Rome - Villa Borghese

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Last day in Rome - We slept in till nearly 10. Our carefully constructed itinerary included a trip out of the city to see some ancient ruins that were particularly well preserved and apparently give a strong sense of Roman life ~2000 years ago. However, as we stared at each other, bleary-eyed and somewhat aching, we decided to opt for a plan B. We had more good coffee, this time in front of the Pantheon and then resolved to head to Piazza del Popolo and into the Villa Borghese (former estate, now park space). Rome is hot and dry and there is almost nothing green and growing in it, so we thought the park might offer some respite from the concrete jungle. Andrew planned the route so that he could re-visit Trevi fountain and we subsequently made our way up “the Corso” through the shopping/fashion district. Sort of like 5th avenue in New York, except with sidewalks only 2 feet wide. The feel of Piazza del Popolo was marred by the extensive trappings of some outdoor rock concert, but we headed into the park and enjoyed the views of Rome from a relatively high vantage point. Once inside the park it became clear that the park was a wonderland for rented electric vehicles plus rollerbladers, bicyclists and many people on foot. Most of the roads were free of “real” cars but were still a menagerie of vehicles. We surveyed the landscape and opted for a pair of two-person electric/pedal buggies. These were ideal for covering the vast expanses of the park and we had a lot of fun. Lauren was an able driver although Andrew struggled to reach the pedals and got limited opportunity to steer. Unsatisfied by the bicycles and fascinated by the Segway scooters roaming the park, we set out in search of yet another mode of transport. We rented Segways for the kids who quickly got the hang of it and had a blast motoring around the park as the parents chased on foot. Much fun and both kids proclaimed it was the best day yet in the vacation, although in their tired states it’s unclear whether they can remember anything that happened more than an hour ago. Hiked home for the usual afternoon unwind, although not as wrecked as previous days. Dinner in Piazza Navona again at Lauren’s request - another good meal with a spectacular view. Home to pack and get ready for another early morning travel.

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Photos

Lauren posed at View Spot
At top of steps at entrance to Villa Borghese park, looking down on Piazza del Popolo.

John, Andrew, Buggy
This nice and spaceous (if rather brown) park needed something, and apparently the gap was filled with novel modes of transporation. This pedal-driven buggy also had a motor that would engage when the rider on the driver's side pedalled. It was a good way to tour the park.

Lauren in Bicycle-Buggy
Her first chance to steer, brake and accelerate a motor-vehicle in actual traffic.

John and Andrew - bicycle buggy
"Why can't I drive?" (Maybe because my feet don't reach the pedals? Nahhhhh.) After much complaining, Andrew was permitted to drive for several nerve-wracking and zig-zagging minutes.

Team Segway
Definately the best part of the day. Afterwards, there was much discussion about Segway laws in San Mateo.

Lauren, Andrew, John, Piazza del Popolo
The start of the long walk home.

Refreshing splash of fountain water
Still makes people wet ....

Feet cleaning
Perfect use for this thing, don't you think?