful gelato became a daily indulgence.

Rome, with all its history and vibrancy, has a way of captivating you. As our visit came to an end, we knew it was only a matter of time before we would return. Thanks, Rome, and until next time—arrivederci.