I arrived in Rome via the Intercity train (operated by Trenitalia) today and my first impression after stepping out of the train station was, "Wow, it's crowded!" There were people everywhere, and I suppose that part of town isn't the most glamorous, so it was a bit grittier and noisier than I was expecting.
One good thing was that there were a few well-placed signs near the train station for guidance, so I was able to find my bearings quite quickly and get to my hotel without making a wrong turn anywhere. Similar to Vienna, there were plenty of buildings that caught my eye because of their architecture - it gives such a regal, elegant feel to the city. Granted, Vienna seemed like a cleaner city - maybe because there was less traffic, and fewer people.
After I settled into my room (which was an upgrade from my accommodations in Sorrento - with the exception of the gorgeous sea view), I decided to grab my daily dose of gelato and go exploring. The gelato was not exceptional compared to what I had in Sorrento, so it looks like I'll have to hunt for a better gelateria. Wandering through the streets, I found the main street - Via del Corso - and followed the many tourists through the cobbled roads to Trevi Fountain. It was like a mecca for all foreigners - unlike Sorrento, I did not feel out of place as an Asian tourist; but rather, I fit in as one of many.
For dinner, I decided to try one of Rick Steve's recommendations: Hostaria Romano. When in Rome... try the Roman food! I ordered Bucatini all'amatriciana (with bacon and tomatoes) and Carciofialla romana o Giudia (artichoke roman style). When asked what I wanted to drink, I ordered the house wine (red), but accidentally indicated I wanted half a litre... which I did put a dent in... the whole jug of wine only came to €2!
Possibly due to the wine, I ended up getting lost on the way back to hotel in the dark. One positive - I found the Spanish steps and the bright lights of the shopping district! It was amazing to see all the brand names pop out as I strolled along Via Condotti: Gucci, Prada, Bally, Dolce & Gabbana, Salvatore Ferragamo, Jimmy Choo, Burberry, ... you name it, it was there. After several wrong turns, I finally made it back to familiarity - what a relief!
Lesson learned: do not stray too far into strange territory on the first night in a new city. Also - keeping your chin up and staying alert seems to ward off strangers who aim to prey on unsuspecting tourists.
One good thing was that there were a few well-placed signs near the train station for guidance, so I was able to find my bearings quite quickly and get to my hotel without making a wrong turn anywhere. Similar to Vienna, there were plenty of buildings that caught my eye because of their architecture - it gives such a regal, elegant feel to the city. Granted, Vienna seemed like a cleaner city - maybe because there was less traffic, and fewer people.
After I settled into my room (which was an upgrade from my accommodations in Sorrento - with the exception of the gorgeous sea view), I decided to grab my daily dose of gelato and go exploring. The gelato was not exceptional compared to what I had in Sorrento, so it looks like I'll have to hunt for a better gelateria. Wandering through the streets, I found the main street - Via del Corso - and followed the many tourists through the cobbled roads to Trevi Fountain. It was like a mecca for all foreigners - unlike Sorrento, I did not feel out of place as an Asian tourist; but rather, I fit in as one of many.
For dinner, I decided to try one of Rick Steve's recommendations: Hostaria Romano. When in Rome... try the Roman food! I ordered Bucatini all'amatriciana (with bacon and tomatoes) and Carciofialla romana o Giudia (artichoke roman style). When asked what I wanted to drink, I ordered the house wine (red), but accidentally indicated I wanted half a litre... which I did put a dent in... the whole jug of wine only came to €2!
Possibly due to the wine, I ended up getting lost on the way back to hotel in the dark. One positive - I found the Spanish steps and the bright lights of the shopping district! It was amazing to see all the brand names pop out as I strolled along Via Condotti: Gucci, Prada, Bally, Dolce & Gabbana, Salvatore Ferragamo, Jimmy Choo, Burberry, ... you name it, it was there. After several wrong turns, I finally made it back to familiarity - what a relief!
Lesson learned: do not stray too far into strange territory on the first night in a new city. Also - keeping your chin up and staying alert seems to ward off strangers who aim to prey on unsuspecting tourists.
Comments
And you let your parents read this blog?!?!
"It was amazing to see all the brand names pop out as I strolled along Via Condotti: Gucci, Prada, Bally, Dolce & Gabbana, Salvatore Ferragamo, Jimmy Choo, Burberry, ..."
Junette, the shopper.
And lol, I walked into Burberry today, and all the guards were watching me to make sure I didn't steal anything.