A Few Things to do in Rome.

A Few Things to do in Rome.

These tips are some that I’m learning and doing myself while I’m here! 

1.  Eat food. 

Italians love their food.  As they should, it is delicious.  The best restaurants are ones that don’t have an English menu.  Restaurants with an English menu are mainly tourist based, hence the English menu.  It also means they might be a little more expensive.  Find a nice little neighborhood restaurant with an Italian menu.  It’ll probably be cheaper and more Italian, less tourist.

2.  Take lots of pictures.

I don’t care how touristy this sounds, and I don’t care how stupid you may feel just whipping out your camera for everything.  I’m telling you to just do it.  Rome is beautiful.  And no, I’m not just saying that.  It really is a beautiful city.  The architecture and colors of the buildings are works of art on their own.  Then you get to older areas like the Pantheon and the Colosseum.  Structurally, they are absolutely gorgeous.  And historically, they’re fantastic to learn about.  They aren’t just some old buildings in Rome.  They are historic centers that are important to the history of Rome.  So whenever you see a building that catches your eye, take a picture of it.  Also take pictures of your food.  The food is beautiful and so so yummy.  You can use them to make people jealous of how good you’re eating while you’re in Rome.

3.  Walk.

When you come to Rome, spend most of your time walking.  Not only is driving dangerous with all the crazy Italians on the road, it is also the fastest way to miss something.  Honestly, you will see so much more if you just go out and walk.  Take a map, grab some euros and make sure you have your camera and go take a walk.  The beauty of Rome is everywhere.  Plus, it’ll be a great way to burn off all of the pasta and gelato you’ll be eating.  Just make sure you have comfortable shoes.  The cobblestones are killer if you don’t.  Maybe a foot massage after too…

 4.       Keep a journal. 

 Yes, I know most of you will say that you outgrew this when you were ten, but to be honest, a journal is the best way to keep a detailed description of everything.  You may forget your trip over time, but if you write it down, you’ll be able to go back and read about what you did when you were younger.  Just write down everything.  The sights, the sounds, the food and what you felt.  It’ll really be nice to go back on it. 

5.       And finally, just be careful.

I’m not trying to scare you out of a trip to Rome.  I’m encouraging you to go, but also to be careful.  Rome is a beautiful city and most Italians are super nice.  However, there are some that will try to rob you or drug you.  Women, make sure your purse is secure and zipped.  Don’t keep your money all in one spot.  Don’t keep things in your pockets if your pockets are easily reached into.  Men, don’t put your wallet in your back pocket.  It’ll be easy to steal.  Some basic bar rules:  don’t leave your drink unattended.  Don’t take drinks from strangers.  Just make sure you are aware of your surroundings and be careful. 

Those are five tips for visiting Roma!  I’m sure there will be more when I’ve been here longer. 

Ciao!