I am in Rome, finally. Something I have dreamed about for nearly half of my life.
As Lizzie McGuire would say, “This is what dreams are made of.”
After traveling for 20+ hours through many dangers, toils, and snares (mainly just not being able to finesse a comfortable sleeping position on a nine-hour flight after a seven-hour layover), I made it. Plus, I got to experience the glory of Shake Shack in JFK airport which I highly recommend.
After landing at Rome-Fiumicino Airport and getting to live out my fantasy of exiting a plane via stairway like a president returning from a trip, and then successfully claiming my luggage (hallelujah), our group met up with Academic Coordinator Jan Getz and our local tour guide Matteo. We set out to see some of the highlights, despite our extreme fatigue.
Needless to say, my first day in Rome was not what I expected. To be honest, in my jet-lagged state I had a hard time remembering the names of all the places we were whisked away to. It took a lot of energy to absorb the new cultural norms around me before I could start to relax and enjoy them.
Our first stop at the famous Trevi Fountain made me extremely nervous because I was not ready for the sheer amount of people I would encounter. People trying to sell you knockoffs and bracelets and selfie sticks have no qualms about coming right up to you. Waiters stand outside of the restaurants they work in, trying to bring in a crowd. Catcalling exists in its own unique Italian brand. At first, I was very overwhelmed.
As the day progressed we were able to see the Pantheon, an ancient temple that is now a church, get amazing gelato at Della Palma (for only €2.80–if you’re looking for a recommendation, the stracciatella and milk chocolate made an excellent pairing,) consume the thinnest crust pizza I’ve ever experienced, and visit the stunningly beautiful Piazza Navona.
Extra bonus, even though our hostel doesn’t have an elevator or complimentary soap, it is incredibly charming and the WiFi is good and free.
In the evening we had a full Italian dinner at Ristorante da Massi with pasta, salad, pork and prosciutto, and homemade tiramisu.
Adjusting to a new time zone is never easy, let alone a new culture. I look forward to all the adventures yet to come, after a full night of sleep.