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Published: November 25th 2014
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We had a late breakfast, contacted home, and wandered into a warm day with no real plans. Sue chose some jewellery as a momento, tried to get me to buy something, anything, and we made our way to Chiesa Gesu, the Jesuit church. Closed again. A supermarket was nearby so we bought some fruit and rolls and went to the Vittoriale to see if you can get on the roof top for a look. After climbing some very steep stairs Sue decided the added height in the ride to the roof was not for her. It cost 7 euros to catch the lift up but the view made it well worth it. Panoramic views extending to the outskirts of Rome, with all the landmarks easily discernible, putting the city in true perspective. This is our second last day in Rome and Sue is ready to go home, me, not so ready. I think you could spend weeks roaming (pun fully intended) around Rome. We have backtracked a few times but there are so many lanes criss crossing each other that previously unseen monuments, shops or ancient buildings are stumbled across all the time.
Via Del Corso seems to be the
main link for us, the main artery, pumping life into the streets and leading us to most of the attractions we have visited. The only map we have is the free tear off tourist map I found at our receptionist desk and while most lanes and many streets are not listed, if you keep walking you will reach the river, a noted landmark, or Via Del Corso. From there the map helps but I think I could find my way without it now.
The vendors, street spruikers and beggars are the constants as you walk the streets and while not every beggar can be accommodated, I think some are obviously in need and I really don't think it is a 'career' choice as some might think. If you have doubts, buy them food rather than handing over money; what goes around comes around.
There are cafés everywhere in Italy but Rome seems to have market covered. The most dingy lane will have a bar and you are usually drawn by the strong aromas coming from them. I read a book written by an Italian restauranteur who used to cook garlic and onions first thing in the morning to
give his restaurant an edge, and draw you into his world. Pretty cunning. Tonight we tried the restaurant next door to our hotel. It looks a bit expensive but they have a meal of the day deal, were pretty empty, and very convenient. I was interested to see how they would boost the bill, even with a set price. Well, the food, 3 courses, was delicious , no service charge, and the drinks were at reasonable prices. It's a pity we only just discovered this but there is still tomorrow night.
Tomorrow we will walk up through the gardens, visit the Borgese Gallery, and head down Via Vittorio Veneto, an upmarket cafe and shopping strip, to visit the church of the Cappuchin Monks.
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