It’s always fun flying with my friend Tracey, but I had an extra bonus flying with Tracey’s dear friend Tracy Musser. We did as the Romans do! This phrase gives tourists in the Eternal City free rein to indulge in an extra scoop of gelato or feast on carbs at every meal. As well, as signifying the benefits of following the local customs and traditions to visitors to Rome.

Vatican City

First stop was to the Vatican City. Vatican City is an independent city state located in the heart of Rome, ruled by the Pope. It is the center of authority over the Roman Catholic Church. The Vatican is the smallest state in Europe. Inside the wall lives approximately 1000 people.

St. Peter’s Square

St. Peter’s Square is located in the Vatican at the feet of the Basilica. One of the most famous squares in the world.

St. Peter’s Basilica

St. Peter’s Basilica is the church built in the Renaissance style located in the Vatican City. It’s one of the holiest temples for Christendom and one of the largest churches in the world. It’s where the Pope does mass all year round. The church can accommodate 20,000 people.

An interesting note to remember, when you are visiting St. Peter’s Basilica they still go by the Roman Catholic Churches dress code. Basic guidelines mandate that the knees and shoulders must be covered before entering the Church. The greeters at the door were very kind and handed out blue paper shawls.

After exploring the inside of St. Peter’s Basilica’s beautiful mosaics and famous artworks and the many stunning details inside, it was time to move on.

We had to cross the river to get back into the heart of Rome. Our next desired destination on recommendation was to find the pub that celebrates the Pittsburg Steelers. Tracey Butler is from Pittsburg and we were not going to miss finding this gem.

La Botticella of Poggi Giovanni

We found it!

We enjoyed a cold beverage before setting off to make it back to the Spanish Steps where we would be meeting the crew for dinner.

Venchi

A must stop on the way was at Venchi, a well known Gelato Shop! It was so yummy!

Always an adventure when walking the streets of Rome. So much to see!

We made it to the Spanish Steps. Now it was time to meet the crew for Happy Hour and dinner.

Hotel De Russie

Cocktails in an urban paradise. The Hotel De Russie is an upscale hotel that exemplifies luxurious Rome living. Rooms start at $1000.00 a night. We enjoyed a cocktail in the beautiful outdoor terrace.

I had the great pleasure of being on a Rome layover with one of my special classmates Tony Cataldo. We have flown together for 33 years.

Hosteria del Mercato

Great place for dinner. The food was delicious! Lots of laughs with my crew!

What a fantastic layover I had in Rome. We definitely did what the Romans do. We indulged in delicious gelato, savored the taste of mouth watering pasta and reveled in the beauty of Rome. It’s not even like work when you get to fly with fun loving people. You can pack for every trip, but good friends will always be the best thing you can bring.

Special bracelets were bought at the Vatican. They will always be a reminder of our memorable time spent together in Rome.