Have you ever wanted to learn more about a place before actually committing to traveling to a specific location? Well, same! A few weeks ago my husband and I traveled to Rome, Italy and boy were we in for some surprises. Overall, the trip was beautiful and the architecture was absolutely stunning. Now that I’ve gotten that information out of the way, I think it’s fair to share the surprises. If you are looking for a visual of our trip, feel free to watch my Youtube video Here .
Let's take a dive into some key things to be aware of when traveling to Rome as well as the places we visited!
#1 Double Check Closing and Opening Hours
We were looking forward to tasting some of the yummiest pizza, but learned that most Pizza Shops were closed on Monday’s. We also noticed that most pizza shops or restaurants in general close around 2pm and reopen again in the evening.
#2 Read Covid 19 Policies
If you haven’t gotten your Covid vaccine, traveling to Rome is pretty pointless. My spouse and I were shocked to experience being turned away from a restaurant reservation because we did not have our booster shots and our Covid vaccinations were apparently expired by their standards.
#3 Everything Is Not Bigger In Rome
The food portions are smaller, which I’m not mad at because sis needs to stay on her fitness journey, but with the small portions came a lot of walking and cardio — again, I’m not mad at this. I think it’s an important heads up for anyone who desires to go there and thinks they are going to eat a Texas sized plate of food, that’s not going to happen.
#4 Review International Travel Policies
Check and review travel polices when traveling to Rome and leaving. You will potentially need a PCR test on either coming or going. Please read the print of your travel policies because this is very important.
Places visited while In Rome:
1. Trevi Fountain:
The Trevi Fountain is absolutely beautiful and worth the visit. If you want to get a photo with less people in the shot, you will most likely have to wake up as early as 7 a.m to be there by 8 a.m. Once it gets crowded, it can be hard to get your ideal shot, but it’s not impossible.
2. Nerone Ristorante Italiano:
Yummy food and kind staff! I would definitely recommend trying the Cacio e Pepe
This hotel was quant and the staff was kind and accommodating. We stayed here upon arriving from America and enjoyed its closeness to literally everything.
4. Hotel Tiber:
On our trip back to America from Marrakech, we stopped in Rome again for one last night. Hotel Tiber has a beautiful view and it is near a lot of places to eat and shop. However, my spouse and I came in from our flight at midnight and realized that our reservation was not until the following day at noon. The person at the desk told us they had no rooms available and allowed us to stand outside in the cold until he realized that us finding another Uber at this time was going to be difficult. He eventually mentioned that he could give us a room. It did not help that he basically told us we missed our reservation and booking upon walking in without even knowing our names. It all seemed very racially motivated and it was a very unpleasant experience.
5. Polo Nord La Gelateria:
The photo speaks for itself. This Gelateria had heavenly gelato. If you are in this area, I would definitely recommend trying it our during your visit.
6. Sistine Chapel and The Vatican:
Please bring flats or comfortable shoes with you. This museum is MASSIVE and we did a lot of walking. Pack some heels if you want to get some cute shots and then return right back to comfortville, you will thank me later. I recommend getting a tour guide if you are invested in learning about the museum at a deeper level. They also offer audio guides that can be reserved online or in person (better to reserve online).
7. Zara
If you enjoy shopping at Zara in the U.S, please do yourself a favor and go here. Not only are the clothing prices much cheaper, there are four floors to choose from when shopping! I definitely went on a shopping spree here, considering that everything was technically 20% -30% cheaper than the prices in America. Don't forget to get a refund at the airport, for your taxes paid in store, this is important.
If you found this guide helpful feel free to let me know or ask any questions you may have here or over on my youtube channel.
Best,
CrystalO
About Me
As a wife, entrepreneur, content creator and therapist, there is never a dull moment in my life.I am a lover of Jesus, beauty, skincare and wellness. I enjoy cooking and sometimes pretend like I have my own show while doing it. I am currently based in Dallas,Tx and I believe life is something to be shared with others and that is exactly what I love to do, sharing my journey and inspiring others along the way. I prefer honesty and authenticity, so you can expect that from me. I am excited you are here and hope the content on this website inspires, refreshes and encourages you.
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