Day 3: Bonjourno Roma

After a remarkably easy train ride through the rolling hills of Tuscany, we arrived at our destination. Rome. Finally. I had been long awaiting visiting this city and could not wait to explore! But first things first, we had to find the Tourist Information office so we could buy the Roma Pass (a good deal if you plan to use the public transportation and visit a couple of sights). BUT after wandering the ginormous Termini station for a good fifteen minutes, following the "i" signs which never lead to "information" we gave up. The bags were getting heavy, Keith had a mystery stinky wet stain on his pack (still to this day we have no idea what that was) and I was hot. So we bought two tickets at the Tabacci shop, hopped on the #1, jammed ourselves into a corner of the bus so we could keep an eye on our packs and road into the heart of Rome. My first reaction was "Omigosh this is the coolest place EVER!". Thinking back on that initial though, I was spot on. We arrived safely at our stop, easily found our Bed & Breakfast located on a quite alleyway close to Piazza Navona and settled in. This was at the beginning of the trip when Keith thought it was be easier if he just unpacked EVERYTHING HE OWNED!!. So we unpacked, we relaxed in our new place and listened to the excitement of Rome below.

The view from our room - Vicolo della Cancelleria

The first dinner in Rome was an absolute blast. We went to this fabulous restaurant near Campo d. Fiori called Trattoria der Pallaro. We were greated by Madame Fazi, with a turban wrapped around her head and a packed restaurant. The locals had also found this hidden gem where "you eat what they feed you". The multiple course menu was excellent, very reasonable and complete with foods we may never have ever ordered if we weren't just fed them (like the lentils which were my favourite). Here is Keith enjoying the first of many delicious courses.
After dinner, we strolled through the heart of Rome (seconds from our place) and saw the beautiful sights lit up at night. Highlights were Bernini's Trevi Fountain, the Pantheon and Piazza Navona.

The Trevi Fountain - I love the water falling in this shot with the long shutter speed.

Our first view of the Pantheon - this moment took my breath away. The Pantheon was absolutely magnificent. Tucked away in this little square called Piazza Rotunda, you turn the corner and there it is... antiquity. The very fact that the Pantheon is so intact is absolutely breathtaking.

Piazza Navona - everyone was just relaxing, milling about, street performers were entertaining, artists were selling the work and the whole atmosphere was festive and elegant.
I love this shot - Dolce Vita

And so we were off to bed, for an oh-so-early start to explore Rome... the Colosseum was waiting.