Trevi Fountain - Be sure to throw a coin into the fountain to ensure your return to the Eternal City. Some say it is best to throw the coin over your left shoulder with your right hand. Approximately 3,000 Euro are tossed in the fountain each day and the money is collected to support the poor through various charities in Rome.
"I am not the same having seen the moon shine on the other side of the world." Mary Anne Radmache
Wow Moments in Rome
All roads lead us to our final stop in our unforgettable Italian adventure. Rome is a big city, filled with all things old and new. And we realize that when we say old, as Americans, we have no actual reference for how old things are.
We were tired from all of our adventures by the time we arrived, but this vibrant city gave us renewed energy. There are so many layers (literally!) to explore. If you love history, art, architecture or cats you should visit Rome. Rome has something for everyone. The Vatican, Sistine Chapel, Colosseum, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Spanish Steps, St. Peter's Cathedral, Swiss Guards, a cat sanctuary and oh yeah, gelato.
We found ourselves in the Basilica of San Clemente, with levels that descend into the earth to reveal first century building. The journey seemed to take us to the center of the earth, while traveling back in time.
TIP: When crossing the street in Rome, which is a lot like playing a game of human Frogger, it is best to stick close to a local or go in a group. If you find yourself needing to cross alone just be sure to muster as much confidence as possible, make eye contact with the oncoming traffic and go for it. Once you start to cross keep going - drivers sense weakness and won't stop if they don't think you are serious about crossing.
Your language will change when you travel. One of our lovely art guides described a painter as making the skin look so "smoothy" as well as "not so smoothy". We still use these phrases in our best Italian accents. Travel stays with you.
Italian word/phrase of the day: Fontana - Fountain. Rome is home to a bajillion fountains. Ok, maybe not a bajillion but there are fountains everywhere you look.
NOM NOM NOM
Don't be fooled by the zebra plate, this was the most amazing meal of pasta and clams.