Rome Trip – October 2011
We arrived in Rome feeling a bit tired but ready for the excitement of what Day 2 would hold. We weren’t disappointed! Monday was a fun-filled day. After breakfast (a truly continental carbfest), we set off for a tour of the city. First stop was the Coliseum and then lunch at the beautiful Campo dei Fiori (a great little square with a street market). Students had lunch and bought gifts (fake Raybans were the order of the day!). We then set off to the wonderful Trevi Fountain and headed back to our hotel via the Piazza Navona – a square full to the brim of renaissance sculpture, fountains, painters and artisans. Fantastico!
Day 3 was a bit wet but the rain didn’t dampen spirits at Gladiator School. Students (and a brave Miss Kean) trained how to become Roman gladiators. Everyone loved dressing up in authentic tunics. The museum was a little unusual – an array of stuffed animals atop centurian helmets, obviously there to keep Roman heads warm in winter. Miss Kean didn’t like the smell of deceased ferret.
After lunch at il McDonaldos, we travelled to ancient Ostia – the Roman port. It was lovely to get out into the Italian countryside and wander through the streets of the archeological site. And another *tat shop…
*Tat – a rather vivid collection of cheap, souvenir nastiness. Gaudy tourist ornamentalia, particularly attractive to teenagers.
Day 4 started with a trip to the very busy, but hugely impressive Vatican. Students wandered through the painted halls and Cistine Chapel, gazing in awe at the beautiful objects and sights. Bravo Michelangelo! Lunch followed at the Via Borgia – lovely trattorias and cafes – and more tat shops. We ended the day with a visit to the Villa Borghese gardens and park.
Our final day in Roma involved a little shopping and then back to the airport for the flight home. Emirates were fab – taking photos with the students and presenting Annabel with a cake for her birthday. Omar wore a steward’s hat while Mr Hall watched Family Guy… a great trip.