I Came Here To Praise Rome... (Rome)

Member Name: lilmsnaughty79

Product:	Rome
Date:	14/03/07 (130 review reads)
Rating:

Advantages: Beautiful, Friendly, Fascinating

Disadvantages: None

The Prologue
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I am a lover of all things ancient (although not ancient myself, honest). Show me some ruins and I'm as happy as Larry. So when looking for a place to go on my Hols where better than the heart of Ancient civilization and imperial colonisation, Rome. Here's my highlights.

The Colosseum
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The Flavian Ampitheater, better known as the Colosseum was and really still is the main attraction of Rome. It's scale is huge and what's left of it is well preserved. If you can you're best to visit on a Sunday as all traffic around it and the forum are stopped and you can explore without the hassle of getting run over. Entry charge is nine Euro's, and it's worth every cent.

The Forum
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Entry to the forum is free, although you can go into the Palatino (an elevated part of the forum with great views) for a fee, your best bet is to go in the Colosseum first as you get a ticked for the Palatino
in with the price.

The forum is a vast collection of ruins that made up the heart of Rome, it's easy to imagine Caesar and others in their togas wandering around.

The Vatican
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The Vatican City is a country in it's own right, and heart of the Catholic Church. I am not religious in the slightest, but I was very impressed with the buildings. St Peters square is gorgeous and St Peter's church itself is impressive by it's size and decoration, entry to the Basilica is free.

You can also go in to the Capolla (the top of the dome) for seven euros and it's well worth it, although don't do it if you've got a heart condition as it's over 300 steep steps and more if you choose not to use the lift (at an extra charge).

Of course, the Vatican is best known for the Sistine chapel. This is located in the Vatican museum. Entry is 12 Euro's, and it takes 3-4 hours. Make sure you do not wear shorts or sleeveless tops or you will be refused entry. Security is tight.

The Trevi Fountain
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A major magnet for tourists is the Trevi Fountain, still powered by the original Roman plumbing (they could teach us a thing or two). The fountain is more like a waterfall, it's white and large with various statues. It's certainly nice to look at. Don't forget to throw a coin in to secure your return to Rome, as the tradition goes.

It's busy all day and night so don't expect some tranquil time there. There is no entry charge.

The Spanish Steps
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My only disappointment, although I saw it coming, was the Spanish steps. It's really just a lot of steps with a church at the top. There's much more impressive places in Rome. See it just to say you have. This was the only place we encountered any hassle from street sellers, but I've encountered much worse.

Food and Drink
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Rome is rightly renowned for it's food, especially pasta. It can be a bit pricey, my advice is to find a restaurant off the beaten track, better food and better prices. The beer is expensive too, we stuck to wine.

Summing Up
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Rome is a fantastic City and I recommend it to anyone who loves history. Every corner has some amazing buildings, ancient or otherwise. I would say you need at least three days to take in the main attractions and more to fully do them justice. Nowhere is expensive to get in. It's even possible to get a boat trip for a Euro, now that is a bargain.

The people of the city are wonderfully friendly and helpful, I love the place and will definitely be going back, my coin is in the fountain.

Ciao.

Summary: A Fantastic City