When In Rome

Rome is one of the traveller's delight. I was fortunate to have the opportunity to go to Rome and discover the ways of the Roman Empire. Rome is beautiful with lots of history and the architects are phenomenal.

This is only a brief overview of Rome and I'm no Rick Steeves. When you go you must be prepared to walk a lot. Plan out your day to see specific parts of Rome instead of just visiting one tourist attraction like the Coliseum, because most of the sites are so close to each other. No need to take the taxi, they have a good and easy subway system in Rome. Try to get your tickets to the attractions in advance to avoid standing in long lines, they do have will call lines. When you go to the Coliseum, make sure you don't stand in the long line to purchase a ticket IF you have a will call. There is an interior "line" that is for those who have will call tickets, this will save you a lot of time. Try to avoid taking pictures with the "Gladiators" outside the Coliseum unless you want to fork over 10 Euros.

When you are anywhere in Rome, DO NOT buy any bags, rugs, souveniers from street vendors. They are mostly unlicense and if you are caught buying them, guess who gets caught holding the bag.....literally YOU if you purchased a bag. The police will fine YOU the tourist who made the purchase and NOT the street vendor. They may be aggressive but the best way is to tell them "NO" or do not look interested at any of their products that they are selling.

You can go on your own to a lot of these places on self guided tours. They have audios that you ask for to be included in your admission fees. Be aware of potential pickpocketers especially in very crowded areas in tourist spots.

Till next time, will do a follow up blog on other destinations in Rome and Vatican and some places to eat. Will also follow up to other areas of Italy such as Siena, Capri, Sorrento, Pisa, and Florence.