Mijadu

When you ask someone what Rome gave us, inevitably, straight roads comes up rather quickly. Today we head for the outskirts of Rome to walk along the very straight and famous Via Appia Antica, The Appian Way. First, a word about Roman traffic. Crosswalks and stops are clearly marked. Lanes, however are not. Passing another vehicle and making a turn are very freeform and improvised affairs. Our bus ride is no exception. We wait in the bus for a minute or two before our bus driver hops on board. Slim-bodied with her hair tied up and sporting a badass pair of aviators, she throws her bag in the corner and kicks the ignition. If I knew the Italian expression for “Hauling Ass” I’d use it here. Woe to the Vespa that attempts a left turn in ... read more

9:15 a.m. Rome Time A smooth descent begins over the Atlantic. We follow the coast of Italy southbound before turning east to approach Fiumicino Airport where we land (with applause, no less), pick-up our luggage in less than a half-hour. We take the “Leonardo Express” non-stop from the airport to Stazione Termini, Rome’s main rail station. The Hotel Morgana is about 5 minutes from the train station and thankfully our room is ready and we’re allowed to check in early. If I can get in a shower and a nap before lunch on my first day in Europe, then jet-lag is pretty much a non issue. So, after the aforementioned shower and nap, we decide on a short walk to Trevi Fountain. We start off heading west on Via Principe Amedeo and pass by the Teatro ... read more