Rome in a day

What can you see in Rome in just one day? Turns out, a LOT. We started our day at the Vatican and it was stunning! Thanks to Shannon, our art history tour guide from Alabama, we learned so much about the history of Michaelangelo, Rafael, various Popes, and Italian Catholic traditions. She was so passionate about the subjects and you couldn't help but catch the fever too.

And speaking of fever, I have one. Ugh....not a fun way to start the trip but I'm determined to power through. Maybe I should have gotten that blessing after all. Prayers would be much appreciated!

We returned to the hotel for a quick lunch before heading out for tour #2...a walking tour of various piazza's, fountains, and the Pantheon! We ended with a drive by of the Colosseum, arriving too late for a walk through. But it was breathtaking none the less.

We are having an amazing time and I'm still in awe that I am even here. It is mind blowing to actually see what the Romans have built. No picture can ever do it justice, but here are a few from today's adventure. Ciao!

Touchdown in Rome!!

We made it to Rome and it is fabulous already! We arrived at the St. Regis hotel and cleaned up for dinner. I'm sharing a room with Mana, and we were excited to open up our window to the sights and sounds of Rome! Not gonna lie, the shower was also heavenly.

We ate at M&C'S favorite spot, Taverna Flavia! This charming restaurant is tucked into the middle if a cobblestone street, not far from the hotel, and plastered with pictures of various celebrities. Obviously a favorite for many. And OMG pasta pasta pasta! Pretty sure my body is going to hate me in the morning considering I haven't eaten carbs like that for over a year. We also had a lovely serenade by the in-house singer. He was fabulous and seemed to love our table....reminded me of my grandpa Duane. We joined in the sing-a-long and stumbled through the Italian. All of the staff seemed to remember M&C and were excited to see them return. They treated us like close family.

The culture here is rich, and it was so fun just being immersed in their tradition. We watched as family and friends poured into the restaurant at the late hour to enjoy a meal together. Such a lovely first night :)

Munich!!

We arrived safe and sound in Munich!! The flight was awesome. Only a short layover until our flight to Rome. Which by the way I just spelled "roam" in an iMessage to my family.

Mana is excited about the self serve bar in the business lounge. It's the little things. Some of our party is out scouring the airport shops and I am checking out the scenery in the lounge (cute guy at 2 o'clock).

Next stop....Roam! ;)

Six to Italy....It Begins!

Let's start with a good meal, shall we? Because let's face it, this trip is going to be about food....lots of delicious food! Plus I'm traveling with two chefs and a gaggle of foodies.

We started this Italian adventure with an awesome dinner last night before we head out for the final Twilight installment. And by "we" I mean four of the six of us brave enough to sit amongst the tweenagers and boldly admit our love of vampire fiction...