In the past couple of days I have experienced countless firsts. My first bus ride in Roma. My first taste of gelato and pizza. My first real Roman experiences. I finally feel like I am in Italy, and this is only day four of my adventure. Never again will I say how crazy the Muni drivers are in San Francisco, for when riding a bus in Roma standing becomes a matter of holding on with two hands and finding as much balance as you can muster. And when that doesn't happen, it's easier to just find a seat. I will not be able to return to gelato or pizza in the United States, because with one bite of each there is going back. I have experienced Pistachio (my current favorite), Nutella, Dark Chocolate, and Caffè gelato, but to choose just one flavor is nearly impossible. I have seen the Vatican, Pantheon, Trevi Fountain, Roman Forum, Colosseum, and Spanish Steps, all of which have only affirmed the unique blend of beauty that makes Roma what it is.
A group of us boarded the 990 bus and headed away from school in search of something that would cement the fact that we are studying abroad. After finding Old Bridge gelato we began to walk and ended up in St. Peter's square, illuminated by lampposts, as well as a giant Christmas tree and nativity scene that still stand in the center. As light played off the cobblestone and the Vatican loomed above us, a sense of calm washed over me as I began to realize that this eternally beautiful city is the place I am currently able to call home.
Following our voyage to the Vatican and a day full of long safety and culture meetings, we set out the following evening for a greater Roman experience. We wandered down tiny alleys as scooters and taxis whisked by, just like in almost every movie made about Rome, and found the many hearts of the city. Yet for me, the most incredible site thus far has been La Fontana di Trevi. Walking around the corner to the sounds of its roaring waters and bustling admirers got my heart racing, and I had to stop and take a deep breath to absorb the reality of it. No picture can do it justice, no film and capture the emotion of standing in front of it. I threw a coin into its clear waters with the hope that it will one day return me to Roma.
I have seen, heard, tasted and smelled so much in my short stay here. What I have witnessed has only strengthened my love for this city and its inimitable culture that weaves together the antiquities of the past and the modernity of today. There may be designer stores leading up to the Spanish Steps and a McDonald’s near the Pantheon, yet the way these incredible powerful structures integrate into present day Roma makes their presence even more awe-inspiring. It is something that I cannot begin to describe but an exquisiteness that you must see for yourself.
I have seen, heard, tasted and smelled so much in my short stay here. What I have witnessed has only strengthened my love for this city and its inimitable culture that weaves together the antiquities of the past and the modernity of today. There may be designer stores leading up to the Spanish Steps and a McDonald’s near the Pantheon, yet the way these incredible powerful structures integrate into present day Roma makes their presence even more awe-inspiring. It is something that I cannot begin to describe but an exquisiteness that you must see for yourself.
You are currently the coolest person I know.
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