ARRIVING
I always find the first day hard and long after flying the Atlantic. Our flight over was bumpy much of the way and true sleep eluded me. The baggage claim was packed with people, but coming through passport control was somewhat simpler than in the past. It was an hour from landing until we were in the car for the hour ride to our hotel. Rome was sunny and bright, and the light on the yellow fall leaves breathtaking.
As expected, the room wasn’t ready, so we did the walk and wander routine around our neighborhood from the Spanish Steps to the Piazza del Popolo until it was an acceptable time for lunch. Just before 12:30, early by Italian standards, but perfect for tourists. The Chief Penguin tucked into a plate of fettuccine with porcini while I opted for the comfort of a risotto made with smoked provolone and Prosecco. We ate at a leisurely pace, enjoying the outdoor scene around Alla Rampa in Piazza Mignanelli and timed our return to the hotel for when the room was ready.
AFTERNOON & EVENING
The Chief Penguin took a long walk to his favorite piazzas while I dozed a bit for an hour before we set out again. Rome is packed with people, and I mean packed! We were here four years ago at this same time and it wasn’t nearly as crowded. But then, we know at least five couples who were to be in Italy at some point this month.
The evening light on the city’s amber, rose, tan, and cream buildings was soft and beautiful. Dinner was at another restaurant café with outside seating, this one called Angie’s. It is more casual than Alla Rampa with a less extensive menu. We shared a mozzarella and prosciutto pizza, grilled vegetables (red peppers, zucchini and eggplant), and an apple tart along with some white wine. We retired early to be ready for another day in this city of narrow streets and intimate piazzas.
Note: All photos ©JWFarrington (some rights reserved.)
I can well imagine the crush of people. Friends were in Rome in July and the heat was sooo terrific that they had to spend between 12 and 6pm in their hotel room in the air con. In London today Oct. 6th it is 23C guess that says it all…..