Thursday, July 3rd: Florence --> Rome

Thursday, July 3rd
Florence --> Rome

We woke up on our last morning in Florence, ready to do some shopping and get in our last moments in this beautiful city. Matt woke up with the urge to go for a run, while I lounged with coffee in bed. With all of the pasta and cheese that I've been eating, I probably should have joined him.

We spent the morning walking around the Ponte Vecchio and Via dè Tornabuoni, had lunch at The Oil Shoppe (1 sandwich each + 1 to-go) until it was time for us to pack up and head off to Rome.

Matt and I are getting pretty good at this whole train thing. Every train station is exactly the same and the trains are very nice. We almost had a minor incident with the Italian Gypsies but luckily, nothing major.

After a short train ride and cab ride we arrived at the St. Regis in Rome. We are staying in a beautiful room adjacent to the Bottega Veneta Suite. Our room is completely outfitted with Bottega Venetta goods. Don't be surprised if I get arrested in Rome for filling my suitcase with pillows and trays.  We settled into our room and got ready to explore the city.

My first impressions of Rome were not as I expected. I was completely infatuated with Florence from the minute we arrived and I was overwhelmed by the hustle & bustle of Rome. It took me a while to "settle in".

We left our hotel and walked towards the Trevi Fountain, a landmark fountain known for its elaborate water spraying. Unfortunately, the fountain is under restoration and is completely empty. No Trevi Fountain for the Shmangrists. Then, we walked towards the Pantheon, Piazza Navona, and Campo di Fiori before dinner at Pierluigi. The restaurant was located in a small Piazza off of a quaint street. We sat outdoors surrounded by the most elegant and beautiful Italians. It was definitely a place to see and be seen.

After a long day, we called it a night to get ready for our private tour of "the ruins" the next morning. Matt is VERY excited for the Coliseum and keeps repeating "I am Maximus".

Xoxo
Shayna (& Matt)