Who: Nick, AJ and Dan Giardina of Centennial
Where: Rome
Out and about: Having nearly completed a semester of college in Rome, I (AJ) was excited to be the tour guide for my brothers and parents’ visit in April. Rome is an exciting, fast-paced city with an endless list of sites, sounds and smells. The Colosseum is a must-see! It is awe-inspiring and truly makes you ask – how did they actually build it way back in A.D. 80? After several days in Rome, my parents headed north to Venice and Florence and ended their trip in beautiful, scenic and slower-paced Tuscany – the perfect finish to a fantastic trip.
Travel tip: Whether crossing a street or navigating Rome’s largest traffic circle around the Colosseum, you have to be on your toes so as not to be run down by speeding Italians driving tiny cars, motorinos (Vespas), taxis and tour buses. As a pedestrian, be aggressive; the meek and mild will be left behind! Make eye contact with the driver and move quickly, and you should be just fine. Your other option: Cross the street with a nun; they command all the respect you will need. While somewhat daunting, the public transportation system – buses and the subway -is pretty easy to master and reliable. Steer clear of bus 64R: It’s rarely on time, very crowded, and you run the risk of meeting a fast-fingered pickpocket!
