Rome, Italy
Let’s discuss what it’s like to be sick on a class trip—in short, not pleasant! Not only do I have strep throat, but so does Kristina, and Casey possibly has bronchitis (and definately has a broken toe). We’re a mess, but at least we look good.
Today seemed as though it was five separate days, and the nonstop traveling has officially exhausted us. I’m wondering how we can go on, but simultaneously, I’m thrilled to finally be in a different country. I’m a bit surprised by how similar Rome looks to New York, not completely, but in the fact that they’re both large cities with urban-type areas. Rome differs in its architecture, with fountains and churches of magnificent stature.
After our tour guide made that comment about the Tiber River being extremely contaminated, I did some research, and I learned that the water hasn’t been drinkable for centuries. Addtionally, the waterborne diseases within the river are so prominent that you shouldn’t even touch the surface. I found this tidbit of information to be a significant example of how the city’s very infrastructure had to change throughout history due to its uninhabitable waters.
Like the Tiber River, my friends and I carry illness, though ours isn’t transmittable while on medication. Nevertheless, our displaced hipbones, aching soles, and constant headaches haven’t deterred us from making the most out of our first day in Italy. During our free time, we ate gelato, and it was wonderful (I got mango flavor). We also took a lot of photos, some of which can be seen below.
One of my favorite phrases from The Walking Dead is “Just Survive Somehow.” I think we lived by that motto today despite our mental and physical anguish. And honestly, we’re just one step closer to fulfilling our Lizzie McGuire dreams… they’re made of amoxicillin and benzonatate.
